From Krakow: Full-Day Tour of Zakopane and Tatra Mountains

Exploring Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains: A Practical Guide to the Full-Day Tour from Krakow

Travelers looking to escape the hustle of Krakow and soak in Poland’s stunning mountain scenery often consider a day trip to Zakopane. This full-day tour offers a taste of the highland charm, panoramic mountain vistas, and local culture—all within approximately 11 hours. While the experience has its share of highlights, some travelers have noted areas where planning can make a difference.

What we like about this tour is how it balances scenic beauty with cultural discovery, especially the chance to try traditional highlander cheese, visit Gubalowka Hill, and wander through Zakopane’s lively Krupówki street. The comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guides help maximize the day, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see the mountains.

A possible drawback is the long coach ride—about two hours each way—which might be tiring for some. Plus, reviews suggest that communication and the flexibility of the itinerary could be improved, particularly around lunch and alternative plans if weather turns bad.

This trip is best suited for those who want a structured, hassle-free day with scenic highlights and cultural insights, especially if you’re visiting Krakow for a few days and want a taste of the mountains without the effort of planning independent travel.

Good To Know

• Comfortable Transportation: Includes hotel pick-up and drop-off with a reserved coach.
• Cultural Experiences: Cheese tasting, visits to local markets, and highlander folklore.
• Spectacular Views: Ride the funicular to Gubalowka Hill for stunning mountain panoramas.
• Flexible Free Time: Ample leisure in Zakopane’s Krupówki street.
• Weather-Ready: Operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
• Value for Money: Price covers most major highlights but excludes meals.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-depth Look at the Experience

The Journey from Krakow to Zakopane

The day begins with a shared pickup from your hotel, making it easy to start stress-free. The ride to Zakopane takes approximately two hours, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the scenery along the way. The coach is typically comfortable, though some reviews mention it can get a bit cramped, especially in smaller groups.

Once in Zakopane, the atmosphere shifts from urban to mountain town charm. The town itself is quite picturesque—wooden architecture, lively markets, and a vibe that hints at mountain leisure and artistic pursuits. Historically, Zakopane became popular thanks to figures like Dr. Tytus Chaubiski, who recognized its calming environment for patients, and today it continues to draw visitors seeking peace and beauty.

Strolling Through Zakopane’s Streets and Markets

Your guide will suggest exploring the historic center of Zakopane, particularly the famous Krupówki street. This bustling promenade is lined with shops, cafés, and local market stalls. It’s the perfect place to browse for souvenirs, admire wooden architecture, and sample regional delicacies.

A highlight here is the chance to taste highlander cheese at the local market, which reviewers confirm as a top treat. One traveler described the cheese tasting as “delicious and authentic,” offering a true taste of Polish mountain life. The market is also a good spot to pick up souvenirs, from handcrafted wooden items to local liquors.

Visiting the Oldest Mountain Huts and Cultural Sites

The tour often includes a stop at an old highlander mountain hut—a chance to see traditional wooden construction and learn about local Highlander culture. This adds depth to your experience, turning sightseeing into a cultural exploration.

Plus, some tours include a visit to the Cemetery of Peksowy Brzyzek and the distinctive wooden church, both offering insight into local history and architecture. While these are not always guaranteed, they are valued additions for those interested in history and tradition.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Gubalowka Hill: The Scenic Highlight

The ascent to Gubalowka Hill on a funicular is the tour’s star feature. The ride itself offers fantastic views, but the real reward is what you’ll see once you reach the summit—panoramic vistas of the Tatra Mountains, especially stunning when the weather is clear. Several reviewers, like Ian, mentioned how “the snowy views from Gubalowka were spectacular,” making it a memorable photo spot.

You can walk around the hill, take more photos, or simply soak in the scenery. You’ll also find cafes and a small marketplace at the top, ideal for a quick snack or souvenir shopping.

Leisure Time and Optional Extras

The tour offers free time in Zakopane, particularly in Krupówki, so you can explore at your own pace. Some travelers appreciated this flexibility, while others wished they had more time to relax or revisit favorite spots.

Note: The tour price includes the cable car ticket to Gubalowka, but meals and drinks are not included, so consider bringing snacks or dining in Zakopane.

The Return Journey and Final Thoughts

After a full day of sightseeing, the return coach takes you back to Krakow. Expect the ride to be approximately two hours, giving you a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights.

From reviews, guides like Hubert and Magda received praise for their knowledge and friendliness, enhancing the overall experience. However, communication issues and the unpredictability of weather were noted as minor inconveniences by some guests.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For those seeking a hassle-free day trip that combines natural beauty with culture, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially appealing if you want a rundown without the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets yourself.

The inclusion of local cheese tasting, the scenic funicular ride, and the vibrant Zakopane town center makes for a well-rounded experience. The long coach ride is a factor to consider—if you’re prone to motion sickness or fatigue from long bus trips, you might want to prepare accordingly.

The tour provides a solid introduction to the Tatra Mountains region, especially for first-timers or those with a tight schedule.

Who This Tour Is Best For

Travelers eager to see Poland’s mountain landscapes without logistical stress will find this tour ideal. It’s perfect for those interested in local culture, scenic vistas, and outdoor fun like cheese tasting and mountain views.

If you prefer flexible, unstructured free time, consider whether the schedule fits your style. The long coach ride might be tiring for some, but it’s balanced with plenty of sightseeing and cultural experiences.

For travelers on a budget, the price is reasonable given the included activities and transportation, although meals are extra.

Finally, nature lovers and photography enthusiasts will appreciate the views from Gubalowka Hill and the charming town streets.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pick-up and drop-off in Krakow, making the start and end of the day hassle-free.

How long is the coach ride?
The trip from Krakow to Zakopane and back takes about 2 hours each way, so be prepared for a total of approximately 4 hours on the coach.

What is included in the tour price?
Price covers transfers, hotel pickup, an English-speaking driver, free time in Zakopane, the cable car ticket to Gubalowka, traditional cheese tasting, and water on board.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to dine in Zakopane.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as you’ll be walking and exploring, especially in the markets and around the town.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly and be prepared for changing weather, especially in the mountains.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour follows a set schedule, but you can enjoy free time in Zakopane to explore at your own pace.

Is this suitable for children or older travelers?
Generally yes, but consider the long coach ride if traveling with very young kids or older adults.

Are there opportunities for photos?
Absolutely—Gubalowka Hill offers panoramic mountain views perfect for photos, and walking through Zakopane provides charming backdrops.

What if I want to visit thermal baths or other sites?
Some reviews mention tours that include thermal baths, but this one does not. You might need to look for specialized excursions if that’s your priority.

To sum it up, this full-day Zakopane and Tatra Mountains tour offers a wonderful glimpse into Poland’s highland culture and natural beauty. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy guided logistics, scenic views, and authentic local experiences without the hassle of planning every detail. The highlights like cheese tasting and the Gubalowka funicular are sure to leave lasting memories, making it a worthwhile addition to your Polish adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: