Best Things to Do in Zakopane in One Day – Views, Food & Local Vibes

How to Spend One Perfect Day in Zakopane

Zakopane is one of the most popular day trips from Krakow, and it’s easy to see why. Nestled at the foot of the Tatra Mountains, this highland town blends stunning nature with traditional wooden architecture, hearty food, and plenty of local character.

One day might not be enough to hike through the Tatras and discover all of Zakopane – but it’s plenty to feel its unique atmosphere. Whether you're planning a scenic getaway, a taste of highlander culture, or just a relaxing spa afternoon, here’s how to make the most of your time.

Here’s how to spend an inspiring day in Zakopane.

Stroll Along Krupówki Street

No visit to Zakopane is complete without a walk down Krupówki, the town’s bustling main street. It’s a lively mix of restaurants, souvenir stalls, street performers, and charming cafés – all with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.

Krupówki is a great place to soak up the atmosphere and pick up a snack or souvenir. You’ll find everything from authentic wooden crafts to kitschy items like plastic ciupagas and “I 💗 Zakopane” shirts. Some stands offer real regional goods, but others sell cheap imitations – so look closely at craftsmanship before buying.

Ride to the Top – Gubałówka or Kasprowy Wierch

Looking for breathtaking views with minimal effort? Hop on the funicular to Gubałówka. It’s a short ride, but at the top you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Zakopane and the Tatra range. Up there, you’ll also find food stalls, a gravity slide, and a rope park – especially popular with families.

For a higher and wilder perspective, take the cable car to Kasprowy Wierch. It’s slower and more expensive than Gubałówka, but offers an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of the High Tatras – especially on clear days.

Both rides are weather-dependent and popular, so try to go early in the day to avoid queues.

Taste Real Oscypek from a Bacówka

Zakopane is famous for oscypek – a smoked sheep’s cheese shaped in decorative wooden moulds. You’ll spot it everywhere, but if you want the real deal, head to a traditional bacówka (shepherd’s hut). There, you can try warm oscypek straight from the smoker, often served with cranberry sauce.

In Chochołów or at selected spots near Jaszczurówka, you might even meet shepherds still using old methods. Oscypek has a protected designation of origin, so if you see a round, cow’s milk version sold for 5 zł on Krupówki… walk away.

Visit the Iconic Ski Jump

Wielka Krokiew is Poland’s most famous ski jump. Each winter, it hosts international ski jumping competitions – and even in the off-season, it’s an impressive sight. You can take the chairlift to the top and stand where the jumpers begin their thrilling descent.

If you’re not into ski sports, don’t worry – the views from the top are worth the ride.

Admire Zakopane’s Unique Architecture

Zakopane is known for its wooden houses in the Zakopane style, a blend of highlander tradition and Art Nouveau. A perfect example is the Chapel in Jaszczurówka, nestled among tall pines just east of the town centre. Built in the early 20th century by Stanisław Witkiewicz, this timber masterpiece is rich in decorative detail and offers a quiet moment of reflection in a forest setting.

For an even deeper glimpse into highlander heritage, head to the nearby village of Chochołów, known for its perfectly preserved traditional wooden cottages. Many of them are still inhabited by locals, and their characteristic log construction and carved façades make the entire village feel like a living open-air museum.

Whether you're an architecture lover or simply looking for beauty off the beaten path, both Jaszczurówka and Chochołów will leave a lasting impression.

Relax in Thermal Pools

After a day of walking and sightseeing, nothing beats a soak in natural thermal waters. The Chochołów Thermal Baths are the biggest and most highly rated complex near Zakopane, offering both indoor and outdoor pools with mountain views, hydrotherapy zones, saunas, and spa treatments.

Perfect for families, couples, or anyone who needs a bit of wellness with their mountain escape.

What to Eat in Zakopane – Regional Dishes Worth Trying

Let’s be honest: no visit to Zakopane is complete without trying some real highlander food – hearty, rustic, and full of local flavour.

Start with the iconic oscypek – a smoked sheep cheese with a distinctive pattern and slightly salty taste. For the best experience, get it warm from a traditional bacówka (shepherd’s hut), ideally served with cranberry sauce. You’ll spot them in Chochołów or at open-air markets near Krupówki.

But oscypek is just the beginning. Here’s a sample highlander-style meal you might want to try:

• Soup: Try kwaśnica – a traditional sauerkraut soup made with pork ribs. It’s sour, meaty, and beloved across Podhale.
• Main course: Placek zbójnicki – a giant potato pancake topped with hearty goulash and sour cream. Or go for moskole – grilled mashed potato patties served with garlic butter.
• Dessert: Look for bombolki – sweet yeast rolls drizzled with butter and honey.
• Drink: If you’re not driving, try the famous tea with a kick – a black tea with a splash of vodka, rum or litworówka, a local herbal liqueur made with mountain angelica and honey.

Vegetarians? Don’t worry – many Podhale dishes are based on potatoes, cheese, and mushrooms. Plus, regional bakeries often offer fruit preserves, pickled goodies, and herbal teas.

Tip: The best food experiences often come in small, family-run restaurants or regional taverns off the main tourist track. Don’t be afraid to explore beyond Krupówki – it’s where the real culinary treasures hide.

Take Home a Piece of Zakopane

Souvenirs in Zakopane go far beyond fridge magnets. Sure, you’ll see plenty of “I 💗 Zakopane” T-shirts and plastic ciupagas, but if you’re after something more meaningful and lasting, keep an eye out for:

• Hand-knitted woollens and lacework
• Wooden kitchen tools and carved decorations
• Local honeys and jams – especially honeydew honey
• Traditional liqueurs like litworówka, made from mountain herbs
• Pickled mushrooms, wild garlic spreads, and other homemade preserves

We recommend Galeria Sztuki Ludowej (Krupówki 41) for authentic local craftsmanship. You’ll also find gems at Targ pod Gubałówką and along Krupówki Street – but be selective. Mass-produced souvenirs are common, so check for materials, details, and finish to find the real treasures. Supporting local artisans is a beautiful way to take home a piece of the mountains.

Looking for Easy Hiking Trails in the Tatra Mountains?

To really connect with the beauty of the Tatras, you need to leave town and head into the hills. Even if you’re not up for multi-day trekking between mountain shelters, there are several trails that offer big views with little effort – perfect for beginners or travellers short on time.

Here are a few of our favourite easy hikes near Zakopane:

• Morskie Oko – a paved route leading to Poland’s most famous alpine lake, surrounded by dramatic peaks. No climbing required – just a scenic walk (approx. 2 hours one way).
• Chochołowska Valley – wide and flat, this valley bursts with crocuses in early spring and offers peaceful forest views year-round.
• Rusinowa Polana – this short but rewarding trail ends with one of the best panoramic viewpoints of the Tatras.
• Kościeliska Valley – a magical limestone gorge dotted with caves, wooden chapels, and traditional shepherd huts.

These trails are perfect if you're staying in Zakopane just for the day – or want a gentle introduction to hiking in the Tatra Mountains.

Need help getting there? With a private transfer from Krakow, you can reach the trailhead without worrying about bus schedules, parking, or finding your way. Let us know your hiking preference, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Why Zakopane Makes a Perfect Day Trip from Krakow

With its mix of views, flavours, traditions, and fresh mountain air, Zakopane is a dream escape from city life. Whether you come for thermal pools, village charm, or a taste of the Tatra Mountains, you’ll return refreshed and inspired.

Want to experience it all in one day?
Explore our full Zakopane and Thermal Pools Tour from Krakow here – including comfortable transport, curated stops, and optional entry to Chochołów Baths.

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