Zakopane Tour from Krakow with Optional Thermal Baths

From
350 /
person

Overview

Take a Zakopane tour from Krakow and enjoy a full-day escape to Poland’s most famous mountain destination, located at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. This experience combines spectacular scenery, free time in Zakopane and the flexibility to choose how you spend your day.

Admire panoramic views from Gubałówka, explore the town at your own pace, visit a traditional highlander shepherd’s hut for an oscypek cheese tasting, and optionally relax in the thermal pools of Chochołów.

About this activity

Instant confirmation

Instant confirmation after booking

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour

Duration

7h - 11h

Private Option Available

Highlights

  • one of the most popular day trips from Krakow,
  • scenic journey to the Tatra Mountains and the Podhale region,
  • panoramic views from Gubałówka Mountain,
  • free time to explore Zakopane independently,
  • oscypek cheese tasting at a traditional highlander shepherd’s hut (selected options),
  • clearly defined tour options to choose from,
  • private tour option available for a more flexible experience.

Long description

Zakopane – experience the Tatra region

Zakopane is often called the winter capital of Poland, yet its appeal goes far beyond the cold season. Located at the foot of the Tatra Mountains, the town is closely connected with the culture of the Podhale region and surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes.

This Zakopane tour from Krakow is an ideal day trip for travelers who want to step outside the city and experience the rhythm of southern Poland. The journey itself becomes part of the experience, with scenic views, fresh mountain air and a gradual transition into the mountain environment.

A visit to Gubałówka offers one of the best panoramic viewpoints in the area, with wide views over Zakopane and the Tatra range. In the town itself, free time allows you to explore independently, walk along Krupówki Street, observe local life, try regional flavours or simply enjoy the mountain atmosphere at your own pace.

As part of selected tour options, you will also stop at a traditional highlander shepherd’s hut, where you can taste oscypek – a smoked sheep’s milk cheese that is one of the most characteristic products of the Podhale region. This short visit offers a glimpse into local traditions and everyday mountain culture.

Tour options – how the choice works

This experience is available in several clearly defined variants. The scope of the day depends on the option selected during booking.

The Zakopane option focuses on sightseeing in the town, mountain viewpoints, free time in Zakopane and a visit to a highlander shepherd’s hut with oscypek tasting.

The Chochołów Thermal Baths option is designed for relaxation and includes time spent in thermal pools filled with geothermal water. This option focuses on wellness rather than sightseeing.

The Zakopane and Chochołów Thermal Baths option combines both experiences, offering time in Zakopane with oscypek tasting, followed by relaxation in the thermal pools.

Private tour – a flexible way to experience Zakopane

A private Zakopane tour from Krakow offers a more individual way to discover the region. With a dedicated driver and a private vehicle, the day unfolds at your own pace and allows for a more personalized experience of Zakopane and its mountain surroundings.

FAQ

This is an organized day trip with transportation and on-site assistance, but without a live tour guide. A professional driver, fluent in Polish and English, takes care of logistics and timing, while you enjoy free time in Zakopane and at selected attractions at your own pace.

You can choose from several options when booking. The Zakopane option focuses on sightseeing, including free time in the town and a cable car ride to Gubałówka (depending on the option). The Chocholow Thermal Baths option is dedicated to relaxation, with a 3-hour stay in the thermal pools. The combined option includes both Zakopane sightseeing and a visit to Chocholow Thermal Baths for a full-day experience.

The trip lasts between 7 and 11 hours, depending on the selected option and traffic conditions. The price includes transportation from Krakow and back, a professional driver, and – depending on the option – tickets for the Gubałówka cable car and/or entrance to Chocholow Thermal Baths. Food and drinks are not included.

Yes. If you choose an option that includes thermal pools, remember to bring a swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops. Wellness and sauna zones, as well as additional spa treatments, are not included in the price and can be purchased on site.

Group tours follow a set programme with a fixed meeting point in Krakow city centre and shared transportation. Private tours offer a more flexible experience, with a private driver, adjustable itinerary, and hotel pick-up in Krakow. If you wish to customize your private tour, please contact us in advance to arrange the details.

Yes, the Zakopane tour is available year-round. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for changing mountain weather. Temperatures in the Tatras can differ significantly from Krakow, even in summer.

Includes

Depending on the selected option, the tour price may include:

  • round-trip transportation from Krakow,
  • professional driver during the entire trip,
  • cable car ticket to Gubałówka Mountain,
  • oscypek cheese tasting at a traditional highlander shepherd’s hut,
  • entrance ticket to Chochołów Thermal Baths.

Not Included

  • food and beverages,
  • tickets to attractions not included in the selected option,
  • wellness zones, sauna areas and spa treatments at the thermal baths, unless purchased separately on site.

Not allowed

  • Behavior that disrupts other participants or the staff may result in exclusion from the tour.

What to bring

  • comfortable shoes suitable for walking,
  • clothing appropriate for changing mountain weather conditions,
  • swimwear and necessary accessories if you choose an option with thermal baths.

Know before you go

  • please pay close attention to the option you select, as the itinerary depends on the chosen variant,
  • for regular tours, departure times may change and customers are informed in advance of any organizational updates,
  • for private tours, please contact us in advance to arrange the details of your trip.

Reviews

5.0/5Based on 19 reviews

Jack s4n__common__reviews__verified_client
January 22, 2024
Zakopane has a unique charm that is hard to describe in words. The thermal pools were a perfect place for relaxation and unwinding after exploring the surrounding attractions
Amelia s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Gubałówka, Chochołów, Krupówki + Thermal Baths – Shared Transport)
January 2, 2024
The organization of the trip was top-notch.
Olivia s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Gubałówka, Chochołów, Krupówki + Thermal Baths – Shared Transport)
November 26, 2023
Strolling around Zakopane, I felt like I was in a fairy tale. The magnificent views of the Tatra Mountains, charming wooden cottages - it all made me feel like I was in a different dimension. Additionally, the thermal pools were an ideal place to relax and detach from everyday life
Anonymous tourist * s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Gubałówka, Chochołów, Krupówki + Thermal Baths – Shared Transport)
October 22, 2023
It was a cool trip
Katie s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Chochołów Thermal Baths ONLY – Shared Transport)
October 20, 2023
My trip to the thermal pools from Krakow was an absolutely fantastic experience! The pools were well-maintained, and the water was just the right temperature for a relaxing soak. The organization of the trip was flawless, so I didn't have to worry about a thing and could truly unwind. In the evening, as night fell, the pools became even more magical. It was amazing to sit in the warm water under the open sky and admire the stars
Harry s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Gubałówka, Chochołów, Krupówki + Thermal Baths – Shared Transport)
October 15, 2023
The thermal pools around Zakopane are not only a great way to relax but also excellent fun for children. I saw how my little ones were overjoyed sliding down the pool slides.
Emily s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Gubałówka, Chochołów, Krupówki + Thermal Baths – Shared Transport)
October 1, 2023
Superb organization. It was an unforgettable experience! Additionally, the thermal pools were a true oasis of peace after a day full of impressions
Sarah s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Gubałówka, Chochołów, Krupówki + Thermal Baths – Shared Transport)
September 13, 2023
Fantastic trip! The thermal pools in Chochołów were superb, and the three hours spent there were pure relaxation. In Zakopane, we explored the city, took the funicular to Gubałówka, and visited the charming village of Chochołów. A full day filled with incredible experiences! I highly recommend it to everyone
James s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Gubałówka, Chochołów, Krupówki + Thermal Baths – Shared Transport)
September 4, 2023
The trip to Zakopane was pure pleasure from start to finish. Beautiful views, traditional cuisine, an evening spent in the thermal pools - it was a true paradise!
Isabella s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Gubałówka, Chochołów, Krupówki + Thermal Baths – Shared Transport)
September 3, 2023
Zakopane is a place that stole my heart with its charm and atmosphere. The organization of the trip was perfect, and the town itself amazed me with its unique climate.
Dominic s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Chochołów Thermal Baths ONLY – Shared Transport)
July 12, 2023
My daytime excursion to the thermal pools from Krakow was an absolutely delightful experience! The pools were clean, well-maintained, and the water was pleasantly warm. The trip was impeccably organized, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable day. Basking in the sun, I couldn't have asked for a more relaxing setting. The picturesque surroundings added to the charm, and I found myself truly savoring the moment. It was a perfect escape from the daily grind, and I left feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
Anonymous tourist * s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Gubałówka, Chochołów, Krupówki (without Thermal Baths) – Shared Transport)
July 6, 2023
Our visit to Zakopane was wonderful. The cable car ride to Gubałówka offered breathtaking views of the picturesque landscape, and the charming atmosphere of Zakopane itself was a delight. We couldn't have asked for a more enjoyable experience
Valentina s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Chochołów Thermal Baths ONLY – Shared Transport)
May 21, 2023
We had a wonderful day at the thermal baths. It was a perfect opportunity to relax and unwind from our daily routine. The pools were clean and well-maintained, and the water temperature was just right. The staff was friendly and helpful. Additionally, the surroundings of the thermal baths were beautiful, which added to our overall experience. We will definitely come back!
Anonymous tourist * s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Gubałówka, Chochołów, Krupówki + Thermal Baths – Shared Transport)
April 9, 2023
The thermal pools around Zakopane are a true gem of this region. Relaxing in the hot springs with breathtaking views of the mountains was an unforgettable moment for me.
Anonymous tourist * s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Chochołów Thermal Baths ONLY – Shared Transport)
January 10, 2023
We visited the thermal baths during winter, and it was an incredible experience. The contrast of the warm, soothing water against the cold, snowy surroundings was truly magical. The thermal pools were a haven of relaxation, and we loved how the steam rose into the crisp winter air. It felt like a cozy escape from the chilly weather. The facilities were clean, and the staff ensured a comfortable and safe environment. We highly recommend a winter visit to these thermal baths for a unique and rejuvenating experience
Marco s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane – Gubałówka, Chochołów, Krupówki + Thermal Baths – Shared Transport)
September 25, 2022
Our Zakopane and thermal baths trip was fantastic! The organization was excellent, and I highly recommend this experience. Zakopane is a charming town surrounded by beautiful mountains, and the visit to the thermal baths was pure relaxation with breathtaking views.
Anonymous s4n__common__reviews__verified_client (s4n__common__reviews__booked_option: Zakopane - Gubałówka, Chochołów, Krupówki - Private Transport)
September 30, 2021
We highly recommend this all day tour to the mountain town. The most interesting for us was the original polish folklore and the beauty of nature. We got there by a comfortable car, just a bit bigger than a standard one. Our driver Greg was kind and helpful. We came back to Krakow in the evening.

* The tourist did not consent to providing his name.