Spend a full day traveling from Kraków into the Tatra foothills to taste oscypek, ride the Gubałówka funicular for sweeping mountain views, explore Krupówki, and optionally unwind in Chochołowskie Thermal Baths. This is a practical, all-day cultural and scenic outing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You board the minivan in Kraków before dawn and watch the city fall away; by midmorning the road climbs into the Tatra foothills and the air sharpens with pine and cold. In Zakopane the mountains press close—jagged ridgelines and meadows that have shaped local life for centuries. A short ride takes you to a bacówka, the shepherd’s hut where oscypek, smoked sheep cheese, is pulled from the peeling smoke and sampled alongside a nip of regional vodka. The funicular up Gubałówka then lifts you above tree line, where peaks and valleys open in a raw, immediate panorama.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10–11 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness—able to board transfer, walk short steep sections and stand at viewpoints for up to an hour
Wildlife
History
Zakopane developed in the 19th century as a cultural and winter-sports center; highlander (Goral) traditions and wooden building styles remain central to its identity.
Conservation
The Tatra Mountains are protected by national parks—stay on marked trails, avoid littering, and respect local grazing areas to limit impact.
Reserve your spot on the Krakow: Private Zakopane Tour with Gubałówka and Thermal Pools today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Pack swimwear and flip-flops
If you selected the thermal pools option, bring a swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops—pools are best enjoyed warm after a day outside.
Dress in layers
Mountain weather changes quickly—windproof outer layer plus a mid-layer keeps you comfortable on the funicular and viewpoints.
Carry small cash
Market stalls and highlander vendors often accept cash only; keep small bills for oscypek and souvenirs.
Start early to avoid crowds
Departures begin in the morning to maximize time in Zakopane—earlier groups get better photo light at Gubałówka.
Comfortable walking shoes
Support for paved streets and short uphill sections around viewpoints and Krupówki.
Layered jacket (windproof)
Keeps you warm on exposed viewpoints and during unpredictable mountain weather.
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
Necessary if you choose the thermal pools option to relax after sightseeing.
Portable charger
Useful for photos and navigation during a long day of travel away from Kraków.