Zakopane, nestled in the Tatra Mountains, is Poland's premier mountain resort, offering exceptional opportunities for winter sports and extensive hiking trails amidst breathtaking vistas. It presents a rich highland culture characterized by unique wooden architecture and traditional cuisine, serving as an accessible retreat for both adventure seekers and those desiring a relaxing escape.
The main social hub in Zakopane is Krupówki Street, a bustling pedestrian area lined with a diverse array of restaurants, cafes, and bars suitable for various preferences. For those seeking nightlife, options range from lively clubs, such as Va Va Voom and Dworzec Tatrzanski, to more relaxed settings like Cafe Piano, with activity often peaking during the winter ski season and summer hiking periods.
Top 7 Things to do in Zakopane
Activities in Zakopane range from challenging mountain hikes and scenic cable car rides to relaxing thermal baths and cultural exploration along a vibrant main street.
1. Hike to Morskie Oko Lake
Embark on a journey to Morskie Oko, one of the most iconic and picturesque lakes in the Tatra Mountains. This popular trail involves a paved path, making it accessible for various fitness levels, leading to an emerald lake surrounded by towering peaks. It is a full-day experience, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views.
Cost: The entry fee for Tatra National Park is 11 PLN for adults and 5.5 PLN for reduced tickets. Minibuses from Zakopane cost approximately 10-15 PLN one way. An optional horse-drawn carriage ride, available for most of the route, typically costs around 100 PLN uphill and 70 PLN downhill, payable in cash to the driver.
Transport: Minibuses depart regularly from the Zakopane Bus Station (currently at Kosciuszki 22) to Palenica Białczańska, the trailhead for Morskie Oko, taking about 40 minutes. Taxis are also available, costing around 120 PLN for a one-way trip.
2. Ride the Kasprowy Wierch Cable Car
Ascend to the summit of Kasprowy Wierch (1,985 meters above sea level) via a modern cable car, offering spectacular panoramic views of both the Polish and Slovak Tatra Mountains. This trip is an attraction suitable for all ages and serves as a gateway to various hiking trails in warmer months and ski slopes in winter. The ride includes an intermediate stop at Myślenickie Turnie.
Cost: Return tickets for adults range from 99-149 PLN in high season and 79-115 PLN for reduced tickets, with prices varying based on the time of day and purchase method (online tickets for early departures are often cheaper). The cable car ticket also includes the entry fee to Tatra National Park.
Transport: The cable car's base station is located in Kuźnice. From central Zakopane, it is approximately a 25-minute walk from Krupówki Street to Kuźnice. Alternatively, minibuses frequently run from Zakopane's central station to the vicinity of Kuźnice for about 5 PLN, followed by a 15-20 minute walk to the station itself.
3. Explore Gubałówka Hill via Funicular
Take a short funicular ride to the top of Gubałówka Hill, a popular viewpoint offering expansive vistas of Zakopane and the entire Tatra mountain range. At the summit, visitors can enjoy local market stalls, restaurants, cafes, and seasonal attractions like a gravity slide.
Cost: A return ticket for an adult typically costs between 29-38 PLN, with reduced fares around 23-31 PLN, depending on the season and whether purchased online or at the ticket office. Small fees apply for dogs or large luggage.
Transport: The Gubałówka Funicular base station is conveniently located within walking distance of Krupówki Street in central Zakopane.
4. Stroll Krupówki Street
Immerse oneself in the lively atmosphere of Krupówki Street, Zakopane's main pedestrian promenade. This bustling street is the social and commercial heart of the town, featuring traditional wooden architecture, numerous shops selling local crafts and souvenirs, regional restaurants, and cozy cafes. It is an ideal spot to sample local delicacies, observe street performers, and soak in the unique highland culture.
Cost: Walking along Krupówki Street is free. Costs are incurred for purchases of food, drinks, and souvenirs. Trying 'oscypek,' a traditional smoked sheep's milk cheese, is highly recommended.
Transport: Krupówki Street is centrally located in Zakopane and is easily accessible on foot from most parts of the town.
5. Relax at Chochołowskie Termy (Thermal Baths)
Unwind and rejuvenate at Chochołowskie Termy, the largest thermal bath complex in Poland, situated just outside Zakopane. This expansive facility offers a variety of indoor and outdoor pools filled with mineral-rich thermal waters (ranging from 32-38°C), jacuzzis, saunas, and water slides. It is a perfect way to relax tired muscles after a day of mountain activities.
Cost: Ticket prices vary based on the duration of access (e.g., 3-hour or all-day) and the specific zones desired (pools, healing zone, sauna). A 3-hour ticket for the Pools + Healing Zone can cost around 109 PLN per person.
Transport: Chochołowskie Termy is located in Chochołów, approximately 17 km from Zakopane. Minibuses provide regular service from Zakopane to Chochołów, with a journey time of about 25 minutes and fares typically between 5-9 PLN. Taxis offer a faster option, costing around 60-85 PLN for a 20-23 minute ride. Many organized tours from Zakopane or Krakow also include transfers to the thermal baths.
6. Visit Chochołów Traditional Village
Step back in time with a visit to Chochołów, a beautifully preserved Góral village renowned for its distinctive traditional wooden houses. This living museum offers a unique insight into the local highland culture and architecture, providing excellent opportunities for photography and a peaceful stroll away from the town's hustle.
Cost: Exploring the village on foot is free.
Transport: Minibuses operate regularly between Zakopane (Zakopane Górka stop) and Chochołów (Chochołów I stop), with a journey duration of about 25 minutes and a fare ranging from 5-9 PLN. Taxis can also be hired, costing approximately 60-80 PLN for a 23-minute ride.
7. Discover the Tatra Museum (Muzeum Tatrzańskie)
Delve into the rich history and unique ethnographic heritage of Zakopane and the Podhale region at the Tatra Museum. The museum showcases the distinctive culture of the Góral people, featuring interactive exhibits, traditional highland artifacts, and displays on the natural history of the Tatra Mountains, including local flora and taxidermic fauna.
Cost: Admission fees are typically affordable, though specific prices were not found in the search results.
Transport: The Tatra Museum is centrally located in Zakopane, making it easily accessible on foot from Krupówki Street and other central areas.
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