Not sure which Zakopane cable car tour to pick?

For the perfect balance of adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation, choose the cable car tour with Chochołów thermal baths and enjoy a peaceful village atmosphere with stunning mountain views!

Aerial view of Chochołów Thermal Baths with snowy landscape, part of Krakow skiing tour.





Escape the bustle of Krakow on a full-day trip to Zakopane, set at the base of the Tatra Mountains. Famous for its thermal baths and cable car rides up Gubałówka Hill, Zakopane offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks and the valley below. Hop aboard the cable car and admire the breathtaking scenery of Poland’s beloved winter capital!

Overview

  • Distance from Krakow: 107 km
  • Travel time: 1.5–2 hours each way by minibus or coach
  • On-site visit duration: 10–12 hours
  • Best season: Winter (December to February) for snowy scenery, Summer (June to August) for pleasant weather and Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November) for fewer crowds and a wholesome experience.
  • Key attractions: Gubałówka Hill cable car, Krupówki Street, Chochołów village, Tatra Mountains, Terma Bania or Chocholow Thermal Baths, traditional cheese and vodka tasting
Wooden houses covered in snow along a road in Zakopane, with mountains in the background.

Things to know before booking your Zakopane funicular tour

  • Trip duration: Zakopane funicular tours from Krakow are usually part of full-day itineraries and last around 10–12 hours. They include travel time, the Gubałówka Hill funicular ride, local tastings, and free time in Zakopane town.
  • Inclusions and add-ons: Tickets generally include round-trip hotel transfers, funicular rides up Gubałówka Hill, and visits to Chochołów village. Depending on your chosen option, you may also enjoy access to Chocholow Thermal Baths or Terma Bania, cheese and vodka tastings, or a visit to the Wielka Krokiew ski jump hill.
  • Transport and pick-up details: The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off. If your accommodation is in a restricted traffic zone or pedestrian-only area, the nearest possible pick-up point will be arranged and confirmed in advance.
  • Itinerary changes: The tour itinerary may change, or certain points may not be realized due to weather conditions, roadworks, or local events. In such cases, alternate stops will be provided to ensure a smooth experience.
  • Accessibility: While the funicular rides are wheelchair accessible, these tours are not entirely accessible for people with mobility difficulties due to uneven terrain. Pregnant travelers and those with mobility challenges should check with their doctor before joining.
  • Booking in advance: Plan your visit and book your Zakopane funicular tour 2–4 weeks ahead during peak seasons (December–February and June–August) to secure your preferred time slot, especially for thermal bath or ski jump add-ons.

Which Zakopane funicular tour to choose from?

Ticket typeDurationInclusionsUpgradesBest suited for
Chochołów Baths & Cable Car

11 - 11 hours 30 minutes

Gubałówka funicular, Chochołów village, cheese & vodka tasting, 3 hrs at Chochołów Thermal Baths

Hotel transfers and sauna access

Travelers who want a balanced day of culture, scenery, and relaxation

Terma Bania & Cable Car

11 hours

Chochołów village, Gubałówka cable car, 2.5-hour Zakopane walk, cheese & vodka tasting, 2.5-hour Terma Bania hot springs entry

Hotel transfers

First-time visitors and spa enthusiasts looking for a scenic mountain escape

Cable Car & Cheese Tasting

8 hours 30 minutes to 11 hours 30 minutes

Chochołów village, Gubałówka funicular, Krupówki Street, cheese & liqueur tasting

Ski jump hill, regional bazaar, Chochołów heritage houses

Sightseers and culture lovers who prefer more free time to explore Zakopane

Make the most of your Zakopane day tour

Choose a day trip that’s full of charm but never rushed. With hotel transfers, a scenic Gubałówka Hill cable car ride, and local cheese tastings all arranged, you can sit back, enjoy the views, and soak up Zakopane’s mountain spirit and highlander culture at your own pace.

Tourists relaxing in a thermal spa with snowy Zakopane mountains in the background.

Plan your visit to Zakopane from Krakow

Visitor tips

  • Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance to secure your preferred inclusions such as the funicular ride and thermal bath entry, especially during summer and winter seasons.
  • Start early in the morning, around 7am, or visit after 4pm for a quieter experience at Gubałówka Hill and Krupówki Street.
  • Dress warmly at higher altitudes as temperatures at the summit are cooler than in Zakopane town.
  • Visit the thermal baths later (post 6pm) in the day when it tends to be less crowded and more relaxing.
  • Try local specialties like Oscypek cheese and highlander vodka for a taste of Zakopane’s mountain culture.
  • Be respectful in Chochołów Village by asking before taking photos and supporting local artisans.
  • Check the weather forecast before your trip since funicular operations may change during rain or strong winds.

Frequently asked questions about Zakopane funicular tours

Most Zakopane day trips last around 10 to 12 hours, including round-trip transfers from Krakow, a funicular ride up Gubałówka Hill, time to explore Zakopane, and a relaxing visit to the thermal baths.

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