Zakopane Funicular Tours

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Guided Tours

From Kraków: Full-Day Trip to Zakopane with Chochołów Thermal Spa, Cable Car & Transfers

All-in-one trip to Krakow with convenient transfers, local flavors, & relaxation at thermal spas.

Full day out to: Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains from Krakow, with round-trip transfers in an AC vehicle, and an English or Polish guide.
You’ll get: A multilingual guidebook in 20+ languages, a visit to the Chochołów wooden village with 3 hours at the thermal spas, a Gubałówka funicular round-trip ticket, and cheese and vodka-tasting at a Highlander village.
Chochołów wooden village: Discover traditional wooden houses, and spend 3 hours relaxing at the thermal spas with access to geothermal pools and a variety of spa zones.
Gubałówka Hill Funicular: Ride the cable car for panoramic Tatra views and visit a Highlander village where you can taste cheese and vodka.
Options: Choose between transfers from a central meeting point or hotel pick-up and drop-off for extra convenience and a seamless start to your adventure.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

11 hrs 30 mins

Pickup available

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Day Trips

From Krakow: Zakopane Day Trip with Terma Bania Hot Springs, Cable Car & Transfers

A scenic day trip from Krakow packed with mountain views, local culture, cheese, vodka & hot springs.

Full day out to: Zakopane and Terma Bania hot springs
Everything you get: Scenic drive to the wooden village of Chocholow, Gubalowka cable car ride with Tatra views, guided walk through Zakopane’s Krupówki Street, smoked sheep cheese and vodka tasting, and skip-the-line access to Terma Bania’s natural hot springs.
Why choose this: Ideal for culture lovers and first-time visitors—see Poland’s mountain life, food, and spa culture in one easy, all-included day trip.
Upgrade: Choose the hotel transfer option for added comfort with direct door-to-door service.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

11 hrs

Guided tour

Pickup available

Meals included

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Day Trips

From Krakow: Zakopane Full-Day Trip with Cable Car, Cheese Tasting & Hotel Transfers

Discover Zakopane’s mountain magic with cheese tasting, cable car rides, and village charm.

Full day out to: Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains, scenic cable car ride up Gubałówka, Krupówki Street and Chochołów village.
Everything you get: Explore Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains, with hotel pickup and drop-off from Krakow, cheese and liqueur tasting, and plenty of free time to go about Krupowki Street, the historical center of Zakopane.
Why choose this: A full-day Zakopane escape made easy—this all-in-one ticket comes with stress-free transport, local food tastings, and time to wander at your own pace.
Upgrades: Enhance your day with visits to the Ski Jump Hill, Regional Bazaar, or Chocholow's UNESCO-protected houses with a guide, or go for a scenic cable car ride up Gubalowka.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

8 hrs 30 mins - 11 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

Transfers available

Pickup available

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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.

What to expect on a Zakopane funicular tour?

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Transfers from Krakow

Start your adventure with a hotel pick-up or meet your driver at a central Krakow location. Settle into an air-conditioned minibus and enjoy a scenic drive through the rolling countryside as you make your way toward the stunning Tatra Mountains.

Relax at Chochołów thermal baths

If your ticket includes entry to the Chochołów thermal baths, take some time to unwind in the heated pools surrounded by mountain views. The complex features a mix of indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and relaxation areas, making it the perfect stop to recharge before continuing your journey.

Free time to explore

Next, arrive in Zakopane, Poland’s beloved winter capital. Wander along the lively Krupówki Street filled with cafés, market stalls, and mountain charm. Try a bite of the local smoked cheese called oscypek and soak in the vibrant alpine atmosphere.

Ride up Gubałówka Hill

Hop on the funicular railway to the top of Gubałówka Hill for breathtaking views over Zakopane and the Tatra peaks. Spend some time at the summit enjoying the panorama, grabbing a coffee at a mountain café, or exploring walking paths with postcard-perfect photo spots.

Learn about Poland’s ski jumping tradition

If you’re feeling adventurous, visit the famous Wielka Krokiew ski jumping hill, Poland’s top winter sports venue. Learn about the nation’s proud ski jumping tradition and marvel at the towering structure that challenges athletes from around the world.

Unwind, soak and splash

If your ticket includes a stop at Terma Bania, wrap up your day in pure relaxation. Slip into the warm thermal waters and take in the mountain scenery around you. With both fun zones and quiet spa areas, it’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

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 type	Duration	Inclusions	Upgrades	Best 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

Highlights of your Zakopane funicular tour

Plan your visit to Zakopane from Krakow

Couple enjoying mountain views inside Zakopane cable car.

Typical duration: Full-day trip (8–11 hours including travel, sightseeing, and optional spa time)
Best slot to avoid crowds: Before 9am or after 4pm
Last entry: Attractions like the funicular and thermal baths typically close around sunset, depending on the season.

Know more

Krupówki Street in Zakopane with people walking and street vendors, Tatra Mountains in background.

Most crowded

Summer (June to August): Warm weather, clear skies, and lush mountain landscapes make this the most popular season.
Winter (December to February): A magical season when Zakopane transforms into a snowy resort town.

Least crowded

Autumn (September to October): Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall colours create a peaceful and picturesque setting, and is ideal for travelers who prefer fewer crowds.
Spring (March to May): As the snow melts, the mountains come alive with blooming flora and crisp air.

Best time of day: Start early (around 9am) to enjoy quieter viewpoints, shorter queues for the cable car, and relaxed walks through Krupówki Street before the midday rush.

Know more

Woman in yellow jacket and beanie hiking in snowy forest.

Bring cash, as some local shops and stalls on Krupówki Street may not accept cards.
Wear layered clothing and a waterproof jacket since mountain weather can change quickly.
Choose sturdy, comfortable walking shoes because there are steps and uneven terrain in Zakopane and Chochołów Village.
Bring swimwear, a towel, and flip-flops if your ticket includes entry to Chochołów Thermal Baths or Terma Bania.
Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Pack sunscreen and sunglasses, as the mountain sun can be strong even in cooler months.
Use a small backpack or day bag instead of large luggage since the tour involves walking and multiple stops.

Restroom signs indicating men's and women's washrooms in a public facility.

Restrooms are available at the base and top of the Gubałówka funicular, along Krupówki Street, and at both Chochołów Thermal Baths and Terma Bania.
Changing rooms and lockers are provided at the thermal bath complexes, along with elevators and ramps for easier movement.
The funicular is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, but the terrain near the viewing decks can be uneven.

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.

Zakopane Funicular Tours

From Kraków: Full-Day Trip to Zakopane with Chochołów Thermal Spa, Cable Car & Transfers

From Krakow: Zakopane Day Trip with Terma Bania Hot Springs, Cable Car & Transfers

From Krakow: Zakopane Full-Day Trip with Cable Car, Cheese Tasting & Hotel Transfers

How Headout makes choosing experiences effortless

We curate the best ways to experience

We partner with the best

All the best options, in one place

Book with complete peace of mind

Overview