From happy customers

Loved by 48 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5
ASIMAKOPOULOS KONSTANTINOS

Asimakopoulos

Jan 2026

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It was a very nice trip we recommend. Our guide was very kind and helpful he suggested us very cool place with nice food . But there was no heating inside the bus.
Giuseppe Fiorita
IT

Giuseppe

Italy
Jan 2026

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Very nice, large and well-organized spa. Everything very clean, warm and relaxing pools, bar right by the pool and ample space even for children. Friendly and helpful staff and lifeguards. Lots of showers and comfortable facilities. The only small note is that to get to some pools you have to go outside and in the cold, but nothing problematic. Really pleasant experience, recommend.
Sarah Endersby
GB

Sarah

United Kingdom
Dec 2025

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Really busy place and a bit hectic!! The place is great and a good experience. No information about having to be out of the locker room within the set time which was annoying. We had to queue to pay on the way out for 10 mins and then charged as we went over our 3 hrs by 8 mins!! Drinks you are charged for the cup as well?? Nice place. Been there done that!
Jacopo Morini

Jacopo

Dec 2025

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Amazing experience in Zakopane! The tour was absolutely wonderful, with beautiful landscapes and great organization. The guide was truly excellent: knowledgeable, friendly, and very professional, which made the whole experience even better. The only thing that did not go as expected was the snowmobile payment: in the app it was shown as included, but in reality it had to be paid separately (400 PLN). Apart from this issue, the experience was really amazing and highly recommended.
Rebecca Hodgkiss
GB

Rebecca

United Kingdom
Dec 2025

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This trip was run by Fun Tours Cracow. The pickup was at 08:50hrs and the lead guide was Katrina. Her and the rest of the team were brilliant. Very funny, knowledgeable with the facts about local area and organised. We unfortunately didn't get to do snowmobiling as the weather was unusually warm and sunny for December, however the quad biking was fantastic. The thermal spa's were great. We stuck to the -1 level which was adults only and had a swim up pool bar which was the perfect way to end the day. We would definitely book with Fun Tours Cracow again!
James Thomas Corlett
GB

James

United Kingdom
Dec 2025

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+2 more

Matthew the driver and guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. He WhatsApped guests advice on where to visit in our free time which was useful. The bus was very comfortable and relaxing for the long drive. I really enjoyed this trip!
Ewa Katarzyna Le Poer Trench
AU

Ewa

Australia
Jan 2026
Great tour guides with excellent English and local knowledge. We had such a great time on this tour, would do it again and recommend for anyone looking to do a tour like this to use these guys 👍🏻👍🏻
Bodoki Bernadett
HU

Bodoki

Hungary
Dec 2025
There was a pool bar, it was very good. The prices are ok. The pools are clean and warm. There were a lot of people but we found a place for us.

Top things to do in Zakopane

Just a few hours from Krakow lies Zakopane, a charming town nestled in the stunning Tatra Mountains of southern Poland. Known for its thermal baths, it’s where mountain beauty meets total relaxation. Spend a weekend here soaking in natural hot springs, riding the Gubałówka cable car, and unwinding amid breathtaking alpine scenery.

Quick overview: Zakopane Thermal Baths

  • Distance from Krakow: 107 km (68 mi)
  • Typical travel time: 2 to 2.5 hours by road each way
  • On-site visit duration: 4 to 6 hours depending on the chosen experience
  • Best season/time of year: The heart of summer (July and August) is perfect for mountain hikes, whereas December and January offer a magical winter atmosphere with snow-covered peaks. June and September are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Meeting/drop-off point: Krakow city hotels or selected meeting points in the Old Town
  • Key attractions/sites covered: Zakopane town, Krupówki Street, Gubałówka Hill cable car, Chochołów village, Chocholow and Terma Bania thermal baths, and Morskie Oko lake.

Recommended tours:

  • Zakopane day trip with Terma Bania hot springs, cable car and transfers
  • Morskie Oko and Zakopane day trip with transfers
  • Zakopane full-day trip with cable car, cheese tasting and hotel transfers
Aerial view of Chochołowska Baths in Zakopane with surrounding mountains.

What to expect on a day trip from Krakow to Zakopane

Tourists in a field near Zakopane with a van, enjoying mountain views.
Zakopane cityscape with illuminated streets and snow-covered Tatra Mountains in the background.
Tourists relaxing in a thermal spa with snowy Zakopane mountains in the background.
Snowmobiles driving through snowy forest in Zakopane.
Cheese tasting plates with fruit preserves in Zakopane, Poland.
Couple boarding Aerobus in Barcelona city center for airport transfer.
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Comfortable transfers

Begin your day trip to Zakopane with a smooth, worry-free journey from Krakow in a modern, air-conditioned minibus. Enjoy convenient hotel pick-up or meet at a central point, then relax as you travel through scenic countryside roads while your guide handles all the details.

Scenic journey

Pass through the picturesque wooden village of Chochołów and watch the Tatra Mountains loom closer as you near Zakopane. Nestled in a valley between the mountains and Gubałówka Hill, the town offers a scenic drive through southern Poland’s beautiful highland region.

Relaxing thermal bath experiences

Unwind in the soothing waters of nearby thermal baths like Chochołów Thermal Baths or Terma Bania. The mineral-rich pools, kept at 32 to 38°C, offer therapeutic benefits and make for the perfect post-sightseeing recharge against the backdrop of the Tatra Mountains.

Extra activities and adventures

Make your day even more exciting with optional experiences like quad biking or snowmobile rides through the Tatra trails. Some tours include bonfires with regional food and drinks, creating the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Local flavors

Your Zakopane adventure is incomplete without tasting authentic smoked sheep cheese beloved in the Tatra region, and sampling Polish vodka at a local hut. Don’t forget to explore Krupówki Street to experience Zakopane’s vibrant culture filled with wooden stalls and folk art.

Return journey

End your day relaxed and content as you travel back to Krakow with views of the silhouetted Tatra Mountains or their faint outline against the night sky from the comfort of your bus.

Things to know before booking your Zakopane Thermal Baths ticket

  • Types of tours: Choose a shorter 3-hour trip if you only want to visit the thermal baths or are short on time. For a fuller experience, opt for a full-day tour, the most popular option, combining cable car rides, sightseeing, and local tastings.
  • Travel time and comfort: A round trip from Krakow to Zakopane takes about 2.5 hours each way. Full-day tours include breaks and are designed for comfort, but expect a long day overall. If you prefer a shorter outing, consider half-day spa-only tours.
  • Starting point: Most trips begin with transfers from Krakow to Zakopane. However, if you are already staying in Zakopane, you will find tours that include snowmobile rides, cheese tastings, or thermal spa visits without the long travel time.
  • Transportation: Choose between convenient hotel pickup or a central meeting point, depending on where you are staying.
  • Bath duration options: If you are keen on spending more time at the baths, Chocholow Thermal Bath Tickets with Transfer let you choose between a quick 3-hour session, full-day access, or morning or evening entry. Other full-day trip options typically include 2.5 to 3 hours of thermal bath time.
  • Season and weather considerations: Zakopane changes dramatically with the seasons, and activities vary accordingly. Winter is perfect for snow sports, thermal baths, and snowy landscapes, while summer offers scenic hikes, outdoor thermal pools, and panoramic cable rides.
  • Fitness and activity level: Zakopane day trips often include adventures like snowmobiling, quad biking, cable car rides, and spas. While some require little to no walking, hikes to Morskie Oko or quad biking are better suited for travelers comfortable with more physical activity.

Which Zakopane tour is best for you?

Tour typeStarting pointDurationActivitiesOther inclusionsUpgradesBest for
Chochołów Spa & Cable Car

Krakow

Full day

Visit Chochołów village, Gubałówka funicular ride, Zakopane sightseeing, thermal bath entry, cheese & vodka tasting

Guide, multilingual guidebook, round-trip transfers

Private hotel transfers, meeting point pickup

Travelers wanting a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery in one day

Chochołów Baths with Transfers

Krakow

3 hours or full day

Relax in 30 pools and jacuzzis, enjoy brine and sulphide treatment zones

Lockers, skip-the-line entry, English/ Polish-speaking guide, transfers

Extend to full-day access, saunarium use, morning or evening transfers

Wellness lovers or visitors seeking a flexible spa-only experience

Terma Bania & Cable Car

Krakow

Full day

Visit Chochołów village, Gubałówka cable car, Krupówki guided walk, cheese & vodka tasting, Terma Bania hot springs

Guide, round-trip transfers

Hotel transfer option for added comfort

Travelers wanting to explore a different thermal spa experience while enjoying Zakopane’s highlights

Cable Car & Cheese & Transfers

Krakow

Full day

Visit Chochołów village, Gubałówka cable car, Krupówki Street, highlander cheese tasting

Bilingual guide, hotel transfers

Add Ski Jump Hill, regional bazaar, or heritage house visits

Travelers wanting a taste of local cuisine, culture, and sightseeing in one day

Morskie Oko & Zakopane Trip

Krakow

Full day

Funicular ride up Gubałówka, hike to Morskie Oko Lake, Tatra National Park entry, vodka and cheese tasting

English-speaking driver, hotel transfers, funicular ticketsc

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Nature enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and exploring the Tatra National Park

Quad Biking & Chochołów Baths

Krakow

Full day

Quad biking in the Tatras, Chochołów thermal baths, bonfire with food & drinks

Highlander cheese tasting, helmet, gloves, English-speaking driver, transfers

Hotel transfers or meeting point pickup

Adventure seekers who want both thrill and relaxation in one day

Snowmobile & Chochołów Baths

Zakopane

7 hours

Guided snowmobile or quad tour, bonfire with regional food, thermal bath entry

Helmet, gloves, cheese tasting, English-speaking driver, transfers

-

Travelers wanting an active, adventure-filled day paired with a relaxing spa experience

Guided Zakopane Tours = Zero Hassle, Maximum Exploration!

Forget the stress of planning, buying tickets, or finding your way around. Guided tours handle every detail and share local insights, so you can focus on enjoying the mountains, spas, and authentic culture.

Thermal spa with mountain views in Zakopane, Poland, part of a full-day trip from Krakow.

Chochołów Thermal Baths

Dive into the largest thermal pool complex in Podhale, spreading across nearly 3,000 m² with 30 different pools, brine baths, and whirlpools. Feel the mountain breeze as you unwind in the outdoor pools, take on the waterslides, or relax in the saunas and salt caves.

Recommended duration: 2.5–3 hours

Included:

  • Kraków to Zakopane Day Trip with Chochołów Thermal Spa, Cable Car & Transfers
  • From Krakow: Zakopane Day Tour with Quad Biking, Chochołów Thermal Baths & Transfers
  • From Zakopane: Snowmobile/Quad Bike Ride, Chochołów Thermal Baths & Transfers
Know more

Terma Bania Hot Springs

Located in Białka Tatrzańska, around 25 km from Zakopane, Terma Bania is a favorite for its perfect balance of calm and play. The Relax Zone offers peaceful geothermal pools, hydromassage spots, and saunas, while the Fun Zone keeps families happy with slides, wave pools, and fountains.

Recommended duration: 2.5–3 hours

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

Termy Bukovina

If you’re after spa luxury with mountain views, Termy Bukovina is your go-to. Nestled at the base of the Tatra Mountains, it features 20 indoor and outdoor pools filled with healing geothermal water, plus saunas, jacuzzis, and steam rooms. In the evenings, it comes alive with music-filled pool parties and glowing night lights, making it one of the most entertaining complexes near Zakopane.

Recommended duration: 2–3 hours

Termy Szaflary

Just 17 km from Zakopane, Termy Szaflary is ideal for those seeking pure tranquility. Its indoor and outdoor pools stay warm at 30–38 °C, surrounded by peaceful mountain scenery. With hydromassage jets, slides, and family-friendly areas, it’s perfect for couples and families alike.

Recommended duration: 2–2.5 hours

Gorący Potok Thermal Baths

Gorący Potok is the place to be if you want a thermal bath experience with a slice of fun. Set in Szaflary, it features over 21 outdoor pools filled with natural sulfur water known for its health benefits. Enjoy slides, geysers, and mud baths by day, or relax under the stars at night. It’s a lively, natural oasis that blends fun, wellness, and a bit of mountain charm.

Recommended duration: 3–4 hours

Aqua Park Zakopane (Termy Zakopiańskie)

Located right in the center of Zakopane on Jagiellońska Street, this year-round complex combines water fun and relaxation without leaving town. Take a swim in the 25 m indoor pool, unwind in the leisure pools with massage jets, or enjoy mountain views from the heated outdoor terrace pool overlooking Giewont.

Recommended duration: 2–2.5 hours

Know more

More fun activities along your Zakopane day trip

Cable car ascending over green mountains in Zakopane, Poland.
Father and child pointing at Morskie Oko lake in Zakopane, surrounded by mountains.
Cheese tasting plates with fruit preserves in Zakopane, Poland.
Guests riding quad bikes on a snowy trail in Zakopane.
Snowmobilers riding through snowy forest near Zakopane, Poland.
Pedestrians walking on snowy Krupówki Street in Zakopane with horse-drawn carriage.
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Gubałówka Cable Car Ride

Glide to the top of Gubałówka Hill and take in breathtaking bird’s-eye views of Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains. At the summit, browse cozy cafés, sip hot chocolate, and capture postcard-perfect shots of the alpine skyline.

Recommended duration: 30–45 minutes

Morskie Oko Lake Hike

Embark on a scenic trail through Tatra National Park to reach Morskie Oko, one of Europe’s most beautiful and visited mountain lakes. Known for its crystal-clear water and dramatic setting surrounded by peaks, this natural wonder offers a peaceful, picture-perfect escape.

Recommended duration: 2–3 hours

Cheese and Vodka Tasting

Embrace true highlander culture by tasting the spirit of the Tatra region with oscypek (smoked sheep cheese) paired with local vodka or liqueurs. It’s a delicious peek into the region’s rustic lifestyle, full of warmth, flavor, and tradition.

Recommended duration: 20–30 minutes

Quad Biking Adventure

Kick up some dust as you ride powerful quad bikes through forest trails and mountain slopes. Cross rivers and muddy paths, speed through glades, and visit traditional wooden villages or a sculptor’s hut for an unforgettable blend of thrill and scenery.

Recommended duration: 1–1.5 hours

Snowmobile Ride and Bonfire Feast

Race across snow-covered trails on a snowmobile surrounded by the stunning winter scenery of the Tatras. End your adventure by a warm bonfire with hot drinks and a hearty highlander meal under the stars, making it an unforgettable winter experience.

Recommended duration: 1.5–2 hours

Chochołów Village

Step into a living postcard at Chochołów, a village famous for its traditional wooden homes and authentic highlander charm. Stroll through peaceful streets, meet local artisans, and experience the slower pace of mountain life.

Recommended duration: 30–45 minutes

Your Zakopane day trip itinerary

Morning

Depart from Kraków in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan or bus. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Polish countryside toward the Tatra Mountains, passing traditional wooden homes in the village of Chochołów. Make a brief stop here to explore the village’s architecture and enjoy a highlander cheese and local vodka tasting for a true taste of mountain life.

Afternoon

Arrive in Zakopane and take the Gubałówka cable car to soak up panoramic views of the Tatras. Spend some free time exploring Krupówki Street, lined with cozy cafés, local shops, and rustic restaurants. Depending on your tour, unwind in one of the region’s thermal spas such as Chochołów Thermal Baths or Terma Bania, where steaming pools and stunning views create a blissful escape.

Evening

If your tour includes it, cap off your day with a thrilling quad biking or snowmobile ride, or a hike up to Morskie Oko, then relax by a warm bonfire with hearty highlander food and mountain music. If you prefer something quieter, explore some cafes for dinner in Zakopane before returning to Kraków.

Best time to visit Zakopane

Peak seasons

  • Winter (December to February): Zakopane lights up in winter with snow-covered landscapes.
  • Summer (July to August): Summers offer warm, sunny weather and are ideal for hiking and outdoor exploration.

However, these months are also the the busiest with long queues on popular trails and fully booked hotels.

Plan your visit

Non-peak seasons

  • May to early June: Enjoy mild weather, fewer visitors, and a relaxed pace before the summer rush.
  • September: A great time for hiking with pleasant temperatures and smaller crowds.
  • October to November: Considered a low season due to colder, rainier weather and some attractions closing for winter.

Weather

  • December to March: Zakopane turns into a snowy resort town. Days are short and cold, with temperatures often below freezing and plenty of snow in the Tatra Mountains, perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
  • April to September: April still brings snow to higher slopes like Kasprowy Wierch. By May and June, temperatures rise and days grow longer while September is the warmest and greenest time of year.

How to get to Zakopane from Krakow

Minivan parked on a road with Tatra Mountains in the background near Zakopane, Poland.

The easiest and most popular way to travel from Kraków to Zakopane is with a round-trip transfer. Choose tickets that offer door-to-door service, with pickup from your Kraków hotel or airport and drop-off at your Zakopane accommodation. Transfers include transport costs, saving you from extra expenses compared to arranging travel on your own.

  • Best for: Budget travelers and solo backpackers who prefer saving on transport to spend more in Zakopane.
  • Travel time: Around 2 to 2½ hours depending on traffic.

Pros:

  • Affordable and frequent departures from Kraków’s main bus station to Zakopane.

Cons:

  • Traffic along the Zakopianka Road can cause delays, especially on weekends or holidays.
  • Less convenient if you’re traveling with heavy luggage or ski equipment.
  • Best for: Travelers who enjoy scenic rides and a slower, relaxed pace, focusing on the journey as much as the destination.
  • Travel time: Around 2½ to 3 hours depending on the service.

Pros:

  • A scenic route through the Polish countryside and the foothills of the Tatras.
  • Comfortable seating with plenty of space to stretch out.

Cons:

  • Slower than the bus, with fewer direct connections.
  • Limited frequency, so it’s best to check timetables in advance.
  • Best for: Independent travelers, families, or anyone planning to explore the region freely.
  • Travel time: Around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours in good conditions.

Pros:

  • Full flexibility to leave whenever you want and stop at scenic viewpoints along the way.
  • Great for travelers visiting nearby attractions like Chochołów or the thermal baths.

Cons:

  • Parking in Zakopane can be limited during busy seasons.
  • Winter traffic or snow can sometimes slow down travel times.

Helpful tips for Day trips

  • Start early: Zakopane gets busy fast, especially during weekends and ski season (mid-December to April). Leave Kraków by 7am to make the most of your day and avoid the busiest hours between 11am and 3pm.
  • Wear sturdy shoes: Whether you’re strolling along Krupówki Street or hiking up Gubałówka Hill, comfortable shoes are essential for Zakopane’s uneven and sometimes hilly paths.
  • Bring a light jacket: Even in summer, the mountain air can feel cool and breezy. Temperatures drop quickly in the afternoon, so pack a light layer to stay comfortable.
  • Pack swimwear and a towel: Many day trips include a relaxing stop at Chochołów Thermal Baths. Bring your own swimsuit, flip-flops, and towel to enjoy the experience without renting.
  • Pre-book tickets: Book your cable car or spa passes in advance. High-season months (July and August) see long queues, so reserving early saves both time and hassle.
  • Carry some cash: Small cafés, market stalls, and oscypek cheese vendors often prefer cash. Keep a few Polish złoty handy for snacks or souvenirs.
  • Try local food: Don’t miss the chance to try Zakopane’s specialties like grilled oscypek cheese with cranberry sauce, smoky sausages, and hearty kwaśnica soup.
  • Shop local: Wander along Krupówki Street for hand-carved wooden crafts, wool socks, and leather goods made by Góral artisans. You’ll find plenty of unique keepsakes here.
  • Photography tip: Morning and sunset are the best times to capture the Tatra Mountains glowing in golden light. You’ll get postcard-perfect shots without the crowds.

Frequently asked questions about Zakopane Thermal Baths tickets

A typical day trip from Krakow to Zakopane lasts around 10 to 11 hours. The drive takes about 2 to 2.5 hours each way, giving you roughly 5 to 6 hours to explore Zakopane, Gubałówka Hill, and the thermal baths.