Choose what works best for you.

Want everything planned and covered for the day? Pick a Zakopane day trip that combines adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation with thrilling quad biking and a soothing soak at Chochołów Thermal Baths. Enjoy a full-day experience that’s worth every penny!

Top things to do in Zakopane

If you’re looking for a quick escape from the tourist buzz of Kraków, you’re in for a treat. About 107 km from the city, nestled in the heart of the Tatra Mountains, lies Zakopane, an alpine town known for its scenic peaks, traditional wooden chalets, and rejuvenating thermal pools. With a travel time of around two hours each way, Zakopane makes for an easy day trip that combines nature, culture, and relaxation, or a quick weekend getaway.

Quick overview

  • Distance from Kraków: Around 107 km
  • Typical travel time: About 2 to 2.5 hours by road, or roughly 1 hour 59 minutes by bus or train
  • On-site visit duration: 3 to 5 hours at the thermal baths and key attractions
  • Meeting/drop-off point: Hotel pickups or central Kraków meeting points for most tours
  • Key attractions/sites covered: Chochołów Thermal Baths, Gubałówka Hill, Krupówki Street, and panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains
Aerial view of Zakopane Thermal Baths surrounded by lush greenery in Poland.

What can you expect on a day trip to Zakopane?

Minibus parked on a city street for transfer services.
Guests relaxing in the pool at Chocholow Thermal Baths.
Guests riding quad bikes on a snowy trail in Zakopane.
Father and child pointing at Morskie Oko lake in Zakopane, surrounded by mountains.
Pedestrians walking on snowy Krupówki Street in Zakopane with horse-drawn carriage.
Traditional wooden houses along a street in Zakopane, Poland.
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Easy, comfortable transfers

Day trips from Kraków include convenient round-trip transfers, with options for pickup from your hotel or a central meeting point in the city. Sit back in an air-conditioned minibus and enjoy the scenic countryside as your driver takes care of everything.

Mineral rich dips

In Zakopane, unwind in the warm, mineral-rich waters of Chochołów Thermal Baths, Terma Bania hot springs, or Zakopane Thermal Baths, depending on your ticket. Let the stunning mountain backdrop and steamy pools wash your stress away.

Thrill meets chill

If adventure calls, gear up for snowmobiling or quad biking across snowy trails in the Tatra foothills, getting up close to the rustic charm and natural beauty of Zakopane.

Energising hikes

For those who love the outdoors, lace up for a hike to Morskie Oko or stroll through Tatra National Park surrounded by crisp alpine air and breathtaking peaks. The crystal-clear waters of Morskie Oko reflect the surrounding mountains, especially beautiful in summer.

Taste and treasure

Embrace your inner highlander as you wander down Krupówki Street, sample grilled oscypek cheese, sip local vodka, and shop for hand-carved wooden keepsakes to take home.

Other activities

Along the way, enjoy experiences like bonfire nights with local meals and drinks, visiting UNESCO-listed wooden houses in Chochołów, or simply soaking in the charm of mountain village life.

Things to know before booking your Krakow to Zakopane day trip

  • Many full-day tours include time in Zakopane plus a visit to Chocholow or Terma Bania, two of the region’s best thermal bath complexes.
  • Choose full-day tours that highlight local culture with a stroll down Krupowki Street, views from the Gubalowka funicular, and visits to wooden homes in Chocholow village.
  • Some trips include 1-hour guided snowmobile or quad rides through snowy Tatra terrain, perfect for thrill-seekers looking to explore off the beaten path.
  • Prefer nature? Pick a tour that covers Morskie Oko Lake in the Tatra National Park, one of Poland’s most beautiful alpine lakes, usually paired with a relaxing thermal bath stop.
  • Most Krakow to Zakopane day trips last around 8 to 11 hours, depending on your chosen itinerary. Tours usually start early, around 7am or 8am, giving you plenty of time to explore the town, soak in the baths, and enjoy scenic stops before heading back to Krakow in the evening.
  • Expect to spend about 2.5 to 3 hours at the thermal baths during a full-day trip. Some tours even let you choose how long you want to stay, whether it’s a quick soak or a longer, relaxing spa session.
  • Zakopane looks stunning all year round, but the vibe changes with the seasons. Winter (December to March) means snow, skiing, and cozy hot springs, while summer (June to September) is all about hiking trails and fresh mountain air. Just remember to dress in layers since the weather can change fast.
  • Most tours are easy-going and suitable for everyone, but if you’re planning to hike to Morskie Oko or go quad biking, expect a bit more physical activity. The thermal baths and saunas are super relaxing but may not be ideal for pregnant women or anyone with mobility issues.
  • Meals are usually not included unless mentioned in your tour details. There’s always time for a lunch break though—guides often recommend great local spots where you can try pierogi, kwasnica soup, or grilled oscypek cheese.
  • If your tour includes snowmobiling or quad biking, keep in mind that rental operators usually take cash only. The ride fee isn’t part of your ticket and needs to be paid before the activity starts.

Which Kraków to Zakopane day trip is right for you

Tour typeDurationActivitiesOther inclusionsUpgradesBest for
Chochołów Spa & Cable Car

Full day

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 Transfer

3 hours or full day

Access to 30 pools and jacuzzis at Chocholow Thermal Baths

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

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 Tasting

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

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 tickets

-

Nature enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and exploring the Tatra National Park

Quad Biking & Chochołów Baths

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

Fun stops on your Zakopane day trip

Chocholow Thermal Baths with modern architecture and outdoor pool in Poland.

Chochołów Thermal Baths

Relax at one of the largest thermal complexes in the region, with more than 30 indoor and outdoor pools, jacuzzis, and dedicated brine and sulphide treatment zones.

  • Unique fact: The complex covers nearly 3,000 m² of water surface and features around 30 distinct pool basins.
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Woman relaxing in an indoor thermal bath.

Terma Bania Hot Springs

Terma Bania blends calm and fun with separate Relax and Fun zones. Choose a chilled hydromassage and sauna session or jump into wave pools and slides for a lively family experience.

  • Unique fact: Terma Bania includes over 300 metres of water slides and several thermal pools fed by deep geothermal springs.
Zakopane Thermal Baths at night with illuminated pools and water slides.

Termy Bukovina

For a slightly more luxurious spa vibe, Termy Bukovina mixes panoramic mountain views with a large selection of indoor and outdoor pools, steam rooms, and saunas.

  • Unique fact: The pools are filled with geothermal water drawn from natural springs located more than 2 kilometres underground.
Guests enjoying the pool at Chocholow Thermal Baths.

Termy Szaflary

Termy Szaflary is quieter and family friendly, with indoor and outdoor pools kept at a cozy 30–38°C and accessible wellness facilities.

  • Unique fact: The water here contains natural minerals such as calcium and magnesium, known for their relaxing and skin-soothing benefits.
Zakopane Thermal Baths outdoor pool illuminated at night with scenic mountain backdrop.

Gorący Potok Thermal Baths

Gorący Potok offers an open-air experience with 21 outdoor pools filled with natural sulfur water. It combines wellness and fun through features like geysers, mud baths, and night lighting.

  • Unique fact: The sulfur-rich water maintains a steady temperature year-round, making outdoor bathing possible even in freezing weather.
Cable car ascending over green mountains in Zakopane, Poland.

Gubałówka Cable Car Ride

Not a bath, but a classic Zakopane highlight, the Gubałówka funicular lifts you up for breathtaking panoramas of the Tatras and the town below.

  • Unique fact: The funicular takes just 3.5 minutes to reach the summit and can transport up to 2,000 passengers per hour.
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Woman on a wooden bridge overlooking Morskie Oko lake in Tatra Mountains, summer.

Morskie Oko Lake Hike

For nature lovers, the trail to Morskie Oko offers a peaceful hike through Tatra National Park to a crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks.

  • Unique fact: The paved trail to the lake is about 8 kilometres long and is one of the most visited routes in Tatra National Park.
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Zakopane town square with tourists and market stalls, part of Krakow tour to Chocholow Thermal Baths.

Zakopane town

While Zakopane is best known for its thermal baths, the town is filled with highlander culture, charming museums, and wooden churches that you can discover while strolling through its streets.

  • Unique fact: Zakopane is known as the “Winter Capital of Poland,” attracting thousands of visitors for skiing in winter and mountain adventures in summer.
Aerial view of Zakopane with Tatra Mountains in the background, showcasing the town's architecture and landscape.

Chochołów village

A beautifully preserved wooden village that perfectly captures traditional Góral highlander architecture. Wander past 19th-century houses still inhabited by locals and visit the museum dedicated to the 1846 Chochołów Uprising.

  • Unique fact: The village’s architecture inspired the famous Zakopane Style, characterized by wooden walls, stone foundations, and sloped roofs. 
Krupówki Street in Zakopane with people walking and street vendors, Tatra Mountains in background.

Krupówki Street promenade

Take a leisurely walk down Krupówki Street, the bustling heart of Zakopane. The pedestrian avenue is lined with cafés and boutique shops worth checking out.

  • Unique fact: Krupówki Street stretches for about 1.1 km and has been Zakopane’s main promenade for over a century, drawing both locals and visitors year-round.

Best time to go on a Zakopane day trip

Couple using telescope at Gubałówka with Tatra Mountains view, Zakopane.

Winter (December to February)

Zakopane turns into Poland’s winter capital with snow-covered streets, cozy wooden chalets, and busy ski slopes. It is the best time for snow sports, mountain views, and festive celebrations.

  • Weather: Cold and snowy, with temperatures often below freezing. The Tatra Mountains are covered in fresh snow, creating ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding.
  • Crowds: This is peak season, with large numbers of visitors during school holidays and New Year celebrations.
Wooden chalet in Zakopane with snow-covered roof and warm lights at dusk.

Spring (April to June)

Spring brings blooming crocuses, mild temperatures, and peaceful scenery. It is the perfect time to see nature reawaken before the busy summer months.

  • Weather: Cool to mild, with snow still visible on Kasprowy Wierch in April. By May and June, hiking trails reopen and days become pleasantly warm.
  • Crowds: Light to moderate. This is the best time to visit Zakopane as you can enjoy attractions without long lines or fully booked hotels.
Zakopane mountains with village houses in the foreground, Poland.

Summer (July to September)

The town is full of life in summer, with warm days, green valleys, and open-air events. This is the best season for hiking, exploring, and enjoying traditional mountain culture.

  • Weather: Warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C. Occasional afternoon showers can occur.
  • Crowds: High, especially in July and August when the weather is best and most tourists visit.
Wielka Krokiew ski jump surrounded by autumn trees in Zakopane, Poland.

Autumn (October to November)

Zakopane slows down in autumn as the forests turn golden and the air becomes crisp. It is a peaceful time to visit for beautiful scenery and quiet walks.

  • Weather: Cool and often rainy, with chilly mornings and evenings. October brings colorful foliage, while November feels colder and calmer.
  • Crowds: Low, as most summer tourists have left and ski season has not yet begun.

How to get from Krakow to Zakopane

Transfer vehicles parked at Krakow Balice Airport for Zakopane route.

The easiest and most comfortable way to reach Zakopane is by booking a round-trip transfer. You’ll be picked up from your Kraków hotel or at a central spot in the city and dropped off directly at the same place. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic ride through rolling hills and mountain views.

  • Best for: Travelers who want comfort and convenience
  • Travel time: Around 2 to 2.5 hours
  • Pros:
    • You get door-to-door pickup and drop-off without managing multiple transfers.
    • Transport costs are factored in so you avoid separate ticket purchases.

Taking a bus from Kraków to Zakopane is one of the most affordable transport options. Buses depart frequently from Kraków and typically reach Zakopane in around two to two-and-a-half hours, though traffic can affect this.

  • Best for: Budget travellers and solo backpackers
  • Travel time: Typically 2 to 2.5 hours

For a more relaxed and scenic trip, the train from Kraków to Zakopane is a good choice. You’ll pass through the Polish countryside and the foothills of the Tatras, making the journey part of your experience.

  • Best for: Travelers who enjoy a slow pace and scenic views
  • Travel time: Around 2 to 2.5 hours

Driving or hiring a taxi gives you full freedom to explore at your own pace. The trip takes around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours in good conditions and allows you to stop at scenic viewpoints or explore villages along the way.

  • Best for: Families, groups, or travelers who want flexibility
  • Travel time: Around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours in good conditions

Helpful tips for a Kraków to Zakopane day trip

  • The main Kraków to Zakopane route (National Road 7 DK7 or Zakopianka), can get crowded on weekends and holidays, especially in summer (June to August) and ski season (December to April). Planning your visit in advance or returning after 7pm helps you avoid traffic.
  • Buy a local map. You can find detailed maps at stalls along Krupówki Street that highlight hiking trails, funicular routes, and viewpoints in different languages.
  • Avoid crowds at thermal baths by visiting after 5pm. It’s usually quieter, more relaxing, and the evening lights make the pools look magical.
  • Support authentic crafts. Look for handmade items labeled “Produkt regionalny” or sold at Góral-run stalls for genuine local products.
  • Check trail conditions before heading out. Even in spring or autumn, higher areas like Kasprowy Wierch can still have snow or icy patches.
  • Visit during the shoulder seasons if possible. May to June and September to October offer mild weather, open trails, and fewer tourists.
  • Bring some cash. Not every food stall or market vendor accepts cards, especially in smaller mountain areas.
  • Sample grilled oscypek cheese with cranberry, hearty kwaśnica soup, or Polish sausages from street stalls.

Frequently asked questions about Krakow to Zakopane tours

How long does a day tour from Krakow to Zakopane take?

Most full-day tours last between 9 and 10 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and time to relax at the thermal baths before returning to Kraków in the evening.

Should I book my Zakopane day trip in advance?

Yes. Tours and thermal bath tickets often sell out quickly, especially during weekends, summer (June to August), and ski season (December to April). Booking at least guarantees your spot and preferred time.

Can I visit Zakopane on my own instead of joining a tour?

You can easily travel by bus, train, or car, but guided tours offer more convenience. Transfers, entry tickets, and local stops are already organized, so you can relax and enjoy the trip without planning logistics.

Which thermal bath complex is the best to visit?

Chochołów Thermal Baths is the largest and most scenic, offering panoramic mountain views. Bukovina and Bania Thermal Baths are excellent family-friendly alternatives with fun slides and spa zones.

Is it safe to visit Zakopane in winter?

Yes, it’s perfectly safe. Roads are well maintained, and guided transfers are the best option in snowy conditions to avoid driving or parking stress.