Krakow: Zakopane Tour with Thermal Baths, Cable Car & Pickup

Krakow: Zakopane Tour with Thermal Baths, Cable Car & Pickup

If you’re looking to escape Krakow’s bustling streets and soak in the stunning scenery of Poland’s Tatra Mountains, this day trip is a fantastic choice. For about $51 per person, you’ll spend roughly 11 hours exploring Zakopane’s lively town center, riding a cable car to Gubaówka, and unwinding in warm thermal baths. Guides like Maciek and Michael have earned rave reviews for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

What we love about this tour is the variety of experiences packed into one day — from the scenic ride on the Gubaówka funicular to tasting traditional smoked sheep’s cheese, all set against a backdrop of majestic peaks. Plus, the thermal baths offer a relaxing finale that leaves you feeling refreshed and ready to unwind.

A potential consideration is the tight schedule—there’s a lot packed in, which means some stops might feel hurried if you’re hoping for extensive exploration. Also, the tour involves shared transportation, so if you prefer more privacy or space, it’s worth considering.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic local flavors, scenic mountain vistas, and a good mix of sightseeing and relaxation. It’s especially popular among those who want a comprehensive day’s experience in Zakopane without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with transportation, guides, and activity tickets
• Authentic regional flavors like smoked sheep’s cheese and local vodka
• Stunning mountain views from the Gubaówka cable car and scenic stops
• Relaxation in thermal baths with indoor and outdoor pools and saunas
• Flexible options for small or private groups
• Well-organized itinerary balancing sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Zakopane: What to Expect

When we consider this day trip, it’s clear how well-rounded it is. You begin with a hotel pickup in Krakow, which takes about an hour and a half to reach the mountains. The initial stop in Chochoów, a village famous for its traditional wooden houses, gives you a peek into local life. Here, you’ll visit a shepherd’s hut—a bacówka—to taste smoked sheep’s cheese, oscypek, and sample regional spirits. A lot of reviews praise this experience, with one traveler calling it “delicious” and highlighting the chance to try authentic flavors.

Next, you’ll hop on the Gubaówka cable car, which is at the heart of this tour. The ride lasts around 10 minutes each way, but the views along the way are memorable. You’ll ascend to Gubaówka Hill, where the panoramic vistas of the Tatra Mountains make your camera work hard. Multiple reviewers describe the views as “spectacular,” and many mention that clear weather made this a highlight of their trip. It’s a short stop, but you’ll want your camera ready for the sweeping mountain panoramas.

Following the cable car, there’s free time to explore Krupówki Street, Zakopane’s bustling main promenade. This lively street is lined with shops, cafes, and market stalls selling local crafts, cheese, and souvenirs. It’s a great spot for people-watching and picking up some unique gifts or snacks. Several travelers appreciated the opportunity to try local cuisine or browse the market stalls, making this a highlight for those who enjoy lively, authentic atmospheres.

The core of the trip is the Chochoów Thermal Baths, where you’ll spend around two-and-a-half hours relaxing in indoor and outdoor pools, jacuzzis, and saunas, all with mountain views. This is considered a true highlight by many reviewers, who describe the baths as “amazing” and “soothing,” especially after a day of walking and sightseeing. One traveler noted the outdoor pools with a DJ and the size of the complex, which can sometimes be crowded but still worth it.

Finally, the trip concludes with a leisurely drive back to Krakow, reflecting on a day full of breathtaking views, delicious tastes, and relaxing moments.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Start with Hotel Pickup
Most guests are picked up from centrally located Krakow hotels or nearby spots such as Wielopole 2 or Radisson Blu Hotel. The pickup time is communicated the afternoon before, and being outside your hotel on time helps ensure a smooth start.

Journey to Chochoów
The drive takes about 1.5 hours, offering a chance to settle in and enjoy the scenic countryside. Along the way, you may get some interesting local tidbits from your guide. This part of the trip is as much about the journey as the destination, with beautiful views of rolling hills and traditional wooden houses.

Chochoów Village and Cheese Tasting
Stop briefly in Chochoów for photos and a quick walk around. Then, visit a traditional shepherd’s hut where you sample oscypek, a smoked cheese made from sheep’s milk, paired with regional vodka. Several reviews mention how tasty and authentic this experience is, adding to the culture. One reviewer noted, “The town was really special, and the thermal baths were great,” emphasizing how this stop adds a charming, authentic touch to the day.

Zakopane and Krupówki Street
Arrive in Zakopane, where you’ll have about 2 hours to explore. The town is famous for its wooden architecture, vibrant market stalls, and regional cuisine. You can wander Krupówki Street, try some local dishes, or pick up souvenirs. The lively atmosphere makes it ideal for those who enjoy a good mix of shopping and people-watching.

Cable Car to Gubaówka
The 10-minute ride offers views that make the trip worth it. Once at the top, you get a panoramic perspective of the mountains that seem to stretch forever. Many travelers describe this as “breathtaking,” and it’s a perfect photo opportunity.

Gubaówka Hill and Scenic Views
Spend about 30 minutes at the summit, soaking in the mountain scenery. The views are often described as “stunning,” with clear days providing excellent vistas. It’s a brief stop, but the scenery is well worth the ascent.

Return to Krakow & Thermal Baths
The final major activity is the thermal baths, where you’ll enjoy 2.5 hours of relaxation. The complex is large, with several pools, jacuzzis, and saunas—perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Many reviews highlight how relaxing and fun this part of the trip is, with some mentioning the outdoor pools with DJs and the size of the complex.

Drive Back to Krakow
The journey back takes about 1.5 hours, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights or chat about your favorite spots.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

This tour’s charm lies in its authentic touch points—tasting oscypek cheese and regional spirits, exploring the historic wooden houses, and enjoying mountain vistas from the cable car. Several guests mention how guides like Maciek and Michael go above and beyond, sharing local knowledge, humor, and recommendations that enhance the trip’s value.

The cost of $51 includes round-trip transport, guide services, tickets for the cable car and thermal baths, and tastings. This all-in-one package offers good value, especially considering the included activities and the convenience of hotel pickup. The thermal baths, in particular, are a highlight — many reviewers mention how vast and enjoyable they are, with outdoor pools, jacuzzis, and even a DJ playing tunes.

While the schedule is tight, the balance between sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing is well thought out. Be prepared for some walking, especially in the thermal baths, so comfortable shoes and swimwear are recommended.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience caters well to travelers who want an overview of Zakopane’s highlights without the hassle of planning each activity. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic regional flavors, scenic mountain views, and a bit of relaxation. If you enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable guides, this is especially appealing, as reviews consistently mention how guides like Maciek, Michael, and others make the experience memorable with their insights and cheerful demeanor.

However, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women, as the tour involves some walking and physical activity. Also, those seeking a more private or leisurely visit might find the schedule a bit packed.

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Final Words

This day trip from Krakow offers a well-rounded taste of southern Poland’s natural beauty and local culture. With stunning mountain views, delicious local foods, and a chance to relax in thermal waters, it balances adventure and leisure beautifully. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge turn a simple excursion into a memorable adventure, especially appreciated by those who love authentic experiences.

If you’re after a manageable yet diverse day out that combines scenic vistas, cultural tastes, and relaxation, this tour fits the bill. Its affordability and positive reviews suggest you’ll walk away with not only great photos but also a deeper appreciation of Poland’s mountainous charms.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from selected locations in Krakow, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long is the drive to Zakopane?
The drive from Krakow to Zakopane takes approximately 1.5 hours each way, allowing you to enjoy the countryside views en route.

What should I bring for the thermal baths?
Bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable clothes, flip-flops, and if you wish, you can bring your own towel. Towels are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for pregnant women or travelers with mobility impairments, and children should be comfortable with walking and water activities.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of cafes and food stalls in Zakopane for you to explore.

How much free time do I get in Zakopane?
You’ll have about 2 hours to explore Krupówki Street, shop, and enjoy the town atmosphere before heading to the cable car and thermal baths.

What are the highlights of the cable car ride?
The ride offers panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains, making it a perfect photo opportunity and a memorable part of the trip.

Are there guided explanations during the stops?
Yes, the guide provides insights and background during the various stops, making sure you understand the significance of each place.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process also allows you to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here: