Zakopane and Chocholow Thermal Baths Tour from Krakow

Discover the scenic beauty and cultural charm of Poland’s most beloved mountain resort, Zakopane, combined with a soothing thermal bath experience at Chocholow. For $109 per person, this full-day tour from Krakow spans about 8 hours, taking you through stunning Tatra Mountain vistas, vibrant local markets, and relaxing geothermal pools. Led by an English-speaking driver, you’ll get a blend of breathtaking scenery, traditional crafts, and wellness — an ideal escape for anyone wanting a taste of Poland’s mountain life without the hassle of planning.

What truly makes this trip stand out are two aspects we love: the scenic cable car ride up Gubalowka, offering panoramic mountain views, and the three hours you get to unwind in the thermal pools of Chocholow, surrounded by natural beauty. These moments of awe and relaxation are well worth the price, especially when paired with authentic local experiences like tasting oscypek (smoked cheese). On the flip side, if you’re hoping for a rugged mountain hike, this tour might not be the best fit, as it focuses more on sightseeing and relaxation rather than adventure.

Perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded day of sightseeing, culture, and wellness, this tour is especially suited for those looking to experience Zakopane’s charming streets, breathtaking views, and soothing thermal baths without the stress of transportation or logistics. Families, photography enthusiasts, and those curious about Poland’s Highland traditions tend to find it especially rewarding.

Key Points

• Scenic Views: The tour offers spectacular vistas of the Tatra Mountains, especially from the Gubalowka cable car.
• Authentic Zakopane: You’ll explore Krupowki Street’s shops, markets, and traditional crafts, giving a taste of local Highland life.
• Relaxation: Three hours in the Chocholow Thermal Baths provide a chance to unwind in geothermal pools set amid natural surroundings.
• Inclusive Experience: The price includes transportation, cable car tickets, oscypek tasting, and thermal bath entry, making it a good value.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Many travelers praise the friendly, informative drivers who share tips and stories about the region.
• Flexible & Convenient: Door-to-door pick-up and drop-off simplify logistics, with free cancellation available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Zakopane & Chocholow Thermal Baths Tour

Starting from Krakow, the journey begins comfortably in a minivan, which takes about 1.5 hours to reach Zakopane. This drive gives travelers a chance to settle in, enjoy the scenic countryside, and get a first glimpse of the mountains ahead. The roads are well-maintained, and the small group size (typically up to 8 people) makes the trip intimate enough for questions and photo stops.

Visiting Jaszczurowka Chapel

The first stop is at the Jaszczurowka Chapel, a picturesque wooden church that exemplifies traditional Highland architecture. It’s a quick 30-minute visit but offers great photo opportunities and insight into local building styles. As one reviewer shared, “Our tour guide was very informative about the local traditions,” which truly enhances this cultural stop.

Gubalowka Cable Car & Mountain Views

Next, the highlight for many is the Gubalowka cable car ride, which takes about an hour to complete. You’ll ascend to the top of Gubalowka Mountain, where panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains unfold. The vistas are often described as “breathtaking,” and many travelers comment that this is a “must-do” for anyone visiting Zakopane. The ride is smooth, and the viewing platform provides ample space for photos and soaking in the scenery.

Strolling Krupowki Street

After descending, you have around 1.5 hours to explore Krupowki Street, the bustling heart of Zakopane. This lively thoroughfare is lined with shops selling traditional highland crafts, souvenirs, and local delicacies. Many reviews note this as a highlight — “Great for shopping and tasting local foods like oscypek,” says one traveler. It’s a mix of markets, cafes, and street performers, giving you a lively taste of Zakopane’s vibrant atmosphere.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Thermal Baths Experience

Then, the trip takes a relaxing turn as you are driven to Chocholow Thermal Baths for a full 3 hours of soaking in geothermal pools. The baths are set in a natural environment, with outdoor pools overlooking the mountains, and the water is warm and soothing. Many reviewers emphasize the quality of the baths — “The pools overlooking the mountains were spectacular,” and “Three hours of pure relaxation in the geothermal waters” are common sentiments. Towels can be rented on-site, and the experience is suitable for all ages, though those with high blood pressure should consult their doctor beforehand.

Return Journey

After your thermal experience, the driver returns you to Krakow, allowing for a well-paced day with minimal stress. The entire itinerary is designed to maximize sightseeing while leaving ample time for relaxation.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Many travelers praise the expertise and friendliness of the driver-guides, who go beyond just driving — sharing local stories, pointing out hidden gems, and making sure everyone feels comfortable. As one review states, “Our guide was very knowledgeable about the region and even helped us find a place for lunch when some attractions were closed,” highlighting the personalized touch.

The combination of scenic landscapes, authentic cultural experiences, and wellness makes this tour particularly appealing. The Gubalowka cable car ride offers spectacular views that are perfect for photographers or anyone wanting a quick mountain escape. The thermal baths provide a gratifying way to wind down — especially after a day of sightseeing.

A Few Considerations

While the tour offers great value and convenience, it is quite packed — roughly 8 hours of travel, sightseeing, and relaxation. If you’re hoping for a full hiking adventure or more time in each location, this might feel rushed. Also, the tour isn’t available on major holidays like December 25th, January 1st, or during Easter Saturday and Sunday, so plan accordingly.

If mobility is an issue, note that the tour involves some walking and a cable car ride, but no strenuous hikes. Also, it’s worth bringing comfortable shoes and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those wanting a balanced mix of mountain scenery, local culture, and relaxation — perfect for first-time visitors to the region. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will appreciate its ease and comprehensive nature. If you’re a photography buff eager to capture mountain vistas or a wellness seeker looking to unwind in thermal waters, this tour hits just the right notes.

Travelers with a limited amount of time but a desire to see the highlights of Zakopane will find this trip packs in enough to satisfy that craving. However, if your main goal is hiking or outdoor adventure, you may want to seek a more active or extensive experience.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Krakow to Zakopane?
It’s approximately 1.5 hours by van, making for a comfortable and scenic journey.

What does the tour include?
The price covers transportation, Gubalowka cable car tickets, oscypek tasting, and a 3-hour ticket to Chocholow Thermal Baths. Insurance and driver assistance are also included.

Is the thermal bath experience suitable for children?
While many reviews mention the pools are enjoyable for all ages, it’s best to check with the provider about specific age restrictions or requirements.

Can I rent towels at the thermal baths?
Yes, towels can be rented at the baths for a small fee.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since there’s some walking involved. Towels, swimsuits, and perhaps a waterproof jacket for mountain views are also good ideas.

When does the tour operate?
It runs most days, but not on December 25, January 1, Easter Saturday afternoon, or Easter Sunday.

How long is the tour overall?
It lasts about 8 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.

Is it a small group?
Yes, the group size is limited, typically up to 8 people, which encourages a more personal experience.

Are there options to cancel or change the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable if I don’t want to hike?
Absolutely. The focus is on sightseeing, cable car rides, shopping, and relaxation, not strenuous outdoor activities.

This Zakopane and Chocholow Thermal Baths tour offers a well-rounded, convenient way to experience Poland’s iconic mountain scenery, indulge in some local culture, and unwind in thermal waters. It’s perfect for travelers who want a meaningful day out that balances adventure, culture, and relaxation — all in a manageable, stress-free package.

You can check availability for your dates here: