ZAKOPANE & THERMAL SPRINGS, Funicular, Cheese Tasting

Discover Zakopane & Thermal Springs: A Complete Day of Mountain Charm and Local Flavors

If you’re looking to escape Krakow’s bustling streets and find a breath of fresh mountain air, this full-day tour takes you into the heart of Poland’s scenic Tatra region. For approximately 11 hours, you’ll visit charming villages, enjoy spectacular mountain views, taste traditional smoked cheese, and unwind in thermal pools—all for around $68.63. Led by friendly guides, this trip is designed to give you a taste of the highlander culture, stunning scenery, and relaxation, without the stress of driving or planning.

What we love most about this tour is the opportunity to see traditional wooden architecture in Chocholow, and the thrill of riding the cable car up Gubałówka for panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains. Plus, the thermal springs at the end of the day offer a perfect way to relax after a busy schedule. On the flip side, keep in mind that you’ll be on your feet quite a bit, and some stops may feel rushed if you prefer a slower pace. This tour suits those who love a mix of cultural exploration, scenic views, and leisure.

If you enjoy guided trips that handle all the logistics while giving you free time to explore, this experience is a great fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate local food, authentic sights, and a well-organized schedule. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, this tour offers a balanced day with memorable highlights.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off makes for a seamless experience.
• Cultural immersion in traditional villages and cheese-making processes.
• Spectacular views from Gubałówka mountain cable car and Tatras vistas.
• Relaxation at the thermal springs, with adult and children’s areas included.
• Flexible exploration time in Zakopane’s vibrant town center.
• Excellent guides who share local insights and manage tickets efficiently.

A Detailed Look at the Zakopane & Thermal Springs Tour

Starting Point: Krakow to the Polish Countryside

Once you’re picked up from your hotel, the journey begins with a comfortable ride into Poland’s mountain region. The travel time allows you to relax, enjoy the scenery, and get excited about what lies ahead. This transport arrangement—air-conditioned minibus with a friendly guide—means no worries about directions or parking. Plus, the group size, capped at 22 travelers, keeps things intimate enough for personal questions and easy navigation.

First Stop: Chocholow — A Picture-Perfect Wooden Village

Your first encounter with Polish mountain charm comes in Chocholow, famous for its traditional wooden architecture. The village is a photographer’s dream, with uniform wooden houses and beautifully maintained facades. The local tradition of washing the walls with water and soap twice a year keeps the buildings looking fresh and well-kept, adding to the village’s picturesque appeal.

Here, you’ll visit a small shepherd’s hut to witness the craft of smoked cheese production. The cheese, called Oscypek, is made from sheep’s milk and is a staple of local cuisine. You’ll see firsthand how this smoked delicacy is crafted and, of course, get a chance to taste it. The reviews rave about the cheese, with many describing it as “amazing” and “delicious,” making it a highlight for food lovers.

This stop is brief—about 15 minutes—but packed with authentic sights and flavors that set the tone for the rest of the day.

Exploring Zakopane: The Mountain Capital

Next, you’ll head to Zakopane, often called Poland’s winter capital. This charming town is famous for its distinctive highlander architecture, lively street life, and mountain scenery. A highlight here is the cable car ride to Gubałówka, where you’ll get a ticket included in the tour. From the summit, the views of the Tatra Mountains are absolutely worth the climb—think snow-capped peaks and sprawling valleys.

While in Zakopane, you’ll stroll along Krupówki Street, the town’s main thoroughfare lined with shops, restaurants, and market stalls. It’s the perfect place to soak in the local culture, sample highlander cuisine, and pick up souvenirs. Many reviews mention that this free exploration time is appreciated, though some note it can feel a bit rushed if you want more time to linger.

Gubałówka Mountain: Panoramic Views and Souvenirs

The cable car ride up Gubałówka is a key moment. You’ll appreciate the convenience of an individual ticket and the opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking scenery from the summit. Expect to see stunning views of the Tatras, with photo opportunities at the viewing point. There are also various souvenir shops and attractions, giving you the chance to pick up local crafts or just enjoy the panorama.

The Heart of Zakopane: Free Time on Krupówki Street

After descending Gubałówka, you’ll have about two hours to explore the bustling Krupówki. Here, you can browse local shops, try regional dishes, or simply soak in the mountain town’s lively atmosphere. Several reviews highlight this as a favorite part of the tour—”Zakopane was lovely” and “the local cheese is so good,” with many visitors enjoying the chance to engage with local artisans and sample highlander cuisine.

Relaxation at Chocholowskie Termy — A Thermal Spa Experience

The final stop of the day is at the Chocholowskie Termy, a thermal pool complex that offers a welcome break after a busy day. The thermal pools are known for their therapeutic properties, with themed areas suitable for both adults and children. Your tickets include access to multiple relaxation zones, waterfalls, saunas, and pools—all in a beautifully designed setting.

People describe the baths as “amazing” and “very relaxing,” though some mention that it can be crowded, especially during peak times. The thermal springs are a perfect way to unwind and soothe tired muscles, and many reviews note that the wristband payment system makes using the facilities convenient and safe.

Optional Stop: The Ski Jumps of Zakopane

While not included in the tour, some travelers have noted the iconic ski jumps of Zakopane, which host the FIS Ski Jumping World Cup. If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, it’s worth considering a visit, though it requires separate arrangements.

Tasting Local Cheeses and Vodka

Before concluding, you’ll visit the Muzeum Oscypka Zakopane, where you’ll get to taste traditional sheep’s cheese along with local alcohol, such as cherry vodka. This adds a delightful culinary dimension to your trip, with reviews often praising the authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere.

Scenic Overlook of the Tatras

The Gubałówka mountain viewpoint is a short walk from the cable car station, offering a fantastic vista of the Tatra Mountains. Many travelers find this a perfect photo stop and a memorable highlight, with the mountains providing a stunning backdrop for your trip.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour’s price of $68.63 includes transportation, all tickets for the cable car and thermal pools, and a guide who keeps things moving smoothly. The group size of 22 makes it intimate enough for personal questions, yet large enough to feel like a proper adventure.

The schedule is fairly tight, with roughly 2 hours in Zakopane, 3 hours at the thermal pools, and brief stops in villages—so if you prefer a very relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed. However, most reviewers agree that the balance of sights, activities, and free time is well thought out.

The thermal pools at the end are a major draw, though some mention that they can get quite crowded, especially during peak times. The cheese tasting and sightseeing are very well-received, with guides being praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for culture lovers and scenery enthusiasts who want a diverse experience in one day. It suits those who enjoy authentic local foods, spectacular mountain views, and a relaxing soak at the end. Families, couples, and solo travelers all find value here, especially given the organized nature and comprehensive itinerary.

If you’re after a full, well-rounded day with expert guiding and a good mix of exploration and relaxation, this tour delivers. Just remember to dress warmly—many reviews mention bringing layers, especially for the mountain and thermal pool experiences.

Final Thoughts

This Zakopane & Thermal Springs tour offers a thoughtfully curated day that hits all the right notes—stunning vistas, cultural insights, delicious cheese, and a soothing thermal bath. It’s a smart choice for those who prefer to leave the logistics to someone else and focus on experiencing the best of Poland’s mountainous landscape.

While it’s a full day with some movement, most travelers find it well worth the effort. The tour excels in delivering authentic moments rather than touristy fluff, making it a memorable highlight of any Krakow trip. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer eager to tick off scenic mountains and local cuisine, this experience provides great value and plenty of photo-worthy memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Krakow, making it very convenient.

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts about 11 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and relaxation.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers transport, tickets to Gubałówka mountain, thermal pools, and the cheese and vodka tasting.

Can I explore Zakopane independently?
Absolutely. The tour provides about 2 hours of free time on Krupówki Street for you to wander, eat, or shop at your leisure.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and the thermal pools include dedicated play areas for kids.

How crowded are the thermal pools?
Many reviews mention they can be busy, especially during peak times, but the pools are still appreciated for their relaxing qualities.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothes for the mountains and thermal pools, as it can be quite cold, especially in winter.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy local eateries in Zakopane.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, many reviews highlight guides like Michael, Joanna, and Simon for their friendliness and local insights.

Is this tour good value?
Considering the included tickets, transportation, and guided experience, most travelers agree it offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing and relaxation.

This tour balances scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and leisure—perfect for anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Poland’s mountain treasures without the hassle. Whether you’re marveling at mountain views, tasting local cheeses, or soaking in thermal pools, this experience is designed to leave you with lasting memories.