Krakow isn’t just about historic squares and lively pubs; it’s also a surprisingly good base for relaxing spa and hot springs experiences. Just outside the city, you’ll find thermal baths in the mountains and scenic mountain resorts that combine natural beauty with rejuvenating waters. We’re especially fans of tours that include thermal baths at Chochołowskie Termy or the Gubałówka cable car rides—both offer stunning views and a chance to unwind after sightseeing. For example, the Krakow: Zakopane Tour, Hot Springs, Cable Car & Hotel Pickup combines mountain vistas, local culture, and thermal pools for a comprehensive day of relaxation and adventure.
Krakow’s spa experiences range from full-day mountain excursions with scenic cable cars to hot spring visits that focus on wellness. Whether you prefer a guided tour with local food tastings or a private trip tailored just for your group, there are options suited to all budgets and interests. Below is a detailed list of the top spa and hot springs tours, each with its unique appeal.
1. Krakow: Zakopane Tour, Hot Springs, Cable Car & Hotel Pickup
This top-rated tour offers a full day exploring Zakopane—the so-called “winter capital of Poland”—with plenty of scenic highlights. The trip includes a cable car ride to Mount Gubałówka, where panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains await. After a walk through Zakopane’s charming streets, you’ll visit the Chocholow Thermal Hot Springs for a relaxing soak that guests praise as a highlight. The tour balances sightseeing, local culture, and wellness, making it perfect for those who want an all-in-one experience.
With a 4.8/5 rating from nearly 5,000 reviews, travelers appreciate the seamless hotel pickup, the informative guides, and the mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation. Many say the hot springs are not only soothing but also beneficial for health. The itinerary includes cheese tastings, scenic rides, and free time in Zakopane, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip.
Bottom Line: This tour delivers great value at around $51, and the combination of mountain views, cultural experiences, and thermal baths makes it a standout choice for active travelers who want a balanced day.
2. Krakow: Zakopane Cable Car, Vodka, Cheese & Hot Springs Tour
Rated at an impressive 4.9/5 from over 600 reviews, this tour emphasizes local flavors and scenic mountain views. The highlight is the Gubałówka cable car, which provides stunning vistas of the Tatras. Guests love the opportunity to relax in natural sulfur hot springs with healing properties, and the taste of highlander cheese and local vodka makes this trip both delicious and authentic.
The itinerary balances sightseeing with tasting regional foods and enjoying free time in Zakopane. Many reviewers comment on the knowledgeable guides and the value of the included experiences, especially the thermal baths lasting up to 3 hours. The overall experience is perfect for travelers who want a mix of culture, scenic views, and relaxation.
Bottom Line: For around $51, this tour offers a rich blend of spectacular mountain scenery, local culinary treats, and wellness in a full-day package that’s especially popular among food lovers and nature enthusiasts.
3. Krakow: Zakopane & Hot Springs Tour with Cable Car (Hotel Pickup)
This highly-rated, 5-star experience has a 5.0/5 from 234 reviews and offers seamless transfers from Krakow. It’s perfect if you prefer a hassle-free day with hotel pickup and a well-organized itinerary. The tour explores Zakopane, including a cable car ride on Mount Gubałówka, and culminates in a thermal bath visit with admission included.
Guests particularly value the comprehensive itinerary—covering Chocholow’s wooden architecture, Zakopane’s lively streets, and the scenic Gubałówka. The thermal baths last about 2.5 hours, providing ample time to relax. The guide ensures smooth logistics, making it a good choice for travelers who want a stress-free experience.
Bottom Line: At $68.61, this tour offers excellent convenience and covers all the major highlights, making it ideal for travelers craving comfort and a full-day mountain experience.
4. Zakopane Tour, Cable Car & Hot Springs from Krakow (Hotel pickup)
Rated 5.0/5 from 111 reviews, this full-day trip emphasizes personalized service with hotel pickup. It combines a guided tour of Zakopane, a Gubałówka cable car ride, and thermal hot springs, all within 11 hours.
Travelers love the well-paced itinerary and the opportunity to explore Zakopane’s architectural and cultural highlights, followed by relaxation in the thermal pools for about 2.5 hours. The guide’s friendly approach and smooth logistics make it especially appealing for those who value comfort and local insights.
Bottom Line: For $68.50, this is a solid choice for a well-rounded day filled with scenic views, local culture, and wellness.
5. From Krakow: Zakopane Tour with Thermal Spa & Hotel Pickup
This full-day tour at $102 per person has a 4.9/5 rating and combines mountain scenery, cultural sights, and thermal spa relaxation. It features funicular rides, traditional cheese tasting, and a visit to Zakopane’s Krupowki Street.
This tour is particularly praised for its value for money — offering 3 hours in the thermal baths and guided sightseeing. Guests note guides like Ola as especially helpful, making it suitable for travelers who enjoy local delicacies and scenic views.
Bottom Line: This option works well for travelers seeking a comprehensive mountain experience with optional luxury relaxation.
6. Krakow: Zakopane Tour, Hot Springs, Cable Car & Hotel Pickup
For a budget-friendly option at just $37, this tour offers a full day exploring Zakopane with thermal pools and local cheese and vodka tastings. Rated 4.8/5, it is perfect for travelers who want a full itinerary without breaking the bank.
Guests highlight the comfortable coach, the informative guide, and the authentic regional food experiences. The thermal pools provide two hours of relaxation, making this a good pick for those who want value and a solid overview of Zakopane.
Bottom Line: At under $40, this tour delivers excellent value for money for travelers who want a complete day in the mountains.
7. From Krakow: Slovakia Treetop Walk, Zakopane & Thermal Spa
A longer, 12-hour trip rated 4.7/5, this experience combines treetop walks in Slovakia, Zakopane sightseeing, and thermal baths. The highlight is the Bachledka Treetop Trail, where you walk among the treetops in a beautiful forest.
This tour is ideal for those wanting an adventure and outdoor exploration along with relaxation. Reviews mention the amazing views from the cable car and the thermal pools as high points.
Bottom Line: Costing $214, it’s perfect for travelers looking for a full-day adventure that mixes scenery, active exploration, and wellness.
8. Chocholow Hot Springs Evening or Daytime Ticket
Rated 4.7/5, this flexible ticket allows you to choose day or evening access to the Chocholow Thermal Baths. The pools are large, with water slides and kids pools, making it great for families or anyone seeking serenity.
The ticket includes transfers, and the experience lasts about 7-8 hours. Many reviewers mention the hot tubs and saunas as highlights, with some noting the less crowded evening visits are preferable.
Bottom Line: Priced at $80, this ticket offers flexibility and excellent value for a relaxing thermal spa experience in the mountains.
9. Zakopane and Hot Springs from Krakow Full-Day Tour
This full-day tour is perfect for those wanting a comprehensive experience with cultural sights, mountain views, and thermal pools. The 12 reviews all give it a perfect 5-star rating, praising the smooth logistics and friendly guides.
Guests explore Krupowki Street, ride the Gubałówka cable car, and finish with hot springs soaking for about 2 hours. It’s a great balance of sightseeing and relaxation.
Bottom Line: For $124, this tour is a solid choice for those who want an all-in-one day trip with a focus on local culture and wellness.
10. From Krakow: Hot Springs and Zakopane with Gubałówka
Rated 4.7/5, this tour combines mountain views, thermal pools, and Gubałówka cable car rides. It includes local food tastings and historic houses, making it ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and wellness.
Most reviewers mention the friendly guide Patrick and the relaxing pools as high points. The trip lasts about 11 hours and is praised for its comprehensive itinerary.
Bottom Line: At $120 per person, it offers a well-rounded experience perfect for those wanting a full day of mountain scenery and relaxation.
11. Zakopane Tour from Krakow with Thermal SPA and Hotel Pick up
This highly-rated, intimate tour with hotel pickup features scenic views and thermal spa time. Guests appreciate the personalized service and the 2-hour free time in Zakopane.
The guide makes the experience engaging, and the thermal pools are a highlight. Costing $123, it’s suited for travelers who want a relaxed, guided day with comfort.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking personalized attention and a full day of mountain relaxation.
12. Snowmobile Ride with Zakopane and Hot Springs Combo Options
For the thrill-seekers, this snowmobile adventure offers the chance to zoom through snowy landscapes and then relax in thermal pools. Duration varies from 6 to 12 hours, allowing flexibility.
Reviewers mention the friendly staff and fun ride as major draws. It’s ideal for travelers looking for adventure and unusual winter experiences.
Bottom Line: At around $214, this combo is best suited for adventure lovers who want snowmobiling plus relaxing thermal baths.
13. From Krakow: Chocholow Thermal Hot Springs (hotel pick up)
Rated 5.0/5, this hotel pickup tour offers a relaxing thermal water experience. The pools feature water jets, slides, and jacuzzis, making it great for families or solo relaxation.
Guests love the comfort of door-to-door service and the themed areas. At about 6-7 hours, it’s a perfect quick escape.
Bottom Line: For $82.11, this is an easy, well-reviewed way to enjoy thermal waters and mountain scenery.
14. Zakopane & Thermal Hot Springs with Private Vehicle
This exclusive private tour, costing around $683, is ideal for small groups or families who want ultimate comfort. It includes customized itinerary, hotel pickup, and private transport.
Guests appreciate the flexibility to tailor the day to their interests, whether that’s more time in Zakopane or relaxing in the thermal pools. The cable car ride offers breathtaking views, and the private vehicle means no crowds.
Bottom Line: If you value privacy and personalized service, this tailored experience is worth considering.
15. From Krakow: Zakopane & Hot Springs Day Tour
Rated 4.8/5, this full-day tour includes walks through highlander streets, a cable car ride, and soaking in thermal pools. The itinerary includes lunch and free time, making it suitable for those who want a relaxed day.
Many comments highlight the stunning Tatra views and enjoyable thermal baths. The price is $111, offering a good balance of price and experience.
Bottom Line: It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to combine culture, scenery, and wellness.
16. Horse Sleigh & Hot Springs Combo
This 7.5 to 14-hour experience combines a traditional horse sleigh ride with visits to Zakopane’s scenic views and thermal pools. It’s perfect for winter travelers craving authentic mountain fun.
Reviewers call it amazing and mention the snowy ride as a highlight. It’s best suited for adventure lovers and families.
Bottom Line: At $214, it offers a unique winter experience with relaxation at the thermal pools.
How to Choose Your Perfect Spa & Hot Springs Experience in Krakow
Picking the right tour depends on your priorities: budget, time, interest in mountain scenery, or culinary experiences. If you want seamless, all-inclusive comfort, consider the Zakopane & Hot Springs with Cable Car. For those seeking adventure, the Snowmobile Ride offers snowy thrills plus hot springs. Budget travelers will appreciate the affordable, guided day trip, while those wanting a private experience might prefer the luxury private vehicle tour.
Consider your fitness level and how much walking or outdoor activity you’re comfortable with. Also, check the season—some tours include snowmobile rides or sleigh rides best suited for winter. Booking early ensures you get your preferred date and time, especially during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Krakow offers a surprising variety of spa and hot springs tours that cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you’re after a scenic mountain excursion, authentic local food, or pure relaxation in thermal pools, you’ll find a top-quality experience. Our favorites include the Zakopane: Cable Car, Vodka, Cheese & Hot Springs for its balance of adventure and wellness, and the Luxury Zakopane & Thermal Spa for privacy and comfort.
Whatever you choose, booking early is wise, especially in high season. These tours are popular for their authentic mountain scenery, soothing thermal waters, and charming local culture—making them a perfect addition to your Krakow trip.