From Krakow: Zakopane Tour with Cable Car + Tasting & Pickup

A trip from Krakow to Zakopane offers a wonderful mix of mountain scenery, local culture, and traditional architecture, all in just one day. This tour, priced at around $34 per person, takes roughly 9 hours and includes visits to charming villages like Chocholow and Witów, a ride on the Gubałówka Hill Cable Car, and plenty of opportunities to sample regional cheese, spirits, and food. Led by friendly guides, it’s a great way to see a different side of Poland—mountains, authentic villages, and bustling markets—without the hassle of planning everything yourself.

What really stands out are the scenic views from the cable car and the chance to taste traditional Oscypek cheese and local spirits—these authentic experiences bring a special flavor to the day. We also appreciate how compact the day is, making it a perfect option for travelers with limited time but who want a taste of Zakopane’s beauty.

One potential drawback? The itinerary can feel quite full, especially if you like to explore at a relaxed pace. Some might find the busy schedule a bit rushed, but that’s balanced by the variety of highlights packed into the day. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, local food, and cultural insights, and who appreciate having a knowledgeable guide to enhance the experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Tasting regional cheese and spirits, plus exploring traditional wooden architecture.
• Spectacular Views: Scenic rides on the Gubałówka Hill Cable Car offer unforgettable Tatra Mountain vistas.
• Cultural Insights: Visiting local markets and villages provides a glimpse into Polish mountain life.
• Convenience: Includes pickup, transportation, tickets, and guided commentary, making it hassle-free.
• Value for Money: For around $34, you get a full day packed with memorable sights and tastes.
• Flexible Options: You can choose guided tour with stops or just transfer and explore independently.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Zakopane on a Day Trip: What to Expect

When we think about Zakopane, the words “mountains” and “charm” naturally come to mind. This tour hits all the right notes, giving you a taste of the Tatra Mountains, the wooden architecture, and the local culture that makes Zakopane special. It’s designed to maximize your experience in a single day, blending scenic rides, cultural stops, and free time to explore.

Starting Out from Krakow

Your adventure begins at Wielopole 2, where your guide greets you and your small group (limited to 15 participants, which helps keep things personal). From there, a modern Mercedes minivan whisks you out of the city and into the countryside. The drive itself is part of the charm; you’ll see Poland’s rolling hills and quaint villages, setting the scene for the authentic experience ahead.

The Villages of Chocholow and Witów

The first stops are in Chocholow and Witów, two villages renowned for their wooden architecture and traditional crafts. In Chocholow, you’ll likely see the beautifully preserved wooden houses, some dating back centuries, and learn about the region’s building style. It’s a tangible connection to Polish mountain life. As one reviewer noted, the wooden house visits are a highlight, with a guide sharing stories and history behind these structures.

Next, in Witów, the focus shifts to food and drink. Here, you get to taste Oscypek, a smoked sheep’s cheese that’s a regional delicacy, along with local spirits. The tasting isn’t just about eating; it’s an immersive moment where you get to understand the local culinary traditions. One traveler shared how their guide shared detailed explanations and even took them to a charming coffee shop, making the experience more memorable.

The Zakopane Market and Krupowki Street

After the villages, you arrive in the Zakopane marketplace, which is perfect for picking up handmade souvenirs or tasting regional snacks. This market is lively and authentic, giving you a quick snapshot of local life and craftsmanship. We loved how this stop offers a chance to buy traditional equipment or local foods, making it a practical part of the trip.

Following that, it’s time for Krupowki, the town’s famous main street. Here, you’ll enjoy some free time for lunch, shopping, or just soaking in the atmosphere. Many reviews highlight how their guides pointed out great local eateries and hidden gems, making the most of this lively street.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Gubałówka Hill Cable Car

One of the tour’s highlights is the Gubałówka Hill Cable Car, which offers a quick yet stunning ride to an elevation with panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains. The scenery from the top is breathtaking—whether it’s summer greenery or winter snow, the vistas are truly memorable. A quick 10-minute ride takes you from town to the summit, where you can snap photos, enjoy a drink, or simply marvel at the landscape.

Afterward, a second cable car takes you to the top of Gubałówka Hill, where you can stretch your legs, take more photos, and enjoy free time. As one guest put it, the scenery during this ride was magnificent, and the opportunity to have a beer or coffee while taking in the views adds a relaxing touch to the day.

The Wooden Architecture and Cultural Sites

For those interested, the optional visit to Chapel of Jaszczurówka and the wooden cemetery at Peksowy Brzyzek offers a glimpse into regional craftsmanship and spiritual life. The guide shares stories behind these sites, enriching your understanding of local traditions. Several travelers appreciated these stops but noted they are optional—so you can tailor the trip to your interest level.

Free Time and Flexibility

The tour also includes about 5 hours of free time in Zakopane, which some travelers used for independent exploration, shopping, or relaxing at a café. This flexibility appeals to those who want a mix of guided and self-directed experiences.

How the Tour Works in Practice

The detailed itinerary ensures you get a broad view of Zakopane’s highlights, but it also means the day can feel busy. One reviewer mentioned that Jack, their guide, was very thoughtful and engaging, making the long day feel personal despite the tight schedule. The small group size amplifies this intimacy, and the modern transportation keeps the journey comfortable.

The tour price, which covers transportation, cable car tickets, and tastings, offers pretty good value, especially considering the included skipping the line advantage for cable cars—no waiting in long queues here. Lunch isn’t included, but the free time on Krupowki allows for a meal at your own pace.

What Travelers Appreciate Most

Many reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, which elevates the experience. Several mention how the scenery was breathtaking and how the guide’s stories added depth to each stop. One traveler noted, “Maciek took the time to give explanations on everything,” emphasizing the value of a passionate guide.

Potential Drawbacks

Some travelers found the schedule a little rushed, especially if they wanted more time to explore each village or simply relax. Others pointed out that cable car costs are not included in the base price, adding about 7 GBP, which is still reasonable but worth noting. Also, the crowded days at Zakopane can mean some places are busy, but the guide’s efforts usually made up for it.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip suits travelers who want a well-rounded glimpse of Zakopane without the hassle of organizing each stop themselves. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting to see the highlights, especially if you enjoy scenic rides, local food, and cultural sites. The small group format and knowledgeable guides ensure a friendly, intimate experience, perfect for those who appreciate storytelling and authentic encounters.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace or plan to explore Zakopane extensively on your own, the flexible options might be better. But overall, this tour offers a great value, combining scenic beauty, cultural richness, and easy logistics into one memorable day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Krakow to Zakopane and back is included in the tour. You’ll travel in a modern Mercedes minivan or minibus, making the journey comfortable.

Do I need to pay for cable cars separately?
The cable car tickets are included in the tour price, and you will get skip-the-line access. However, prices for the cable cars are around 7 GBP if you were to buy tickets independently.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, including travel, sightseeing, tastings, and free time. Starting times vary, so check availability for your preferred day.

Can I explore Zakopane on my own after the guided part?
Absolutely. The tour includes about 5 hours of free time in Zakopane, allowing you to wander Krupowki street, visit shops, or relax in a café.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. The tour allows you to enjoy local snacks or meals during your free time in Zakopane.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for exploring villages and walking around the town.

To sum it up, this Zakopane day trip from Krakow offers a well-balanced mix of scenic rides, cultural insights, and local flavors. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of mountain life without sacrificing comfort or convenience. With knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences, you’ll come away with vivid memories of Poland’s stunning Tatra region—whether it’s your first visit or a return trip for more.

You can check availability for your dates here: