Kraków: Explore Zakopane Tatra Mountain and optional Thermal Bath

Kraków: Explore Zakopane Tatra Mountain and Optional Thermal Bath
Rating: 5.0/5 (12 reviews)
Price: $112.41 per person
Duration: 8 to 10 hours
Location: Krakow, Poland
Offered by: TOURS IN CRACOW

A quick overview of this day trip, and why it’s worth considering
If you’re looking for a balanced mix of natural beauty, local culture, and relaxation, this tour offers a compelling package. For just over $112, you’ll visit some of the most photogenic spots around Zakopane, including taking a cable car ride to Gubałówka, tasting traditional highland cheeses and spirits, strolling along Krupówki—the town’s lively main promenade—and closing with a rejuvenating visit to the largest thermal baths in Poland.

What we love is how this trip combines spectacular mountain views with a taste of local life—like sampling highlander cheese and local vodka—and the opportunity to unwind at the thermal pools. The tour’s small group feel (a maximum of 500 participants, but usually more intimate) and professional guides make it a smooth, engaging experience.

A possible consideration? The thermal baths can get crowded, which might affect your experience if you’re looking for quiet relaxation. Also, the lunch isn’t included, so you might want to budget for food if not planning to eat at Krupówki.

This adventure suits travelers who enjoy stunning mountain scenery, local flavors, and some leisure time at a thermal pool. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or someone simply wanting a well-organized day away from Kraków’s hustle, this trip has broad appeal.

Key Points

• Breathtaking Views: The cable car ride to Gubałówka offers some of the most awe-inspiring vistas of the High Tatras.
• Authentic Local Experiences: Cheese and spirits tastings in a traditional Highlander cottage bring you closer to Poland’s mountain culture.
• Vibrant Town Atmosphere: Krupówki street buzzes with shops, eateries, and a lively mountain town ambiance.
• Relaxing Thermal Baths: Poland’s largest thermal pools provide a perfect way to unwind after sightseeing.
• Well-Organized Tour: The trip runs smoothly, with clear communication and professional guides, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Value for Money: All major tickets (cable car and thermal baths) are included, making this a practical way to experience Zakopane.

The Journey to Zakopane: What to Expect from the Itinerary

This tour kicks off early, with a pickup around 8:30 am, setting the tone for a full day of exploration. The first stop is Chocholow, a charming village known for its highland cheese and traditional spirits. The highlander cottage setting, with its rustic ambiance, makes sampling local cheese and vodka feel like stepping into a living museum—a taste of authentic Polish mountain life. Multiple reviews praise this part for its friendly atmosphere and delicious local products, with one traveler remarking, “The cheese and vodka tasting was very good, and the market had plenty of interesting things to see.”

Next, you’ll head to Gubałówka, where a cable car whisks you up to the mountain viewpoint. From there, the panoramic views of the High Tatras are unparalleled. The ascent is quick, but the scenery is impressive—crisp mountain air, sweeping vistas, and the opportunity to visit a local lodge tasting regional products. Travelers frequently mention how spectacular the views are, with one reviewer noting it’s “one of the most beautiful views in Zakopane.”

The third stop is Krupówki, the bustling main promenade in Zakopane. Here, the atmosphere is lively, with street performers, shops, and numerous restaurants. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy traditional Polish dishes, browse souvenirs, or just soak in the mountain town vibe. Multiple comments highlight how “Zakopane’s charm lies in its vibrant street life,” and many appreciate taking their time to relax here, soaking up the mountain atmosphere.

Finally, after a few hours of sightseeing, you’ll visit Chocholowskie Termy, the largest thermal baths in Poland. This is the day’s highlight for many—outdoor pools, jacuzzis, water slides, and saunas await. It’s a chance to cool off and unwind amid the mountain scenery, although some reviewers note that crowds can diminish the peacefulness, and the pools can feel more like a leisure park than a spa. One reviewer called the outdoor pool “brilliant, especially with music pumping,” while another said it was “less than my expectation,” mainly due to size and crowding.

Deep Dive into Each Stop: What You’ll Really Experience

Chocholow: A Peek into Highland Life

Arriving in Chocholow, you’ll step into a highlander cottage where local artisans and hosts serve up cheese and homemade spirits. This isn’t just a quick tasting; it’s about understanding the mountain culture that’s been sustained for generations. The cheese here is notably good, with reviews praising authentic flavors and a fun, friendly atmosphere.

Travelers have also noted that there’s a small fee (around 5 zloty) for using the toilet, which is typical in small villages. This stop is perfect for those wanting a genuine local experience, away from touristy spots, and to sample some Polish mountain specialties.

Gubałówka: Spectacular Mountain Views

The cable car ride up Gubałówka is brief but offers outstanding vistas. The mountain lodge at the top is a cozy spot to try regional products and take in the panoramic scenery. Many reviews mention the wow factor of the views, describing them as “spectacular” and “the highlight of the trip.”

You might want to bring your camera—photo opportunities abound, with the jagged peaks of the High Tatras providing a stunning backdrop. The lodge and viewpoint are also good spots to simply relax and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Zakopane: The Vibrant Town

Strolling along Krupówki, the town’s main street, is like experiencing Poland’s mountain charm in full swing. It’s lively, colorful, and full of energy. You’ll find a mix of traditional wooden architecture, souvenir shops, and cozy restaurants serving local dishes like pierogi and oscypek (smoked cheese).

Many visitors note that this is a great place for people watching, shopping for handicrafts, or just soaking in the mountain atmosphere. The street feels almost like a fairytale village, especially in winter, with reviews mentioning “the mountains looked magical,” and “plenty of places to have food.”

Chocholowskie Termy: Relaxation at Poland’s Largest Thermal Baths

The thermal pool complex is large, with indoor and outdoor pools, water slides, and jacuzzis. It’s a lively place, with music pumping and a broad spectrum of pools to suit all tastes. Some travelers are thrilled with the outdoor pools and the pumping music, describing it as “brilliant.” Others, however, mention the crowds and the disappointment that there’s an extra charge for a sauna, which isn’t included in the main ticket.

If you’re seeking peace and quiet, you might find this part of the tour more lively than relaxing. However, for those wanting to unwind and have fun at Poland’s largest thermal baths, it’s a worthwhile splurge.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

• Arrive prepared for a full day; comfortable shoes and a jacket for the mountain areas are recommended.
• Bring cash for small expenses, like toilet fees or snacks.
• The thermal baths don’t include towels, so consider bringing your own or renting one.
• The tour is all-inclusive in terms of major tickets, so you won’t need extra money for cable car or thermal pool entry.
• Meet at 8:30 am; punctuality helps keep the tour running smoothly.
• Check the weather forecast, especially for the mountain views—they can be cloudy or snowy, which might affect visibility.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits adventurous travelers who want a blend of mountain scenery, culture, and relaxation. If you enjoy photography, you’ll love the moments at Gubałówka and Krupówki. Foodies will appreciate sampling local cheese and spirits, and families or groups looking for a well-organized day will find the arrangements convenient and stress-free.

If you’re a nature lover seeking stunning views and authentic mountain culture, this tour hits all those notes. However, if you prefer quiet, spa-focused thermal baths, you might find the bath area crowded and less peaceful.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
It runs roughly 8 to 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am.

Is transportation included?
No, private transportation isn’t included, but the tour provides pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or designated meeting points.

What is included in the price?
Tickets for the Gubałówka cable car and the thermal baths are included. All taxes and fees are covered as well.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but consider physical comfort for older travelers or young children, especially with walking and mountain areas.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a jacket, cash for small expenses, and a towel if you plan to use the thermal pools.

Is lunch included?
No, meals are not included, but plenty of options are available at Krupówki.

Are there any extra costs?
You might pay a small fee (around 5 zloty) for using the toilet in Chocholow or for extras at the thermal baths like saunas.

How crowded are the thermal baths?
Reviews mention the pools can be quite busy, especially in peak times, which might impact the relaxation aspect.

What if the weather is bad?
Cloudy or snowy weather might obscure mountain views, but the indoor parts of the tour, like Krupówki and the thermal baths, remain enjoyable.

To sum it up, this tour offers a compelling day out for those wanting to experience the beauty of Zakopane’s mountains, sample local Highlander culture, and relax in Poland’s largest thermal pools. It’s a flexible, well-reviewed option for travelers who appreciate authentic sights and seamless organization. Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure and leisure, this trip delivers both stunning scenery and authentic Polish charm—a memorable addition to any Kraków itinerary.