Zakopane isn’t just Poland’s mountain town — it’s also a fantastic place to unwind in hot springs and spa settings after a day of exploring the Tatras. Whether you prefer a guided excursion that combines sightseeing, local delicacies, and thermal pools, or an active day on electric bikes with relaxing spa stops, Zakopane offers a range of memorable experiences. I personally love the way the thermal baths in Chocholowskie provide a warm, soothing contrast to the mountain air — perfect after hiking or sightseeing. Plus, some tours include scenic cable car rides, giving you sweeping views of the High Tatras while you relax.
If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip from Krakow, the Zakopane & Hot Springs Tour is a top choice. Or, for those who want a more active adventure, the Krakow: Zakopane & Tatra Mountains E-Bike Tour & Spa combines mountain biking with spa relaxation. All options promise a chance to experience Zakopane’s natural beauty and authentic local culture, making this a perfect destination for anyone seeking both adventure and comfort.
1. Krakow: Zakopane & Hot Springs Tour, Cable Car, Hotel Pickup
This highly-rated full-day tour from Krakow offers an excellent overview of Zakopane’s highlights combined with a relaxing thermal bath experience. The tour kicks off with convenient hotel pickups in Krakow, followed by a 1.5-hour van ride into the mountains. Once in Zakopane, you’ll stop at Gorals’ architectural gem, Chochołowskie Wooden Town, where you can admire traditional highland buildings and sample regional cheese made of salted sheep’s milk.
The highlight is a scenic ride on the Gubałówka cable car, which whisks you up to a viewpoint offering stunning panoramas of the High Tatras — absolutely a photo opportunity. After some free time on KrupówkI street to browse shops and enjoy local food, you’ll head to the Chocholowskie thermal baths. These thermal pools, steam rooms, and water slides are perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The tour’s reviews emphasize how well-organized and enjoyable it is, with plenty of time at each stop.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive day, blending cultural sights, mountain views, and thermal relaxation, all with a friendly guide and comfortable transport.
2. From Zakopane: Tatra Mountains, Sky walk & Hot Springs Tour
For a shorter, more focused experience, the From Zakopane: Tatra Mountains, Sky walk & Hot Springs Tour offers a condensed but rich day in the mountains. It’s perfect if you’re staying in Zakopane but want to add a dash of adventure and relaxation. This tour includes visits to Jaszczurówka chapel, a charming wooden structure in Zakopane style, and a trip to the Sky Walk platform, which provides jaw-dropping views of the Tatras.
The tour also features a cheese and vodka tasting in Witów, giving you a taste of regional flavors. The highlight, of course, is the thermal baths at Chocholowska, where you can soak in mineral-rich waters or relax in jacuzzis and saline pools for around three hours. With a full round-trip transportation service, this tour makes it easy to explore without stress. Guests rave about the breathtaking views and the seamless experience.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers short on time who want a balanced taste of Tatra scenery, regional food, and spa relaxation, all in a manageable six-hour trip.
3. Krakow: Zakopane & Tatra Mountains E-Bike Tour & Spa
For those who love combining activity with relaxation, the Krakow: Zakopane & Tatra Mountains E-Bike Tour & Spa offers a full day of mountain biking, hiking, and leisure. This 12-hour adventure starts with a transfer from Krakow to Zakopane, then takes you on an electric mountain bike ride through the Tatra landscape. The e-bikes make it accessible even if you’re not an experienced cyclist, letting you cover more ground without exhaustion.
The tour includes a visit to a traditional shepherd’s Bacówka to sample Oscypek cheese, along with a scenic hike to Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy, a glacial lake with stunning mountain views. After working up an appetite, you’ll relax at the Termy Chochołowskie spa, soaking in mineral-rich pools and enjoying the thermal waters that soothe tired muscles. The combination of active exploration and spa time makes this a great option for active travelers who want to unwind properly.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure seekers who want to explore the mountains on two wheels and then indulge in a high-quality thermal spa experience. It’s a long day, but the variety makes it worthwhile.
How to Choose Your Perfect Zakopane Spa Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. The full-day Krakow tour offers a rich mix of sightseeing and relaxation, ideal if you want everything in one trip. If you’re short on time but want a quick mountain fix, the Zakopane hot springs tour is ideal. For active travelers seeking an energetic day with mountain biking and scenic hikes, the e-bike tour combined with spa relaxation is the best fit.
Each tour includes unique experiences: from cable car rides (see this experience) to mountain panoramas on the Sky Walk (more details here). Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred times.
Zakopane offers a variety of ways to relax and enjoy the mountains. Whether you prefer a guided tour with cultural insights, a scenic cable car ride, or an active mountain bike adventure, there’s something here for every traveler. For a well-rounded experience, the Krakow: Zakopane & Hot Springs Tour combines everything you might want, while the E-Bike & Spa tour is perfect for those craving a more vigorous day. Whichever you choose, be sure to book ahead — these popular experiences fill up fast.