Zakopane Funicular Hill & Thermal Springs regular tour

Discover Zakopane: A Perfect Day Trip from Krakow

If you’re looking to combine breathtaking natural scenery with authentic Highlander culture, the Zakopane Funicular Hill & Thermal Springs tour is a fantastic choice. For around $120, you’ll spend about 10 to 12 hours exploring some of Poland’s most iconic sights, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and comfortable transportation. The tour covers a lot—from historic wooden villages and panoramic mountain views to relaxing thermal pools—making it ideal for travelers eager to experience the true spirit of Zakopane without a guided tour’s rigid schedule.

What we love most about this experience is the stunning views from Gubałówka via the funicular, which offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to breathe in the crisp mountain air. Plus, the thermal springs provide a relaxing end to a busy day, giving you a chance to unwind in warm pools after a day of sightseeing. The opportunity to taste smoked sheep’s cheese adds an authentic local flavor that enriches the trip.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is not a guided tour in the traditional sense. The driver provides transportation and some commentary, but the focus is on self-exploration at each stop. For those expecting a detailed guide or a set schedule, this might feel a little loose. Still, the flexibility allows you to spend as much time as you like at each site.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic views, culture, and leisurely experiences. If you’re okay with a bit of independence during your sightseeing and value the convenience of transportation and tickets included, you’ll find this trip well worth the price. It’s especially popular among those booking at least three weeks in advance, indicating its appeal to organized travelers.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views from Gubałówka via the funicular, perfect for photos and mountain air.
• Authentic cultural experiences like visiting a traditional wooden village and tasting local cheese.
• Relaxing stop at thermal springs to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
• Comfortable transportation from Krakow with hotel pickup, making logistics stress-free.
• Independence at stops, as the tour is self-guided, allowing flexibility.
• Limited guided commentary—driver provides basic assistance but not detailed narration.

An In-Depth Look at the Zakopane Day Trip

From Krakow to the Heart of the Tatra Mountains

The journey begins early at 8:00 am, with pickup from your Krakow hotel or apartment. The drive to Zakopane takes about two hours—long enough to enjoy some scenic views and settle into the anticipation of the day ahead. You’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a relief after a morning of exploring.

Having a dedicated driver who speaks English is a huge plus, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family and want some local insights or just a friendly face. The vehicle’s appearance and contact details are shared the day before, so you’ll know exactly who’s picking you up and what to look for.

First Stop: Zywy Skansen and the Wooden Village of Chocholowa

Your first stop is at Zywy Skansen, where you’ll admire wooden buildings that showcase traditional Polish Highlander architecture. This open-air museum allows you to walk among historic structures, with no admission fee, giving you a taste of local craftsmanship and rural life. It’s a photogenic spot, with landscapes that look like a postcard.

The highlight is the authentic vibe—no modern embellishments here—just beautifully preserved buildings in a natural setting. The short 20-minute stop allows for a quick photo walk and some fresh mountain air.

Gubałówka: The Panoramic Summit via Funicular

Next, you’ll ascend Gubałówka Hill aboard the funicular, which is included in your ticket. The round-trip ride offers breathtaking views of the Tatras, Central Europe’s highest mountain range. Once at the top, you’ll have approximately an hour to soak in the vistas, take photos, and perhaps grab a quick snack at the viewpoint.

Our review respondents rave about the stunning scenery and the photo opportunities. One reviewer said, “We loved the way Gregor (the guide) made sure we saw things we missed on previous visits,” highlighting how this stop benefits from knowledgeable guides or drivers who prioritize scenic views.

The Bustling Krupówki Street

After absorbing the mountain scenery, you’ll head to Krupówki, Zakopane’s most famous street. This lively thoroughfare is lined with shops selling souvenirs, local crafts, and mountain-themed memorabilia. It’s the perfect place to pick up a keepsake or enjoy some free time to wander, eat, or people-watch.

Travelers note that two hours here is ample for a relaxed stroll and some shopping, with one reviewer mentioning how they appreciated having time to explore at their own pace.

An Afternoon at Chocholowskie Termy

The tour concludes with a relaxing visit to the thermal springs park, Chocholowskie Termy. Spanning over two hours, this stop is a highlight for many travelers seeking a chance to unwind. The thermal pools, some with jacuzzis and slides, are perfect for soaking away the day’s fatigue.

Participants often mention the fun of sliding into warm water or relaxing in a jacuzzi, with one reviewer quoting, “Patrick (the driver) was very informative, and the views were lovely.” Remember to bring flip-flops, swimsuits, and towels—these aren’t provided.

Returning to Krakow

After a fun-filled day, you’ll be driven back to your accommodation in Krakow, arriving roughly by 8 pm. The smooth transfer, combined with the variety of experiences, makes for an efficient but satisfying day trip.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and relaxation, which appeals to a broad range of travelers. The inclusion of tickets for the funicular and thermal pools makes it a good value, especially since these are often paid separately if you visit independently.

The guidance from the driver—who provides helpful commentary and makes interesting stops—adds a layer of local insight. However, it’s important to note that this isn’t a guided tour in the strict sense, so if you’re craving detailed history or storytelling, you might find it a touch light.

Travelers consistently highlight the spectacular views and the authentic atmosphere—especially at Zywy Skansen and Krupówki. The thermal springs are repeatedly praised for being a perfect way to end the day, with some describing it as “sitting in hot water with a beer,” which sounds pretty ideal after a day of sightseeing.

Price and Value

At about $120 per person, the tour covers transportation, tickets, and some local tastings. While not the cheapest option, the convenience of hotel pickup and the inclusion of key experiences make it a good deal. You’ll find that this trip saves you the hassle of organizing transport and tickets yourself, allowing you to focus on enjoying Zakopane’s sights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a self-paced exploration with some guidance, enjoy stunning mountain vistas, and appreciate local culture. It’s ideal if you prefer to have flexibility at each stop but also want the convenience of a guided day out from Krakow. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike have found it to be a rewarding way to experience the Polish highlands.

FAQ

Is the transportation comfortable? Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned, providing a comfortable ride from Krakow to Zakopane and back.

What are the main sights included? The stops are Zywy Skansen (wooden buildings), Gubałówka Hill via funicular, Krupówki Street, and Chocholowskie Termy thermal pools.

Are meals included? No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy food at Krupówki or near the thermal springs.

How much time do I have at each stop? You get about 20 minutes at Zywy Skansen, roughly an hour at Gubałówka, two hours at Krupówki, and two and a half hours at thermal springs.

Is this a guided tour? No, the driver provides transport and some commentary, but it’s not a guided tour. You’re free to explore each site at your own pace.

What should I bring? Wear comfortable shoes, bring a swimsuit, towel, flip-flops for the pools, and possibly a camera to capture the views.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues? As the tour involves walking around villages and outdoor sites, it’s best to assess your mobility needs beforehand.

The Sum Up

This Zakopane tour offers a well-rounded experience for those eager to see Poland’s mountain scenery, enjoy local culture, and relax in thermal pools. Its combination of scenic funicular rides, historic villages, lively streets, and soothing waters makes it a smart choice for travelers who want an independent yet guided day with all logistics taken care of.

The included tickets and hotel pickup add great value, especially for visitors unfamiliar with local transport options. The flexibility at each stop means you can tailor your visit to your interests, whether that’s snapping photos, shopping for souvenirs, or soaking in warm waters.

While it’s not a guided tour with detailed narration, the scenic vistas and authentic stops compensate nicely. It’s perfect for those who love a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation—especially if you want a hassle-free way to explore Zakopane from Krakow. Whether you’re on your honeymoon, traveling with family, or exploring solo, this trip offers a memorable taste of Poland’s highland charm.

Additional Tips

• Book at least three weeks in advance, as this tour tends to fill up quickly.
• Arrive ready for outdoor walking and sightseeing, with layered clothing for mountain weather.
• Bring cash or cards for souvenirs or snacks at Krupówki.
• Don’t forget your swimsuit and towel if you plan to enjoy the thermal pools — you’ll want to make the most of the relaxing end to your day.

Enjoy your trip, and prepare for stunning views, warm waters, and lots of authentic Polish culture along the way!