Zakopane is one of Poland’s most famous mountain resorts and a must-see destination for visitors coming to southern Poland. Located at the foot of the stunning Tatra Mountains, it offers breathtaking scenery, unique local culture, and a wide range of outdoor activities all year round.
Whether you’re visiting Poland for the first time or looking to escape the city, Zakopane is the perfect contrast to Kraków’s historic streets.
Why Is Zakopane So Popular?
Zakopane’s popularity comes from a combination of nature, culture, and tradition:
🏔 Spectacular Mountain Scenery
Zakopane lies right next to the Tatra National Park, home to dramatic peaks, alpine lakes, and scenic hiking trails. It’s ideal for:
- hiking and sightseeing in summer
- skiing and snow activities in winter
🎿 Winter Sports Capital
Often called “the winter capital of Poland”, Zakopane attracts skiers and snowboarders from across Europe. Even if you don’t ski, the winter atmosphere and snowy landscapes are unforgettable.
🧀 Unique Highlander Culture
The region has its own distinct traditions:
- wooden architecture
- folk music and costumes
- local smoked cheese (oscypek)
This gives Zakopane a completely different feel compared to other Polish cities.
The most popular choices
How to Get to Zakopane from Kraków
Zakopane is about 110 km (70 miles) south of Kraków. There are several ways to get there, but not all are equally comfortable — especially for international visitors.
🚗 Guided Day Trip from Kraków (Best Option for Tourists)
The easiest and most stress-free option is joining a guided tour from Kraków.
✔ hotel or meeting-point pickup
✔ comfortable transport
✔ English-speaking guide
✔ no waiting in queues or figuring out public transport
✔ perfectly planned itinerary
👉 Our Zakopane tour from Kraków is ideal for visitors who want to see the highlights in one day without logistical hassle. It’s especially popular with guests from the UK who prefer a smooth, well-organised experience.
🚆 Train
Trains run from Kraków to Zakopane, but:
- journey time is around 4–5 hours
- stations and ticket machines may be confusing for non-Polish speakers
- delays are common during high season
🚌 Bus
Buses are cheaper and slightly faster than trains, but:
- they can be crowded
- luggage space is limited
- not ideal in winter or peak tourist season
Top Things to See and Do in Zakopane
🚠 Gubałówka Hill
Take a funicular railway to the top for panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains and Zakopane town.
🏞 Tatra National Park & Morskie Oko
One of the most beautiful national parks in Europe, offering:
- easy walking trails
- stunning valleys and waterfalls
- famous spots like Morskie Oko lake
🏘 Krupówki Street
Zakopane’s main promenade:
- restaurants and cafés
- local shops and souvenirs
- street food and mountain products
🧖 Thermal Baths
After a day in the mountains, relax in nearby thermal pools, perfect in both summer and winter.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Zakopane?
Winter (Dec–March): snow, skiing, Christmas markets
Spring (April–May): fewer crowds, fresh landscapes
Summer (June–September): hiking, festivals, warm weather
Autumn (October–November): beautiful colours, quieter atmosphere
Zakopane is worth visiting all year round, depending on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
Is Zakopane Worth Visiting for UK Tourists?
Absolutely. Zakopane offers something that many UK travellers don’t experience at home:
- high mountains
- deep-rooted local traditions
- affordable prices compared to Alpine resorts
- easy access from Kraków
For visitors already in Kraków, it’s one of the best day trips in southern Poland.
Final Tip for First-Time Visitors
If you’re short on time or want to avoid planning transport, queues, and routes yourself, a guided Zakopane tour from Kraków is the most convenient and enjoyable way to experience the region.
