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Key Points
- Private group experience with hotel pickup and drop-off in Krakow
- Includes sightseeing at Zakopane, Gubałówka funicular, and thermal pools
- Visit a cheese factory to taste Oscypek and Polish vodka
- Enjoy scenic views of the Tatra Mountains from Gubałówka
- Relax in thermal waters at Chocholow Thermal Pools for three hours
- Well-paced itinerary with no rush, covering cultural and natural highlights
Private Tour from Krakow to Zakopane and Thermal Baths for $174
This 11-hour private trip from Krakow offers a well-rounded day exploring Zakopane, the charming mountain town, along with thermal baths at Chocholow. The tour is priced at $174 per person and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the experience smooth and convenient. Designed for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, this tour balances scenic drives, cultural stops, and leisure time in thermal waters.
A standout feature is the personalized service, with an English-speaking driver guiding you through each stop. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive day out without feeling rushed, especially those interested in local food, stunning mountain vistas, and thermal relaxation. One notable strength, highlighted in reviews, is the guidance provided by knowledgeable guides, ensuring visitors gain insight into each location.
Planning more time in Zakopane? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Scenic Ride from Krakow to Zakopane with Mountain Views
The journey from Krakow to Zakopane begins with a van ride lasting about 1.5 hours. This scenic drive takes you through picturesque Lesser Poland villages, offering your first glimpses of the area’s natural beauty. The route sets the tone for the day, with rolling landscapes and traditional wooden houses catching your eye.
This drive is a great chance to settle in and enjoy the countryside before arriving in Zakopane. The smooth transportation and private group setting make it a comfortable start, with plenty of opportunities to take photos or simply relax during the ride.
Visiting Zagroda Bafiów in Chochołów and Its Local Heritage
Your first stop in Chochołów showcases the Zagroda Bafiów, a branch of the Tatra Museum. This guided 15-minute tour introduces visitors to the region’s traditional wooden architecture and cultural background. The buildings here are meticulously preserved, recognized as a World Heritage site for their authentic craftsmanship.
A quick photo stop allows for capturing the charm of the scrubbed wooden houses, which are characteristic of the area. This stop offers a glimpse into the regional history and architecture that define this part of Poland, making it an enriching start to the day.
Free Time and Photo Opportunities in Chochołów
Following the museum visit, there is a 15-minute break in Chochołów for free time and photos. Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the village, enjoying the well-preserved wooden houses and scenic surroundings. The stop provides a relaxed setting ideal for taking pictures or soaking in the rustic atmosphere.
While brief, this pause offers a chance to appreciate the traditional architecture up close and prepare for the next activities on the itinerary.
More Great Tours NearbyCheese Tasting and Sightseeing at Bacówka u Jacka
The trip then moves to Bacówka u Jacka, a local cheese farm where visitors can experience cheese tasting and regional food. The self-guided tour lasts around 20 minutes and includes tasting Oscypek, a smoked sheep’s cheese, paired with cranberry jam.
This stop is a highlight for those who enjoy authentic food experiences, offering a chance to sample regional delicacies. Alongside cheese tasting, visitors can learn about the art of cheese-making, which has been part of local traditions for generations. The setting also offers opportunities for photos and enjoying the countryside.
Visiting Wielka Krokiew Ski Jump and Zakopane Town
Next, a quick photo stop at Wielka Krokiew allows visitors to admire the famous ski jump venue, a symbol of Zakopane’s sporting history. The brief 5-minute stop provides a great photo opportunity of this iconic structure.
Following this, visitors have about two hours to explore Zakopane, including walking around Krupówki Street, the town’s bustling main thoroughfare. Here, you’ll find a mix of shops, cafes, and stalls offering local souvenirs and snacks. This time allows for sightseeing, shopping, or just soaking in the lively mountain town atmosphere.
Ascending Gubałówka for Spectacular Mountain Views
One of the tour’s key moments is the ride on the Gubałówka funicular, lasting approximately 45 minutes including breaks. The ticket included in the tour grants access to this cable car that climbs Gubałówka Mountain. The ascent rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains and surrounding valleys.
Gubałówka is a favorite spot for capturing stunning photos and enjoying a peaceful moment amid towering peaks. It’s a highlight for anyone wanting a memorable view of Zakopane’s iconic landscape.
Relaxing in the Chocholow Thermal Pools
After a day of sightseeing, the tour includes a three-hour session at the Chocholow Thermal Pools. This thermal water complex offers ample free time for swimming and relaxation. The pools are known for their healing properties and provide a rejuvenating end to the busy day.
Visitors can unwind in the thermal waters, which are suitable for all ages. The pools’ spacious layout and warm waters make this stop a relaxing finale, especially appreciated after a full day of walking and sightseeing.
Return Journey to Krakow
Following the thermal pools, the private van takes you back to Krakow, with an about 1.5-hour ride. This allows for a comfortable and quiet transfer after an active day. The driver ensures smooth travel, dropping guests off directly at their hotel or preferred location in Krakow.
This convenient end to the tour means you can reflect on your day and plan your evening in Krakow without worry about transportation arrangements.
Overall Value and Practical Details
The $174 price covers all major aspects: hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, cheese tasting, vodka sampling, Gubałówka funicular ticket, and thermal pool entry. The inclusion of these activities offers excellent value for a full-day experience that blends cultural, natural, and leisure highlights.
The tour operates as a private group, led by an English-speaking driver, and is available with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. It’s suitable for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and want to avoid long lines, thanks to the skip-the-ticket-line advantage.
Limitations and Considerations
While the tour is comprehensive, it does not include meals or additional drinks, so visitors may want to bring snacks or plan for extra purchases. Access to the nude bathing area at the thermal pools is not included, which could matter to some guests.
The experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, due to the nature of some stops and terrain. The total length of 11 hours makes it a long day, so travelers should be prepared for a full schedule.
Zakopane and Thermal Baths: A Well-Rounded Day Out
This private tour offers a blend of mountain scenery, cultural insight, and relaxing thermal waters. The scenic drive, cheese tasting, and Gubałówka views are standout features, with the thermal pools providing a calming end.
The personalized service and flexible itinerary make it particularly attractive for those seeking a hassle-free experience, tailored to their pace. The inclusion of local delicacies and stunning natural vistas ensures a memorable day in southern Poland.
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From Krakow: Private Trip Zakopane and Thermal Baths
“Our trip to Zakopane with Dawid was absolutely unforgettable! He is not only an excellent driver but also an exceptional guide, full of knowledge a…”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for travelers who can handle a full day of activities and walking. It does not specify physical requirements, but the long duration and outdoor stops may require some walking and standing.
Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.
Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals and additional drinks are not included. Optional snacks or extra purchases should be planned independently.
Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the activity is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the terrain and nature of stops.
What is the main highlight of the trip?
Most notably, the scenic ride on Gubałówka for panoramic mountain views and the opportunity to relax in the thermal pools stand out as key moments.
Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers interested in cultural sights, mountain scenery, and relaxation in thermal waters will find this tour especially appealing, provided they are comfortable with a long day and outdoor activities.
