ZAKOPANE & THERMAL SPRINGS, Funicular, Cheese Tasting

If you’re looking for a comprehensive day trip from Krakow that combines scenic mountain views, cultural insights, and relaxing moments, this tour offers an excellent choice. For $68.63 per person, it delivers around 11 hours of exploring Zakopane, the Polish Tatra Mountains, and the charming village of Chocholow. The tour features hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics seamless, and includes tickets for the Gubałówka funicular and thermal pools.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are its well-organized stops, expert guides, and authentic local experiences. The trip is popular, with bookings happening about 42 days in advance, and is rated perfectly at 5.0 out of 5 based on 313 reviews. Although it does not include lunch, the day is packed with cultural stops, natural beauty, and relaxation, making it an ideal choice for those who want a full but manageable itinerary of Poland’s mountain region.

Key Points

• All-in-one day trip: Includes visits to Chocholow, Zakopane, and thermal pools for a full experience
• Cultural insights: Learn about traditional smoked cheese production and Highlander architecture
• Scenic rides: Enjoy the cable car to Gubałówka with spectacular mountain views
• Free time in Zakopane: Explore the town’s streets, shops, and local food at your own pace
• Relaxation focus: End the day with thermal spring bathing in thermal pools
• Convenience: Hassle-free pickup and drop-off with group discounts available

Exploring Chocholow and Its Wooden Village Charm

The tour begins with a visit to Chocholow, a historic wooden village renowned for its traditional highlander architecture. The village’s buildings are notable for looking quite similar and are cleaned externally with water and soap twice a year, a local custom that adds to its quaint charm. Not far from Chocholow, you’ll find smaller Bacówka wooden huts where Highlanders, who raise sheep, goats, and cows, produce a famous smoked cheese called “Oscypek”.

At this stop, visitors get a close look at the cheese-making process and can taste the authentic smoked cheese. This experience is free of charge and offers insight into a key local tradition. The village also provides a peaceful and picturesque introduction to Polish mountain life, making it a great way to start the day.

Zakopane: The Heart of Polish Mountains and Highland Culture

The second major stop is Zakopane, Poland’s winter capital, which bursts with unique wooden architecture, local cuisine, and mountain scenery. The town’s famous skijumps, used during World Championship events, can be admired from afar, and visitors get a chance to see the historic wooden village that showcases traditional highlander style.

From here, you’ll learn about the production of “Oscypek”, a smoked sheep cheese made only in this region. This is a key highlight, as the cheese secrets are explained by knowledgeable guides, enhancing appreciation for local craftsmanship. The scenic views of the Polish mountains from the cable car add a memorable touch to this part of the trip.

Gubałówka: The Cable Car to Mountain Panoramas

At Gubałówka, the tour provides an individual ticket for a cable car ride to the mountain’s summit. From this vantage point, the panoramic vistas of the Tatra Mountains are breathtaking. The top of Gubałówka offers a variety of tourist attractions and souvenir shops, making it a lively spot to take photos and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

This included funicular ride is a highlight, offering a convenient and scenic ascent without the need for strenuous hiking. The views from Gubałówka are often praised for their spectacular beauty, providing a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to relax amid nature.

Strolling Through Krupówki Street and Zakopane’s Cultural Hub

Following the mountain experience, the tour stops at Krupówki Street, the bustling heart of Zakopane. This market square is the ideal place for independent exploration, whether for a local lunch, browsing souvenir shops, or soaking up highlander culture. The street’s lively atmosphere showcases local music, clothing, and cuisine, providing a genuine taste of Zakopane.

Visitors can spend approximately two hours here, enjoying the vibrant ambiance, sampling traditional food, or simply strolling along the scenic street. It’s a perfect balance between guided sightseeing and free time.

Relaxing in Chocholowskie Termy Thermal Pools

The day’s final major activity is relaxation at the thermal pool complex, Chocholowskie Termy. This hot spring facility features themed areas suitable for both children and adults, making it a family-friendly highlight. The admission is included in the tour, and guests enjoy about three hours of soaking, swimming, and unwinding.

The pools are famed for their therapeutic thermal waters, and the complex includes play and relaxation zones. The experience is enhanced by the convenience of a wristband payment system, allowing easy access to the pools and treatments.

The Ski Jumping World Cup and Its Exclusion from the Tour

While the Ski Jumping World Cup takes place annually in Zakopane during winter, access to the ski jumps is not part of this tour. The jumps are reserved for professional ski jumpers, so this tour focuses on spectator-friendly activities and scenic views, rather than competitive sports.

This is worth noting for those interested in watching ski jumping, but for most, the cable car ride and town exploration suffice for capturing Zakopane’s winter spirit.

Tasting Traditional Cheese and Visiting the Museum

A visit to the Muzeum Oscypka Zakopane reveals the local cheese-making process. Here, tasting authentic sheep’s milk cheese (oscypek) forms a key part of the experience. Many visitors find the cheese tasting to be delicious and authentic, often complemented by a shot of local cherry vodka.

This stop typically lasts around 30 minutes and offers an educational glimpse into regional culinary traditions. It adds to the overall cultural richness of the tour.

Viewing Points of the Tatra Mountains

On Gubałówka, there is a designated viewing point that provides spectacular vistas of the Tatra Mountains. This scenic spot lasts around 10 minutes and offers an excellent opportunity for photos and appreciating Poland’s mountain landscape.

Many reviews praise this short stop for its breathtaking views, making it a memorable part of the day.

Practicalities and Logistics of the Tour

This tour departs from Krakow, with hotel pickup and drop-off included for convenience. The transportation is air-conditioned, and the group size is limited to a maximum of 22 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience. The driver and guide are known for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, with many reviews highlighting guide excellence as a key strength.

All tickets for Gubałówka funicular and thermal pools are included, streamlining the experience. The tour also provides an information brochure in the language of your choice, helping guests navigate each stop with ease.

Considerations and Tips for Travelers

While the tour offers ample sightseeing, it is a long day with around 11 hours on the go. Recommending to wrap up warm is advised, especially in colder seasons, as snowfalls are common. The thermal pools, while relaxing, can be quite busy, so expect crowded spaces at peak times.

Since lunch is not included, planning to enjoy the options available at Krupówki Street or bringing snacks is recommended. The pace of the tour balances guided visits and free exploration, making it suitable for most visitors with moderate mobility.

Zakopane & Thermal Springs Tour: Worth It for Authentic Mountain and Culture Experiences

This well-organized trip from Krakow provides a rich taste of Poland’s mountain culture, scenic beauty, and relaxation options. The $68.63 price covers transport, tickets, and guided insight, offering excellent value considering the scope of activities.

The high praise in reviews highlights friendly guides, stunning views, and delicious local cheese and vodka, making it clear that the tour delivers a robust and enjoyable experience. The primary limitation is the length of the day, so travelers should be prepared for a full schedule.

This tour suits travelers eager to explore Zakopane’s highlights without the hassle of planning logistics or transportation. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing, culture, and relaxation in Poland’s mountainous landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $68.63 per person, including transportation, tickets for the funicular and thermal pools, and guided commentary.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 11 hours, making it a full-day activity.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to the day.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plentiful dining options available in Zakopane’s Krupówki Street.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Chocholow village, Zakopane town, Gubałówka mountain via funicular, Krupówki street, and Chocholowskie Termy thermal pools.

Is the thermal pool experience crowded?
Many reviews mention that the pools can be busy, especially during peak times, but the quality of the thermal waters remains highly appreciated.

Can I see ski jumping during this tour?
Access to ski jumps is not included, as the jumps are reserved for professionals. The tour focuses on sightseeing and relaxation.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, with thermal pools and leisure areas, it is family-friendly, although the full schedule requires moderate stamina.

Do I need to bring anything special?
It’s advisable to dress warmly, especially in winter, and to bring cash or cards for additional food or souvenirs outside the included activities.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings occur around 42 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended, especially during peak season.

What do reviewers say about the guides?
Guides are consistently praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, often making the day even more enjoyable.

This Zakopane & Thermal Springs tour from Krakow offers a balanced mix of mountain scenery, cultural insights, and ultimate relaxation. Its value, organization, and friendly guides make it an appealing choice for anyone wanting a comprehensive day trip without the stress of planning each detail.