From Krakow: Zakopane and Thermal Pools Guided Trip

Experience the charm of Zakopane with this 11-hour guided tour departing from Krakow. Priced affordably, it includes visits to Chochoów village, panoramic views from Gubaówka mountain, a stroll along Krupówki street, and relaxing thermal baths. The tour is perfect for those eager to explore mountain scenery, regional culture, and enjoy a local culinary experience, all led by a knowledgeable local guide.

While this is not a private tour and involves joining other participants, the carefully curated stops, engaging explanations, and scenic highlights make it a memorable day. The tour balances outdoor activities, cultural insights, and relaxation, providing a well-rounded experience of Zakopane in just over half a day.

Key Points

• All-day guided trip from Krakow lasting 11 hours with a local guide.
• Includes visits to Chochoów village, Gubaówka mountain, Krupówki street, and thermal baths.
• Highlights panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains via cable car and scenic drives.
• Experience authentic highlander culture and regional cuisine, including Oscypek cheese tasting.
• Practical details: meeting at Wielopole 2, free cancellation, and flexible booking options.

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From Krakow to the High Highlander Village of Chochoów

The tour begins with a comfortable van ride of 1.5 hours from Wielopole 2 to Chochoów, a village famous for its historical highlander wooden houses. Here, the guide provides a 30-minute guided tour, explaining the architecture and traditions of this living museum. Visitors get a glimpse of the highlander way of life, with the opportunity to take photos of the charming, timber-framed homes.

This stop offers a genuine look at local cultural heritage. The village provides a peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect introduction before heading into the mountains. The scenery on the drive is also scenic, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

Gubaówka Mountain: Panoramic Views and Cable Car Experience

Next, the journey continues with a 30-minute drive to Gubaówka, where visitors enjoy spectacular views of the Tatra Mountains. The highlight here is the cable car ride, which transports guests to a vantage point offering breathtaking panoramic scenery.

From Gubaówka, travelers can admire the rugged peaks of the Tatras, famous for their jagged silhouettes and snowy caps during winter months. The views here are ideal for photographs and appreciating Zakopane’s natural beauty. The guide shares insights into the mountain range’s significance and the area’s geography.

Exploring Zakopane’s Iconic Krupówki Street

Following the mountain visit, the tour makes a leisurely walk down Krupówki street, the town’s bustling main thoroughfare. Here, visitors find a lively mix of shops, cafes, and local vendors. The street buzzes with activity and offers plenty of opportunities for shopping and sampling regional treats.

The guide points out notable shops and hidden gems along the way. Visitors can buy souvenirs, try local delicacies, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Zakopane’s heart. This stop offers a blend of urban charm and cultural flavor.

Tasting Traditional Oscypek Cheese in a Shepherd’s Hut

A highlight of the trip is the visit to a local cheese factory, where Oscypek, the region’s smoked cheese, is made. The 30-minute cheese tasting takes place in a shepherd’s hut, showcasing long-standing cheese-making techniques.

Guests witness how Oscypek is handcrafted and enjoy its distinctive flavor—smoky, slightly salty, and deliciously unique to the Tatra region. The guide often shares stories about shepherding traditions and the importance of cheese in highlander cuisine.

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Relaxing in Zakopane’s Thermal Baths

The tour concludes with a 2.5-hour visit to Zakopane’s thermal baths, nestled among mountain scenery. The soothing waters provide a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Visitors can enjoy swimming and basking in the warm thermal pools, all while surrounded by nature’s beauty.

The thermal baths are a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation, offering scenic views that enhance the experience. The warm waters help ease any fatigue from the day’s outdoor activities, making this a memorable way to end the journey.

Return Journey and Practical Details

After the thermal bath visit, the group boards the van for the 1.5-hour drive back to Wielopole 2 in Krakow. The tour wraps up in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on the day’s schedule.

The meeting point is a Kiss & Ride spot across Lajkonik Bakery, with coordinates 50.059349060058594, 19.943174362182617. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows reserve now, pay later options for flexible planning.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This guided trip suits those who want a comprehensive day of outdoor exploration, cultural insights, and relaxation in Zakopane. The tour’s mix of scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and thermal baths appeals especially to first-time visitors or travelers seeking a structured experience with a local guide.

It’s ideal for visitors comfortable with walking and outdoor activities, though it’s not suitable for children under 10, wheelchair users, or babies under 1 year. The tour’s pacing and stops are designed to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Why Choose This Guided Trip to Zakopane

The tour’s strength lies in its local guides, who share passion and knowledge about Zakopane’s traditions and landscapes. The stops are carefully selected to highlight authentic highlander culture, spectacular mountain views, and regional delicacies.

The scenic cable car ride to Gubaówka offers outstanding panoramic vistas, and the thermal baths provide a relaxing finale. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and informative guides, such as Grazyna, for making the experience engaging and memorable.

While the tour is not private and involves some group walking, it offers a full-day experience packed with diverse highlights. The cost-effective nature combined with insider tips makes it a compelling choice for those wanting a well-rounded Zakopane adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from Krakow?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours from departure to return.

What is included in the price?
The guided tour covers transportation, a guided tour of Chochoów, Gubaówka cable car, cheese tasting, and thermal baths.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Wielopole 2, at a Kiss & Ride spot across Lajkonik Bakery.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not recommended for children under 10 years or for wheelchair users and babies under 1 year.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a towel, comfortable clothes, and flip-flops are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour date.

Is this a private tour?
No, it is a group tour with other participants.

Who leads the tour?
A live English-speaking guide leads the trip, sharing insights and stories along the way.

How do I pay?
You can reserve now and pay later; payment is made closer to the trip date.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of mountain vistas, authentic highlander culture, and relaxing thermal baths—guided by passionate locals—sets this experience apart.

Will I have free time at stops?
Yes, particularly in Zakopane and Krupówki street, allowing for shopping and exploration.

Are there any extra costs?
No, all major activities are included; however, personal shopping or additional snacks are at your own expense.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby