Krakow Zakopane Tatra Mountains with Funicular Car

Discover the scenic beauty and local traditions of Poland’s Tatra region with this engaging full-day tour from Krakow. Priced at $74.24 per person and lasting approximately 9 hours, the trip offers an excellent balance of sightseeing, cultural experiences, and mountain views. The tour includes door-to-door transfers, a funicular ride, tasting regional cheese and alcohol, and visits to charming sites like Chochoów village and Zakopane. Its popularity is reflected in the fact that most bookings are made 44 days in advance.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate stunning mountain scenery, authentic highland architecture, and a taste of local Highlander culture. It is designed to be accessible, with pickup included and a group discount option. Travelers should be aware that lunch is not included, so planning for a meal during free time is recommended. This tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines nature, tradition, and panoramic views in a single day.

Key Points

• All-inclusive price of $74.24, with door-to-door transfers from Krakow
• 9-hour itinerary featuring visits to Chochoów village, a Highland cheese tasting, Zakopane, and Gubałówka Hill
• Funicular ride included, offering breathtaking views of the Tatra Mountains
• Visit to Zakopane’s ski jumping hill and the wooden church in Jaszczurówka
• Guided experience with an English-speaking driver/guide and well-planned stops
• Most bookings occur 44 days in advance, indicating strong interest and availability

Scenic Charm of Chochoów Village and Highland Architecture

The tour begins with a visit to Chochoów, a village renowned for its preserved wooden houses that showcase traditional highland architecture. These buildings reflect Poland’s mountain heritage and provide a window into the region’s history. Visitors have a chance to admire the authentic craftsmanship of the well-maintained structures, which make for excellent photo opportunities.

Staying briefly at Chochoów, the group appreciates the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to explore the village streets at a leisurely pace. This stop is particularly interesting for those interested in cultural preservation and traditional architecture, setting the tone for the rest of the day’s mountain adventure.

Highland Cheese Tasting at the Bacówka u Jacka

A highlight of the tour is the visit to a traditional mountain hut, known as a bacówka, called Bacówka u Jacka. Here, visitors get to sample freshly made oscypek cheese, a regional delicacy crafted from highland sheep’s milk. The tasting experience is complemented by a sip of regional highlander spiritsa, a traditional highland vodka.

This 20-minute stop offers a taste of authentic Highlander culture, with the opportunity to learn about cheese-making traditions and regional alcohol. The tasting is included in the price, making this a practical and flavorful cultural highlight.

Exploring Zakopane: Poland’s Winter Capital

The tour’s core is Zakopane, a lively mountain resort town famous for its distinctive architecture and spectacular natural setting. The group has about 2 hours to stroll along Krupówki Street, the town’s bustling main thoroughfare lined with shops, cafes, and regional food stalls.

This free time allows for shopping, snacking on local specialties, or simply soaking in the mountain atmosphere. The guide points out notable sights and offers tips for exploring the town further on your own.

Gubałówka Hill: Stunning Mountain Views with a Funicular Ride

A visit to Gubałówka Hill offers one of the most scenic moments of the day. The group takes the included funicular ride, which transports visitors to the summit in comfort. Once at the top, stunning panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains unfold—an ideal spot for photos and soaking in the landscape.

This 1-hour stop combines easy access with spectacular scenery, making it suitable for most visitors. The funicular ride itself is a highlight, providing a convenient way to experience the mountain vistas.

Zakopane’s Iconic Ski Jumping Hill

The tour also features a brief stop at the Wielka Krokiew, the famous ski jumping hill in Zakopane. Known for hosting international ski jumping competitions, this site offers a chance to observe the impressive ski jump structure.

Visitors can tour the area or simply admire the spectacular setting for a few minutes. This stop emphasizes Zakopane’s reputation as Poland’s winter sports hub and adds an active, sporty element to the trip.

Jaszczurówka Wooden Chapel: A Peaceful End

The final stop is the wooden chapel in Jaszczurówka, built in the Zakopane style. Surrounded by quiet forest, this beautifully crafted church provides a serene conclusion to the day’s mountain journey.

The 15-minute visit allows for reflection and appreciation of the traditional architecture in a tranquil setting. It’s a fitting finale that highlights the region’s wooden church craftsmanship and natural beauty.

Practical Logistics and Additional Details

The tour features air-conditioned vehicle transport, with door-to-door pickup from Krakow, making it convenient and comfortable. An English-speaking driver and guide lead the group, ensuring clarity about each stop and local insights.

The Gubałówka funicular is included, along with cheese and regional alcohol tastings. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 100 people. The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility.

Who Will Most Appreciate This Tour

This tour is perfect for those seeking scenic mountain views combined with cultural experiences. It suits visitors who enjoy walking around charming villages, learning about Highlander traditions, and taking easy excursions like the funicular ride.

While it does not include lunch, ample free time in Zakopane allows for personal meal options. The comfortable transport and well-paced stops make it accessible even for less mobile visitors.

Final Thoughts on the Krakow Zakopane Tatra Mountains Tour

This tour offers exceptional value for $74.24, blending nature, culture, and panoramic views into a manageable day trip. The highlight features include the Gubałówka funicular ride, the wooden architecture of Chochoów, and the stunning vistas of the Tatra Mountains.

The guides’ professionalism and the thoughtful itinerary contribute to a smooth experience, while the stunning mountain scenery keeps the journey memorable. While lunch isn’t included, the free time in Zakopane compensates with opportunities to explore local cuisine independently.

This trip is highly recommended for visitors to Krakow who want a comprehensive and relaxing mountain adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, door-to-door transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle are included from Krakow.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but free time in Zakopane allows for personal meal choices.

What are the main stops on this tour?
The stops include Chochoów village, Bacówka u Jacka, Zakopane, Gubałówka Hill, Wielka Krokiew ski jump, and the wooden church in Jaszczurówka.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 100.

How physically demanding is the walk in Zakopane?
Most stops involve short walks or sitting, making the tour suitable for most fitness levels.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

What are the highlights of this trip?
Expect stunning mountain views, cultural cheese tasting, a funicular ride, and visits to iconic sites like Zakopane’s ski jump and wooden churches.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is operated by BAS-TOUR.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 44 days prior, so early reservation is advised for availability.