Zakopane and Horse Sleigh Ride in the countryside, private tour from Krakow

Discover Zakopane and the Snowy Countryside on a Private Tour from Krakow

For those seeking an authentic winter escape in Poland, the Zakopane and Horse Sleigh Ride in the countryside tour offers a wonderful blend of culture, scenic beauty, and traditional traditions. Priced at $228.87 per person, this 10-hour private adventure departs from Krakow with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a smooth and personalized experience. The tour is particularly popular, booked on average 75 days in advance, reflecting its appeal among visitors eager to explore Zakopane’s mountain charm.

This tour stands out for its focus on highlander culture, forested landscapes, and snow activities. It includes a horse-drawn sleigh ride, a traditional Polish dinner, and visits to key Zakopane sights, all led by an English-speaking guide. The entire itinerary is crafted to give a relaxed, immersive day in the Tatra Mountains, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the winter scenery and local traditions. A notable highlight is the live commentary during transport, enhancing the storytelling aspect of this cultural journey.

Key Points

• Private, all-inclusive day trip from Krakow to Zakopane, lasting approximately 10 hours
• Horse-drawn sleigh ride through snow-covered forests and highland landscapes
• Visit to Zakopane’s top sights, including Gubaowka Hill, Krupowki Street, and Jaszczurowka Chapel
• Enjoy a traditional Polish dinner and explore regional landmarks like the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima
• Includes private transport, admission fees, and funicular railway tickets for Gubaowka
• Perfect for travelers wanting an authentic winter experience in the Polish mountains

Pickup and Journey to the Tatra Mountains

This tour begins with a morning pickup at your Krakow accommodation around 7:30 am. The journey in a private vehicle takes you directly into the Polish highlands, where winter traditions remain alive. As you leave Krakow behind, the guide provides live commentary, sharing insights about the region’s culture and landscape. The travel time allows you to settle in comfortably and get excited for the day ahead.

The first major stop is the Tatras Mountains, where the snowy scenery sets the perfect scene for a horse-drawn sleigh ride. This two-hour experience is a highlight, offering a slow-paced glide through peaceful, snow-covered forests. Along the way, you might spot native wildlife, adding to the sense of being immersed in nature.

Exploring Zakopane’s Iconic Mountain Town

Zakopane itself is known as the capital of Poland’s mountains. Its striking alpine scenery and panoramic views from high vantage points make it a must-visit destination. The town boasts notable sites such as the ski jump Wielka Krokiew, the wooden church of Jaszczurówka, and the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima. Visitors also have the chance to take a funicular ride up to Gubaowka, where an alpine slide offers a fun mountain adventure.

During this visit, the guide leads you through the town’s charming streets and points out the wooden architecture of Chochoów, along with the Pksowy Brzyzek Old Cemetery, which honors local ordinary heroes. These stops reveal the town’s blend of natural beauty and cultural history.

The Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima at Krzeptówki

A short stop at the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Krzeptówki offers a meaningful moment. Built to commemorate Pope John Paul II’s survival of an assassination attempt, this site holds deep significance in Polish Catholic tradition. The visit is brief—about 20 minutes—but adds a layer of spiritual context to the day’s cultural exploration.

This stop is free of charge and provides a calm respite before heading into the bustling heart of Zakopane.

Walking Through Zakopane’s Historic Old Cemetery

Next, the guide takes you to Peksowy Brzyzek, a historic cemetery where local figures and resistance heroes from World War II are laid to rest. Walking through this one-hour stop offers a quiet reflection on the region’s history. It’s an authentic spot that reveals the local respect for their past and the community’s resilience.

From there, a quick visit to Krupowki Street lets you explore Poland’s most famous shopping street. Here, you can browse local shops, enjoy snacks or coffee (own expense), and soak in the lively mountain town atmosphere.

Gubalowka: Panoramic Views and Funicular Ride

One of the most scenic parts of the tour is the ride by funicular up Gubalowka Hill. This one-hour stop offers sweeping views of Zakopane’s rooftops and the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal photo opportunity. The cable car ride itself is included in the package, providing convenience and comfort.

Once at the top, visitors can enjoy the mountain scenery and optional alpine activities. This spot is great for relaxing a little while absorbing Zakopane’s picturesque landscape.

Visiting the Timber Chapel in Jaszczurówka

The tour continues with a visit to the timber Chapel of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Jaszczurówka village. Built entirely of wood in traditional Polish style, this 20-minute stop highlights the region’s architectural craftsmanship. It’s a peaceful place that showcases the area’s religious and cultural heritage, and it’s free of charge.

Exploring the High Highland Village of Chocholow

The last stop is the village of Chocholów, celebrated for its well-preserved wooden architecture and traditional highland cottages. This 20-minute visit allows travelers to see authentic highland wooden cabins, providing a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of Polish mountain communities. It’s a fitting way to conclude the day, immersing in the region’s rustic charm.

Inclusive Activities and Valuable Extras

Throughout the day, several included features enhance the experience. The sleigh ride is a core part of the tour, allowing for a relaxed, scenic journey. The traditional Polish dinner offers a taste of regional cuisine, rounding out the culture. The private transport ensures comfort and flexibility, while admission fees and the funicular ticket are covered, avoiding extra costs during the tour.

The tour also benefits from a knowledgeable English-speaking guide who provides live commentary, making each stop informative and engaging.

Practical Details and Booking Information

The tour is designed to be accessible to most travelers, with most participants able to join. It is a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour is available only in winter, contingent on snow conditions, which adds to the seasonal charm.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start, offering peace of mind, and the maximum convenience comes from the mobile ticket option.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This private Zakopane experience offers a well-rounded day combining scenic snow activities, cultural visits, and mountain views. The horse sleigh ride through the snowy forests is a unique highlight, offering a true taste of Polish winter traditions. The inclusion of fundamental sights like Gubaowka and Krupowki helps travelers gain a rundown of Zakopane in a single day.

Rated 5.0 based on one review, the tour’s excellent guide and authentic experiences make it a popular choice. The combination of cultural, scenic, and leisure elements provides good value for the price, especially considering the included tickets and meals.

Zakopane and Horse Sleigh Ride in the Countryside: A Winter Cultural Escape

This tour is perfect for those who want to enjoy a relaxed, personalized day in the Polish mountains, filled with nature, traditional sights, and local flavors. The horse-drawn sleigh ride is the standout activity, offering an immersive winter experience. Though it’s best suited for travelers prepared for cold weather and snow, it’s ideal for those seeking a combination of scenic beauty and cultural insights.

While the tour covers many highlights, it’s capped at a 10-hour duration, making it an accessible full-day activity without feeling rushed. The organized logistics and private transport ensure comfort, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the mountain views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s activities, including the sleigh ride and scenic stops, are family-friendly, making it suitable for children.

What should I wear for the sleigh ride?
Since the tour takes place in winter, bundling up with warm winter clothing, including coats, hats, gloves, and boots, is recommended.

Are meals included in the tour price?
The tour includes a traditional Polish dinner, but other meals or drinks apart from this are not included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility if weather conditions or plans change.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the activity is only available if there is enough snow, which is typical in winter. The tour may be canceled or rescheduled if snow conditions are unsuitable.

How many stops are there during the day?
The tour includes six main stops, each offering a different aspect of Zakopane’s culture, history, and scenery, from the mountains to the town’s landmarks.

This Zakopane and Horse Sleigh Ride tour provides a warm, scenic, and culturally rich winter day in Poland’s highlands, with all the key experiences packed into an accessible, private format.