From Krakow: Zakopane & Thermal Springs Day Trip with Pickup

If you’re visiting Krakow and craving a mix of mountain scenery, local flavors, and some well-deserved relaxation, this day trip to Zakopane could be just what you need. It’s a popular full-day experience that promises mountain views, cultural insights, and a chance to soak in thermal pools—all with the convenience of pickup and drop-off right from your accommodation.

What really caught our eye about this tour are the scenic cable car ride to Gubałówka and the thermal baths at Chochołowskie. These are the kind of highlights that turn a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable adventure. Plus, sampling authentic highlander cheeses and local alcohols adds a tasty, authentic touch.

That said, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The trip runs for about 11 hours, so it’s a long day packed with activity. If you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or has mobility concerns, this might be a bit full-on. Also, the thermal baths are popular, so expect crowds—especially on weekends or peak times.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Zakopane’s mountain charm and local culture without the hassle of planning multiple stops. It’s a good pick if you’re okay with a full schedule and want a guided experience that covers the main highlights.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines scenic mountain views, cultural visits, and relaxation.
• Great Guide: Highly praised guides like Piter, Lukas, and Maciek make the day engaging and informative.
• Value for Money: At $107, it offers a full day of activities, including entrance fees.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned coach with pickup from your Krakow accommodation.
• Authentic Flavors: Cheese tasting and local alcohol for a true taste of the region.
• Long Day: About 11 hours, so it’s best suited for those ready for a full itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins with hotel pickup in Krakow, which is a real plus for convenience. The coach ride takes approximately 1.5 hours, giving everyone time to settle in and get a first glimpse of Polish countryside. The transport is described as air-conditioned, making the long day more comfortable, especially during warmer months.

Stop at Chochołów: The Highland Village

The first stop is the charming village of Chochołów, where traditional wooden architecture still dominates. Here, you get a quick photo break and a short walk—roughly 30 minutes—to soak in the rustic atmosphere. This part of the trip is about experiencing the culture and the vibe of the Polish highlands.

Cheese Tasting at a Highland Hut

Next, you’ll visit a cheese factory for an authentic tasting of oscypek, the smoked sheep milk cheese that’s a regional delicacy. This is often highlighted in reviews as a favorite part of the trip, with visitors enjoying sampling the cheese right at its source. The tasting lasts about 30 minutes and offers a chance to understand local culinary traditions. Several reviews mention the quality and authenticity of this experience, which feels more genuine than just buying cheese at a market.

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Zakopane: The Mountain Town

Arriving in Zakopane, the “Pearl of the Polish Mountains,” the day continues with a walk along Krupówki Street. This busy thoroughfare is full of cute shops, cafes, and street vendors—ideal for some light shopping or just people-watching. The reviews suggest there’s enough time here for a relaxed exploration, and many visitors find Zakopane’s mountain vistas truly captivating.

Gubałówka Cable Car Ride

One of the highest points of the day is the ride on the cable car up to Gubałówka Hill. This scenic trip offers sweeping views of the Tatra Mountains, and it’s a favorite among travelers. The 10-minute ride is often described as “worth every minute,” with stunning vistas that are perfect for photos. The experience is straightforward, but the views really do make the effort worthwhile.

Gubałówka Hill: Scenic Views and Free Time

At the top, you’ll have about 30 minutes to soak in the scenery, take photos, or enjoy a quick snack. Many reviews talk about how breathtaking the panorama is, especially if the weather cooperates. It’s a great spot for some quiet moments and photo ops.

Chocholowskie Thermal Baths

Post mountain sightseeing, the tour takes you to the thermal pools for about 2.5 hours. This is often regarded as the highlight of the trip, providing a perfect way to unwind after a busy day. The baths are outdoor pools surrounded by mountain views, so you can soak while snow or rain falls around you—an experience many find unforgettable.

Multiple reviews commend the well-organized nature of the thermal bath visit, noting that the facilities include different floors: spa, jacuzzi, and an outdoor pool with a bar and music. Wearing flip-flops and bringing a towel is recommended, and many mention the relaxing, almost therapeutic quality of the warm waters.

Return Journey and Reflection

After the thermal baths, you’ll hop back on the coach for the 1.5-hour return to Krakow, giving everyone time to relax and reflect on the day. The entire experience wraps up with a drop-off at your hotel or accommodation.

The Guides and Overall Value

Reviews consistently praise the guides—names like Piter, Lukas, Maciek, Adam, and Maja come up as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. Travelers appreciate guides who go beyond just pointing out sights, providing stories, recommendations, and making everyone feel included.

At $107 per person, the tour offers a lot of value. It includes transport, entrance tickets to the thermal baths, a cable car ride, and cheese tasting. Considering how much ground is covered and the variety of experiences, many feel it’s worth the price. Keep in mind that food and drinks are not included—so if you want a full meal in Zakopane or extra snacks, you’ll need to budget for that separately.

Who will love this tour?

This trip is perfect for those who want a full, active day with a good mix of scenery, culture, and relaxation. If you’re okay with a 11-hour schedule and appreciate guided experiences that take the stress out of planning, this is a solid choice. It’s also well-suited for travelers wanting a taste of local flavors without spending extra days in the mountains.

Some downsides?

A handful of reviews mention crowds at the thermal baths or that Zakopane’s main street can be touristy, which might detract from the authentic vibe. The long drive may also be tiring for some, especially if weather conditions are poor (though guides seem well-prepared for winter weather). Also, the group size is not specified, but from reviews about comfort, it seems manageable, though it might be tight in the van if fully booked.

Practical Details and Tips

• Bring swimwear, a towel, and flip-flops for the thermal pools.
• Prepare for a long day—wear comfortable shoes and layer your clothing.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly.
• If you’re visiting during busy times, expect crowds at key attractions.
• Arrive ready for weather changes—mountains can be chilly or snowy even in warmer months.
• Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, and they offer full refunds if canceled 24 hours ahead.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included in the package—your driver will meet you at your accommodation or the closest accessible spot.

How long is the drive from Krakow?
The coach ride lasts about 1.5 hours each way, giving you time to relax or catch up on the scenery.

What’s the duration of the entire trip?
The full day lasts approximately 11 hours, so be prepared for a full schedule.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the ticket to the thermal baths and the Gubałówka Hill funicular are included in the price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks aren’t included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something during free time.

Is this trip suitable for children?
The tour isn’t explicitly designed as family-friendly, and the long hours might be tiring for young children. It’s best suited for active adults or older kids.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes for walking, and swimwear for the baths are recommended.

How crowded are the thermal baths?
Some reviews mention they can be quite busy, especially on weekends. Visiting on a weekday may help avoid larger crowds.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Zakopane’s mountain scenery, local culture, and relaxation—especially if you’re after the full experience in one day. The guides are a highlight, often praised for their friendly attitude and knowledge, which makes the long day more enjoyable.

While it’s a bit of a packed schedule, many travelers find the value and variety justify the effort. The thermal baths, in particular, are a highlight that many mention as a highlight of their trip. If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of sightseeing and downtime, and don’t mind a full day on the move, this could be a fantastic addition to your Polish itinerary.

If you’re looking for a straightforward way to see the best of Zakopane without planning all the details yourself, and you’re happy to spend a full day out, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to pack your swim gear, bring some patience for crowds, and get ready for a memorable mountain adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: