Krakow: Zakopane Tour with Chocholow Thermal Pools and Cable Car

If you’re considering a day trip from Krakow to Zakopane, this tour seems to be a popular choice — and for good reason. It’s packed with experiences designed to show you the best of Poland’s highland region: scenic mountain views, relaxing thermal pools, and a taste of local culture. We’ve looked into what this tour offers, and while it’s easy to see the value, it’s also worth understanding some of the nuances before booking.

What really stands out for us are the knowledgeable guides who bring the local stories to life, and the variety of stops that give you a well-rounded taste of Zakopane’s mountain charm and cultural delights. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the day is long — around 11 to 12 hours — so it’s a good fit if you’re comfortable with a full schedule. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced day, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning each step themselves. It’s especially suitable if you’re eager to see the Tatra Mountains, enjoy thermal baths, and get a taste of regional Polish culture in a single day. Families, couples, or groups who appreciate guided trips with thoughtful touches will likely appreciate what’s on offer here.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with transport, guide, and entrance tickets
• A great mix of nature, culture, and relaxation in one day
• Knowledgeable guides who locals and travelers alike rave about
• Long day, full schedule — ideal for those ready to explore intensively
• Thermal pools and mountain views are the highlights, but be prepared for a busy day
• Suitable for most travelers, but check weather and comfort with long bus rides

An Overview of the Zakopane Day Trip

This tour, offered by Thousand Miles Krakow, is designed as a full-day adventure that takes you out of Krakow’s city buzz and into Poland’s stunning highland scenery. With a rating of 5.0 from nearly 8,000 reviews, it clearly strikes a chord with travelers, and 98% recommend it. For $68.01 per person, it’s quite a competitive price considering the variety of experiences packed into a single day.

The Practicalities

Starting with hotel pickup and drop-off, the tour handles transportation so you don’t need to worry about logistics. The group size maxes out at 22, so it’s not too crowded, but also not an intimate small-group experience. The duration is roughly 11 to 12 hours, so plan your energy accordingly. You’ll need to bring a towel, swimsuit, and flip-flops for the thermal pools, but most other essentials are covered or advised by the guides.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and Why It Matters

Pickup and Travel from Krakow to Zakopane

The day begins with a convenient pickup from your Krakow accommodation. From there, the two-hour scenic drive sets the tone — expect comfortable transportation and some initial views of the mountains as the landscape shifts from city to alpine.

Stop in Chocholow Village

Your first real stop is in Chocholow, one of Poland’s most picturesque villages. This isn’t just a quick photo op; you get a chance to stroll among some of the oldest houses still inhabited by locals. Travelers love this stop for its authentic atmosphere, with one review describing it as “magical” and a “unique experience.” It’s a great way to see traditional architecture and get a sense of local life.

Highlander Cheese and Vodka Tasting

Next is Witów, where you’ll sample traditional highlander cheese and regional alcohol. This stop is a favorite for many, with reviews praising the tastings and the opportunity to experience regional flavors. The 30-minute visit is enough to get a taste without feeling rushed, and it’s a fun cultural snippet.

Gubałówka Funicular Ride

The highlight here is the Gubałówka funicular, which offers sweeping views of the Tatra Mountains. The ticket includes the up-and-down ride, giving you about an hour to soak in the scenery. Many travelers mention how stunning the vistas are, especially on clear days, and this spot often becomes a picture-perfect moment.

Krupowki Street

A few hours are dedicated to Krupowki, Zakopane’s bustling main street. This is where you’ll find shops, cafes, and street performers, giving you a taste of local life. The recommended two hours give enough time for a relaxed stroll, some souvenir shopping, and possibly grabbing a bite.

Thermal Pools at Chocholowskie Termy

The thermal pools are the real relaxation highlight. Covering a large area — one of the biggest facilities of its kind in Poland — the pools feature warm water, slides, and relaxation zones. The water’s health benefits are a plus, and the pools are suitable for families with children, who can enjoy the various zones (excluding the sauna). With a ticket covering three hours, many reviewers say this part of the trip feels like a waterpark mixed with wellness, and it’s often praised as the perfect way to unwind after a busy day.

Return to Krakow

After several hours of sightseeing and relaxing, the drive back takes another two hours, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

The Experience of Walking Through This Tour

From the start, the tour is well-organized, with clear instructions and an emphasis on making the most of your time. Guides like Olaf, Tom, Niko, and Micha earn high praise for their knowledge, humor, and helpfulness, which makes the long journey more engaging. Comments from travelers mention the quality of communication and how the guides add personality and insight that elevate the experience.

The stops are thoughtfully selected: a village, a mountain view, a cultural tasting, and then pure relaxation at thermal pools. It’s a good balance, offering a bit of everything for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Zakopane.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the value for money, praising the variety of experiences packed into a day. One traveler stated, “Olaf our guide made this an awesome day,” emphasizing the importance of good guides. The thermal pools are often described as “more like a waterpark in some areas,” but with enough relaxing zones to balance the excitement.

However, some note that the day can be long, and the bus rides are a bit taxing, especially if you’re seated apart or if the weather turns cold or snowy. That said, the majority agree it’s a memorable and worthwhile trip.

Value for Money

At just over $68, this tour offers a lot — transportation, guided commentary, entrance to thermal pools, funicular tickets, and tastings. Considering the cost of separate tickets and transportation, it’s a good deal, especially for first-time visitors eager to tick off multiple highlights in one go.

Many reviews mention how it’s a smooth experience, freeing you from the hassle of planning and queuing. The guides’ local knowledge adds extra flavor, making the trip feel more authentic.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This day trip works well for travelers who want to maximize their time and experience a broad slice of Polish mountain life and scenery in one day. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided tours that mix sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing. It’s also suited for those comfortable with a full schedule and long bus rides, as the day packs in quite a bit.

If you’re traveling with family, the pools and wide-open spaces could be a hit, but keep in mind the day’s length and weather conditions. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or are sensitive to cold, you might want to prepare accordingly or consider other options.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long is the bus ride from Krakow to Zakopane?
The trip takes approximately 2 hours each way, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What should I bring for the thermal pools?
You should bring a towel, swimsuit, and flip-flops. Most other essentials are either provided or recommended by your guide.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Families will find the thermal pools accessible for children, though the tour is quite full-day and might be long for very young kids.

What does the tour include?
It includes transportation, a guide, tickets for the funicular, regional cheese and vodka tasting, and access to the thermal pools.

Are meals included?
No, dinner is not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan for a meal in Zakopane or Krupowki Street.

How experienced are the guides?
Reviews highlight guides like Olaf, Niko, and Micha as very knowledgeable, humorous, and helpful, making the day more engaging.

What kind of views can I expect?
Expect stunning mountain vistas from Gubałówka, picturesque villages, and lively street scenes in Zakopane.

What if the weather is bad?
While weather can impact outdoor views and activities, the thermal pools are indoors and still enjoyable, and guides will try to adapt accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience, with a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Zakopane day trip offers a solid mix of nature, culture, and relaxation, making it a worthwhile addition to your Poland itinerary. The guides’ local knowledge and the variety of stops help create a day filled with memorable moments, especially if you enjoy seeing the scenic highlands and unwinding in thermal pools. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free experience and are prepared for a full day of activity.

If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized tour that combines stunning views, regional flavors, and some well-deserved downtime, this trip hits the mark. Just be sure to pack comfortable shoes, a swimsuit, and a sense of adventure — and you’ll come back with plenty of stories to tell.