Zakopane stands out as Poland’s mountain playground, famous for its rugged landscapes, lively markets, and unique highlander culture. Its combination of outdoor adventures and relaxing experiences makes it a top destination for travelers seeking both thrill and leisure. We particularly like the Krakow: Zakopane & Thermal Baths Experience, which blends a scenic day trip with the chance to unwind in Poland’s largest thermal pools. Watching the sunset from outdoor pools on a terrace or exploring Krupówki’s bustling market gives a real taste of local flavor.
Zakopane’s diverse options range from adrenaline-pumping snowmobile rides and off-road adventures to cultural sightseeing and wellness retreats. Whether you’re looking for a full-day adventure, a relaxing soak, or a beginner ski lesson, the list below covers the very best tours available, each offering something special to different kinds of travelers.
1. Krakow: Zakopane & Thermal Baths Experience
This popular day tour combines the best of Zakopane with a visit to Poland’s largest thermal baths. Starting with a scenic 100-minute van ride from Krakow, you’ll pass Chochołów’s traditional wooden houses and enjoy breathtaking views of Gubałówka. The highlight is three hours at the Chochołów Thermal Baths, where you can swim in indoor and outdoor pools, relax in jacuzzis, or unwind in the cooling pool on the terrace while watching the sunset. The tour also includes a funicular ride and free time on Krupówki Street for shopping and people-watching.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility — you can choose and combine activity passes to tailor your experience. Reviewers praise the organization, the friendly guide Mateusz, and the value for money, calling it “an excellent way to experience Zakopane without worrying about logistics.” It’s ideal for those who want a full day of sightseeing combined with relaxation.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a mix of scenic highlights, local culture, and thermal baths, all with a knowledgeable guide.
2. Zakopane: Extreme Snowmobile Ride with Bonfire and Transfers
For adrenaline seekers, this snowmobile experience offers a 3 to 4-hour adventure through the stunning Tatra Mountains. Starting with a hotel pickup, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours riding with professional instructors, zipping through snowy forests, and enjoying breathtaking mountain scenery. Afterward, a regional feast around a bonfire with cheese, sausages, and regional delicacies makes for a memorable finish.
This tour is especially appealing because of its mix of high-speed fun and cultural flavor, with stops for photos and scenic views. Reviewers highlight the guides’ friendly nature and the excellent organization. It’s great for families, groups of friends, or anyone craving a high-octane winter experience.
Bottom Line: This tour combines the thrill of snowmobiling with authentic regional cuisine — perfect for adventurous travelers who want a full, fun-filled day.
3. From Zakopane: Chocholow Thermal Baths with Hotel Transfers
Relaxation is the main focus here. This thermal baths tour includes a 3-hour soak in the largest thermal water complex in Poland, with a convenient hotel pickup and drop-off. Located in the village of Chocholow, the thermal pools include jacuzzis and multiple thermal attractions designed for stress relief and fun.
The tour is highly rated for its smooth organization and the lovely guide, Baw Się Życiem. Travelers love the effortless experience and the chance to unwind after busy sightseeing days. The pools are suitable for all ages, making it a great family or couples option.
Bottom Line: If pure relaxation with easy logistics appeals most, this thermal bath trip is a top choice.
4. From Zakopane: Snowmobile Ride with Thermal Pools & Pickup
This extended adventure combines a snowmobile ride with a visit to the Chocholów thermal pools. Over 7 hours, you’ll explore mountain trails, take scenic photos, and enjoy regional snacks during a BBQ. The highlight is relaxing in the thermal pools afterward, making it perfect for those seeking both excitement and relaxation.
The tour receives high praise for its well-organized itinerary and friendly guides. Guests love the experience of riding through snow-covered landscapes and the chance to warm up in thermal waters after. The price reflects the full day of activities, including hotel transfers and regional delicacies.
Bottom Line: For a full-day mix of adventure and wellness, this tour offers excellent value with a memorable combination.
5. Zakopane: Ski Lesson on Gubałówka Hill for Beginners
Perfect if you’re new to skiing, this lesson on Gubałówka Hill provides one hour of personalized instruction. The small group setting (limited to six participants) ensures plenty of individual attention. You’ll learn how to fall safely, use the ski lift, and gain confidence on gentle slopes, all while enjoying stunning mountain views.
The equipment rental is available on-site, making it easy to get started without a lot of planning. Reviewers appreciate the patient, friendly instructors and the short, manageable lesson that leaves you feeling accomplished.
Bottom Line: Best suited for beginners wanting a quick, focused intro to skiing in a beautiful setting.
6. From Zakopane: Tatra Mountains, Sky Walk & Hot Springs Tour
This 6-hour guided tour offers a diverse mix of scenic sightseeing and relaxation. Visiting Jaszczurówka chapel and enjoying cheese and vodka tasting in Witów sets the tone. The star feature is the Sky Walk in Poronin — a panoramic platform with sweeping views of the Tatras. Afterward, unwind in the hot springs of Termy Bania, with jacuzzis and saline pools.
The tour is highly rated, with many reviews praising the lively guides and the breathtaking vistas. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Tatra scenery, regional flavors, and some well-deserved spa time.
Bottom Line: An all-around excellent choice for those wanting a little bit of everything — scenery, culture, and relaxation.
7. Zakopane: Extreme Quad Adventure with Bonfire & Transfers
For thrill-seekers, this quad adventure winds through mountain trails, reaching panoramic viewpoints and rugged terrain. After about three hours of riding, you’ll settle by a bonfire with regional snacks and a hot meal, making it a full day of fun and flavor.
Guests note the strong organization, helpful guides, and the exciting trail riding, which offers a real taste of mountain off-roading. It’s suitable for those comfortable with a bit of physical activity and looking for a mix of adventure and local culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want to combine mountain riding with authentic regional hospitality.
8. Zakopane: Sightseeing Tour from Krakow
This 8-9 hour tour from Krakow is great for discovering Zakopane’s highlights, including Krupówki, Gubałowka Mountain, and Chocholów village. Starting early, you’ll explore local shops, enjoy the mountain views, and experience the vibrant town atmosphere. The trip includes a scenic cable car ride and free time for shopping or lunch.
Reviewers praise the smooth organization and the knowledgeable driver. It’s excellent for those with limited time who want an overview without rushing, especially for first-timers.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive day trip perfect for seeing Zakopane’s key sights in one go.
9. From Krakow: Morskie Oko and Zakopane Day Trip
This full 11-hour adventure combines a 4-hour hike to the stunning Morskie Oko lake with a visit to Zakopane. You’ll enjoy beautiful mountain scenery, dense forests, and a stop at Krupówki for shopping. The funicular ride up Mount Gubałówka offers spectacular views of the Tatras.
Guests love the experienced guide, Maciej, and the well-paced itinerary. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to experience both nature and town life in one day.
Bottom Line: A full-day trip ideal for those wanting a scenic hike combined with cultural sights.
10. Zakopane: Snowmobiles Expedition and Optional Bonfire
Offering a shorter but thrilling experience, this tour lets you explore mountain trails on a snowmobile for 1 to 3 hours. You’ll breathe fresh mountain air and enjoy the scenery, with the option to relax by a bonfire afterward. It’s suitable for those seeking a quick yet memorable winter adventure.
Top reviews mention the friendly guides and the fun of riding through snow-covered forests. Perfect if you’re pressed for time but still want to enjoy winter in the mountains.
Bottom Line: A flexible option for snowmobile fans wanting a taste of mountain exploration.
11. From Krakow: Morskie Oko, Zakopane & Thermal Baths
This 14-hour tour packs in mountains, town, and wellness. Starting with a hike to Morskie Oko, then exploring Zakopane’s shops and Gubałówka, and finally relaxing for 3 hours in thermal baths, it offers a well-rounded day. Travelers find it perfect to combine active and relaxing moments.
Reviews highlight the vivid mountain views and the quality of guided commentary. It’s suited for energetic travelers eager to cover lots of ground.
Bottom Line: A full, balanced day trip for those wanting a bit of everything—a mountain hike, town experience, and thermal relaxation.
12. Zakopane: Shooting Real Firearms, Live Rounds 30 shots
For something truly different, this firearms experience lets you fire real guns like AK-47s, Uzis, and pistols. Under expert supervision, you compete with friends and test your aim in a safe environment. It’s a unique activity for families, bachelor parties, or anyone curious about shooting sports.
Reviews emphasize the professionalism of the instructors and the fun, adrenaline-filled atmosphere. It’s best for those who want a memorable, hands-on experience in a safe setting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for curious, thrill-seeking travelers looking for a safe yet exciting shooting experience.
13. Zakopane: Buggy Off-road Adventure, Mountain Views & Bonfire
Feel your adrenaline as you drive a buggy through mountain trails with panoramic views in this off-road adventure. After exploring the rugged terrain, you’ll relax by a bonfire with regional snacks and a traditional mountain meal, plus a visit to a shepherd’s hut to taste smoked oscypek cheese.
The tours are praised for their exciting ride, stunning scenery, and easy hotel pickup. Perfect if you want a mix of fun driving and local flavor.
Bottom Line: A great option for active travelers craving mountain off-roading combined with regional treats.
14. Zakopane: Extreme Shooting Range with Hotel Transfers
This shooting range experience offers the chance to fire a variety of weapons, including AK-47s and Glock pistols, in a safe environment. Transfers from your hotel make it convenient, and you can compete with friends for the best aim.
Reviews mention the professional guides and the fun atmosphere. It’s suitable for anyone wanting a hands-on adventure that’s different from the usual sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those interested in testing their shooting skills in a controlled, professional setting.
15. Zakopane: Chocholow Thermal Pools Entry with Hotel Transfer
This flexible thermal pools entry offers a relaxing soak at Chochołow’s hot springs, with convenient hotel transfer. It’s a longer experience, up to 9 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the pools and regional atmosphere. Many reviews praise the friendly driver and the smooth, hassle-free experience.
Ideal for travelers who prefer to combine wellness with comfort and ease, especially if they want a leisurely experience without stress.
Bottom Line: If relaxation and comfort are your priorities, this thermal pools day trip delivers a memorable, hassle-free escape.
How to Choose the Best Zakopane Tour for You
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, physical fitness, and interests. If you’re after a full day of adventure, the Snowmobile Ride with Thermal Pools offers a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. For a more laid-back experience, Chocholow Thermal Baths is ideal.
Travelers wanting cultural insights and scenic views might prefer the Sky Walk & Hot Springs, while adrenaline junkies could opt for the Extreme Quad Adventure. Budget-conscious visitors should check reviews for value, especially for shorter activities like the Ski Lesson.
Booking early during peak seasons is wise, as popular tours fill quickly. Always verify the starting times and cancellation policies to ensure a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
Zakopane offers a wide variety of tours suited to many tastes — from thrilling snowmobile rides and mountain off-road adventures to relaxing thermal baths and cultural sightseeing. If you’re looking for an action-packed day, the Snowmobile Ride with Bonfire is hard to beat. For more leisurely pursuits, the Chocholow Thermal Baths provide a perfect way to unwind. Those interested in scenic views and local culture will find the Sky Walk & Hot Springs a well-rounded choice.
No matter your interests, booking early and choosing the right tour based on your preferences will ensure you enjoy Zakopane’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture to the fullest.
