Zakopane is famous for its stunning location at the foot of the Tatra Mountains, but it’s also a fantastic place to unwind. Its natural hot springs and modern thermal spas offer a perfect way to relax after a day of hiking or exploring. We particularly like the combination of local cultural experiences with rejuvenating baths, like sampling traditional cheese and vodka before soaking in saline pools. These experiences give you a genuine taste of the region’s warmth, both figuratively and literally. For a complete escape, activities like the From Zakopane: Tatra Mountains, Sky walk & Hot Springs Tour showcase the Best of mountain views, local flavors, and thermal relaxation.
This list features a variety of tours designed to suit different interests and schedules. Whether you want a short half-day trip or a full-day adventure that combines mountain biking, cultural sightseeing, and thermal baths, these options have you covered. Some tours focus on the unique hot springs and thermal baths, while others incorporate scenic cable car rides and village explorations. All include transportation, guided commentary, and plenty of authentic experiences.
Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of each of the best spa and hot springs experiences in Zakopane. We compare what’s included, what makes each one special, and who they’re best suited for — helping you make the most of your trip.
1. From Zakopane: Tatra Mountains, Sky walk & Hot Springs Tour
This tour is a well-rounded day trip that combines mountain scenery, local culture, and relaxation. Starting with a scenic drive from Zakopane, you visit the charming Jaszczurowka wooden chapel—an iconic example of Zakopane-style architecture—before heading to Witów for cheese tasting and vodka sampling. It’s a great way to get a taste of regional flavors in an authentic setting.
The highlight is the Sky Walk in Poronin, where you enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Tatras from a glass platform—an Instagram-worthy moment that’s also a real feat of engineering. Afterward, you spend about three hours soaking in the thermal baths at Chocholowska Thermal Baths, which offers saline pools, jacuzzis, and saunas. This is perfect if you want a balance of sightseeing and true relaxation, with round-trip transport included, making it a hassle-free way to experience Zakopane’s highlights.
Why we like it: It’s comprehensive, easy to fit into a half-day, and offers a mix of cultural, scenic, and thermal experiences. With a perfect 5/5 rating from 13 reviews, it’s proven popular with travelers seeking quality.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a taste of everything—mountains, local culture, and thermal baths—in one smooth trip.
2. Krakow: Zakopane, Cable Car, Tasting & Hot Springs Tour
For travelers based in Krakow, this full-day tour offers a rich mix of mountain scenery and local flavor. It begins with a 1.5-hour transfer to Zakopane, where you explore the traditional village of Chocholow, famous for its distinctive wooden architecture. Then, a short drive takes you to the cable car station, where you ascend to Gubałówka for panoramic views of the Tatras—an experience that’s as much about the vista as it is about the fun of the ride.
You’ll also walk along Krupówki, Zakopane’s bustling main promenade, perfect for browsing local crafts and snacks. After lunch, the highlight is spending about three hours in the Terma Bania Hot Springs, with access to mineral-rich pools and saunas. The tour is well-paced, with comfortable transport, and offers insights into the Goral culture along the way.
Why we like it: It combines scenic cable car rides, cultural sightseeing, and thermal relaxation into a single day—great for those with a full day to spare, looking for a deep dive into Zakopane.
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers who want an all-in-one experience from Krakow, blending nature, culture, and wellness.
3. Krakow: Zakopane & Tatra Mountains E-Bike Tour & Spa
If you’re looking for active adventure, this full-day e-bike tour from Krakow offers a chance to pedal through the Tatra Mountains while enjoying the scenery. Starting from Wielopole, you’ll ride an electric mountain bike for about four hours, with stops to explore a shepherd’s hut, hike to the glacial Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy lake, and take in the stunning mountain vistas.
The tour includes a visit to the Termy Chochołowskie, where you can soak in mineral-rich waters, relax in pools, and enjoy the thermal spa facilities. The use of an e-bike makes the mountain terrain accessible to most fitness levels, and the combination of biking and relaxing in thermal pools makes it a well-rounded outing.
Why we like it: It’s perfect for active travelers who want a full day of mountain exploration on two wheels, plus a soothing thermal bath to recover. The guide shares local insights and ensures both biking and spa experiences are tailored for comfort.
Bottom Line: Best suited for energetic travelers who want a mix of adventure and relaxation, with a focus on outdoor activity.
4. Krakow: Zakopane Tour Local Tasting, Cable Car & Hot Springs
This highly-rated tour combines traditional Goral culture, scenic rides, and wellness in a full 11-hour day from Krakow. The trip starts with a pick-up from multiple locations, then a comfortable transfer to Zakopane. You’ll explore the wooden architecture of Chocholow, famous for its well-preserved traditional style, before tasting regional cheese and vodka.
Later, you’ll enjoy a funicular ride to Gubałówka for sweeping views of the Tatras, and then stroll down Krupówki street, Zakopane’s lively shopping and dining hub. The highlight is the visit to Chocholowskie thermal baths, where you can unwind in pools, steam rooms, and water slides. The tour’s comprehensive itinerary makes it perfect for travelers who want a full day of sights, tastes, and relaxation.
Why we like it: Its focus on local culinary tastes, cultural architecture, and thermal relaxation makes for a well-rounded experience, with an excellent 4.9/5 rating. The tour is flexible, includes multiple pickup options, and offers a good value for a full day out.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-time visitors who want a thorough Zakopane experience with authentic flavors and thermal spa fun.
How to Choose the Right Spa & Hot Springs Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities. If you want a short but rich taste of Zakopane, the From Zakopane: Tatra Mountains, Sky walk & Hot Springs Tour offers a compact yet fulfilling day. For those based in Krakow, the Zakopane, Cable Car, Tasting & Hot Springs Tour provides a full cultural and scenic experience.
Active travelers might prefer the E-Bike Tour & Spa, which combines mountain biking with relaxation. Meanwhile, if you’re after a comprehensive day with local flavors, scenic rides, and thermal baths, the Krakow: Zakopane Tour Local Tasting, Cable Car & Hot Springs is a top choice.
Think about your fitness level, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer a guided small group or a more active, independent day. Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill up fast.
Final Thoughts
Zakopane offers a range of spa and hot springs experiences that cater to different interests and schedules. Whether you prefer a quick scenic trip combining mountain views and thermal baths or a full-day adventure with biking, tasting, and soaking, there’s something for all. The key is to match the tour with your travel style and energy level. For a truly memorable trip, consider combining a scenic cable car ride with an afternoon in thermal pools, or savor regional cheeses before soaking in mineral waters.
For outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike, exploring Zakopane’s thermal baths is a must. Book your preferred experience early, pack your swimwear and camera, and get ready for a well-deserved break in Poland’s mountain paradise.