Krakow: Zakopane Tour with Optional Hot Bath Pools

Exploring the Zakopane Day Trip from Krakow

If you’re planning a trip to Krakow and looking to add a bit of mountain magic to your itinerary, a Zakopane tour is worth considering. This particular excursion has garnered an impressive 5.0-star rating from 129 reviews, with 98% of travelers recommending it. Whether you’re into stunning scenery, local food, or relaxing thermal pools, this day trip aims to tick a lot of boxes.

What really catches our eye about this experience is how it combines ease of transport—no need to worry about mountain roads or public transit—with an affordable price of around $84.89. And the fact that it offers a variety of activities—from strolling along Krupowki Street to riding a cable car and soaking in thermal baths—means it appeals to a broad range of travelers.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention Zakopane can feel crowded and a bit commercial, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Still, if you’re after a mix of scenic views, tasty local treats, and a relaxed day out, this tour might just be a good fit. It’s especially suited for those who want an organized, hassle-free trip with options to customize your experience in Zakopane.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transport: Travel in an air-conditioned minivan, skipping the stress of driving mountain roads.
• Diverse Activities: Enjoy a mix of sightseeing, food tasting, scenic cable rides, and relaxing thermal pools.
• Local Flavors: Sample Highlander cheese and regional alcohol, adding a tasty local touch.
• Flexible Experience: You can choose to visit thermal pools or not, depending on your preference.
• Small Group: With a maximum of 22 travelers, you get a more personal experience.
• Excellent Reviews: Consistently high ratings and positive feedback support its reliability and quality.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Early: Convenient Pickup and Transport

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am with hotel pickup, which is perfect for those who prefer a smooth start without worrying about directions or parking. You’re transported comfortably in an air-conditioned minivan, which is a big plus, especially if you’re traveling during warmer seasons or in the summer heat. The drive from Krakow to Zakopane typically takes a couple of hours, but it’s nice knowing you’re not behind the wheel, especially on winding mountain roads.

First Stop: Koscielisko and Highlander Tasting

Your first stop is at Koscielisko, home to one of Poland’s oldest traditional mountain huts. Here, you get to sample highlander cheese and regional alcohol, which many reviews say is a highlight—”Loved all of it,” one traveler mentioned. Spending about 30 minutes at this spot, you’ll get a taste of local flavors, and the experience is free, included in the tour.

Exploring Zakopane’s Heart: Krupowki Street

Next, you’ll have roughly two hours of free time to explore Krupowki Street, the bustling hub of Zakopane. It’s a lively street lined with shops, cafes, and street performers, perfect for people-watching or picking up souvenirs. Several reviews note how this stop offers a good balance—enough time to enjoy the atmosphere without feeling rushed. One reviewer called it a “lovely, well-organized tour” with “amazing views” and “delicious smoked cheese,” emphasizing the food and scenery as big draws.

Scenic Gubalowka: Cable Car Ride

Then, the tour includes a ticket for the Gubalowka cable car, which takes you up for panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains. The ride lasts about 30 minutes, and the views are often praised—one reviewer mentioned the mountain scenery was “spectacular,” even through clouds that cleared unexpectedly. This stop offers a great photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

Optional Thermal Pools at Termy Bukovina

Finally, you have the option to visit Termy Bukovina, where you’ll enjoy around 2.5 hours in thermal pools. Travelers who opt in often find this to be the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. One review called it “very relaxing,” and many appreciate having this as an optional activity rather than an obligatory one. The hot springs provide a soothing end to the day, though it’s worth noting that this part of the tour is only available if you select the thermal pools option.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver and guide, and all the entrance tickets for the stops you choose—Krupowki, Gubalowka, and the thermal pools. Food and drinks, apart from the local tasting at Koscielisko, are not included, so you might want to budget for snacks or lunch on your own.

Considerations for the Trip

While most reviewers praise the organization and variety, some mention that Zakopane can be crowded and somewhat commercial, with a focus on shops and souvenirs. The 3-hour drive on a small bus may feel a bit long if you’re not fond of bus rides, but the scenery and comfort generally make up for it. Keep in mind, the tour runs most of the year, but weather conditions can impact visibility from Gubalowka, and mountain temperatures tend to be cooler than Krakow, so pack accordingly.

What Travelers Say

The glowing reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides, beautiful mountain scenery, and the value for money. One person called it “the best day out,” highlighting how the guide Pawe was “very informative,” and the snow during the trip made for memorable views. Others appreciated the balance—“a well-organized tour where we had time to see some of the best things in Zakopane”—and the chance to relax in thermal pools after a busy day.

On the flip side, a few reviews note that Zakopane can feel crowded and somewhat touristy, with limited information provided about the mountains themselves. But even these critics acknowledge the comfort and convenience of the overall experience.

Is This Tour Worth It?

In terms of value, this tour offers a lot for its price. For around $85, you get transportation, multiple sightseeing stops, local tastings, and the flexibility to choose activities like the thermal pools. It’s a practical way to see Zakopane without the hassle of self-driving or navigating public transport—especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of the mountains.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized day trip with a variety of activities, especially those who enjoy scenic views, local foods, and relaxing hot springs. If you prefer more in-depth mountain hikes or off-the-beaten-path spots, this might not satisfy that craving. But if your priority is a balanced mix of sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing with minimal planning, this tour is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 10 to 12 hours, including travel time, so plan for a full day.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics straightforward.

Can I choose to skip the thermal pools?
Yes, visiting the thermal pools is optional; you can opt out if you prefer.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended; it might be cooler in the mountains, so layered clothing is smart. If you plan to swim, bring a towel and swimsuit, and flip flops are suggested.

Is this suitable for children?
Children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 24 days in advance, which helps secure a spot during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an easy, well-rounded day trip from Krakow to Zakopane, this tour ticks most boxes. It offers a mix of natural beauty, local flavors, and relaxing activities—all in a small-group setting that feels personalized. The high ratings and positive reviews suggest it reliably delivers a worthwhile experience.

While it may not satisfy those seeking deep mountain adventures or avoiding tourist-heavy spots, for most casual visitors, this trip offers a good balance between sightseeing and comfort. Whether you’re into the mountain views, sampling regional cheeses, or soaking in thermal pools, you’re likely to come away with fond memories—and some great photos.

Ultimately, this tour is best suited for travelers who want a convenient, fun-filled day exploring Zakopane, with options to tailor your experience. It’s a practical choice that combines comfort, variety, and a touch of Polish mountain charm.