Kraków Explorers

Full-Day Tour

Zakopane and Tatra Mountains Day Tour from Krakow

Escape Krakow for a full-day trip to Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains, one of Poland’s most popular mountain regions.

Travel through the scenic Podhale countryside, visit a traditional bacówka to taste local highlander cheese, enjoy free time on Krupówki Street, and ride the funicular to the top of Gubałówka for panoramic views of Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains.

What’s included?

  • Round-trip transportation from Krakow
  • Professional English-speaking driver
  • Pickup from selected Krakow locations
  • Gubałówka funicular ticket
  • Traditional highlander cheese tasting

Booking information

During the booking process, you can choose from the available pickup points in Krakow.

If you do not select another pickup location, please use the main departure point:

Parking Kiss&Ride, 2 Wielopole Street, next to the Main Post Office.

Please arrive approximately 15 minutes before departure.

Tour schedule

Pickup in Krakow

Your driver will collect you from the pickup point selected during booking. Please be ready a few minutes before the confirmed departure time.

Transfer to Zakopane

Travel south from Krakow towards the Tatra Mountains. The journey normally takes approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Traditional bacówka and cheese tasting

Stop at a traditional highlander hut known as a bacówka. Learn about local cheese-making traditions and taste regional smoked cheese from the Podhale region.

Krupówki Street

Visit Krupówki, the main pedestrian street and heart of Zakopane. Enjoy free time for lunch, shopping, local products and exploring the centre at your own pace.

Gubałówka

Ride the funicular to the top of Gubałówka, approximately 1,123 metres above sea level, and enjoy panoramic views over Zakopane, Podhale and the Tatra Mountains.

Return to Krakow

After your visit to Zakopane, relax during the journey back to Krakow. Drop-off is at your original departure point.

Book online

Operated by a local partner

This experience is provided by an independent local tour operator and can be booked through Krakow Explorers.

Important information

Dress for mountain weather

Weather and temperatures in Zakopane can be very different from Krakow. Bring suitable clothing and an extra layer, even during warmer months.

Wear comfortable shoes

The tour includes walking in Zakopane and around the sightseeing stops, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Mountain views depend on the weather

The tour operates in different weather conditions. Clear views of the Tatra peaks depend on current visibility and cannot be guaranteed.

Lunch is not included

You will have free time in Zakopane to choose from local restaurants and cafés. Food and drinks beyond the included cheese tasting are paid separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Zakopane day tour from Krakow take?

Plan for approximately 10–11 hours, including transportation, sightseeing stops and free time in Zakopane.

Is the Gubałówka funicular ticket included?

Yes. The funicular ticket to the top of Gubałówka is included.

Is cheese tasting included?

Yes. The tour includes a tasting of traditional highlander cheese during the stop at a bacówka.

Do I have free time in Zakopane?

Yes. You will have free time around Krupówki Street for lunch, shopping and exploring the centre of Zakopane.

Where does the tour start?

You can choose from available pickup locations in Krakow. The main departure point is Parking Kiss&Ride, 2 Wielopole Street, next to the Main Post Office.

Is this a hiking tour?

No. This is primarily a sightseeing day trip. The visit to Gubałówka uses the funicular, so no mountain hike is required.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

The current product is listed as not wheelchair accessible. If mobility is a concern, please contact us before booking so we can check the current arrangements.

Cancellation policy

A 100% cancellation fee applies if the booking is cancelled 1 day or less before the tour.