Zakopane Tour with Krupówki, Gubałówka Funicular & Thermal Pools

⏱ 12 hours ◎ Moderate From 345 PLN

Step into the heart of the Polish Tatra Mountains and discover an unforgettable Zakopane experience that blends nature, tradition, and relaxation.

Your journey begins in Zakopane, where rich highlander culture meets breathtaking alpine scenery. Ride the iconic Gubałówka Funicular, gliding smoothly up the mountainside as sweeping views of Zakopane and the majestic Tatra peaks unfold beneath you. At the top, breathe in the crisp mountain air and enjoy panoramic vistas that feel straight out of a postcard.

Next, immerse yourself in local tradition with a cheese tasting featuring the famous oscypek  a smoked sheep’s milk cheese handcrafted by local highlanders using centuries-old methods. Learn about the stories and customs behind this regional delicacy as you savor its unique, savory flavor, often paired with a hint of sweet cranberry jam.

Finally, unwind in the soothing warmth of thermal pools, where naturally heated mineral waters provide the perfect way to relax after a day of exploration. Surrounded by mountain landscapes, these pools offer a deeply rejuvenating experience easing tired muscles, calming the mind, and allowing you to fully embrace the peaceful rhythm of the Tatras.

This experience is the perfect combination of scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and pure relaxation a must for anyone wanting to feel the true spirit of Zakopane.

1

Pick up from Krakow

We will pick you up from the place in Krakow that you choose when making your reservation. Wait for him at the pickup place, or your hotel (if option is choose).

2

Transfer to Zakopane

The arrival time to Zakopane depends on road and weather conditions, but the transfer usually takes approximately 2 hours. Sit back and immerse the typical Polish landscapres, that gradually change from the plains to the more mountainous ones until thepicturesque Tatra Mountains appear on the horizon.

3

Bacówka and local cheese testing

Shortly after arrival, after approximately 1.5 hours of travel, we will reach a traditional mountain shepherd’s hut (bacówka). There, participants will learn about the traditional methods of making oscypek cheese and will have the opportunity to taste it. During the tasting, a small surprise will also be waiting for them as part of the refreshment.

4

Gubalowka Funicular and Heart of Zakopane

Next, we will travel for approximately 15 minutes to reach the funicular to Gubałówka (1,123 m a.s.l.). After the ride, participants will have some free time to explore and enjoy the heart of Zakopane.

5

Thermal Pools time

Afterwards, we will head to the Chochołowskie Thermal Baths, one of the most beautiful thermal complexes in the region, where participants will have time to relax and unwind in the warm thermal pools.

6

Transfer to Krakow

After baths it is time to go back to Krakow. So relax on the ride back afternoon, where the tour concludes with drop off back at your original departure point.

✅ What's included

  • Hotel pick up & drop off
  • Transfers (Krakow-Zakopane-Krakow)
  • English/Spanish speaking tour leader
  • Spare time on Krupówki (historical center of Zakopane)
  • Ticket for the cable car to Gubalowka
  • 2.5-3 hours ticket for Thermal Pools (Termy Chochołowskie)
  • Visit in the oldest traditional mountain hut. Highlander cheese & regional alcochol tasting.

❌ Exclusions

  • Dinner
  • The temperature in the mountains may be different than that in Krakow, take some warmer clothes just in case.
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not stroller accessible

About This Trip

Zakopane Tour with Krupówki, Gubałówka Funicular & Thermal Pools

The Complete Tatra Mountains Experience in One Day

Some days try to do too much. This one gets the balance exactly right – mountain views, local culture, free time in town, and a thermal pool finale that turns a full day of exploring into something genuinely restorative. With pickup from Krakow included, this 12-hour tour takes you through the very best of what Zakopane has to offer.

Sweeping Views from the Gubałówka Funicular

The day begins with a smooth ride up the Gubałówka funicular, one of the most iconic experiences in Zakopane. As you ride above the town, the Tatra peaks unfold in front of you in a panorama that genuinely lives up to the photos. At the top, the air is crisp, the views are wide, and the pace finally starts to slow down.

Free Time on Krupówki

You will have time to wander Krupówki, Zakopane’s historical heart, where shops, cafés, and street food stalls capture the spirit of highland life. Spend the time however suits you – shopping for local crafts, trying regional snacks, or simply taking in the mountain town atmosphere.

Taste the Highlands, Then Soak Them In

At one of the oldest traditional mountain huts in the region, you will taste oscypek – the celebrated smoked sheep’s milk cheese, paired with cranberry jam and a sample of regional alcohol. From here comes the highlight many guests remember most: 4 to 5 hours at Termy Chochołowskie, where naturally heated mineral pools set against a mountain backdrop offer the perfect way to ease tired muscles and unwind after a day of exploring.

What’s Included

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off, with transfers between Krakow and Zakopane
  • An English/Spanish speaking tour leader
  • Gubałówka funicular ticket, entrance to the thermal pools, and the oscypek cheese tasting experience

Good to Know Before You Go

  • Bring a towel, swimsuit, and flip-flops for the pools.
  • Mountain temperatures can differ from Krakow, so pack a warm layer.
  • Dinner is not included.
  • The tour is not suitable for wheelchair or stroller users.
  • Infants are welcome but must sit on a lap – infant seats are available on request.
  • Cancellations within 24 hours of departure are non-refundable.

Book Your Zakopane Tour from Krakow Today

This is one of our most popular full-day tours – spaces are limited. Reserve your place now – booking closes 1 hour before departure.