Krakow: Zakopane and Thermal Pools Tour with Hotel Pickup

Nowotarski, Krakow



Discover the Tatra Mountains on a day trip from Krakow. Visit the charming wooden village of Chochołów, sample traditional smoked cheese and vodka, and relax in the best and bigger thermal baths.

Zakopane Day Trip with Gubałówka Funicular and Chochołowskie Thermal Baths from Krakow

This full-day tour from Krakow suits travelers interested in mountain scenery, local culture, traditional food, and thermal spa relaxation.

Description

The tour starts around 11am with hotel pickup in Krakow and includes a scenic drive to Zakopane, located in the Tatra Mountains. Enjoy views of rolling hills and countryside along the way.

In Zakopane, stroll along Krupówki Street to explore local crafts and traditional wooden architecture. Experience the lively atmosphere of the town’s main street.

Next, take a funicular ride to the top of Gubałówka Hill for panoramic mountain views and photo opportunities. In the late afternoon, visit a bacówka, a traditional shepherd’s hut, to taste oscypek, smoked cheese from the region, paired with local vodka.

In the evening, relax at Chochołowskie Termy, Poland’s largest thermal baths, where mineral-rich waters provide rest after a day of sightseeing.

The tour concludes with hotel drop-off in Krakow.

Highlights

  • Scenic funicular ride to Gubałówka Hill summit for panoramic views
  • Explore Zakopane’s main street and local shops
  • Relax in Chochołowskie Termy thermal baths in the evening
  • Taste traditional smoked cheese (oscypek) and Polish vodka at a shepherd’s hut
  • Visit Chochołów Village

Includes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Krakow
  • Roundtrip ticket for the Gubałówka funicular
  • Admission to Chochołowskie Thermal Baths
  • Tasting of smoked cheese and Polish vodka
  • Free time to explore Zakopane city
  • Transport by air-conditioned minibus
  • Live tour guide
  • English-speaking driver
  • Guidebook available in 16 languages

Excludes

  • Lunch

Important Information

  • This tour operates in all weather conditions including rain, snow, or sun.
  • Expect increased crowds during peak seasons.
  • The funicular will be closed for maintenance from April 1 to April 4, 2025; a car transfer to the hilltop will replace it during this period.
  • You will receive detailed tour information and pickup time confirmation the day before your trip, around 8pm.
  • The scheduled pickup time is approximate and usually between 8am and 9am.
  • Pickup points may vary due to pedestrian zones and limited parking in Krakow city center.
  • Tours are conducted in English. If you choose another language (Spanish, Italian, French, etc.) you will receive unique printed tour instructions.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Book this tour for morning pickup and bring swimwear and a towel for the thermal baths. Spring and autumn offer quieter visits and comfortable temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes hotel pickup in Krakow, a scenic drive to Zakopane, a visit to Krupówki Street, a ride on the Gubałówka funicular, and access to the Chochołowskie Thermal Baths.
The full-day tour typically starts around 11am and lasts several hours, concluding in the evening with return to your Krakow hotel.
The tour offers hotel pickup from various central locations in Krakow; exact pickup points depend on your hotel's address.
Yes, the Chochołowskie Thermal Baths can be visited independently, but the tour offers convenient transport and entry as part of the package.
Yes, the ticket for the Gubałówka funicular ride is included as part of the Zakopane and Thermal Pools Tour from Krakow.
Yes, bring your own swimsuit and a towel if you plan to use the thermal pools during the tour.
The tour allows time to try local traditional dishes in Zakopane’s restaurants and street vendors along Krupówki Street.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and offers activities and relaxation suitable for children of various ages.
Zakopane is approximately 110 kilometers south of Krakow, about a two-hour drive along mountain roads.
The tour operates year-round, with each season offering different mountain scenery; check the provider’s website for seasonal availability.

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