Zakopane, nestled at the foot of the Tatra Mountains in southern Poland, is a town famed for its picturesque landscapes, unique wooden architecture, and as a hub for winter sports and mountain adventures. For those pondering things to do in Zakopane, taking a cable car ride up to Kasprowy Wierch for breathtaking mountain views and exploring Krupówki Street, the town’s vibrant main promenade filled with shops and restaurants, are must-do activities.
The town’s distinctive wooden villas, built in the Zakopane style, are a testament to its rich cultural heritage. The Tatra Museum in Zakopane offers insights into the region’s history and culture, including the highland folklore and traditions.
Beyond its urban charm, Zakopane serves as a gateway to the Tatra National Park, offering a range of outdoor activities from hiking in the summer to skiing in the winter. For those exploring the best places to visit in Poland, Zakopane’s blend of natural beauty, cultural uniqueness, and outdoor pursuits makes it a captivating destination for all seasons.
Attractions & Things to Do in Zakopane, Poland
1. Gubałówka Hill
Gubałówka Hill offers spectacular views of the Tatra Mountains and Zakopane. You can reach the summit by funicular railway. The top has shops, restaurants, and even a small ski slope.
Location: Zakopane, Poland. Accessible via funicular railway from Zakopane.
Scenic Spot: Spectacular views of the Tatra Mountains and Zakopane. The summit features restaurants, souvenir shops, and a small ski slope.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and clearer mountain views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but strollers and wheelchairs may have difficulty on some paths.
Price: €6-€8 for a round-trip funicular ticket.
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and a more serene experience.
2. Krupówki Street
Krupówki Street is the main pedestrian thoroughfare in Zakopane, bustling with street vendors, restaurants, and shops selling local crafts and products. It’s a great place to experience the vibrant culture of the region.
Location: Zakopane city center, Poland.
Scenic Spot: A lively pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, street performers, and highlander (Goral) culture.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the best atmosphere, as restaurants and street performers are more active.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but it can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Price: Free to visit, shopping costs vary.
Travel Tip: Try some local Highland cheese, Oscypek, available from street vendors, and enjoy people-watching at a café.
3. Tatra National Park
Tatra National Park is a haven for nature lovers, offering a range of hiking trails that range from easy to challenging. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, stunning mountain lakes, and peaks like Rysy.
Location: Extends across the Tatra Mountains, near Zakopane.
Scenic Spot: Stunning landscapes, mountain trails, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for hiking (June-September), winter for snow-covered landscapes and skiing.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but some trails are challenging for young children or elderly visitors.
Price: €2 per person for park entry.
Travel Tip: Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out and always be prepared with appropriate gear.
4. Wielka Krokiew Ski Jump
Wielka Krokiew is a famous ski jump where international competitions are often held. Visitors can climb to the top of the jump tower for a panoramic view of the surroundings.
Location: Zakopane, Poland. Easily accessible from the town center.
Scenic Spot: Poland’s most famous ski jump, offering panoramic views from the top.
Best Time to Visit: Winter for ski jumping competitions, summer for sightseeing.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the climb to the top of the ski jump may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
Price: €3-€5 for entry to the jump tower.
Travel Tip: If you visit during a ski jumping competition, it’s an exciting opportunity to witness the sport live.
5. Zakopane Style Architecture
Zakopane is renowned for its unique architectural style, which blends Art Nouveau with local mountain traditions. Notable buildings include the Jaszczurówka Chapel and Villa Koliba.
Location: Various sites in Zakopane, including Villa Koliba and Jaszczurówka Chapel.
Scenic Spot: Traditional wooden buildings showcasing Zakopane’s unique highlander-style architecture.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though winter enhances the charm of these wooden structures.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes.
Price: Free to explore exteriors; €4-€6 for museum entry.
Travel Tip: Visit the Tatra Museum’s branch in Villa Koliba to learn more about this architectural style.
6. Morskie Oko Lake
Morskie Oko, the largest lake in the Tatra Mountains, is a stunning destination with crystal-clear waters surrounded by mountain peaks. The hike to the lake is scenic and relatively easy.
Location: Tatra National Park, around 25 km from Zakopane. Accessible by car or shuttle bus, followed by a scenic hike.
Scenic Spot: A breathtaking glacial lake surrounded by towering mountains.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds; autumn for vibrant foliage.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the 8 km (5-mile) hike may be challenging for young children or elderly visitors.
Price: €2 for park entry; horse-drawn carriage rides cost €10-€15 one way.
Travel Tip: The trail can be busy; an early start is recommended to enjoy the tranquility of the lake.
7. Thermal Baths
The Zakopane area offers several thermal bath complexes, like Terma Bania and Aqua Park Zakopane, where you can relax in warm mineral-rich waters with views of the mountains.
Location: Zakopane, Poland. Several thermal spas located within and near the town.
Scenic Spot: Warm, mineral-rich pools with stunning mountain views.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for a relaxing soak after a day of exploring.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with separate areas for children and adults.
Price: €15-€25 for a day pass, depending on the facility.
Travel Tip: Choose a weekday or off-peak hours to visit the baths for a more peaceful experience.
8. Kasprowy Wierch
Accessible by cable car, Kasprowy Wierch is a popular mountain peak offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. In winter, it’s a favored ski area.
Location: Tatra Mountains, accessible via cable car from Kuznice, near Zakopane.
Scenic Spot: Breathtaking views of Poland’s highest peaks; popular for skiing in winter and hiking in summer.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for hiking; winter for skiing and snowboarding.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but altitude may be uncomfortable for very young children or those sensitive to elevation.
Price: €25-€30 for a round-trip cable car ticket.
Travel Tip: Even in summer, the temperature at the top can be quite cool, so bring appropriate clothing.
9. Traditional Highlander Music and Dance
Zakopane’s cultural identity is closely tied to its Highlander music and dance.
Location: Various restaurants and taverns (karczmas) in Zakopane, such as Karczma u Wnuka or Gazdówka.
Scenic Spot: Live performances of traditional Polish highlander (Goral) music and folk dance.
Best Time to Visit: Evening, especially on weekends when performances are more frequent.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though young children might not be engaged for long.
Price: Free at some venues, but dining costs around €10-€20 per meal.
Travel Tip: Visit one of the local taverns, or “karczma,” in the evening to enjoy traditional Goral music and dance performances.
10. Chochołowska Valley
The Chochołowska Valley, the largest valley in the Tatra Mountains, is particularly beautiful in spring when crocuses bloom. It’s great for both hiking and cycling.
Location: Tatra National Park, about 10 km from Zakopane.
Scenic Spot: One of the most beautiful valleys in the Tatras, famous for springtime crocus flowers and scenic hiking trails.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-April) for crocus blooms; summer for hiking.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with easy trails ideal for families and casual hikers.
Price: €2 for park entry; bike rentals cost €5-€10.
Travel Tip: Rent a bike to explore deeper into the valley, where you can enjoy the serene beauty and maybe spot some local wildlife.
Plan Your Perfect Trip with Our Trusted Travel Partners
🚗 Find the Best Car Rental Deals with Rentalcars.com and GetRentacar.com
🏨 Discover the Best Accommodations with Booking.com
🌟 Discover Amazing Experiences with GetYourGuide.com and Tiqets.com
📶 Stay Connected with Airalo.com
Zakopane, Poland: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Zakopane: 8/10 – Zakopane is very family-friendly, offering attractions such as the Gubałówka Hill funicular, which provides panoramic views, and the Aqua Park Zakopane with its pools and slides. The Tatra Mountains offer numerous hiking trails suitable for families, and there are various playgrounds and recreational areas in the town. During winter, children can enjoy sledding, snow tubing, and beginner ski slopes.
Nightlife in Zakopane: 6/10 – Zakopane’s nightlife is relatively quiet compared to larger cities, but it still offers a range of options including cozy pubs, traditional highlander taverns (karczmas), and a few nightclubs. The atmosphere is more relaxed and focused on enjoying local music and culture.
Sport in Zakopane: 9/10 – Zakopane is a top destination for sports enthusiasts, particularly for winter sports. The town is known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding facilities, including the Kasprowy Wierch and Nosal ski areas. In summer, the Tatra Mountains provide extensive hiking and mountain biking trails. Additionally, there are opportunities for paragliding, rock climbing, and cross-country skiing.
Culture and Attractions in Zakopane: 8/10 – Zakopane is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including the Tatra Museum, which showcases local history and culture, and the unique wooden architecture of the region, exemplified by the Willa Koliba. The town hosts numerous cultural events and festivals, such as the Highlander Carnival and the International Festival of Highland Folklore.
Gastronomy in Zakopane: 8/10 – Zakopane’s culinary scene is centered around traditional Polish highlander cuisine, with local specialties such as oscypek (smoked sheep cheese), kwaśnica (sour cabbage soup), and hearty meat dishes. The town offers a variety of restaurants, from rustic highlander inns to more modern dining establishments, as well as numerous cafes and street food vendors.
Shopping in Zakopane: 7/10 – Zakopane offers good shopping opportunities, particularly for local crafts and souvenirs. The town’s main street, Krupówki, is lined with shops selling handmade highlander goods, including woolen clothing, leather products, and wooden carvings. There are also a few modern shopping centers and markets.
Prices in Zakopane: 7/10 – Zakopane is moderately priced, with reasonable costs for accommodation, dining, and activities. While prices can be higher during peak tourist seasons, especially in winter, the town remains an affordable destination compared to many Western European ski resorts.
Average price for a hotel night: 80 €
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 10 €
Price of a beer: 2.50 €
Price of a coffee: 2 €
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Zakopane, Poland
For those looking to explore beyond the mountainous horizon, top day trips near Zakopane offer a chance to immerse in the rich culture and natural beauty of the Tatra region. The serene beauty of Morskie Oko and the historic wooden village of Chochołów are easily accessible, providing a memorable escape into Poland’s highland heritage.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Zakopane accommodations range from cozy, wood-carved guesthouses to luxurious mountain resorts, ensuring every traveler finds a comfortable base to experience this picturesque winter wonderland.
FAQ About Things to Do in Zakopane, Poland
What are the top attractions in Zakopane?
Top attractions in Zakopane include the Gubałówka Hill, Krupówki Street, Wielka Krokiew Ski Jump, Tatra National Park, and the Zakopane Style Museum.
Is there a cable car in Zakopane?
Yes, the Kasprowy Wierch cable car offers stunning views of the Tatra Mountains and is a popular way to access hiking trails and ski slopes.
Can I experience traditional Polish culture in Zakopane?
Absolutely! You can experience traditional culture by visiting the Zakopane Style Museum, enjoying local Highlanders’ (Górals’) music and cuisine, and exploring the regional architecture.
What outdoor activities are available in Zakopane?
Zakopane offers various outdoor activities like hiking in the Tatra National Park, skiing in winter at nearby resorts, and relaxing in thermal baths such as those at Chochołowskie Termy.
Are there any natural wonders to see near Zakopane?
Yes, the Tatra Mountains are filled with natural wonders, including the Morskie Oko lake, the Kasprowy Wierch peak, and the Dolina Pięciu Stawów Polskich (Valley of Five Polish Lakes).
What local foods should I try in Zakopane?
In Zakopane, you should try local specialties like Oscypek (smoked cheese), kwaśnica (sauerkraut soup), and placki po góralsku (potato pancakes with goulash).
Can I find handcrafted souvenirs in Zakopane?
Yes, the Krupówki Street market and local shops offer a variety of handcrafted souvenirs, including wooden carvings, woolen goods, and traditional Highlanders’ clothing.
Is Zakopane suitable for family vacations?
Zakopane is very family-friendly, offering activities like funicular rides on Gubałówka Hill, visiting the Tatra Museum, and enjoying outdoor adventures suitable for all ages.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zakopane
https://www.getyourguide.com/zakopane-l1554/
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended, at no extra cost to you.
