Zakopane, Poland - A Travel Guide
Last Updated: March 16, 2026
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Tradition in the Tatra Mountains
There are not enough words to describe the wonderful winter-wonderland town of Zakopane, Poland, hidden in the snow-capped Tatra mountain range close to the Slovakian border.
Zakopane has become a haven for wintersports or those looking to capture the dazzling delights of winter snow and a traditional look at Poland.
With magical wooden buildings, the local language of the mountains and a taste of handed-down recipes, especially its cheeses, Zakopane has culture and history in every snowflake.
I've been lucky enough to visit Zakopane twice and would love to enjoy a third visit very soon.
In this Zakopane travel guide, I'll tell you how to get to Zakopane, when to come, and all the best things to do in Zakopane, Poland and where to find those delicious delights.
Grab your skies, and let's go.
What's Zakopane Like?
Hidden at the bottom of a bowl, surrounded by the Tatra Mountains, Zakopane is a romantic, old and traditional town.
During the summer the vibrant greens rise from the melting snow and the city awakens to a very different vibe.
Snow still caps the imposing mountain tops and the air is still cool and fresh. The smell of melting cheese and fresh bread drifts throughout the streets and the occasional murmur of horses hooves ring out.
The dark, wooden and uniquely shaped buildings emerge from their white winter coats and reveal immense beauty and craftsmanship.
Whilst all different, they all follow the same triangular dark pointy rooftops. Every house seems to have an excess of windows, all at differing levels. From the outside, it looks like each building should have about six floors, but they don't.
Clashing with the dramatic rooftops are large bright green Christmas pine trees, that reach for a hazy layer of mist that forms above the town. On ground level, the people go about their daily lives and the rivers flow through the lush green fields and exquisite town.
Yes, it's captivating, enchanting and gorgeous, but it doesn't compare to the magical feeling of winter in Zakopane.
You can stand aloft the Tatra Mountains and look down on what can only be described as Whoville. Admittedly it is a blanket of white snow, sparkling lights and smoking chimneys. But, it has something special. Do you remember that feeling of excitement as a kid at Christmas?
That's Zakopane in winter.
How to Get to Zakopane, Poland
Knowing how to get to Zakopane means knowing where Zakopane is.
Zakopane lies in the south of Poland, at the foothills of the Tatra Mountains which border Slovakia.
Zakopane is about an hour and a half's drive, 65.5 miles (106km) due south of Krakow.
The nearest International Airport to Zakopane is Krakow's, Krakow J. Paul II Balice Airport.
Therefore, I will start there.
If you're visiting from Krakow Airport, Flixbus runs numerous direct daily services from the airport to Zakopane.
For a more detailed look at when the buses depart the airport, please check directly with Flixbus. Prices range between 45zł to 76zł (£9 to £15), one way.
However, if you're on a day trip from Krakow to Zakopane, or simply travelling from Krakow to Zakopane, things are just as easy.
Again, buses and trains run regularly from Krakow to Zakopane.
Flixbus runs from Krakow MDA bus station and arrives in Zakopane at Zakopane bus station. The journey will take roughly two and a quarter hours and cost about 35zł (£6.90).
The train goes from Krakow's main train station next to the bus station and arrives at Zakopane train station in about two hours and twenty minutes costing around 50zł (£11) one way.
In truth, travelling to and from Zakopane from anywhere else means either a long car or bus journey or anywhere else, often via Krakow.
Timing Your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Visiting Zakopane, Poland?
Zakopane is a little tricky to get to. So you should factor that into your timing.
I love Zakopane but have to concede that it's either a chill and do nothing or go absolutely wild skiing, hiking and biking in the mountains.
If you're in Poland and want to experience Zakopane, which you do, I'd suggest a day trip from Krakow will give you what you are looking for.
However, if you need a few days of relaxing three days in Zakopane will be perfect. Those of you looking to go 'wild' in Zakopane's mountains, give yourself a minimum of five days to ski, hike and bike the trails that crisscross the Tatras.
The Best Time Of The Year For Visiting Zakopane, Poland
For me, there is only one answer. Visit Zakopane in the winter, ideally, around Christmas time.
The snow and sensations of the town are tantalising, and the beauty of the snowy mountains, trees, rooftops and fields takes you to a happy place.
The ski season is best around Christmas and the beginning of the year, and the town becomes a winter sports haven. So it's advisable to book your accommodation in Zakopane early.
During the summer months, it will be brighter, but that also comes with added rain.
Stick to the winter.
Where to Stay Whilst Backpacking Zakopane
As mentioned, sadly, I have only travelled to Zakopane on day trips from Krakow. Hence, I don't have any personal recommendations.
However, I can tell you the best area to stay in Zakopane.
If I were going to find accommodation in Zakopane for my next visit, I would book somewhere on or near Krupówki (the main street with bars, restaurants and shops). Krupówki is central to most things you'll want to do or see in Zakopane.
Plus, it's only a fifteen-minute walk from the train station, and with your bags, that's plenty far enough.
Yet, this does come with a caveat. I don't ski. If you are in Zakopane purely to ski, you should aim to stay nearer the ski lifts and slopes, of which, there are plenty to choose from.
I have added three trusty links below should you wish to find your perfect accommodation in Zakopane, Poland.
What to do in Zakopane
If you're staying in Zakopane, Poland for sports, you will find plenty to do.
There are numerous mountain bike trails, ski runs, hikes and even a toboggan slide (I guess you'd call it).
However, if you're not here for the sporting activities you will not find many activities to squeeze into a Zakopane travel itinerary.
Most things to do in Zakopane include walking and taking in the views. Yet, that brings out a new experience; namely cable cars and funicular railways.
With that said, let's put together your list of what to do in Zakopane.
Get a Picture Jumping on the Zakopane Sign
- Why: You always like to know where you've been.
- Where: Down the road from the train station in Dolna Rówień Krupowa Park and Gardens. (map)
- How long: thirty minutes should be sufficient.
- How much: As you'd expect - it's one of Zakopane's free attractions.
As you'd expect, it's a large wooden sign (inkeeping with the town) spelling out Zakopane.
Jump on the letters, smile and grab your shot with those picturesque dark and looming mountains in the background.
The park and gardens are a lovely place to explore and relax (weather-dependent), and I'm told they hold festivals, gigs and open-air markets too.
Ride the Cable Cars
- Why: Stunning views, nature and hikes into the Tatra Mountains.
- Where: In Kuźnice, about ten minutes drive (one hour walk) from Zakopane Train Station. (map)
- How long: The cable cars will take roughly ten minutes, but how long you want in the mountains is up to you.
- How much: Ok, it's not cheap. However, I'd advise you to book online. In high season a return ticket is 139zł (£27.50) per person.
Firstly, shuttle buses run from the train station to the cable cars. They're cheap as chips and a massive time saver.
Once in the cable cars, you will be transported to Narnia. As you float up and over the mountains, you might be lucky and see a range of wild animals, including herds of deer beneath you roaming free.
Once out and at the top you can stretch those legs and wander the beautiful mountains, lapping up the views of the charming Tatra Mountains. If you have bought a return ticket, you only get 1 hour 40 minutes at the top.
If you've bought a one-way ticket or decide to walk up and cable car down, you can take as long as you like. Furthermore, there are hiking trails at the top (yellow and red), so if that's your thing, take your walking books and take to the trails. However, expect long queues to get back down.
If hiking and the cable cars aren't your thing there are ski lifts and ski slopes in the area too. However, I can't tell you much about them as I don't ski.
Your best bet is to check out the website. For more details on the cable cars and the skiing please check out their website. It now appears the return ticket price allows entry into the Tatra National Park (same-day entrance).Â
Take the Funicular to Gubalowka
- Why: More stunning views of Zakopane and home to numerous sporting and fun-filled venues.
- Where: Next to the farmers market on Powstańców Śląskich. (map)
- How long: The cable cars will take less than ten minutes. Again, how long you spend at the top is up to you.
- How much: This is much more like it. Again, book online, but not essential. A return ticket costs 35zł (£6.90) per person.
The funicular railway up to the peak of the stupendous Gubałówka is another 'best thing to do in Zakopane'.
The cable car whisks you to the top, and upon arrival, you are met with restaurants, and stalls serving warming drinks, cold drinks and food along the ridge.
The panoramic views over Zakopane and beyond are sensational. You truly get an understanding of how wonderful nature is.
However, if you really want to take your breath away, there are plenty of opportunities for skiing, hiring snowmobiles, mountain biking and a corkscrew free-flowing toboggan.
Likewise, there are activities for the kids, including adventure parks, trampolines and funfair rides.
If you don't fancy the cable car, you can walk up. I've not, but it looks like a beautiful climb. Although, it's not for everyone as it looks very steep.
Haggle for Gifts at the Markets
- Why: You'll find great food, a few drinks and epic gifts for people back home or your shit self.
- Where: Dotted across Zakopane, but my favourite is on Powstańców Śląskich next to the Gubalowka Funicular. (map)
- How long: An hour should be enough from your Zakopane itinerary.Â
- How much: As you'd expect, it's free to wander, but how much you spend depends on what you buy and your haggling skills.
Everywhere you go in Zakopane, markets sell everything from warm weather gear to little trinkets to amazing local foods.
Some of my favourite markets are at the top of Gubalowka, meaning a hike up the hill or a ride on that funicular train.
However, the pièce de résistance in Zakopane for markets has to be either the farmers market (Targowisko pod GubałówkÄ…) on PowstaÅ„ców ÅšlÄ…skich or the magical cluster of stalls on the pedestrianised Krupówki Street.Â
This street dives straight through the heart of the town, with wonderful buildings, shops, market stalls, bars and restaurants. It’s a delight.
The market stalls here are fantastic and sell much of the same merchandise as those on Gubalowka. All I can suggest is try the local cheese, the famous Oscypek.
Where to Eat When Backpacking Zakopane
Along with the traditional Polish foods we all know and love, Zakopane is famed for its local speciality dishes, making it one of Poland's most customary food towns.
A few dishes to look out for are the Oscypek cheese, Kołacze bread and the delightful open mushroom and cheese sandwich, Zapiekanka.
Most of these famous dishes can be found at the farmers market at Targowisko pod Gubałówką, which I highly recommend you check out.
If you see any of the three hand-held delights at the market, try them. You will also be able to buy lots of hand make and local items as well as tourist tat for your shit shelf.
Get haggling.
Outside of the fabulous street markets in Zakopane, I have one restaurant I will recommend, but sadly, enjoyed it so much, I forgot to take pictures.
I'm sure you will find more if you stay overnight, so please let me know in the comments at the bottom of this Zakopane guide. Thanks!
Bakowo Zohylina Niznio
- What:Â Yet another very pretty traditional wooden restaurant/bar.
- Where: Just off Krupowki Street near the Be Happy Museum. (map)
- How much: Mian meals generally range from 35zł to 60zł (£6.91 to £11.85). (menu)
Imagine a carpenter's nightly dream and turn it into a restaurant.
The walls, the tables, the chairs, the ceiling and even some of the plates are wooden.
Traditional cloth adds a touch of colour and brightness, as it drapes like a tapestry from the walls, whilst animal wool lines the otherwise hardened wooden benches.
Dangling from the ceilings are pots, pans and other random metal kitchen and farming tools. Likewise, bails of straw and antlers alongside stuffed animals look down over the restaurant.
It's like a carpenter started haunting and hoarding at the same time, but still had a touch of style of class.
The restaurant smells of warming foods, which are fantastic by the way. I cannot remember the name of the dish I had. It was a lump of wonderful goat meat surrounded by potatoes and vegetables. Banging. Sadly, I didn't have a dessert, but they looked delicious.
Likewise, the waitresses were amazing and, whilst they didn’t speak much English, they were super-friendly.
All this followed by a few beers around a central fire was perfect on a cold March afternoon.
Everything is about tradition here, and that's what you want when you travel to Zakopane.
Where to Drink and Party when Backpacking Zakopane
Having not stayed overnight in Zakopane, I cannot talk about its nightlife.
However, from my visits, there appeared to be a lot of bars and pubs, especially on Krupówki Street. Furthermore, several clubs open into the early hours daily, while some open as late as 4am on Saturdays and Sundays.
Nevertheless, the two bars I've enjoyed the most in Zakopane are not open that late, and they are...
Gospoda Kolibecka
- What:Â Unreal, have-to-be-seen-to-be-believed tiny traditional wooden pub.
- Where:Â On a roundabout by the COS Athletics Stadium. (map)
This has to be my favourite bar in Poland.
Like many of the buildings in town, it was completely traditional, wooden and beautifully finished. The sheer effort and craftsmanship are sublime.
From the outside, it looks like a miniature make-believe fairytale. Nonetheless, the inside is full of energy and happiness but with a relaxed and chilled ambience.
Even the waitress dressed in traditional clothing and she made our visit the best it could be. She helped with the log fire, which was warm and cosy on a very bitter snowy November day. Likewise, she kept the beers coming and everything was done with a big glowing smile.
It was one of the highlights of Zakopane for me.
Truthfully, I couldn’t decide what impressed me most: the staff, the intricacy and design of the interior and the exterior or the drinks on offer.
I highly recommend you pop in, even the food looked great.
Bakowo Zohylina Niznio
- What:Â Yet another very pretty traditional wooden restaurant/bar.
- Where: Just off Krupowki Street near the Be Happy Museum. (map)
I'm adding Bąkowo Zohylina Niźnio for the second time in the travel guide to Zakopane.
Why?
The food was insanely good, but I thoroughly enjoyed a few after-dinner drinks, relaxing around the warm open log fire, laughing away and taking in the surroundings.
I'd imagine if you'd been hiking in the Tatra Mountains, this would be the perfect place to warm up after.
Is Visiting Zakopane, Poland Safe?
No matter if you're travelling in a group or alone, Zakopane is safe to visit.
Likewise, walking alone at night is also safe in Zakopane, as the old town is well-lit and often busy with tourists and amazingly friendly locals.
That said, wherever there are tourists, petit crime does happen. Despite the low crime rate, pickpocketing is possible. However, even that is unlikely in Zakopane.
In truth, the biggest risk to your safety in Zakopane is either, the beer or falling ass over tit in the snow. I should imagine that if you are drinking, falling over becomes a much higher risk. Please send all the falling-over videos to my Instagram. Thank you.
Likewise, as with any mountains covered in snow, wintersports enthusiasts gather.
Firstly, if you are partaking in skiing, snowboarding, or walking around said skiers and snowboarders, this is about as risky as it gets in Zakopane, Poland.
Remember, tell your insurance company if you are hoping to ski or snowboard. If you don't and get injured, you might find a hefty bill coming your way.
Leave a Comment
Thank you for checking out my Zakopane travel guide.
Whether you visit Zakopane, Poland on a day trip from Krakow, or stay in the town, I hope you have as much fun and laughter amid the Tatras Mountains as I did.
The fluffy snow-covered mountains are truly spectacular and the views from the top are unrivalled in Poland.
If you are visiting Zakopane, Poland you can expect plenty of tradition. The food is insanely tasty and the old wooden buildings are a historic marvel.
Please let me know what you think of my Zakopane guide. Has it been helpful, did you use it to help plan your Zakopane itinerary?
Let me know in the comments below.
Enjoy this winter wonderland.
If you're exploring the best things to do in Zakopane, Poland, you may be interested in these nearby places...
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