Things To Do
in Zakopane
Zakopane sits at the foot of the Tatra Mountains in southern Poland, known as the country’s mountain capital and a year-round outdoor haven. The town blends rugged alpine scenery with distinctive Goral culture, wooden architecture, and lively folk traditions. In winter it becomes a skier’s paradise, while in summer the surrounding valleys offer dramatic trails and crystal-clear lakes.
From the bustling Krupówki street to tranquil forest paths, Zakopane is a gateway to Poland’s most iconic highland scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Zakopane's historic center, soaking in the unique wooden architecture that reflects the area's highlander culture. Visit the bustling Krupówki Street, where you can enjoy a traditional Polish breakfast at a local café. Don't miss the chance to grab some handmade cheese from the local vendors, a staple of the region.
After breakfast, explore the Tatra Museum to learn about the natural history and culture of the Tatra Mountains and the highlanders. Take your time to admire the exhibits and perhaps pick up a souvenir at the museum shop. As the afternoon sun shines, relax in one of the nearby parks, enjoying the fresh mountain air and beautiful scenery.
As the sun sets, choose one of Zakopane's cozy restaurants for dinner, where you can savor local dishes such as oscypek or kwaśnica. After your meal, consider visiting a traditional highlander music show to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy live folk performances. End your evening with a peaceful walk through the illuminated streets, taking in the warmth of the mountain town.
Start your day with a ride on the funicular railway to Gubałówka Hill, where breathtaking views of the Tatra Mountains await you. Upon reaching the top, take a moment to enjoy the panoramic scenery and snap some memorable photos. You can also explore the small market stalls at the summit that offer local crafts and food.
Spend your afternoon hiking along the scenic trails of Gubałówka, which are suitable for all levels of hikers. Enjoy the fresh mountain air as you take in the beautiful vistas and lush greenery that surrounds you. After your hike, visit a nearby café for a refreshing drink and some local pastries.
As dusk approaches, return to Zakopane and indulge in dinner at a restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine. Try some hearty dishes that will warm you up after a day in the mountains, such as pierogi or bigos. Cap off your evening by enjoying a leisurely walk along Krupówki Street, where you can find various shops and street performers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🎟️Museum/Attraction Ticket | $5-15 |
| 🚌Local transit day pass | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain scenery and year-round outdoor options
- Distinctive highland culture and architecture
- Walkable town center with easy access to trails and viewpoints
- Friendly locals and vibrant local cuisine
- Crowds can be heavy in peak seasons
- Prices can be higher than other Polish towns in peak periods
- Weather can change quickly in the mountains, requiring proper gear
- "Dzień dobry" - Good morning / Hello
- "Proszę" - Please / You're welcome
- "Dziękuję" - Thank you
- "Ile to kosztuje?" - How much does this cost?
- "Gdzie jest toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Czy mówi Pan/Pani po angielsku?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Zakopane
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning light over wooden townhouses and the Tatras provides warm, soft tones and fewer crowds.
Panoramic hilltop views of Zakopane and the surrounding peaks, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
A limestone valley with dramatic rock formations and forested slopes; excellent for wide-angle landscape shots.
Iconic glacial lake framed by towering peaks; best captured early in the day to avoid crowds.
A high vantage point for sweeping alpine panoramas, especially when clouds drift through the peaks.
Food in Zakopane
Zakopane Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Smoked sheep milk cheese often served grilled with cranberry or thick bread; a staple you’ll find at stalls on Krupówki and in village markets.
Must-Try!
Salty sheep-cheese spread, frequently served on bread or as part of dumplings and pierogi plates.
Sour cabbage soup with meat, a warming winter staple that pairs well with rye bread.
Potato flatbreads fried until crisp, often enjoyed with cheese, butter, or sour cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main pedestrian promenade with stalls selling oscypek, regional honey, crafts, and quick bites.
Several stalls along Krupówki and near the market square offering warm oscypek samples and bryndza.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polish greetings: Dzień dobry (good day); a smile and a nod are polite in most settings.
Dress modestly in churches; ask before photographing people or performances; remove hats indoors as a sign of respect when appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Zakopane
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary if service is not included; rounding up taxi fares is common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Meltwater streams begin to flow, trails dry gradually; carry layers for chilly mornings and sudden showers.
Long days, vibrant trails, and warm, intermittent rain; pack sun protection and a light rain layer.
Colorful larch and beech forests; cooler temperatures and shorter days; perfect for photography and gentle hikes.
Snow-laden landscapes with excellent skiing and snowshoeing; daylight is shorter and avalanche awareness is advised.
Zakopane at Night
Hiking in Zakopane
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic limestone valley with rocky outcrops and forest paths; suitable for a half-day hike.
Gentle valley walk with views of the Strążyska waterfall and a backdrop of Tatras.
Classic lake hike with varying elevations and dramatic mountain scenery; popular and well-marked.
High-altitude ascent with cable car access and alpine viewpoints; good for panoramas and late-season skiing.
Airports
How to reach Zakopane by plane.
Major international hub serving Kraków; roughly 2.5–3 hours by road to Zakopane.
Closest regional airport in Slovakia; about 1.5–2.5 hours by road to Zakopane area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A traditional community with distinct music, dress, and hospitality; their culture remains evident in music and cuisine.
Domestic and international visitors flock to Zakopane for nature, hiking, and winter sports year-round.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Kasprowy Wierch, Nosal, and Harenda offer varied runs for all levels.
Tatras provide year-round trail options, from easy valleys to challenging ascents.
Take-off spots over the Tatras for dramatic aerial photos and views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zakopane.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian soups, pierogi with potato and cheese, mushroom dishes, and salads; ask for bryndza or mushroom fillings and avoid meat broths when needed.