Krakow to Zakopane: Cable Car, Hot Springs & Cheese Tasting

Summary

From Krakow to Zakopane for mountain views, cheese tasting and hot springs with a local touch

You’ll ride from Krakow into the heart of the Tatra Mountains—tasting smoked Oscypek cheese in a wooden village, gliding up Gubalowka by cable car for wild views, wandering lively Zakopane streets, then soaking away any chill in Chocholow’s thermal springs. It’s a day full of small surprises and warm moments you’ll remember long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

We were barely out of Krakow when the landscape started changing—grey city blocks giving way to rolling fields, then those first hints of mountains. Our driver, Piotr, had this habit of humming along to Polish radio and pointing out things I’d never have noticed (“That’s where they make the best pierogi—no joke!”). By the time we reached Chocholow, I could smell wood smoke drifting from somewhere nearby. The village itself felt like a movie set—timber houses with steep roofs and lace curtains, chickens scratching around. I tried to snap a photo but my fingers were half-frozen (should’ve worn thicker gloves).

The next bit was unexpected: we ducked into a tiny shepherd’s hut for Oscypek cheese and vodka. I’m not usually a fan of smoked cheese but this was different—salty, chewy, almost sweet at the end. Our host poured vodka into these little glasses and grinned as we tried to pronounce “Oscypek” properly. Li laughed when I butchered it; I still think about that moment. Then it was on to Zakopane itself—a jumble of market stalls and people in bright wool hats selling everything from sheepskin slippers to honey. The funicular ride up Gubalowka was quick but my ears popped halfway up; at the top, wind whipped around us and you could see all the way across the Tatras if you squinted through the clouds.

I wandered down Krupówki Street after that—honestly just following my nose toward something frying (potato pancakes maybe?). There’s this energy there: families chatting in rapid Polish, street musicians on accordions, smells of grilled meat everywhere. After lunch (I went for bigos stew), we regrouped for what turned out to be my favorite part—the Chocholow Thermal Baths. If you’ve never sat outside in steaming water while snowflakes melt on your face…well, it’s weirdly perfect. My skin tingled for hours afterward.

The drive back was quieter; most people dozed off or scrolled through their photos. I kept thinking about that first bite of Oscypek and how cold my hands got in Chocholow—small things that stick with you more than any postcard view.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zakopane tour with hot springs visit

• Pickup from Krakow hotel
• Travel to Zakopane (1.5-2 hours)
• Walk and photograph Chocholow village
• Taste Oscypek cheese and Polish vodka
• Ride funicular to Gubalowka viewpoint
• Explore Zakopane streets and lunch free time
• Relax at Chocholow Thermal Baths (2.5 hours)
• Return to Krakow

Top questions

How long is the drive from Krakow to Zakopane?

It usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours each way depending on road conditions.

Is hotel pickup included for this Zakopane tour?

Yes, pickup from your hotel or apartment in Krakow is included.

What food do you taste during this day trip?

You’ll try traditional smoked sheep’s cheese called Oscypek and a shot of Polish vodka at a shepherd’s hut.

How much free time do you get in Zakopane?

You have about 2.5 hours of free time in Zakopane town center.

Are entry tickets for Chocholow Thermal Baths included?

Yes, entry for 2.5 hours at Chocholow Thermal Baths is included in your tour price.

Do I need to bring anything special for the hot springs?

You should bring your own towel if you want one; otherwise there’s a fee to rent at the thermal complex.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No, lunch is not included—you’ll have time to buy food yourself in Zakopane.

Can children join this Krakow to Zakopane tour?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels and offers specialized infant seats if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation from Krakow with hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide throughout the journey, entry tickets for both Gubalowka funicular railway and Chocholow Thermal Baths (with access to pools and slides), a walk through Chocholow wooden village, tasting of smoked Oscypek cheese paired with Polish vodka at a shepherd's hut, plus 2.5 hours free time in central Zakopane before returning home.