Krakow to Zakopane: Cable Car, Krupowki & Thermal Baths Day Trip

Summary

Polish mountain day trip with cable car ride and thermal soak

You’ll wander lively Krupowki street in Zakopane, sample smoky Oscypek cheese, ride a cable car up Gubalowka for mountain views, and soak in Chocholow’s steaming thermal baths—all with hotel pickup included. It’s a day full of small surprises and local warmth that stays with you long after you’re back in Krakow.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember how suddenly everything changed when we left Krakow behind—the city noise faded, replaced by this slow, green rhythm of the Tatra foothills. Our driver Marek had that dry Polish humor (he called the traffic “urban skiing”), and before I knew it, we were winding up into Zakopane. The air smelled like pine and woodsmoke, but also something sweet—maybe those stalls selling Oscypek? I’d never tried smoked cheese before. It’s chewy, salty, kind of addictive. Li laughed when I tried to say it in Polish—I probably butchered it.

Krupowki street was a blur of color and chatter—kids with ice cream, old ladies selling woolen socks, everyone bundled up even though the sun peeked out now and then. Our guide pointed out the wooden houses with their steep roofs; apparently they’re built for heavy snow (which makes sense if you see the mountains looming behind town). We took the cable car up Gubalowka. Not gonna lie: my stomach did a flip at first, but then you get this view—just layers of green valleys and jagged peaks. I didn’t expect to feel so small or so awake at the same time.

Later in Chocholow village, you could smell the mineral water before you saw the steam rising from the thermal baths. The pools were warm enough that I forgot about my sore feet from walking all afternoon. There were families splashing around and a few older folks just floating quietly with their eyes closed. Someone told me the water comes from way underground—like 3,600 meters deep—which sounds wild but maybe that’s why my skin felt different after? We stayed until dusk crept in over the hills. On the drive back to Krakow I caught myself thinking about how easy it is to forget what fresh air feels like until you’re right there breathing it in.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zakopane visit and thermal baths

• Travel from Krakow to Zakopane
• Use cable car to Gubalowka mountain
• Free time on Krupowki street
• Spend three hours at Chocholow thermal baths

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Krakow to Zakopane?

The experience covers an afternoon and evening, including travel time between Krakow, Zakopane, and Chocholow thermal baths.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Krakow are included.

What food is included on this Zakopane day trip?

You’ll get a free sample of traditional Oscypek cottage cheese during your visit.

Do I need to bring swimwear for Chocholow thermal baths?

Yes, bring your own swimwear for using the pools at Chocholow thermal baths.

Are tickets for Gubalowka cable car included?

Yes, your ticket for the Gubalowka mountain cable car is included in the tour price.

How much time do we spend at Chocholow thermal baths?

You’ll have around three hours to enjoy the pools at Chocholow thermal baths.

Is this trip suitable for families or kids?

The tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels; infant seats are available if needed.

Will there be free time on Krupowki street?

Yes, you’ll have some free time to explore Krupowki street on your own during the visit to Zakopane.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off at your Krakow accommodation, entry tickets for both Gubalowka cable car and Chocholow’s indoor/outdoor mineral pools, a professional English-speaking driver throughout, plus a small gift—a taste of traditional Oscypek cottage cheese—and bottled water along the way before heading back in comfort.