Zakopane & Gubałówka: Cable Car, Cheese Tasting & Thermal Baths

Summary

Highland villages, mountain views, and hot mineral springs

You’ll wander wooden villages near Zakopane with your local guide, taste smoky Oscypek cheese straight from mountain dairies, ride a cable car up Gubałówka for wild Tatra views, then soak away any chill in Chochołów’s mineral-rich thermal baths before heading back to Krakow. It’s an easy mix of culture, food, scenery—and those moments when you realize you’re actually here.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect as we rolled out of Krakow — honestly, I was just happy someone else was driving. The minivan was warm (maybe too warm), and our guide Marek kept tossing out little stories about Podhale traditions. We passed these wooden houses in Chochołów that all looked like they’d been built by the same grandpa. Marek said the locals scrub them down with soapy water twice a year — he called it “spring cleaning but more serious.” I stuck my head out at one stop and caught this sharp pine smell mixed with wood smoke. For some reason it reminded me of childhood winters.

The real surprise for me was the Oscypek tasting near Chochołów. I thought sheep’s cheese would be weirdly sour, but it was smoky and salty and kind of chewy — nothing like supermarket stuff back home. They handed us tiny glasses of fruit liquor too; I tried to say “na zdrowie” but probably butchered it because the old lady pouring just laughed and patted my arm. The drive into Zakopane itself felt like entering a postcard (but not in a cheesy way). Krupowki Street was packed — kids chasing pigeons, vendors selling wool socks, everyone bundled up even though the sun kept peeking through.

The cable car up Gubałówka wasn’t scary at all — more like a slow glide than a thrill ride. At the top, wind whipped around and you could see all the way into Slovakia if you squinted right. We ducked into a café for mulled wine (not included, but worth every zloty) and watched clouds snag on the Tatra peaks. Lunch happened somewhere between hunger and distraction; I barely remember what I ate except that it involved pickles and rye bread.

After all that walking, sinking into the thermal pools at Chochołów felt unreal — almost too good after a chilly morning. The water had this faint mineral smell, not unpleasant, just different from city pools. People floated quietly or chatted in Polish; I mostly drifted and stared at the mountains until my fingers wrinkled up. When we finally piled back into the van for Krakow, everyone was half-asleep or just staring out at the fading light. I still think about that view from Gubałówka sometimes — something about cold air and hot water sticks with you longer than you’d expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zakopane tour with culture and relaxation

• Transfer from Krakow to Zakopane
• Pass through traditional wooden village Chochołów
• Optional visit to Oscypek cheese producer
• Explore Zakopane town and culture
• Ride cable car to Gubałówka Mountain summit
• Enjoy lunch and free time on Krupowki Street
• Relax at Chochołowskie Thermal Pools
• Return transfer to Krakow

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Krakow to Zakopane?

The tour lasts a full day including transfers—about 2 hours each way between Krakow and Zakopane.

Is pickup included for this Zakopane tour?

Yes, round-trip transport with hotel pickup is included in an air-conditioned minivan.

Do we visit Chochołów village on this tour?

Yes, there’s a stop in Chochołów to see traditional wooden houses and learn about local customs.

What is Oscypek cheese tasting?

You’ll try traditional smoked sheep’s cheese made by locals near Chochołów—tasting is included.

Are tickets for Gubałówka cable car included?

Yes, tickets for the funicular rail up Mount Gubałówka are part of your booking.

Can children join this Zakopane day trip?

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

How much free time do we get in Zakopane town?

You’ll have time on Krupowki Street for lunch or exploring independently before heading to the baths.

Are towels provided at Chochołów Thermal Pools?

No—bring your own towel, swimsuit, and flip-flops for the thermal baths section.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in Krakow by minivan with an experienced local guide leading live commentary along the way; stops at Chochołów village with Oscypek cheese and local spirits tasting; entry tickets for the Gubałówka cable car; three hours’ open access to Chochołów Thermal Pools’ indoor/outdoor zones; then drop-off back at your address in Krakow when it’s all done.