Zakopane, a town at the foot of the Tatra Mountains, is a true paradise for mountain lovers, hikers, and winter sports enthusiasts. But it’s not just about skiing – Zakopane has much more to offer. If you’re planning a trip, here are 10 specific tips for activities and places you shouldn’t miss.
1. Krupówki Street – the City’s Lifeline
Krupówki is the heart of Zakopane, bustling from morning till night. This pedestrian zone is ideal for a stroll among local restaurants, souvenir shops, and stalls where you can buy traditional oscypek – smoked sheep’s milk cheese. While the place can be crowded with tourists, it offers a great atmosphere and a glimpse into local culture.
2. Gubałówka – a View You’ll Love
Gubałówka, a peak at an altitude of 1,126 meters, offers an amazing panorama of the Tatras and surrounding villages. You can reach it by cable car directly from the city center, which families with children will especially appreciate. At the top, you’ll also find smaller markets and food stalls. If you don’t want to take the cable car back down, try descending on foot along the hiking trail.
3. Morskie Oko – the Tatras’ Greatest Treasure
Morskie Oko, the largest glacial lake in the Tatras, is a must-see for every visitor. The hike to it takes about two hours along an asphalt road, but the result is worth it. The lake is surrounded by high mountains that reflect on its surface. In summer, you can relax by the water; in winter, you’ll be greeted by its frozen icy beauty.
4. Kasprowy Wierch – a Mountain for Everyone
If you long for magnificent views, head to Kasprowy Wierch. A cable car from Kuźnice leads to the summit, meaning you can enjoy the mountain scenery effortlessly. For more experienced hikers, there are numerous trails leading along the ridges. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, a skier, or just a nature admirer, Kasprowy won’t disappoint.
5. Kościeliska Valley – a Valley Full of Surprises
One of the most beautiful places in the Tatras is the Kościeliska Valley, where you’ll find not only magnificent views but also natural caves. Walk along the Kościeliska stream and discover places like Jaskinia Mroźna (Frosty Cave) or Jaskinia Raptawicka. The route is easy and suitable for families.
6. Wielka Krokiew – the World of Ski Jumping
Zakopane is home to the iconic Wielka Krokiew ski jump, where World Cup competitions are held annually. The jump is accessible even outside of competitions – you can climb to the top and see what a ski jumper sees just before taking off. A unique experience that will bring you closer to the city’s sporting history.
7. Jaszczurówka Chapel – a Wooden Gem
The Jaszczurówka Chapel is an example of the Zakopane style, which combines mountain architecture with folk elements. This wooden chapel, designed by Stanisław Witkiewicz, will captivate you with its simplicity and ornate details. It’s worth visiting not only for its spiritual atmosphere but also for its historical significance.
8. Thermal Baths – Relaxation after a Tatra Hike
Several thermal baths are located around Zakopane, such as Terma Bania or Chochołowskie Termy. They offer pools with warm water, saunas, and relaxation zones where you can unwind after a day of hiking or skiing. Plus, the mountain views from the hot water are priceless.
9. Giewont – the Sleeping Knight of the Tatras
Mount Giewont is one of the symbols of Zakopane and the Polish Tatras. A characteristic cross stands on its summit, visible from many places in the city. The route to Giewont is moderately challenging and suitable for more experienced hikers, but the reward is a view of the entire Tatras and the surrounding area. According to legend, the mountain is where a sleeping knight rests, who will protect Poland in times of crisis.
10. Tatra Museum – Tradition and Nature
If you want to get to know the Podhale region better, head to the Tatra Museum. Here you’ll find exhibitions dedicated to the nature of the Tatras, folklore, art, and the history of the city. The museum is a great stop on a rainy day or when you need to rest your feet.
Zakopane isn’t just about beautiful views – it’s a place where nature, culture, and history intertwine. Whether you visit in summer or winter, you’ll always find something to excite you. So pack your hiking boots, skis, or swimwear and set off to discover the best of the Polish Tatras!
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
