Krakow: Zakopane and Thermal Pools Tour with Hotel Pickup

Travelers often find themselves craving a break from the hustle of Krakow’s historic streets to explore the natural beauty and local traditions of the Tatra Mountains. If that sounds tempting, this day trip to Zakopane and its thermal baths offers a well-rounded experience packed with scenic views, cultural treats, and relaxing waters — all for a reasonable price.

What we love most about this tour is the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from Gubałówka Hill via funicular, and to sip on authentic smoked cheese and Polish vodka in a mountain shepherd’s hut. The combination of nature, local flavor, and genuine relaxation makes for a memorable day.

However, a few considerations are worth noting. The 11-hour duration means you’ll need to be prepared for a long day, especially if you’re not used to early mornings or extensive bus travel. Also, since the tour operates in all weather conditions, you should bring appropriate clothing, even if it rains or snows.

This tour is ideal for those who want to see the mountains and experience local culture without the hassle of planning, but it’s especially suited for travelers who value scenic vistas, authentic food, and thermal relaxation in one seamless day.

Key Points

• Stunning mountain views from Gubałówka Hill with a scenic funicular ride.
• Authentic taste of Polish mountain life with smoked cheese and vodka tasting.
• Relaxing thermal baths in Poland’s largest and most popular thermal spa.
• Comfortable, hassle-free transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Excellent value for the price, considering the inclusions like transportation, entrance fees, and guided experience.
• A full-day adventure blending nature, culture, and relaxation — perfect for a sense of authentic Poland.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This full-day trip from Krakow begins with a hotel pickup, typically between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, which already sets the tone for a smooth, stress-free day. The comfortable, air-conditioned minibus whisks you out of Krakow’s busy streets into the peaceful countryside, with a drive lasting about 1.5 hours. The scenic route through hills and small villages already hints at the charm you’re about to encounter.

The Charm of Chochołów Village

Your first stop is the village of Chochołów, famous for its traditional wooden architecture. This is a highlight for architecture lovers and those curious about regional craftsmanship. It’s a brief 20-minute photo stop where you’ll get a taste of mountain life and see the charming, rustic wooden houses. Many reviews mention how this small village feels like stepping back in time, with some travelers remarking on how well-preserved and picturesque it is.

Tasting Local Specialties

Next, the tour turns to the culinary traditions of the region. At a nearby shepherd’s hut (a bacówka), you’ll taste oscypek, a smoked cheese made from sheep’s milk, paired with local vodka. This segment lasts about 15 minutes, but many find it’s enough time to savor the flavors and snap some photos of the cheese being smoked right on site. Several reviews emphasize how authentic and flavorful these tastings are, giving a real sense of mountain life and local pride.

Zakopane: Poland’s Mountain Capital

Arriving in Zakopane, you’ll have about two hours to explore the town at your own pace. Whether you want to browse the shops along Krupówki Street, admire the wooden architecture, or simply soak in the mountain atmosphere, there’s enough time to get a good feel for this lively town. Many visitors comment on how vibrant the streets are, filled with musicians, street performers, and local crafts.

More Great Tours Nearby

Gubałówka Hill: The Viewpoint

The highlight here is the Gubałówka Hill funicular ride. The 10-minute ascent takes you to a vantage point where you’ll see expansive views of the Tatra Mountains — an ideal spot for photos. The 30-minute stay at the top allows for a leisurely walk, some photos, and a chance to breathe in the crisp mountain air. According to reviews, the panorama is absolutely worth the ride — travelers often mention how spectacular the scenery is, especially on clear days.

Evening in Zakopane

As the day winds down, you’ll visit a bacówka again for more tasting opportunities or just to enjoy the mountain hospitality. Many guests mention how the cheese and vodka tasting is a fun, authentic experience that adds a cultural layer to the trip.

Thermal Baths: Relaxation in Chochołów

The final leg of the journey takes you to Chocholowska Thermal Baths, Poland’s largest thermal spa. You’ll have around 2.5 hours to unwind in the heated pools, which are mineral-rich and set against the backdrop of mountain scenery. Many reviews highlight how relaxing and rejuvenating this part of the tour is — a perfect way to soothe tired legs after a day of sightseeing. The baths are sizeable, welcoming to families and solo travelers alike.

Return Journey

After soaking in the thermal waters, the bus transports you back to Krakow, arriving around 7:30 to 8:30 PM. The 11-hour schedule means a full day, but many feel it’s a fair investment for such a well-rounded experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $91 covers most essentials: hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees (Gubałówka funicular, thermal baths), guided commentary, and tastings. The lunch isn’t included, so bringing some cash or snacks is advisable if you want to explore Zakopane more extensively or have a quick bite. The tour also provides a guidebook in 16 languages, making it easier to appreciate the sights and learn about local customs.

Transportation

The bus is air-conditioned and comfortable, which makes the long day more bearable. The group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest the experience feels intimate enough for personal interaction. The driver and guide are praised for their professionalism, as well as their friendly, helpful attitude.

Timing and Weather

Since the tour runs in all weather conditions, it’s wise to dress in layers, especially if rain or snow is forecast. The cable car to Gubałówka Hill may be closed for maintenance from April 1-4, 2025, but the driver will substitute with a car trip, maintaining the experience.

Authentic Moments and Real Traveler Feedback

Many reviewers mention how the views from Gubałówka are “breathtaking” and that the thermal baths are “the perfect way to unwind.” One person noted, “The cheese tasting was surprisingly delicious — I didn’t expect mountain cheese to be so flavorful.” Others appreciated the vibrant Zakopane streets as a lively contrast to the peaceful mountain scenery.

Some comments mention the long travel time, but most agree that the convenience of hotel pickup and the variety of activities make it worth it. A few travelers mentioned that crowds can be an issue during peak seasons, but most found the experience well-organized.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for those wanting a comprehensive day trip without the hassle of planning transportation or tickets. It offers a balance of scenic beauty, culture, and relaxation. If you’re eager to see the mountains, taste local delicacies, and unwind in thermal pools, this tour delivers on all fronts.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who aren’t afraid of a full day on the road and want a guided experience that covers the highlights of Zakopane in one go. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find it offers good value and memorable moments. Just be prepared for a busy schedule and a fair bit of walking and standing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting time for this tour?
Check the availability, but the pickup typically occurs between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, with the exact time confirmed by the driver via WhatsApp one day before.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour provides transportation by air-conditioned minibus, which is generally well-reviewed for comfort during the 1.5-hour drive to Zakopane and the return trip.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, along with swimwear, a towel, casual clothes, flip-flops, and some cash for extra snacks or souvenirs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if needed.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed pace and thermal baths make it family-friendly, but keep in mind it’s a long day with some walking involved.

Will I get enough time in Zakopane?
Yes, about two hours give you free time to explore, shop, or just soak in the mountain atmosphere.

What happens if the cable car is closed?
From April 1-4, 2025, the cable car will be unavailable due to maintenance. The guide will arrange an alternative route by car to reach the viewpoint.

Exploring Zakopane and its thermal pools in one day offers a wonderful blend of nature, tradition, and relaxation, all without the stress of planning. Whether you’re after stunning mountain vistas, authentic local flavors, or simply a chance to unwind, this tour provides a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: