How to get from Krakow to Zakopane by bus?

Poland is a wonderful country to explore and one of the most popular destinations is Zakopane, located at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. The journey from Krakow to Zakopane by bus takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes, so it’s perfect if you want to get there quickly and cheaply. In this article, we’ll look at how to get from Krakow to Zakopane by bus, how much it costs and where to buy tickets.

When and how often do buses run from Krakow to Zakopane?

There are frequent buses that run from Krakow to Zakopane throughout the day. The first bus runs at 4:00 am and the last bus runs at 11:00 pm. During peak travel times such as school holidays, the frequency of services increases. Generally, there is a bus every 15 minutes during the morning and evening rush hours.

How much does a ticket cost?

The cost of bus tickets from Krakow to Zakopane varies depending on the operator, but typically it is around 10 zł one way. It is also possible to purchase discounted tickets for children, seniors, students and people with disabilities. These tickets usually cost half of the normal price and can be purchased from the bus driver.

Where to buy tickets?

Tickets for the bus from Krakow to Zakopane can be purchased either online or from one of the many ticket offices located around the city. Ticket offices are generally open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, though some may open earlier or close later. To purchase tickets online, you need to visit the website of the most popular operator, PKS Krakow. Here you can choose your travel date and time, select your ticket type and choose to pick up your ticket at a ticket office or have it sent to your home address. Payment can be made by credit card or PayPal.

Which operators run buses from Krakow to Zakopane?

There are currently three main operators offering services from Krakow to Zakopane: PKS Krakow, PKS Nowy Targ and PolskiBus. PKS Krakow is the most popular operator for this route with regular departures throughout the day, while the other two offer less frequent departures on select days. All operators provide comfortable seating and air conditioning onboard their buses.

PKS Krakow

PKS Krakow is the most popular operator for travel between Krakow and Zakopane, offering regular departures throughout the day. All buses are air-conditioned and feature comfortable seating. Tickets can be purchased online on the PKS Krakow website or at a ticket office.

PKS Nowy Targ

PKS Nowy Targ offers slightly less frequent departures than PKS Krakow but still offers regular services throughout the day. All buses are air-conditioned and feature comfortable seating. Tickets can be purchased online on the PKS Nowy Targ website, or at a ticket office in Nowy Targ or Krakow.

PolskiBus

PolskiBus offers services from Krakow to Zakopane on select days throughout the week. All buses are air-conditioned and feature comfortable seating. Tickets can be purchased online on the PolskiBus website, or at a PolskiBus ticket office in Krakow or Zakopane or any other PolskiBus location in Poland.

What else do I need to know?

Buses from Krakow to Zakopane are very popular in summer, so it is recommended that you book your ticket in advance to avoid disappointment. If you do not have a ticket when you board the bus, you will need to pay at the ticket office once you arrive at your destination, so make sure you check whether the ticket office will be open when you arrive before boarding the bus. Cash can also be used for payment, but some operators may not accept cash payments for tickets purchased online so be sure to check before you leave.

Conclusion

Going from Krakow to Zakopane by bus is fast and easy, with departures every 15 minutes during peak times. Tickets can be purchased online or at a ticket office, with discounts available for children, seniors and people with disabilities. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance during peak times and check whether cash payment is accepted before boarding the bus if you do not have a ticket when you board.

The Insider’s Guide to Krakow: Discover the Hidden Gems

Krakow is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with magnificent architecture, stunning landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. However, there’s more to Krakow than its popular tourist spots. Here are some of the city’s hidden gems that only locals know about.

Local Attractions: Off-the-Beaten-Path Sites to Visit

While the Wawel Castle and Kazimierz are stunning landmarks, step off the beaten path and discover Błonia, once a royal hunting ground and now a peaceful park with verdant meadows. Next, spend some time exploring Podgórze – the city’s original Jewish ghetto for a well-rounded historical experience. While there, don’t miss out on the abandoned Liban quarry, which is an awe-inspiring sight in itself.

The Best Local Eats

Krakow’s cuisine is a delightful mix of Polish, Jewish, and European flavors. For breakfast, try out the city’s beloved obwarzanek, a circular bread pretzel, available at street vendors citywide. As for lunch, head to Milkbar Tomasza, one of the city’s best-kept secrets for a savory homestyle meal. In the evenings, feast on Polish comfort food like pierogi at Restauracja Klimaty Polskie. To cap it off, satisfy your sweet tooth cravings with traditional Polish cakes like sernik and makowiec, available at every café in Krakow.

Exploring Krakow’s Cultural Offerings

One of the most exciting cultural experiences Krakow offers is its traditional dance and music, which can be explored at the Małopolskie Centrum Kultury SOKÓŁ. Additionally, don’t miss the annual cultural festival, Krakow’s International Festival of Culture, which runs in the summer and features music, dance, theater, and art exhibitions.

The City’s Fascinating Past

Krakow is a city with a long and multifaceted history, and some of the most captivating stories involve Wawel Castle, which once housed Polish kings. Make sure to visit the castle’s underground caverns for an eerie yet fascinating experience that includes stories of dragons, prisoners, and hidden treasures.

The Ultimate Unforgettable Experience

If you’re looking to explore Krakow beyond the typical guided tours and take in the city’s best views, the best experience to have is the hot air balloon ride. Float over the beautiful skyline, take in the stunning countryside scenery, and experience a one-of-a-kind perspective on the city.

Krakow is brimming with delights that are waiting to be discovered. This insider’s guide is a great starting point, and by immersing yourself in the local culture and moving off the beaten track, you’ll have an unforgettable visit and memories to last a lifetime.