How to Plan Your Day Trip to Zakopane Polish Tatra Mountains from Krakow

If you are planning a trip to Krakow and want to explore the beautiful Tatra mountains, then there is no better way to do it than by booking a day tour to Zakopane. This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Tatras, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and explore the delightful town of Zakopane. In this article, we will guide you through how to plan your day trip to Zakopane Polish Tatra Mountains from Krakow.

Overview

This full-day tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Krakow, or from the city center. Your knowledgeable and professional guide will lead you on an eight to ten-hour excursion to the beautiful Tatra Mountains and the charming resort town of Zakopane. You will travel in comfort in a modern vehicle, ensuring that you arrive fresh and relaxed for your day’s adventure.

Highlights

The highlights of this tour include:

• Enjoy a day trip to the beautiful Tatra Mountains from Krakow
• Visit the charming resort town of Zakopane and its top attractions
• Be led by an experienced and knowledgeable guide
• Relax and travel in comfort in a modern vehicle
• Hotel pickup and drop-off included in your tour

Itinerary

Here is a detailed itinerary of what you can expect on your day trip to Zakopane:

1. Gubalowka Peak

Your day will start with a visit to Gubalowka Peak, which you will reach via a modern and quick incline railway. At the top of the peak, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the entire area, including the cute town of Zakopane below and the towering Tatra range behind it.

2. Zakopane

After taking in the stunning views from Gubalowka Peak, your guide will lead you to Zakopane. Here, you will have plenty of time to explore the town’s top attractions, including:

Krupowki

This lively main street is the perfect place to wander, shop, and soak up the atmosphere of Zakopane. With plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops to choose from, you will never run out of things to see and do.

Wielka Krokiew

A large professional ski jump, Wielka Krokiew is an impressive sight and well worth a visit during your time in Zakopane.

Jaszczurowca Chapel

This beautiful and quaint chapel is located in a peaceful setting and is a lovely spot to relax and take in the serene surroundings.

Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima

A popular pilgrimage site, the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima is a fascinating cultural and historical landmark.

Old Cemetery on Peksowy Brzyzek

This charming cemetery is located on a hill and offers stunning views of Zakopane and the surrounding mountains.

3. Return to Krakow

After a full day of exploring Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains, you will return to Krakow by comfortable and convenient transportation, arriving back at your hotel in the early evening.

Booking Your Tour

To book your day trip to Zakopane Polish Tatra Mountains from Krakow, simply follow this link: book the tour here. You will find all the information you need on this page, including prices, availability, and pickup details.

Book Your Tour Now

A day trip to Zakopane Polish Tatra Mountains from Krakow is an experience not to be missed. With breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and fascinating attractions, this tour will leave you with unforgettable memories. We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your day trip and wish you a fantastic time in Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains.

Frequently Asked Questions About Krakow, Poland

Krakow is a beautiful and historic city in southern Poland, known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant nightlife. Every year, millions of tourists from around the world flock to Krakow to take in its sights and sounds, and experience everything this amazing city has to offer. If you’re planning a trip to Krakow, you may have some questions about what to expect. In this FAQ, we’ll cover some of the most common questions about Krakow, including its history, culture, and attractions.

1. What is the history of Krakow?

Krakow has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 7th century. It was once the capital of Poland, and has played an important role in Polish culture and history ever since. Over the centuries, Krakow has been invaded and occupied by various powers, including the Mongols, the Ottomans, and the Nazis. Despite this, the city has managed to preserve much of its historic architecture and cultural heritage.

2. What are some must-see attractions in Krakow?

There are countless things to see and do in Krakow, but some of the most popular attractions include:

• The Wawel Royal Castle: This stunning castle was once the residence of Polish kings and queens, and is now a museum showcasing the history of Poland.
• The Main Market Square: The largest medieval square in Europe, the Main Market Square features beautiful historic buildings, restaurants, and cafes.
• The Cloth Hall: Located in the Main Market Square, this historic market hall features vendors selling traditional Polish crafts and souvenirs.
• The Kazimierz district: Once the hub of Jewish culture in Krakow, this neighborhood is now a bustling area filled with restaurants, bars, and art galleries.
• The Wieliczka Salt Mine: Located just outside Krakow, this historic salt mine features underground chambers and tunnels carved out of salt.

3. What is the weather like in Krakow?

Krakow has a fairly temperate climate, with warm summers and cold winters. In the summer, temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to the low-80s Fahrenheit, while in the winter, temperatures can drop below freezing. If you’re planning to visit Krakow, be sure to pack appropriately for the season.

4. What is the food like in Krakow?

Polish cuisine is hearty and flavorful, with a focus on meat, potatoes, and traditional dairy products like cheese and sour cream. Some popular dishes to try in Krakow include pierogi (dumplings filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables), kielbasa (sausage), and bigos (a stew made with cabbage and meat). For dessert, try a traditional Polish pastry like a paczki or a babka.

5. What is the nightlife like in Krakow?

Krakow is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants open late into the night. Some popular areas for nightlife include the Kazimierz district, which is home to a variety of bars and music venues, and the Old Town, where you’ll find everything from cozy pubs to trendy nightclubs.

6. What is the currency in Krakow?

The currency in Poland is the Polish zloty (PLN). While some businesses in Krakow may accept euros or other currencies, it’s best to have some zloty on hand for most purchases.

7. Is English spoken in Krakow?

English is widely spoken in Krakow, especially in tourist areas. You should have no trouble communicating with locals or navigating the city, even if you don’t speak Polish.

8. How do I get around Krakow?

Krakow has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trams that run throughout the city. There are also plenty of taxis and ride-sharing services available. If you prefer to walk, many of Krakow’s attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.

9. What is the best time of year to visit Krakow?

The best time to visit Krakow depends on what you want to see and do. If you don’t mind the cold, winter can be a great time to explore the city’s Christmas markets and other festive events. Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, while summer is the busiest and most popular time for tourists.

10. How safe is Krakow for tourists?

Krakow is generally a safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, as with any city, it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in deserted or poorly lit areas, and keep an eye on your valuables in crowded tourist areas.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Krakow

Krakow, Poland is an incredibly rich and vibrant city with a storied past, stunning architecture, delicious food, and seemingly endless activities to enjoy. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to decide how to spend your time as a tourist in Krakow. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide on how to make the most of your visit.

1. Explore Old Town (Stare Miasto)

Old Town is the historic center of Krakow, and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that shouldn’t be missed. This area is full of stunning architecture, colorful buildings, and cobbled streets that lead to captivating squares. The Rynek Glówny, or Main Market Square, is the largest medieval square in Europe and is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops. The square is also home to the Gothic St. Mary’s Basilica, which is known for its stunning altar.

2. Visit Wawel Castle and Cathedral

Wawel Castle and Cathedral are located just a short walk from Old Town and are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Krakow. The castle has been the residence of Polish Kings for centuries and now houses various museums, including one dedicated to the royal family’s history. The cathedral is also home to many important tombs and artifacts, including the sarcophagus of Saint Stanislaus.

3. Take a Walk Through Kazimierz

Kazimierz, the Jewish district in Krakow, is another must-visit area for tourists. The district has a deep and complex history, beginning in the 14th century when Jews were invited to settle in Krakow by the King. The area became a thriving cultural center that remained so for centuries – until World War II. Today, you can walk through the streets of Kazimierz and explore the synagogues, Jewish cemeteries, historic buildings, and restaurants.

4. Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau

Another important stop for tourists in Krakow is a visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau, the concentration camp established by the Nazis during World War II. This is a difficult and emotional experience, but it’s essential to learn about the atrocities that took place during this dark period of history. The camp is about an hour’s drive from Krakow, and it’s best to visit with a tour group so that you can gain perspective from an expert guide.

5. Try the Local Cuisine

Krakow has a robust food scene, with a mixture of Eastern European, Jewish, and Polish cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include pierogies, which are boiled dumplings stuffed with cheese, meat, or potatoes, bigos, a hearty stew made with sauerkraut, and kielbasa, a flavorful sausage that’s cooked over an open flame. For dessert, try a slice of apple or yeast cake, or a warm zapiekanka – a baguette-like pizza topped with mushrooms, cheese, and ketchup.

6. Explore the Museums

Krakow has plenty of museums to keep you busy, including the National Museum, Schindler’s Factory, and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Each museum offers a unique perspective on Polish culture, history, and art. The Czartoryski Museum is home to a vast collection of European art, including works by Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci.

7. Take a Day Trip

Krakow also serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside. The Wieliczka Salt Mine, located just outside of town, is one of the oldest salt mines in the world and provides a glimpse into the history of the region. A trip to the Tatra Mountains is perfect for hikers, with its beautiful scenery and challenging trails.

Book Your Tour Now

Krakow is an excellent destination for anyone looking to explore a rich culture, learn about history, and enjoy some of the best cuisine Eastern Europe has to offer. No matter how long you stay in the city, there will always be more to see and do. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time and create unforgettable memories.