What are the best things to do in Zakopane, Poland?

As one of Poland’s most infamous ski resorts and a mecca of mountain activities, Zakopane is well known amongst ski junkies and hikers alike. However, the charming mountain town is brimming with activities and attractions beyond just skiing and hiking. Whether it’s visiting the traditional Góral villages, going on a hot-air balloon journey, or seeing some famous landmarks, there is something for everyone here in Zakopane. Here in this article we’ll show you the best of Zakopane, highlighting some of the top activities, attractions and experiences that you can have.

Admire The Art Nouveau Architecture

For those interested in culture and architecture, Zakopane won’t disappoint. The area features a mixture of architectural styles, with Art-Nouveau buildings dotted around the quaint town centre. This national style of architecture started by Stanisław Witkiewicz became popular between 1900 and 1930 and is evident in many of Zakopane’s buildings. It’s worth taking a walk around the town centre to appreciate how these buildings blend in with the surrounding landscape. Popular attractions include the Villa Koliba, the Church of Our Lady of Fatima, and the Villa Styki.

Take An Excursion To Morskie Oko

Not far from Zakopane lies one of its most famous attractions – the Morskie Oko lake, which is embedded within the Tatra National Park. Blessed with stunning natural views and crystal blue waters, it is easy to see why Morskie Oko draws visitors from all walks of life to the area. It’s less than an hour’s drive from the village and once you arrive, you can take a chairlift up to the lake itself or explore at your own pace, trekking around the surrounding region and take in the breathtaking views of Mount Rysy.

Visit UNESCO Monuments And Museums

For those looking for a cultural break during their trip to Zakopane, there are plenty of monuments and museums that can provide an educational insight into how people live and work in this mountainous region. The UNESCO-listed wooden churches of Southern Lesser Poland (Kalwaria Pacławska, Blizne Podhalańskie, Nowy Targ and Nowy Sącz) are all must-visits during your time in the area. The Ethnographic Museum and Museum of Zakopane Style provide further insights into this region’s rich heritage, artistry and lifestyle.

Explore The National Park

The Tatras Mountains make up Poland’s only mountain range and the core of the area has now been protected by the Tatra National Park – which makes this area one of Europe’s oldest protected locations. Depending on your level of experience you can either go for short walks or more demanding hikes around Zakopane. Popular places include Mount Giewont, Kasprowy Wierch peak and Dolina Kościeliska; but with thousands of kilometres to explore, it’s possible to stumble across many attractions and sightseeing opportunities which are much less “touristy”.

Go Skiing Or Snowboarding

As mentioned earlier, Zakopane is one of Poland’s most popular ski resorts. With over 14 ski lifts available there is something for everybody – regardless of skill or fitness level. The nearby Nosal ski resort is home to 12 slopes and 4 ski lifts – making it perfect for first-time skiers and snowboarders as well as families with children. For more experienced thrill seekers, there are other nearby resorts such as Szymoński which offers a more intense experience.

Visit A Góral Village

Górals are traditional Highlander communities that have been around for hundreds of years in the mountainous region ranging from Slovakia to Poland. They have their own unique customs, language and music that all add to the atmosphere of these beautiful villages in Zakopane’s region. For example, Chochołów can be visited from the station just outside Zakopane – it’s a great place to learn about traditional weaving methods and even get a locally made souvenir! With stunning rural views, several churches, restaurants serving delicious regional food and some incredibly friendly locals, visiting one of these Góral villages is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Zakopane.

Experience A Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride

What better way to enjoy the snow than by taking a sleigh ride through the mountains? During winter months horse-drawn sleighs allow you to journey through some of the most beautiful sights that Zakopane has to offer – from breathtaking mountain views to old Goral style farms with haystacks scattered all around. Capped at 12 people per sleigh and often times you’re given hot tea or mulled wine – it’s an experience like no other!

Take A Hot Air Balloon Ride

If you really want to take your Zakopane experience to the next level then consider taking a hot air balloon ride. There are three main companies offering balloon tours around Zakopane – Goralsk Ballooning Company, Klimek Ballooning Company and Chelon Ballooning Company. The balloon rides offer stunning views of Tatra Mountains as you drift higher and higher into the sky – allowing you take take stunning photographs that are sure to impress your friends at home!

Enjoy Some Regional Dishes At Local Restaurants

To get an understanding of Zakopane’s unique culture, you have to eat like a local! As such during your time in the picturesque mountain village make sure you also explore some delicious regional food like “oscypek” (smoked cheese pancakes), “bryndzę” (sheep cheese) or some “żurek” (sour rye soup). With many restaurants offering regional specialities like twisted doughnuts (“ranty”) and “rękawki” (fried yeast doughnuts filled with plum jam), those with a sweet tooth will also be well catered for! With so much spectacular scenery and attractions on offer, it shouldn’t come as any surprise that Zakopane is fast becoming one of Poland’s most popular tourist destinations. From skiing and snowboarding adventures to cultural experiences such as visiting Goral villages or sampling regional cuisine within the quaint mountain village itself – we recommend Zakopane for those wanting to escape into nature for an adventure-packed getaway in this picturesque mountain town. To learn more about what activities you can pursue during your stay in Zakopane visit Zakopane’s official visitor website for more information about accommodation, attractions, activities and transport options available in this mountainous corner of Poland.