Venturing into the heart of Poland’s Tatra Mountains, the Krakow: Zakopane Tour offers travelers a captivating blend of natural wonders and culture. From awe-inspiring cable car rides to charming wooden villages, this full-day excursion promises an unforgettable experience. Visitors can indulge in the region’s renowned Oscypek cheese, explore the lively old bazaar, and unwind in the serene thermal baths, all while taking in the breathtaking mountain vistas. With seamless hotel pickup and private transportation, this tour provides a seamless way to discover the enchanting Zakopane region. But the true allure lies in the journey itself, where every moment promises to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- Full-day excursion from Krakow to the mountain town of Zakopane, including a cable car ride, traditional cheese tasting, and 3-hour relaxation at thermal baths.
- Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, and an English-speaking driver, with entrance fees to key attractions covered.
- Explore the UNESCO-registered wooden village of Chocholów, Zakopane’s old bazaar, and Krupowki Street to immerse in the local Podhale culture and traditions.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains from Gubalówka Hill and access to both outdoor and indoor thermal pools with therapeutic mineral-rich waters.
- Tour is wheelchair accessible, with a private group booking option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
The Krakow: Zakopane Tour with Thermal Hot Baths & Hotel Pickup typically offers a full-day excursion from Krakow to the picturesque town of Zakopane and its surrounding natural wonders.
Priced from $208.52 per person, this 12-hour tour is available in Polish and English. It’s wheelchair accessible and can be booked as a private group experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can reserve and pay later.
Highlights include a cable car ride for panoramic mountain views, a visit to a UNESCO-registered wooden village, traditional cheese tasting, and 3 hours of relaxation at Podhale’s thermal baths.
Hotel pickup, an English-speaking driver, and private transportation are all included.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Zakopane.
Itinerary Highlights
This tour offers an immersive experience, beginning with a hotel pickup in Krakow and a cable car ride up Gubalowka Hill for panoramic vistas of the majestic Tatra Mountains.
Next, visitors will explore the UNESCO-registered wooden village of Chocholów and experience traditional shepherd’s life at a bacowka hut, complete with a tasting of the local Oscypek cheese.
The tour then ventures into Zakopane, allowing guests to browse the old bazaar and stroll down Krupowki Street before indulging in a leisurely lunch.
The highlight of the day is a 3-hour visit to the Podhale thermal baths, where visitors can unwind in the 30 scenic pools while taking in the stunning views of the Tatras.
Included Services
The tour includes the entrance fees for Gubalowka Mountain and the Podhale thermal baths, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off, and private transportation with an English-speaking driver.
However, food, drinks, gratuities, and spa treatments aren’t covered in the price. Guests should bring their own swimwear, towels, and sandals, though towels can also be rented at the thermal baths.
The tour provides a comprehensive experience, with the cable car ride to Gubalowka Hill, a visit to the UNESCO-registered village of Chocholów, and time to explore Zakopane’s old bazaar and famous Krupowki Street.
The highlight is the 3-hour soak in the thermal baths, surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Tatra Mountains.
Preparation and Recommendations
Guests should bring their own swimwear, towels, and sandals when visiting the Podhale thermal baths, though towels can also be rented on-site.
Checking availability for specific tour dates and times is recommended, as the experience may be impacted during peak holiday periods when shops and attractions may have limited access.
To ensure a seamless experience, travelers should keep the following in mind:
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Pack appropriate clothing and footwear for the thermal baths.
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Be prepared to navigate the baths and surrounding areas, as the terrain may be uneven.
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Bring any necessary personal items, as food and drinks aren’t included in the tour.
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Arrive well-rested and hydrated to fully enjoy the thermal pools and scenic views.
Customer Reviews
According to customer reviews, the Krakow: Zakopane Tour has an impressive overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 11 reviews.
Travelers have praised the tour’s seamless hotel pickup and transportation, as well as their enjoyment of the thermal baths and local attractions.
Reviewers highlighted the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides, who provided an insightful and engaging experience.
Notably, some customers recommended booking the tour during non-holiday periods to better access the shops and attractions in Zakopane.
Panoramic Views From Gubalowka Hill
From atop Gubalowka Hill, panoramic vistas of the majestic Tatra Mountains unfold, captivating visitors with their awe-inspiring peaks and verdant valleys.
The cable car ride to this scenic overlook offers a breathtaking journey, allowing travelers to gaze upon:
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The jagged, snow-capped summits that reach towards the sky.
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Lush, forested slopes dotted with alpine meadows and crystal-clear streams.
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Quaint villages nestled in the rolling foothills, their traditional wooden architecture blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
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The shimmering azure of glacial lakes that mirror the stunning mountain landscape.
This panoramic viewpoint is the perfect prelude to the immersive exploration of Zakopane and the Tatra region that awaits on this captivating tour.
Exploring Zakopane’s Old Bazaar and Krupowki Street
After taking in the breathtaking vistas from atop Gubalowka Hill, visitors can explore the vibrant tapestry of Zakopane’s old bazaar and Krupowki Street, where the heartbeat of local culture and tradition thrums. Here, visitors can browse the stalls brimming with handcrafted regional souvenirs, from wooden trinkets to intricate embroidery. Krupowki Street, the main thoroughfare, offers a lively pedestrian experience, with street performers, local cuisine, and a bustling atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the rhythm of the town, gaining insights into the lives and traditions of the Podhale region. This quintessential Polish experience complements the natural wonders explored earlier in the day.
Old Bazaar | Krupowki Street | Local Traditions |
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Handcrafted Souvenirs | Lively Pedestrian Zone | Wooden Trinkets |
Regional Embroidery | Street Performers | Culinary Specialties |
Bustling Atmosphere | Local Cuisine | Podhale Culture |
Relaxing at Podhale Thermal Baths
The tour culminates with a rejuvenating 3-hour soak at the Podhale thermal baths, where visitors can enjoy a serene escape amidst the scenic backdrop of the Tatra Mountains.
Boasting over 30 pools, the expansive thermal complex offers ample opportunities for relaxation, with water temperatures ranging from soothing to invigorating. Theres some good:
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Outdoor pools with stunning mountain vistas
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Indoor pools with therapeutic mineral-rich waters
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Saunas and steam rooms for deep detoxification
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Massage services to melt away any lingering tension
After an action-packed day exploring Zakopane, the thermal baths provide the perfect setting to unwind, recharge, and bask in the natural splendor of the Tatra region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour may be suitable for children, depending on their age and interests. While the thermal baths and some attractions may be enjoyable, the long duration and activities may not be suitable for younger children. It’s best to check with the tour operator.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?
The tour can be customized to accommodate individual preferences. Travelers can work with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary, activities, and schedule to match their interests and needs. This flexibility allows for a more personalized experience.
What Is the Dress Code for the Thermal Baths?
The dress code for the thermal baths is casual. Visitors are expected to wear swimwear, which can include bathing suits, trunks, or other appropriate attire. Towels are available to rent on-site for added comfort.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens?
There are typically no age-based discounts for entrance to thermal baths. However, some facilities may offer senior rates or packages. It’s best to check with the specific thermal bath site about any available discounts for older adults.
Can the Tour Be Combined With Other Activities in the Region?
The tour can likely be combined with other activities in the region, such as hiking, skiing, or visiting additional cultural sites, depending on the traveler’s interests and available time. Combining the tour with complementary experiences could enhance the overall experience.
Recap
The Krakow: Zakopane Tour with Thermal Hot Baths & Hotel Pickup offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Tatra Mountains.
From the breathtaking views atop Gubalowka Hill to the relaxation of the Podhale thermal baths, this tour provides a well-rounded and seamless adventure that immerses visitors in the authentic charm of this stunning region.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tours in Zakopane
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