Ultimate Travel Guide to Zakopane: Poland’s Winter Wonderland

Welcome to Zakopane, the jewel of the Tatra Mountains and one of Poland’s most beloved year-round destinations. Nestled at the foot of the Tatras, Zakopane is a picturesque town famed for its breathtaking natural beauty, traditional wooden architecture, vibrant Highlander culture, and outdoor adventure opportunities.
 

Whether you're visiting for skiing in winter, hiking in summer, or simply to soak in the atmosphere of a quaint mountain village, Zakopane offers a unique experience that blends nature, culture, and comfort in perfect harmony.

Let me guide you through the must-sees, hidden gems, and essential tips for making the most of your trip to Zakopane.

📍 Where Is Zakopane?

Zakopane is located in southern Poland, right on the border with Slovakia, in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship. It sits at the base of the Tatra National Park, the highest part of the Carpathian mountain range.

It’s about:

110 km (2 hours) from Kraków

50 km from Nowy Targ

Well-connected by bus, car, and train

🕰 A Short History of Zakopane

Zakopane began as a small village in the 17th century, later developing into a mining settlement. Its transformation into a tourist resort started in the 19th century when it became a health retreat and cultural hotspot. Famous artists, writers, and intellectuals were drawn to its fresh mountain air and inspiring scenery.

Today, Zakopane maintains its rich Goral (Highlander) heritage, making it not only a nature lover’s paradise but also a cultural experience.

🏔 Top Things to Do in Zakopane

1. Ride the Gubałówka Funicular

One of Zakopane’s most popular attractions, this cable railway takes you up Gubałówka Hill, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of the town and the Tatra Mountains.

Open year-round

Ideal for families

Cafés, souvenir stalls, and mountain activities at the top

2. Explore Krupówki Street

The heart of Zakopane’s town center, Krupówki Street, is a lively pedestrian zone filled with:

Traditional wooden architecture

Restaurants serving Highlander cuisine

Shops selling woolen goods, cheese, and handcrafted souvenirs

3. Hike to Morskie Oko

Morskie Oko ("Eye of the Sea") is a stunning alpine lake, often ranked among the most beautiful natural sites in Europe.

8 km hike (approx. 2 hours each way)

Horse-drawn carriage rides available partway

Surrounded by towering peaks, perfect for photos

4. Take the Kasprowy Wierch Cable Car

For breathtaking alpine views, take the cable car to Kasprowy Wierch.

Located inside Tatra National Park

Perfect for skiing in winter, hiking in summer

Observation deck at 1,987 meters above sea level

5. Visit the Tatra Museum

Learn about Goral folklore, mountaineering history, and Zakopane-style architecture.

Exhibits on natural history and Highlander art

Family-friendly and educational

6. Wielka Krokiew Ski Jump

A symbol of Poland's skiing tradition and a venue for international competitions.

Watch ski jumpers in action

Take a chairlift to the top of the jump

❄️ Zakopane in Winter: A Snowy Wonderland

Zakopane is Poland’s winter capital, drawing skiers, snowboarders, and families alike. The town transforms into a magical snowy escape with:

Christmas markets on Krupówki

Snowy horse-drawn sleigh rides

Ice skating and snow tubing

Ski resorts like Nosal, Szymoszkowa, and Kasprowy Wierch

Pro Tip: Visit during January or February for the full snowy experience, including the International Mountain Folklore Festival.

🌄 Zakopane in Summer: Hiking and Highland Vibes

When the snow melts, Zakopane turns into a hiker’s paradise. The Tatras offer trails for all skill levels, with scenic routes through:

Valleys like Dolina Kościeliska and Dolina Chochołowska

Summit hikes to Giewont or Rysy (the highest peak in Poland)

Alpine meadows full of wildflowers

🧀 Taste the Local Flavors

Zakopane’s cuisine reflects its Highlander roots, hearty and rich in flavor.

Must-Try Foods:

Oscypek – Smoked sheep cheese served with cranberry jam

Kwaśnica – Sour cabbage soup with ribs

Placki ziemniaczane – Crispy potato pancakes

Grzaniec – Hot mulled wine, perfect for cold days

Recommended Restaurants:

Karczma Po Zbóju – Folk atmosphere, live music

Góralska Tradycja – Upscale with panoramic views

U Wnuka – Oldest restaurant in Zakopane

🛍️ Shopping in Zakopane

Don’t leave without browsing the local markets and artisan shops!

Popular Souvenirs:

Hand-knitted wool sweaters and socks

Wooden carvings and ornaments

Highland-style leather goods

Oscypek cheese (vacuum-packed for travel)

Markets:

Targ Pod Gubałówką – Near the funicular

Krupówki Street stalls – Open daily

🏨 Where to Stay in Zakopane

Luxury:

Aries Hotel & Spa – Stylish, central, with an indoor pool

Nosalowy Dwór Resort & Spa – Ski-in/ski-out luxury

Mid-Range:

Hotel Belvedere – Family-friendly with spa and indoor pool

Willa Kominiarski Wierch – Traditional wooden guesthouse

Budget:

Hostel Stara Polana – Cozy and well-reviewed

Good Bye Lenin Hostel Zakopane – Funky and fun, ideal for backpackers

🚗 How to Get to Zakopane

From Kraków:

By bus: Frequent service from Kraków Bus Station (approx. 2.5 hours)

By car: Scenic drive via Zakopianka Road

By train: Slower, but scenic; best for relaxed travel

Local Transport:

Taxis and local buses available

Many attractions are walkable from the center

📸 Best Instagram Spots in Zakopane

📍 Gubałówka viewing platform at sunset

🧀 Holding oscypek in the local market

🏞 Reflections on Morskie Oko

🏔 On top of Kasprowy Wierch

🛷 Sleigh ride in winter with mountain backdrop

🧭 Suggested Itinerary (2 Days)

Day 1:

Morning: Cable car to Kasprowy Wierch

Afternoon: Lunch on Krupówki Street, visit Tatra Museum

Evening: Highlander dinner with live folk music

Day 2:

Morning: Trip to Morskie Oko

Afternoon: Explore Gubałówka and the market

Evening: Hot wine and souvenirs

💬 What Travelers Are Saying

“Zakopane is a fairytale come true in winter—cozy cabins, mountain views, and snow everywhere!”
– Sofia, Norway

“Our hike to Morskie Oko was the highlight of our trip. So peaceful and gorgeous.”
– Diego, Spain

“I loved how authentic Zakopane feels. You can experience Polish culture in every bite and every street.”
– Grace, UK

🧳 Travel Tips for Zakopane

🧥 Pack layers, even in summer—the weather can change quickly in the mountains

💬 Learn a few Polish phrases, especially for markets and local restaurants

🐴 Horse-drawn rides are traditional but check for humane treatment

🚶 Book hikes early in summer—Morskie Oko and other trails get crowded

🌟 Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Zakopane

Zakopane is more than just a mountain town—it’s a gateway to Poland’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Whether you want to ski down snowy slopes, hike through pristine alpine forests, or indulge in Highlander traditions, Zakopane will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Every season paints the town in a new color, and every visit uncovers new layers of charm. Zakopane is not just a destination; it’s a mood, a story, and an unforgettable adventure