Zakopane

Poland, Europe

Nestled at the foot of the Tatra Mountains, Zakopane captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant wooden architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Popular for skiing in winter and hiking in summer, it offers attractions like the Gubałówka Hill for stunning views, Morskie Oko—a serene glacial lake, and the bustling Krupówki street lined with shops and restaurants. The unique highlander culture adds to its charm, making Zakopane a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Active

Airport

Tatry

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Zakopane

1

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Hike the Tatra Mountains

Explore breathtaking trails with stunning mountain views.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Gubałówka Hill

Take a funicular ride for panoramic views of Zakopane.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Krupówki Street

Stroll through the vibrant heart of Zakopane.

No booking required
4

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience Thermal Baths

Relax in natural hot springs after a day outdoors.

Booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Wooden Church of Jaszczurówka

Admire the unique architecture of this historic church.

No booking required
6

Est. 5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Ski at Kasprowy Wierch

Hit the slopes at one of Poland's best ski resorts.

Booking required
7

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Try Oscypek Cheese

Taste this unique smoked cheese, a local delicacy.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride

Enjoy a magical winter sleigh ride through the snow.

Booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Tatra Museum

Learn about the culture and natural history of the region.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a Regional Folklore Show

Experience traditional Polish dances and music performances.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10-15%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-7 (#118 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Zloty

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Polish

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Bigos Stew

Savory stew with meat and cabbage. (National dish)

Pierogi

V

Dumplings filled with various ingredients.

Żurek

Sour rye soup with sausage and egg.

Gołąbki

Cabbage rolls stuffed with meat or rice.

Placki Ziemniaczane

VE

Potato pancakes, crispy and delicious.

Phrases to learn

English

Polish

Hello

Cześć

(Cheshch)

Yes/No

Tak / Nie

(Tahk / Nyeh)

Thank you

Dziękuję

(Jen-koo-yeh)

Excuse me

Przepraszam

(P-sheh-prah-shahm)

How much?

Ile?

(Ee-leh)