Short answer: it depends - but in most cases it’s not practical to try to ride the whole Krakow–Zakopane route on a scooter. The distance between the cities is over 100 kilometres one way, and the road conditions plus the range of typical electric scooters don’t allow for a safe, comfortable intercity ride. Instead, it’s better to travel with standard transport (train, bus or car) and use a scooter locally - in Zakopane or around Krakow (for example on the Planty). In this article I offer practical solutions focused on safety and convenience.
If you’re asking out of curiosity: yes, Zakopane and its surroundings offer attractive scooter activities (including mountain scooters for downhill tracks), but those are local activities - not intercity travel.
If by “a full day on a scooter” you mean a whole day riding in Zakopane versus travelling from Krakow to Zakopane and exploring there - these are two different concepts. I describe both options below.
Practical note: this article is friendly and helps you plan a day sensibly - you’ll find suggested routes, attraction ideas and tips on what to bring. I’m not promoting other guides or organisers - I write as someone who wants you to have a fun and safe day.
Treat the trip to Zakopane separately from the scooter riding. The most reliable options are train, bus or car - the journey usually takes around 1.5–2 hours one way, depending on traffic and the mode of transport.
Why not scooter between cities? Main reasons: the battery range of typical scooters is insufficient for such a long distance, some parts of the route run along busy high-speed roads, and there are stretches without a comfortable shoulder. It’s simply not safe or comfortable.
Practical plan: leave early by train or bus, arrive in Zakopane late morning, leave your luggage at a left-luggage point or luggage storage, and rent a scooter locally if you want to ride around the town or on prepared tracks. In the evening return to Krakow by train/bus or stay overnight - this avoids rushing and fatigue.
If you travel by car, remember seasonal traffic jams and limited parking in central Zakopane - arrive outside peak hours or book parking in advance.
Morning stroll along Krupówki - the town’s lively main promenade, full of market stalls, cafés and Highlander (Góral) atmosphere. Great to get your bearings and grab a quick breakfast.
Ride or walk up to Gubałówka - a short attraction with beautiful views of the Tatras. If you prefer activity you can choose shorter walking trails starting from the centre.
Active option: mountain scooters and downhill tracks - Zakopane has rental operators offering mountain scooters for prepared downhill routes; it’s a lot of fun as an alternative to a long trek, but do it only with instruction and proper equipment.
Afternoon: thermal baths or a relaxing walk around the area - soaking in thermal pools is classic after an active day in the mountains. Alternatively, take a shorter stroll to Chochołów or towards Wielka Krokiew.
Evening on Krupówki and return - have a regional meal, buy souvenirs and head back with pleasant memories. Don’t overload your schedule - the Tatras are best enjoyed without hurry.
In Zakopane you’ll find different types of scooters: city electric scooters (sometimes available in rental systems during the season) and mountain scooters for downhill rides. A city scooter is handy for short rides around the centre; a mountain scooter is a different experience - usually rented for dedicated downhill tracks or access roads.
Safety rules: wear a helmet, check brakes and the technical condition before renting, don’t exceed allowed speeds where pedestrians are present, and don’t take equipment designed for roads onto Tatra trails that require mountain-specific gear.
Parking and leaving scooters: in high season towns often set zones for parking shared electric scooters - follow local rules so you don’t block sidewalks. Rental operators typically require returns to designated points.
If you plan a full day on mountain routes, check whether the rental includes instruction and whether the route is prepared for mountain scooters - safety first.
Planty is the green belt around the Old Town, perfect for a calm scooter ride on a short Krakow afternoon. The loop is about 4 kilometres and connects many monuments, so it’s ideal for light sightseeing on two wheels.
A few tips: ride slowly and yield to pedestrians - Planty is a park, not a race track. It can be crowded during peak tourist hours, so choose morning or late-afternoon times if you prefer space. If you use an electric scooter, watch the surface for roots or other obstacles.
Suggested route: start near the Barbican, head along the Planty toward St. Florian’s Gate, continue by St. Mary’s Church and finish near Wawel - a pleasant compact tour with great views. If you want more, combine the Planty ride with a short walk on the Market Square.
Remember to be respectful of residents and other visitors - that’s the key to keeping a good atmosphere in the historic centre.
Morning: quick breakfast in Krakow and depart by train/bus to Zakopane (leaving around 7:00–8:00 gives a good chance to arrive before noon).
Late morning in Zakopane: stroll or take a short excursion (Krupówki, Gubałówka). Rent a mountain or city scooter if you want some active fun.
Afternoon: relax in thermal pools or take an easy walk / short trail depending on the weather. Enjoy a traditional regional meal.
Evening: return to Krakow by train/bus or stay overnight in Zakopane if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Don’t cram too many sights into one day - weather and altitude matter, and rest is as valuable as activity.
Helmet and gloves - even for city rides a helmet greatly increases safety.
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing - mountains can surprise you, so bring a light outer layer.
Charger, powerbank and documents - if you use a rental electric scooter, keep your phone with the app and an ID handy.
Small repair kit or the rental operator’s phone number - don’t improvise too far from a service point if a technical issue appears.
Cash and card - most places accept cards, but a small shop or a local rental point may prefer cash.
Respect pedestrians and footpaths - in city centres and on the Planty pedestrians have priority. If a place is crowded, get off and walk your scooter.
Don’t take a scooter onto mountain trails intended for hikers - many trails are demanding and using wheeled vehicles can damage the surface.
Adjust your speed to conditions: wet surfaces, stones or sand are reasons to slow down.
Check local regulations - towns increasingly introduce parking zones and restrictions for electric scooters. Following local rules helps keep order and good relations with residents.
Leave early - mornings mean fewer tourists, shorter lines and more peace at the best spots.
Book tickets in advance where needed - if you plan to visit thermal baths or popular attractions, reservations make life easier.
If you want to try a mountain scooter, start with a short instruction and an easy route - it increases fun and reduces stress.
Don’t schedule too many items - leave time to rest and make spontaneous discoveries.
A scooter is a great way to make short rides around Krakow (Planty) and to have active fun in Zakopane, but it’s not a means of transport for intercity travel. If you want to spend a “full day on a scooter,” do it locally - in Zakopane on prepared downhill tracks or in Krakow in quieter areas.
If you’d like, I can help personalize a day plan - tell me your preferences (pace, activity level, budget) and I’ll suggest an itinerary tailored to your needs. Happy planning and safe riding!
Warm regards, Małgorzata Kasprowicz - Krakow tour guide.
