If you're wondering whether you can make a three-hour trip to Zakopane from Kraków — the answer is: it depends. If we mean three hours SPENT in Zakopane itself, then yes — you can see the highlights along Krupówki and, with some luck regarding timing and queues, take a quick ride up to Gubałówka. If, however, you plan the entire round trip from Kraków and back in 3 hours — that's unrealistic. From Kraków to Zakopane you should usually allow about 1.5 hours by car (without traffic) or roughly 2–2.5 hours by bus; trains take longer. There is no tram between Kraków and Zakopane.
In this article I'll explain realistic scenarios (3 hours in Zakopane / full-day trip), share practical tricks, point out places worth visiting and recommend where to eat — so you return to Kraków feeling your time was well spent rather than rushed. Guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz can also organize private tours — contact details are available on the zwiedzaniekrakowa.com website.
By car: in good traffic the drive usually takes about 1.5 hours (via the so-called Zakopianka). In high season or during snowfall this time can even double because of traffic jams or difficult conditions.
By bus: the most popular and often most convenient option — regular connections depart from Kraków, and the ride typically takes around 2–2.5 hours depending on the service and road conditions. Buses are a good choice if you don't want to drive and want to avoid parking hassles.
By train: the rail route is scenic but longer — in practice a train trip from Kraków to Zakopane can take about 4 hours, so train travel isn't ideal when time is short.
Private transfer: a comfortable, faster and more expensive option. A great solution for groups or when you want a flexible schedule and pick-up from your hotel.
Assume you're already in Zakopane (for example you spent the night there) and you have only about 3 hours to explore — here is a tested plan: start with a walk along Krupówki (30–60 minutes) — it's the heart of town, great for quick souvenir shopping and tasting oscypek.
If queues and timing are favorable, take the funicular up to Gubałówka (ride + stay 45–60 minutes) — the summit offers excellent views of the Tatra Mountains and Zakopane, quick photo opportunities, a short stroll by the market stalls and a return by funicular. Remember that in high season the line for the funicular or cableway can be long — allow extra time.
Alternative: if the queue is long, spend more time on Krupówki and drop by the Pęksowy Brzyzek Cemetery (a short, peaceful visit) or peek at one of the Zakopane-style villas visible from the promenade.
Practical note: if you're starting from Kraków, a one-way drive will already take much of your time — with only 3 hours total it's better to plan a full day.
Leave early — for example departing Kraków around 7:00 gives you comfortable time to sightsee and return in the evening. Driving takes about 1.5–2 hours; by bus about 2–2.5 hours.
Suggested order: Krupówki — a quick walk along the promenade and the oscypek stalls; then take the funicular to Gubałówka for the panorama; make a short stop by Wielka Krokiew or the Sanctuary on Krzeptówki; lunch in one of the recommended restaurants; depending on time — a visit to thermal baths (for example Chochołowskie Thermal Baths) or a short valley trail walk.
Why book a whole day: Zakopane has more to offer than the promenade — local architecture, the Pęksowy Brzyzek Cemetery with graves of notable cultural figures, regional museums and the opportunity to ride to nearby viewpoints or relax in thermal pools. A full-day plan helps you avoid rushing and lets you feel the character of the region.
Krupówki: a lively promenade full of highlander stalls, souvenir shops and cafés. It’s a great place for quick shopping, trying oscypek with cranberry and watching local life.
Gubałówka: a short ride up by funicular and a view of the Tatras — ideal for photos, a short walk and a snack on the summit. You'll find stalls with local products and viewpoints at the top.
Nearby points of interest: the Pęksowy Brzyzek Cemetery (final resting place of many figures important to Polish culture), Zakopane-style villas, Wielka Krokiew ski jump and the Sanctuary on Krzeptówki. Each place carries its own history and adds context to your visit.
If you want a good and quick meal on Krupówki, choose places known for quality. In Zakopane well-regarded options include Bistro Kryjówka (regional flavors), Restauracja Staropolska (classic Polish dishes), Stek Chałupa on Krupówki (for meat lovers) and Mała Szwajcaria — all popular with visitors.
If you look for an authentic mountain inn atmosphere, the taverns along the promenade serve oscypek, kwaśnica and other regional specialties. Pick places with up-to-date reviews and — during the season — reserve in advance or come outside peak lunch hours to avoid long waits.
For vegans and people on plant-based diets Zakopane also offers options — several places provide vegetarian and vegan dishes; check menus ahead of time.
Assuming "a tram will be faster" — reminder: there is no tram between Kraków and Zakopane. Another common mistake is underestimating real travel time: a one-way trip can take about 2 hours, so that tempting “3 hours” total from Kraków is usually not enough.
Not planning a backup for bad weather or long queues for the Gubałówka funicular — have a Plan B: more time on Krupówki, a local museum visit or a trip to thermal baths.
Parking without checking rules and prices — in high season parking can be expensive and crowded. Consider the bus or a private transfer if you don't want to worry about finding a parking spot.
Buying souvenirs at the first stall you see — compare prices; buy the best regional products (like oscypek) where certifications or good reviews are visible.
Funicular tickets for Gubałówka usually cost in the range of a few dozen złoty (approx. 15–25 PLN one-way); prices can change with season and type of ride. Have small cash or check card payment options.
Check bus timetables and possible FlixBus connections — there are many seasonal services but it’s wise to book tickets in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.
Mountain weather changes quickly: pack layers, a good jacket and comfortable shoes — even short walks on Krupówki benefit from something waterproof and warmer. Sun can be intense at altitude — sunscreen is useful in summer.
If you plan walks beyond the promenade, bring appropriate footwear and a charged phone. In winter check road conditions and forecasts — travel time may be longer.
Can you take a tram from Kraków to Zakopane? — No, there is no tram on that route. The fastest option is car; the most popular is bus.
How much time do you need to see Zakopane? — To feel the town and see Krupówki and ride up to Gubałówka, plan at least 3 hours spent in Zakopane. For comfortable sightseeing and visiting thermal baths allow a full day.
Is it worth hiring a private guide? — Yes, if you want to make the most of your time, learn local stories and avoid queues, a guide can make the day much easier.
Do I need cash in Zakopane? — Many places accept cards, but small stalls and some attractions may prefer cash; it’s good to carry some złoty.
You might be surprised: Zakopane is not just a tourist promenade — it also has rich architectural heritage (the Zakopane style), connections to important figures in Polish culture and is the starting point for many classic Tatra trails.
If you enjoyed this guide, share it with friends or on social media — you'll help others plan better trips. And if you want a comfortable, carefully planned day in Zakopane, consider booking a private guide with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available on the zwiedzaniekrakowa.com website. Happy planning and enjoy your trip!
