From central Krakow to Zakopane it’s about 100 km — depending on transport the trip usually takes 1.5–2 hours. That makes a full-day trip from Krakow to Zakopane very realistic: you can see the main highlights of the Podhale region and be back in Krakow for dinner.
If you plan to combine Krakow sightseeing with a one-day trip to the Tatras, it helps to leave early, set clear priorities for the day, and keep a short list of cafés or restaurants in Krakow you want to visit before or after the trip. That way you make the most of your time and avoid rushing around the city.
In this guide you’ll find: - a practical day plan Krakow + Zakopane, - what’s worth seeing in Zakopane, - recommended places to eat in different parts of Krakow, - practical tips and a FAQ for visitors.
Option 1 - Most popular (for people who want to see Zakopane and return to Krakow in the evening): leave Krakow around 7:00 — arrive in Zakopane 9:00–9:30 — stroll along Krupówki, take the funicular to Gubałówka or stay on Krupówki, visit a small museum like the oscypek museum or a viewpoint near Wielka Krokiew — lunch in Zakopane — optional short hike, visit Chochołów or a spa/thermal baths — return to Krakow around 19:00.
Option 2 - Combine Krakow and Zakopane in 48 hours: spend day one in Krakow (Wawel, Market Square, Kazimierz), stay overnight in Krakow; day two depart early to Zakopane for longer hikes or thermal baths, return the following evening.
Transport — what to choose: a car gives the most flexibility (route about 1.5–2 h). Trains and minibuses offer comfortable connections without the need to find parking. Roads to Zakopane can be busy in high season, so leave earlier or check alternative departure times for trains and buses.
Krupówki — Zakopane’s famous main promenade, full of shops, regional stalls and a mountain-town atmosphere. A good place for a stroll, to buy souvenirs, and to try oscypek with cranberry jam.
Gubałówka — easy access by funicular; from the top you get great views of the Tatra peaks and Zakopane, plus food stalls and places to rest.
Wielka Krokiew — the ski jump with a viewing area; it’s an iconic Zakopane landmark worth visiting when the viewpoint is open.
Chochołów — a traditional wooden village near Zakopane with well-preserved Podhale architecture; an excellent stop if you want to feel the authentic local atmosphere.
Oscypek museum / shepherd’s cottage — demonstrations of traditional cheese making and tastings are a short, pleasant activity for anyone curious about local food.
Old Town — elegant and tourist-friendly, perfect for a special lunch or dinner. Look for classic restaurants in atmospheric cellar rooms that serve Polish cuisine. Iconic historic spots include places on or near the Market Square for a traditional experience and memorable interior design.
Kazimierz — Krakow’s culinary heart for variety: small cafés and brunch spots are perfect for breakfast, while Kazimierz also offers many Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and plant-based choices. Well-known and reliable options in the district include cozy cafés and mezze-style restaurants that are popular with locals and visitors alike.
Podgórze and Zabłocie — these neighborhoods are where Krakow’s modern food scene thrives: sushi, international kitchens and artisan cafés. You’ll find seasonal menus, relaxed atmospheres and plenty of places off the main tourist routes.
Vegan and vegetarian options — Krakow has a lively plant-based scene: places serving creative vegan dishes, vegan burgers and hearty breakfasts. Many mainstream restaurants also offer vegan-friendly menu items.
Pastry shops and dessert places — after a day of sightseeing it’s lovely to relax with a slice of Krakow-style cheesecake or artisan ice cream. Around the Market Square and in Kazimierz you’ll find both classic pastry shops and contemporary cafés with homemade cakes and gelato.
Breakfast: charming small cafés in Kazimierz are great for generous breakfasts and brunches — try to arrive early before the sightseeing crowds. Popular cozy cafés include long-standing favorites that serve homemade pastries, breakfast plates and good coffee.
Lunch: for classic Polish in an atmospheric setting consider a restaurant in the Old Town cellars; for something lighter Kazimierz has many bistros with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Examples of well-known Krakow places include historic Old Town restaurants and trusted Kazimierz cafés and restobars.
Dessert and coffee: hidden cafés on the side streets of the Old Town and Kazimierz offer warm interiors and homemade cakes — perfect for a restful break during your walk.
Veg/vegan options: Kazimierz and Podgórze host many places serving hummus, inventive plant-based dishes and vegan burgers — solid alternatives for visitors seeking plant-based cuisine.
Prices — Krakow has everything from cheap canteens and milk bars to upscale restaurants. For a quick budget meal look for lunch specials and daily sets; for a special dinner consider booking in advance.
Reservations — in high season and on weekends it’s wise to reserve a table at popular restaurants, especially for dinner. Breakfast and afternoon coffee are usually easier to get without a reservation.
Payments — most places accept cards, but it’s useful to carry some cash for street stalls and very small vendors.
Dietary needs — many Krakow restaurants offer gluten-free and vegan options, but if you have strict allergies tell staff when you order.
Can you see Zakopane and Krakow in one day? - Yes. It’s a popular choice: if you leave very early and return in the evening you can see the main sights in Zakopane and still be back for dinner in Krakow. Expect a fast pace and limited free time in Zakopane.
How to get to Zakopane from Krakow without a car? - Trains and minibuses operate between Krakow and Zakopane; in high season services are frequent but can fill up, so check schedules ahead of time.
Do you have to pay separately for everything in Zakopane? - Some attractions are ticketed (for example the funicular, certain viewpoints and some museums). Budget a little extra for tickets and optional rides.
What to wear for a one-day Tatra trip? - Even in summer it can be cooler and windier in the mountains. Wear comfortable shoes, layer your clothing and bring a lightweight rain jacket.
Is it safe to leave luggage in Krakow while you go to Zakopane? - If you prefer not to take everything, there are luggage storage options in central Krakow and some hotels will hold bags for guests after check-out. Check availability before you travel.
To eat where locals eat, step off the main tourist routes — side streets in Kazimierz and Podgórze often hide charming cafés and small restaurants with authentic food.
If you’re staying longer in Krakow, reserve one evening specifically for culinary exploration: try Krakow-style cheesecake in a traditional pastry shop or look for a pub with local beer and a welcoming atmosphere.
Balance sightseeing with rest — Krakow and Zakopane both offer intense experiences, so plan short coffee breaks or relaxed meals to enjoy the city without rushing.
