Did you know Zakopane lies only about 110 km south of Krakow? That makes a day trip (or a weekend) from Krakow to the Tatras easy to organize even with a dog. In this article you’ll find practical advice on how to get there, what to see in Kazimierz with your four‑legged friend, and where to eat in Krakow at places that welcome dogs.
I won’t list every local guide — instead I’ll share proven ideas and rules that will make your trip easier: logistics, a walking route through Kazimierz and a list of cafés and restaurants in Krakow often recommended as dog-friendly. The text is friendly, practical and prepared so you can plan your outing with your dog right away.
Getting there: the most popular options are bus (direct routes from Krakow to Zakopane usually take about 2–2.5 hours) and car - via Zakopianka (DK7/S7). Trains are an alternative but often take longer than the bus. When planning, factor in seasonal traffic (weekends, long weekends, winter holidays).
Tickets and reservations: if you travel by bus, it’s worth booking seats in advance during high season; by car, plan for stops and parking in Zakopane (paid zones operate in the centre).
Traveling with a dog: check the carrier’s rules about dogs before departure — regulations vary. Practically speaking: small dogs in a carrier usually travel more easily; larger dogs may require a ticket or extra fee and should stay calm on board. Bring water, favorite snacks and a blanket for your pet — these help a lot on longer journeys.
One-day plan: aim for an early departure, a short walk along Krupówki or up Gubałówka, a coffee or lunch break at a dog-friendly place if possible, an optional short hike or a visit to thermal baths at the end of the day and return to Krakow in the evening. If you travel in peak season, consider staying overnight in Zakopane.
Zakopane is popular with dog owners — many outdoor spots and some establishments accept dogs. On trails remember basic safety rules: keep your dog on a leash where required, bring water and check that the planned route suits your dog’s fitness. Tourist spots can be crowded, so choose quieter hours if your dog is easily stressed.
If you plan to enter a restaurant or thermal baths, always confirm in advance whether the place allows animals. When in doubt, call or check the venue’s website.
Kazimierz is one of the most pleasant parts of Krakow for a walk with a dog: narrow streets, cafés, historic sites and an atmosphere appreciated by both tourists and locals. A recommended gentle route (with breaks for rest and coffee): Plac Wolnica – ul. Szeroka – ul. Józefa – the area around ul. Kupa – return via ul. Meiselsa toward the centre.
The Vistula boulevards are also a great place for a longer walk before or after exploring Kazimierz — lots of space and a river view are a bonus for a tired pet. On warm days plan a stop with water and a shady place to rest.
Practical note: in historic parts of the city sidewalks can be narrow; keep your dog close and clean up after them. Most residents welcome dogs if they are well behaved.
Krakow has more and more places that gladly welcome four‑legged guests — from cafés to restaurants with outdoor seating. Here are a few names and short tips worth checking before you go:
- Makaroniarnia (ul. Kazimierza Brodzińskiego 3) – recommended by dog lovers as a dog-friendly spot; Italian cuisine, often outdoor seating available.
- Karma (ul. Krupnicza 12) – a vegetarian/vegan place described by owners as dog-friendly; ask in advance about bringing your dog inside or to the garden area.
- Many cafés and restaurants with outdoor seating around Kazimierz and the Old Town — several provide a water bowl and informally accept dogs, especially during daytime.
Tip: not every place advertises itself as "dog friendly" — acceptance often depends on the dog’s size and behaviour and the time of day. Call ahead or ask at the door. In all these places observe polite behaviour: calm dog, on a leash, clean up after your pet and avoid disturbing other guests.
Before entering a venue with your dog, make sure your dog can wait calmly by the table and follows basic commands. A few practical rules:
- Always ask staff if you can enter with a dog. Don’t assume that because other dogs have been there, every day and hour will be suitable.
- Dog on a leash, close to the owner. If the venue has a special dog area, respect its rules.
- Bring a bowl and water, and a blanket or favorite toy — these often help keep your pet calm.
- Clean up after your animal and carry waste bags. Staff will appreciate the tidiness and other guests will feel more comfortable.
- Avoid bringing your dog into crowded restaurants in the evening — dining atmospheres are often less friendly to animals.
- Water in a bottle and a portable bowl - don’t risk that the place won’t have water for your dog.
- Waste bags and wipes for quick paw cleaning.
- A blanket or a favorite toy - gives your dog a sense of security in an unfamiliar place.
- A leash and, if your dog tends to pull, harnesses with a strong fastener.
- Dog documents (e.g. health booklet) and your vet’s phone number useful in an emergency.
- A small first aid kit: bandage, disinfectant, scissors for fur if needed.
Can I take my dog on the bus to Zakopane? - It depends on the carrier. Many companies allow dogs, sometimes for an extra fee or requiring a carrier. Always check the rules of the specific line before travel.
Can I take my dog to Krupówki and Gubałówka? - Yes, walks along Krupówki are popular, but it’s crowded in peak season. On some mountain routes it’s better to keep your dog on a leash. Gubałówka has a cable railway – check the operator’s rules for carrying dogs.
Do restaurants require a muzzle? - In practice venues decide individually. Generally small and calm dogs don’t need a muzzle, but for larger breeds or if the venue explicitly asks, it’s good to have one with you.
What if my dog doesn’t tolerate noise and crowds well? - Plan visits outside peak tourist hours: mornings and late afternoons are quieter. Consider shorter routes and avoid very crowded places.
Be flexible and prepared: traveling with a dog is a great adventure but requires planning and respect for others. If your dog is well prepared and you have a list of practical places and rules, exploring Krakow, a trip to Zakopane and a meal in a friendly eatery will become a pleasant memory for both of you.
If you’d like, I can help refine a specific walking route in Kazimierz with a map of rest stops and dog‑friendly places, or check current schedules and carrier rules before your trip. Tell me when you plan to travel and I’ll prepare personalized tips for you. Safe travels and have a great trip!
