Kraków and Zakopane make the perfect duo for every student — historic sights, cafes and nightlife in Kraków, and the Tatra Mountains and fresh air just a few hours away. For Erasmus students it’s a great chance to experience Poland’s variety in a short time: from a historic market square to mountain trails.
Good bus and train connections mean even a one-day trip is possible, while a weekend gives you time to taste local cuisine and do a short trek. With sensible planning such a trip won’t blow your student budget.
Leave early in the morning — buses from Kraków to Zakopane often take around 2 hours, giving you a full day on site. Return in the evening or book a night or two if you want to tackle a longer trail.
Sample day: early departure from Kraków, stroll along Krupówki and a ride or walk up Gubałówka in the morning, a short hike (e.g. part of Kościeliska Valley or Nosal) in the afternoon, dinner with local specialties and return. If you plan to visit Morskie Oko, it's better to reserve a whole day for it.
Book tickets in advance during high season — prices and availability of accommodation and buses change a lot during school holidays and long weekends.
Bus is usually the fastest and cheapest option. Many connections run between Kraków and Zakopane throughout the day and tickets can be bought online. This is a good solution if you travel in a larger group or want to save money.
Train can be comfortable and pleasant, especially if you prefer more space and the ability to walk around the carriage. Train travel time can be longer than by bus, so check timetables before you go.
A car gives the most flexibility (stops, early departures), but in summer and winter heavy traffic entering Zakopane can lengthen the trip. If you plan to leave a car in Zakopane, check parking availability and fees.
Krupówki is the centre of tourist life — a stroll there lets you feel the town's atmosphere, browse regional souvenirs and try local dishes.
Gubałówka is a quick target: a funicular ride or hike up offers great views of the Tatras and Zakopane. For a short trek consider Nosal or a section of the Kościeliska Valley.
If you have more time, Morskie Oko is an icon of the Tatras — remember the walk there and back takes several hours, so plan it as a separate day.
In Kraków, choose places with good reviews in the Old Town and Kazimierz — there you’ll find both traditional eateries and cosy cafés perfect for long conversations after classes. In Zakopane, well-rated karczmas (mountain inns) serve local specialities worth trying.
For students the best options are hostels, youth mountain shelters and inexpensive guesthouses — an economical and social choice: it’s easy to meet other travellers. Mountain hostels and hostels near Krupówki often offer the most attractive prices.
If you want concrete recommendations, pick places consistently highly rated by guests — in both Kraków and Zakopane there are several trusted restaurants and karczmas that are worth choosing, especially after a long day on the trail.
Check the weather forecast for Zakopane and pack appropriate layers — mountain weather changes quickly. Even in summer take a lightweight softshell and comfortable shoes.
Don’t leave plans until the last minute in high season. Weekend accommodation and bus reservations can be expensive or sold out — book the key elements in advance.
Take some cash for small purchases at mountain huts and some attractions — not everywhere accepts cards. Also remember a powerbank and a comfortable daypack for a full day out.
Don’t overestimate your strength — choose a route that matches your time and fitness. On popular trails in season it can be crowded, which lengthens walking times.
Respect nature and follow the Tatra National Park signs. On some sections there are restrictions outside the season or in bad weather.
If you plan on climbing or a more difficult mountain route, check required equipment and consider going with an experienced person or a guide. For students starting out in the mountains, shorter, well-marked trails are better.
Does a one-day trip make sense? Yes — if you just want to be in the mountains and see Krupówki and Gubałówka. For longer hikes plan an overnight stay.
What to take for a one-day trek? Comfortable shoes, water, a small snack, a rain jacket, a charged phone and ID.
Do I need a guide? Not always, but a guide helps you learn interesting stories, find shortcuts and safer routes — it’s a good choice if you want to make the most of your time or plan a harder hike.
Zakopane style is not only tourism — it’s an architectural movement created in the late 19th century, worth noticing while walking among villas and wooden houses.
You’ll find thermal baths near Zakopane — a great option to relax after a day in the mountains, especially in winter. Popular complexes in the region include Terma Bania, Termy Bukovina and Chochołowskie Thermal Baths — booking in advance can save time.
In Kraków plan a short stop at one of the less touristy cafés to feel the city’s atmosphere and avoid long tourist queues.
Don’t leave the return trip to the last bus without booking in season — the return ticket may be sold out. Buy a round-trip ticket if you can.
Don’t underestimate altitude and the temperature difference between the city and the mountains. Even a quick ride to Gubałówka can bring colder wind.
Don’t plan overly ambitious routes without proper preparation and information about conditions — it’s better to stay shorter and safe than to risk a long return after dark.
If this article was helpful, share it with friends or on social media — it’s the best way to help other students plan a successful trip.
If you prefer a personalised plan and a stress-free visit, you can use the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz. With a local guide’s support you’ll save time and see places that are often missed by standard guides.
