Krakow is a lively historic city full of monuments and café culture, while Zakopane is a mountain town alive with highlander tradition and nature. Both are in the Lesser Poland region and can be combined even in a single day, but it’s worth planning the route, times and attractions carefully so the trip is enjoyable rather than a race against the clock.
For many visitors Krakow is the base — they stay here and explore the Old Town, Kazimierz and Wawel, and from one morning they set off for the Tatra Mountains. In this guide you’ll find reliable ways to get there, a sample one-day itinerary to Zakopane, suggestions for attractions in both places and practical tips to make your trip easier. (Guide prepared by Małgorzata Kasprowicz for zwiedzaniekrakowa.com).
Car - pros and cons: the most comfortable and often quickest option when roads are clear. The route mostly follows the road commonly called the “Zakopianka” (the first section is dual carriageway, then it becomes a mountain road and slower). Without traffic you can expect roughly 1.5–2 hours; in high season (weekends, long weekends, school holidays) travel time can increase significantly - even to several hours. Remember that parking in Zakopane is limited and usually paid.
Bus - usually the fastest public option: direct services between Krakow and Zakopane typically take about 2 hours, depending on road conditions. Operators run regular connections and minibuses depart from the MDA coach station and other city points. Tickets can be bought via carrier apps or at the station; in season it’s wise to book in advance.
Train - a comfortable and scenic option: trains arrive at Zakopane station and the journey can be very attractive landscape-wise. The fastest connections take around 2.5 hours; some trains run 3–4 hours with many stops. Train travel is a good choice if you want to relax, enjoy the views and avoid road stress.
Krupówki - the heart of Zakopane: a walk along this street is a must. Plenty of stalls selling oscypek, regional souvenirs, cafés and restaurants. It’s a good place for a quick meal and to buy smoked sheep’s cheese to take away.
Gubałówka - funicular and panoramas: taking the funicular to Gubałówka is a quick way to get great views of the Tatras and Zakopane. On the summit there are food outlets and viewing terraces - perfect for photos.
Kasprowy Wierch - for mountain lovers: the cable car from Kuźnice takes you to higher parts of the Tatras. This is an option for those who want high-mountain views without a long hike. Remember the weather can change quickly and it’s much cooler at altitude.
Wielka Krokiew - the ski jumping hill: a must-see for winter sports fans and those interested in sports architecture. Competitions take place here in winter, and the viewing terraces are accessible year-round.
Tatra Museum and wooden architecture: short visits to local museums and walks through villa districts and the Jaszczurówka chapel showcase the Zakopane style.
Main Market Square and the Cloth Hall - the city’s heart: St. Mary’s Basilica, the Town Hall Tower and the Cloth Hall are top priorities for most visitors. I recommend an early morning walk before the crowds arrive.
Wawel - castle and cathedral: the royal residence with beautiful interiors, the cathedral and the Dragon’s Den. Allow extra time if you want to visit the castle exhibitions.
Kazimierz - the historic Jewish quarter: cafés, galleries and atmospheric streets. It’s also a great spot for lunch before heading to the mountains.
Schindler’s Factory and Nowa Huta - history and contrasts: a short visit to the museum or a tram ride out to the Nowa Huta area offers a different perspective on the city.
Quick option - one-day trip (without a car): depart Krakow by bus or train around 7:00–8:00, arrive in Zakopane around 9:30–10:00. Walk along Krupówki, take the funicular to Gubałówka, have lunch (try traditional kwaśnica or oscypek), a short visit to Wielka Krokiew and return by train/bus in the evening around 18:00–20:00.
Comfort option - overnight in Zakopane (1–2 days): day 1 - arrival and a stroll along Krupówki, dinner with highlander dishes; day 2 - cable car to Kasprowy or a hike in the Tatra National Park (easier trails: Kościeliska Valley or Chochołowska Valley), afternoon relaxation in thermal pools or cafés and return to Krakow the next day.
Logistics tip: when planning your day check return times and book tickets in season. If driving, leave early to avoid city traffic and delays on the Zakopianka.
Highlander classics: be sure to try oscypek with cranberry, kwaśnica (sour cabbage soup) and potato pancakes - many mountain inns serve these dishes in a traditional setting.
Krupówki and highlander inns: on Krupówki you’ll find both stalls selling oscypek and restaurants offering local dishes - a convenient spot for a quick meal after arrival.
Krakow cafés and restaurants: I recommend stopping for coffee and cake before departure (cafés in Kazimierz and near the Market are ideal), and on return from the mountains choose a restaurant with regional accents. If you need a family-friendly lunch before heading to Zakopane, restaurants near Wawel offer many traditional and international options.
Does a one-day trip make sense? - Yes, if you want to see Zakopane’s main sights (Krupówki, Gubałówka) and experience the mountain atmosphere; if you dream of longer treks or a Kasprowy visit in good weather, consider staying overnight.
Weather and clothing - remember the altitude difference: Zakopane is about 800–850 m above sea level, so it can be cooler than Krakow. Weather in the mountains changes quickly - bring an extra layer and a waterproof jacket.
Tickets and reservations - when to buy? - In season it’s better to book transport and tickets (especially for fast trains and popular bus lines). Plan ahead for parking and for some attractions.
Safety and the Tatra National Park - rules on the trails: when entering TPN, stick to marked trails and check weather conditions. Some paths are closed in winter, and others require experience and proper equipment.
Prices and budget - what to expect: transport and meal prices vary by carrier and venue. In season hotels and accommodation are more expensive - book early if you plan a weekend stay.
- Check schedules and buy a ticket for your chosen transport (train/bus).
- Check the weather forecast for Zakopane and higher Tatra areas, and pack an extra layer.
- If driving, have cash for parking and allow extra travel time in season.
- Reserve any necessary entries or rides in advance (e.g. Kasprowy cable car) during busy periods.
- Plan roughly where to eat - try local specialties, but have a plan B if regional dishes aren’t to your taste.
A trip from Krakow to Zakopane is one of Poland’s most beautiful combinations: the city’s history and café life versus fresh air and Tatra views. With a bit of planning you can enjoy a successful one-day excursion or spread the visit over several days to fully feel the atmosphere of both places. If you’d like, I can help plan a route tailored to your pace and interests - I’m Małgorzata Kasprowicz, the guide and author of this guide for zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Have a great trip and enjoy the views!
Additional FAQ - common questions: - Do I need special equipment for short walks in Zakopane? For easy trails good trekking shoes and a rain jacket are enough. - Can I buy oscypek on a day trip? Yes, many vendors on Krupówki sell it to-go. - How long should I stay in Zakopane to feel the Tatras? One overnight stay gives more flexibility; two days allow for a simple valley hike or a cable car ride to higher areas.
