A morning trip from Krakow to Zakopane is a great idea if you want a mountain adventure without an overnight stay. For families with children it can be a refreshing day trip: nature, walks and memories the kids will keep for a long time.
The route from Krakow usually takes about 1.5–2 hours, depending on traffic on Zakopianka and the time of day. It’s worth setting off early to avoid jams and to have more time on site.
5:30–6:30 — wake up and quick breakfast (at home or in the hotel). Pack a thermos with tea/coffee and snacks for the children.
6:30–7:00 — depart from Krakow. An early start reduces stress from traffic and increases the chances of finding convenient parking in Zakopane.
8:30–10:30 — first stop: a stroll along Krupówki and a ride on the funicular to Gubałówka or a short walk near Wielka Krokiew. A good moment to stretch legs and take first photos with Tatra panoramas.
11:00–13:00 — activity matched to the children’s age: an easy valley trail, a visit to Polana Szymoszkowa or an indoor playroom if the weather is poor.
13:00–14:00 — lunch and rest. Choose family-friendly places and remember simple dishes children like.
14:30–16:30 — second part of the program: thermal pools, a short trip to Morskie Oko (for families with older children and a good time plan) or playground fun and souvenir shopping.
17:00–19:00 — return to Krakow. If you leave later, an evening stroll in Zakopane and dinner make a nice end to the day.
Gubałówka - ride the funicular and take a short walk on the hill; great views of the Tatras and plenty of attractions at the top that younger children enjoy.
Wielka Krokiew - the impressive ski jump that kids often see as a “big mountain” to look at. A walk along the jump is interesting even without entering the facility.
Polana Szymoszkowa - gentle family slopes and spots for sledging; perfect for little ones who want to play in the snow.
Easy valleys (for example Dolina Kościeliska or shorter stretches) - walks adapted to children’s stamina, with caves and interesting rock formations to see.
Parks and indoor playrooms - when the weather is bad, an indoor playground is a good backup; the town center has places where kids can run and play.
Thermal pools - if you plan to relax in the afternoon, thermal baths are a great family choice; warm water and shallow pools for the youngest make for a pleasant end to the day.
The Wawel Dragon and Wawel Hill - the dragon legend always sparks children’s imagination. A short visit to Wawel Hill and a walk by the Vistula River is an easy, attractive option.
Main Market Square and Cloth Hall - a quick stop at the Market, a freshly baked obwarzanek (traditional Krakow bagel) or a piece of cake in a nearby café. Kids enjoy the lively atmosphere and wide open space.
Child-friendly museums - Krakow has several interactive exhibitions for the youngest; if you have a little time before departure, choose a short, engaging exhibit.
Playgrounds and parks - the Planty, Vistula Boulevards or one of the many playgrounds let children burn off energy before a longer trip.
A short legend walk - tell the story of the Dragon, the towers and city gates as a short tale while strolling through the Old Town.
By car - the most convenient option for families, but in high season and peak hours you can hit traffic. Leave early to shorten time in the car and to find convenient parking.
Bus or train - a reasonable alternative if you don’t want to drive; check connections in advance and factor in getting to the station with luggage and a stroller.
Parking - parking in central Zakopane can be limited; consider official parking areas near Kuźnice or other official lots rather than searching for a spot next to Krupówki.
Travel time - plan 1.5–2 hours each way. An early departure means less stress and more sightseeing time on location.
Layered clothes - mountain weather can change quickly; bring an extra layer, hats and gloves in winter.
Appropriate shoes for walks - comfortable shoes with good grip; extra socks for little ones is a good idea.
Snacks and water - a thermos with a warm drink and a supply of small snacks will help during queues or on longer walks.
A backpack with essentials: first aid kit, wet wipes, tissues, powerbank, a small toy to help burn off energy.
Stroller or carrier - for a toddler a carrier often works better than a stroller on shorter mountain sections.
Have a plan B: an indoor playroom, museum or thermal baths are good ideas for a rainy day. Zakopane has several covered attractions that work well with children.
Short indoor activities in town - creative workshops, cafés with a kids’ corner or a short movie at a local cinema can save the day.
Flexibility - the less rigid the plan, the easier it is to adapt to sudden weather changes. Children respond better to shorter, interrupted activities.
Make sure children wear suitable clothing and footwear - this is the basics. Even a short walk on mountain paths requires comfortable shoes.
Remember rest and regular meals - tired or hungry children are harder to handle on a longer trip.
Keep emergency numbers and info about the nearest medical points handy - especially if you head to more remote trails.
Bring a small 'reward' kit - stickers or little sweets can change a child’s approach to a tougher stretch of a walk.
Break the route into short stages and talk about the next stop along the way - kids like having a 'mission' and seeing the goal reached.
If you travel off-season, parking is usually easier and queues at attractions are smaller.
Don’t forget to take breaks and photos - short moments of rest are as important as the attractions themselves.
A morning trip from Krakow to Zakopane can be a fantastic day for the whole family if planned sensibly: early departure, comfortable shoes, a plan B for bad weather and activities suited to the children’s ages.
If you’d like, I can help create a specific plan for your trip — tell me how much time you have, how many people are coming and the children’s ages, and I’ll prepare a day plan tailored to your needs.
Have a great trip and remember: the most important things are the shared moments and your children’s smiles — everything else is a bonus!
Q: Is Morskie Oko suitable for kids? A: The most common route is a wide, paved road and is manageable for many families. It’s about 8 km one way from the main trailhead, so consider age and stamina. Horse-drawn carriages are also available for part of the route.
Q: Are there family changing rooms and toilets? A: Facilities exist in central attractions and larger venues like thermal pools; on longer hikes facilities are limited, so plan ahead.
Q: How should we pay in mountain huts or small shops? A: Some mountain huts accept only cash; it’s useful to carry a small amount of local currency for huts and small vendors.
Q: When is the best time to go? A: Early morning departures help avoid traffic and crowds. Off-season visits are calmer and often cheaper, but check seasonal opening times for attractions.
Q: Any tip for parking in Zakopane? A: Aim for official parking lots rather than searching for a spot near Krupówki. Arriving early increases the chances of a convenient spot.
