Krupówki is the tourist heart of Zakopane and Gubałówka is one of the most popular viewpoints. During holidays the opening hours of shops, restaurants and attractions can differ from the usual schedule - some places operate normally, others shorten hours, and some close completely (especially on December 25 or on certain public holidays).
The safest strategy is to assume things may be different than on a regular day: check specific places before you go and plan alternatives (a café, another restaurant or a walk) in case your chosen spot is closed.
On the Krupówki promenade you’ll find a mix of private shops, souvenir stalls, cafés and a few larger venues and shopping centers. That means hours will vary: a private shop may stay open late, a mall usually has set hours, and tourist restaurants often choose to stay open during holidays.
For example, some shopping centers on Krupówki publish special holiday hours - it happens that on December 24 they operate reduced hours (for instance until midday), on December 25 they may open later in the afternoon, and on December 26 they run normally. Practically: plan shopping and visits before December 24 or leave them for December 26, when most places return to standard hours.
If you want to eat out during a holiday - pick highly rated places and book in advance. On Krupówki you’ll find well-reviewed restaurants that often announce holiday opening plans early - it’s worth calling or checking the latest info just before you arrive.
The Gubałówka funicular runs for most of the year, but its hours depend on the season. In summer schedules are usually extended, in winter they may be shorter, and during transitional periods operators adjust timetables to the weather and visitor demand.
In practice this means: on holidays like Christmas or Easter the funicular often runs, but hours can differ from non-holiday days - you may see earlier starts and earlier finishes. Check operating times and any technical breaks or weather-related notices before your visit.
At the Gubałówka summit many food and entertainment points operate independently of the funicular - yet they also change hours during holidays. If you’re going for a specific attraction (for example the gravity slide, viewing terraces or a particular restaurant), verify in advance whether it’s open and what the hours are.
The most reliable information comes directly from operators and the official pages of specific venues: malls, restaurants and the funicular often publish holiday schedules. If you don’t want to rely only on websites, call - a short phone call usually clears doubts.
Practical tips: have a plan B for meals, visit attractions outside peak times (morning or late afternoon), and in winter always check the weather - strong wind or heavy snowfall can affect the funicular’s operation.
Remember that many private shops and restaurants decide their holiday hours individually, so don’t expect "all of Krupówki" to be open - better check the exact venue.
Well-established and highly rated restaurants often operate on holidays, but they may require reservations. If you want a specific place on Krupówki, book a table in advance or look for announcements about special holiday menus.
Regarding accommodation: most hotels and lodging operate as usual, but services may be limited on holidays (reduced housekeeping, reception on duty only). Check cancellation policies and check-in hours to avoid surprises.
Avoid planning a single big grocery run for December 25 - most food stores are closed that day. If you plan to cook in a rented apartment, stock up beforehand.
Assuming everything will be open - this is the most frequent mistake. Solution: check the exact places before arrival and have alternatives.
Arriving at peak time without reservations - restaurants and parking can be full. Solution: reserve tables or arrive earlier / outside peak times.
Not preparing for the weather - mountain weather changes quickly and can affect cable cars and safe movement. Solution: bring layers, footwear with good traction and check weather alerts.
Are shops on Krupówki open on December 25? - Some places are closed, but many restaurants and tourist stalls open later in the day; don’t assume everything will be available.
Does the Gubałówka funicular run on holidays? - Usually yes, but operating hours may be changed; check the timetable shortly before you go.
Can you buy funicular tickets online? - Many attractions offer online tickets or group information - if you’re planning a larger visit, check for advance purchase options or group bookings.
Is parking easy on holidays? - Central parking can be very busy, especially in good weather; consider public transport or parking outside the center and walking in.
Some smaller souvenir stalls open earlier or later than main shops during the holiday season - this often depends on the owner and tourist flow.
Many places on Gubałówka offer beautiful evening views - if the weather’s good, an after-sunset ride can be less crowded and very picturesque.
To avoid crowds choose the morning right after the funicular opens or late afternoon; during long holiday weekends the peak is usually around midday.
If this guide helped you plan a holiday visit to Krupówki and Gubałówka, share it with friends or on social media to help others avoid surprises.
If you prefer to explore with someone who knows Zakopane inside out, I encourage you to use the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz - contact details are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Enjoy your stay in Zakopane and remember: comfortable shoes and a flexible plan are the keys to a great holiday in the mountains!
