Zakopane is the heart of the Polish Tatra Mountains — its scenic promenades, highlander cuisine and proximity to beautiful valleys mean many people plan a quick getaway from Krakow. A one-day trip is intense but doable if you plan your route and priorities well. It’s a great way to get a first taste of the region: feel the highlander atmosphere, ride or walk up to Gubałówka, stroll along Krupówki and see Zakopane’s characteristic spots — all without long mountain hikes.
Remember that fully discovering the Tatras takes more than a day — treat this plan as an appetizing preview that will make you want to come back for longer.
By car: about 1.5–2 hours one way with smooth traffic; on the popular Zakopianka road times can be longer in season and at weekends.
By bus/coach: usually around 2 hours, depending on the operator and road conditions.
By train: about 3 hours (longer than the bus but comfortable and stress-free for not driving).
Practical note: leaving very early in the morning (for example 5:30–6:30) lets you make the most of the day and avoid the afternoon return-traffic peak.
5:30–6:30 — depart from Krakow. The earlier you leave, the better — you’ll avoid jams and gain more time for sightseeing.
Around 9:00 — arrive in Zakopane (approx.). Short walk along Krupówki: the town’s best-known promenade, stalls with oscypek and regional souvenirs.
10:00–11:30 — take the cable car up to Gubałówka or choose a short hike to Nosal. Gubałówka gives a fast, spectacular view of the Tatras and makes for memorable photos without a long trek.
12:00–13:30 — lunch at a local inn (for example Karczma U Wnuka or Gazdowo Kuźnia) — try kwaśnica, oscypek with cranberry, or moskole.
14:00–15:00 — visit the Wielka Krokiew ski jump area, walk through the older parts of Zakopane (Kościeliska Street, the cemetery at Pęksowy Brzyzek) or make a short trip to Chochołów to see traditional village architecture if you prefer a rural setting.
15:30–16:30 — free time on Krupówki for souvenirs, coffee and dessert.
17:00–18:30 — head back to Krakow (avoid late evening returns on weekends).
Car: gives the most flexibility (you can adjust stops and visit nearby places), but remember about traffic jams and paid parking in Zakopane.
Bus/coach: a fast and convenient option if you don’t have a car — many operators run direct services from Krakow with flexible schedules.
Train: good if you want to avoid driving stress, though travel takes longer; evening trains can be crowded in high season.
Private transfer: a comfortable option that simplifies logistics, especially for groups or travelers with lots of luggage.
Trying to see Morskie Oko and still climb a peak the same day is overly ambitious. The walk from the parking area to Morskie Oko takes several hours round-trip, and queues and travel time can significantly extend your schedule.
Another common mistake is attempting too many valleys and trails at once — it’s better to pick one or two highlights and enjoy them at a relaxed pace.
Not booking tables in popular restaurants during the season — you can lose valuable time waiting.
Karczma U Wnuka (ul. Kościeliska) — a historic spot with traditional Podhale flavors and an atmospheric interior.
Gazdowo Kuźnia (Krupówki) — a popular restaurant with highlander music and a wide selection of regional dishes.
Bąkowo Zohylina Wyżnio — a good choice for authentic Podhale tastes.
Tip: in high season reserve a table or visit outside peak lunch hours (around 13:00–15:00 is usually busiest).
Check the weather forecast — mountain conditions change quickly; bring a lightweight windbreaker even in summer.
Carry some cash — small stalls selling oscypek sometimes don’t accept cards.
If you drive — plan parking in advance (spots fill up fast in season; check paid parking zones).
Be mindful of crowds on Krupówki and at attractions during peak season — set a meeting point with your group in case you get separated.
Zakopane became popular in the 19th century as a spa and resort destination visited by artists and medical professionals.
Karczma U Wnuka has operated in a historic building since the 19th century and is one of the oldest restaurants in the region — worth a visit even if only for a local dessert.
Gubałówka remains one of the quickest ways to get panoramic views — the funicular avoids a long climb, which makes a big difference for a one-day plan.
Does a one-day trip from Krakow to Zakopane make sense? Yes — if you want to feel the Podhale atmosphere and see the main sights. It won’t replace a multi-day stay in the Tatras.
Can I make it to Morskie Oko in one day? Technically yes, but it will be very tight and you’ll likely miss other attractions. For comfort, leave Morskie Oko for a separate trip.
How do I avoid the worst traffic? Leave very early in the morning and return before the evening peak; alternatively consider the train or a private transfer.
Is it worth going up to Gubałówka? Yes — it’s a quick way to get great views and photos without much effort.
Do I need to reserve a restaurant? In high season it’s recommended, especially for lunch at popular times.
How should I prepare for the weather? Layered clothing, a light waterproof jacket and decent casual shoes are the minimum.
Packing “too much” into a single day — choose fewer activities and do them well.
Underestimating travel time — remember about jams in season and long weekends.
No Plan B — have an alternative (for example exploring the town center instead of a mountain valley) in case weather or traffic disrupts your first plans.
Seasonality: the busiest times are summer and winter school holidays; outside peak season Zakopane is calmer and often cheaper.
Tickets and fees: the Gubałówka cable car and some attractions require tickets — check opening times and prices in advance to avoid wasting time.
Souvenirs: oscypek is a classic — buy from stalls that show certification and try it grilled with cranberry jam.
To make the most of a one-day trip to Zakopane — plan your route and priorities, leave early and keep realistic expectations. This plan will help you see the most important spots and feel the spirit of Podhale without excessive rushing.
If you found this article helpful, share it on social media or send it to friends. If you prefer exploring with a local guide, we warmly recommend the services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Safe travels and enjoy your trip!
