Yes — it’s possible! The Krakow ↔ Zakopane route is roughly 100 km, which in practice means about 2–2.5 hours of driving one way (depending on traffic). With good planning you can see the main sights of Krakow within 48 hours and spend the next day in the heart of the Polish Tatra Mountains — or start in the mountains and finish in the city’s historic center.
The key is strategic time planning: a short but content‑rich 2‑hour walk with a licensed guide in Krakow will give you context and the most interesting stories, while a full day in Zakopane is perfect for walks, cable cars and local specialties.
In this article you’ll find two ready 2‑day program options, practical transport tips, a Zakopane must‑see list, dining suggestions and an FAQ — all written in a friendly tone to help visitors make the most of a short stay.
Day 1 — Krakow (morning / late morning): start with a short, intensive 2‑hour walk. This is ideal if you want to quickly learn the most important facts and curiosities: Wawel (exterior and castle stories), the Main Market Square with St. Mary’s Basilica, the Cloth Hall and a short stop by the Adam Mickiewicz monument. Two hours are enough to feel the city’s atmosphere and plan more free time.
Day 1 — afternoon/evening: after the walk you can take a train or bus to Zakopane (approx. 2–2.5 h) or travel by car. In the evening in Zakopane it’s worth a short stroll along Krupowki and trying oscypek cheese with cranberry.
Day 2 — Zakopane (full day): plan about 7–10 hours for sightseeing. A typical program includes: Gubalowka (funicular and Tatra panorama), Krupowki promenade, Pęksowy Brzyzek cemetery (graves of notable figures), Wielka Krokiew, and if time and weather allow — a walk in Kościeliska Valley or a trip to Chochołów. Depending on preferences, you can add thermal baths (for example Chochołów) or a longer mountain hike.
This layout gives comfort and less rush — the 2‑hour walk in Krakow is a great start, and a full day in the mountains is perfect to relax away from city noise.
Day 1 — Zakopane (full day): depart Krakow in the morning and enjoy a day full of attractions in Zakopane. Focus on views, local wooden architecture (for example traditional villas), Krupowki and short walks. In the evening relax in a mountain inn with highlander music or at the thermal baths.
Day 2 — Krakow (morning / late morning): after a relaxed breakfast return to Krakow and take a 2‑hour walk with a licensed guide — ideal to summarize the city’s history, learn legends and get local recommendations on where to eat, what to see on your own and how to save time while exploring.
We recommend this option if mountains and outdoor activity are your priority — you can replace a late return to Krakow with a calm dinner in one of the cozy local restaurants.
Krupowki — the lively promenade with local stalls, cafes and highlander snacks; a great spot to get a feel for the town.
Gubalowka — a Tatra panorama from the viewing platform; take the funicular for a short pleasant ride and excellent photos.
Wielka Krokiew — a symbol of winter sports; you can visit the area and see the ski jump from nearby vantage points.
Pęksowy Brzyzek — a historic cemetery with graves of important cultural and sports figures, an important place of remembrance in the region.
Kościeliska Valley or Chochołowska Valley — easy and scenic walking trails; perfect if you want to feel the Tatras without demanding climbs.
Chochołów — an open‑air village with historic wooden houses; often included as a stop on day trips and a chance to try local products.
Car: the greatest flexibility — travel time is usually 2–2.5 hours. For weekend planning, it’s best to depart early to avoid traffic on Zakopianka road.
Bus / minibus: many connections run between Krakow and Zakopane, comfortable minibuses operate regularly; travel may take 2–3 hours depending on conditions.
Train: there are train connections to Zakopane; this is a comfortable, stress‑free option, but make sure to check schedules and travel time for your chosen date.
If you prefer a ready package — it’s possible to arrange a full‑day transfer from Krakow with a guide or host who will help with logistics (hotel pickup, daily plan, return).
A 2‑hour guided walk around Krakow is a great way to quickly get introduced to the city. For small groups (1–35 people) promotional price was 300 PLN for 2 hours, regular price 350 PLN. Prices for English‑language walks are usually slightly higher.
The price includes the professional storytelling of the guide, practical tips and help with buying tickets to attractions (entrance fees are usually not included and should be purchased separately).
To book a time slot, the easiest way is to contact the guide directly by phone or email. Booking allows you to set the meeting place and time and to tailor the route to your interests.
Layering is key in the mountains: even in summer temperatures in higher areas can be lower, so a light jacket and comfortable shoes are recommended.
For short city walks comfortable walking shoes and light clothing are enough — remember an umbrella or a thin rain cape as the weather can change.
If you plan to use cable cars or visit thermal baths, carry both cash and a card — some stalls selling local products (for example oscypek) may accept only cash.
For longer hikes bring water, snacks and sun protection; always check the weather forecast before you go out.
In Zakopane look for traditional mountain inns with a highlander atmosphere — on Krupowki and nearby side streets you’ll find places serving oscypek, kwaśnica and potato pancakes. Ask the guide for up‑to‑date recommendations of well‑known local inns.
In Krakow after a 2‑hour walk we recommend cozy cafes and restaurants around the Market Square: cafes serving excellent cakes and restaurants with Polish and international cuisine — ideal for a quick lunch or a longer meal after sightseeing.
If you’re after something special, the guide will gladly recommend places tailored to your culinary preferences — from family‑run inns to more refined restaurants.
Be cautious in the mountains: popular trails can be crowded, especially in season. Stick to marked trails and monitor weather conditions.
If you have health issues or limited mobility, inform the guide before the trip so the route and pace can be adjusted to your needs.
Travel insurance covering mountain rescue is a sensible choice if you plan trips off the beaten track.
Is the guide licensed? - Yes. The guide holds a state license and has extensive experience leading groups since 2012.
Are attraction tickets (e.g. cable cars) included in the tour price? - Usually attraction tickets are not included; the guide will help with purchase and advise on the best options.
Does the tour run regardless of weather? - Generally yes, but in case of heavy rain or dangerous conditions the route may be modified for safety.
How many people can be in a group? - The offer covers both small private walks and larger groups; prices and conditions are arranged individually.
Does the guide speak English? - Yes, tours in English are available.
If you want to book a 2‑hour walk in Krakow or a longer trip to Zakopane led by licensed guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz, the easiest way is to contact by phone or email.
Phone: +48 501 962 037
Email: kontakt@zwiedzaniekrakowa.com
After contact we will arrange a convenient date, meeting place and your route preferences. The guide will gladly tailor the program to your pace and interests — so that 48 hours in Poland are as satisfying as possible.
If you only have 2 days — plan one day for mountain relaxation and one for a quick, well‑guided tour of Krakow. This way you’ll experience both faces of Lesser Poland: its historic city and its proximity to nature.
Book in advance, especially during peak season or long weekends — this will simplify logistics and help avoid surprises.
Don’t hesitate to ask the guide about local gems and off‑the‑beaten‑path spots — often those are the memories that stay longest.
