A trip from Krakow to Zakopane is a classic day excursion — the Tatra Mountains are within reach, but such a trip usually takes a full day. By contrast, Rynek Podgórski (Podgórze Market Square) is a small, characterful square in Krakow, perfect for a relaxed walk and a short carriage ride that adds a touch of nostalgic charm. In this article I explain what can realistically be done in half a day and how to combine that with a mountain plan so your visit is pleasant and stress-free.
In short: Zakopane from Krakow is most often planned as a full-day trip (time including travel and sightseeing), while a short "half-day" program is best spent exploring the Podgórze part of the city — Rynek Podgórski, the surroundings and a carriage ride. If you want to see the Tatra Mountains and Krupówki, reserve at least 8 hours.
Article prepared for zwiedzaniekrakowa.com — guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz.
The distance between Krakow and Zakopane is about 100–110 km by road, and travel time usually takes about 2 hours each way (it can be longer in high season or in traffic). For this reason, a trip to Zakopane is practically a full-day program — plan 8–9 hours to have time for a walk, lunch and optional attractions (the Gubałówka funicular, Krupówki, valley walks).
Rynek Podgórski, on the other hand, is a place you can comfortably see in 1–3 hours: a triangular square with a church, cafes and local eateries, and atmospheric Podgórze streets to stroll. A short carriage ride (if a stand is operating and the weather permits) fits perfectly into a half-day program and is a great option for people who don't have time for the Tatras or prefer to stay in Krakow first.
So before you book a "half-day" for Zakopane, consider whether it might be better to spend that time discovering Podgórze with comfortable breaks and local food.
1) Timing: plan 2–3 hours. That is enough to calmly explore Rynek Podgórski, take photos, have a coffee and enjoy a carriage ride if available.
2) Where to start: Rynek Podgórski is home to St. Joseph's Church and several charming townhouses. Walk the streets around the square, visit nearby cafes and small galleries.
3) Carriage: in Krakow horse-drawn carriages are traditionally found near the Old Town, but occasional stands can appear in other parts. Before your planned ride check local city announcements about carriage stands (the city sometimes introduces bans or restrictions for safety or weather reasons).
4) Ride length: short circuits around the square usually last 10–20 minutes; longer routes can be negotiated with the driver. Make sure to agree on the price and the route before you start.
5) What to bring: comfortable shoes (cobblestones and uneven sidewalks), water, a camera and some cash — in some cases carriage drivers prefer cash payment.
Carriages are part of the city tradition but operate within a regulated environment. In recent years city authorities have sometimes introduced temporary restrictions on stands and rides (for example during high temperatures or major events) to protect animals and passengers. For this reason it is worth checking current municipal announcements before you go or asking where you plan to start the ride.
A few common-sense rules: do not get into a carriage if the horse looks exhausted; ask about breaks and the planned route; agree the price before the ride begins. Drivers will often share a short story about the places you pass.
If you want certainty and comfort — combining a walk with a short, mindful carriage ride gives a lot of pleasure without the need to sit for a long time in the harness.
- Time and logistics: plan at least 8 hours for a trip from Krakow to Zakopane, counting travel, a walk along Krupówki or a ride up Gubałówka, and return. Organized trips and private transfers typically offer 8–9 hour options or shorter variants with about 5 hours of free time (this is enough for a short walk and a quick meal, but not for longer mountain hikes).
- How to get there: the most popular options are car, bus or train. Intercity buses often run several times daily and cover the route in around 2 hours without transfers; trains can be slower or require route variants, but are a good choice for rail enthusiasts.
- What to see in Zakopane: Krupówki, ski jumps, the Pęksowy Brzyzek cemetery, the Gubałówka funicular, and valley walks (for example Kościeliska Valley) — the choice depends on the season and your preferences.
- Thermal baths: if you want to combine relaxation with your trip, consider visiting one of the thermal complexes near Zakopane — a popular and very pleasant option on the way or at the end of the day.
Option A — "Half day in Podgórze" (for those staying in Krakow): 2–3 hours at Rynek Podgórski, coffee and cake in a local cafe, a short carriage ride, and a walk along the Vistula boulevards toward Krakus Mound.
Option B — "Zakopane for a full day" (for mountain lovers): depart Krakow in the morning, 2 hours drive, 4–5 hours in Zakopane for a walk and lunch (optionally a ride to Gubałówka), return to Krakow in the evening.
Option C — "Transfer and thermal baths" (for relaxation): travel from Krakow with a combined ticket: transfer to Zakopane plus entry to one of the local thermal baths — usually requires a full day.
In Podgórze you'll find several pleasant places for coffee and a light lunch — look for local cafes and bistros around the square that serve homemade pastries and sandwiches. For a longer meal we recommend traditional inns and restaurants in Zakopane: highlander specialties, oscypek in various forms and regional dishes worth trying after you arrive.
A few universal tips: check opening hours (some places fill up in high season), reserve a table if you plan to eat at lunch on the weekend, and for thermal complexes and popular restaurants book in advance.
If you want, I can prepare a separate list of recommended places in Podgórze and Zakopane tailored to your culinary preferences.
- Weather: check the forecast — mountain conditions can change quickly. In heat the city may introduce restrictions for carriages — make sure the service is available.
- Transport: if you drive yourself, allow for possible traffic (especially on weekends and holidays). If you use a transfer or organizer, confirm departure times and meeting point.
- Time of year: in winter you'll find snow and a highlander atmosphere in Zakopane; in summer you can hike and enjoy the thermal baths. In spring and autumn bring a windproof layer.
- Money and payment: most places accept cards, but drivers and smaller stalls might prefer cash — it is useful to have some zlotys with you.
- With children: a short carriage ride is often a big attraction; if you plan mountain walks with children, choose easier trails and schedule more frequent breaks.
Can you combine a half day in Podgórze with a short trip to Zakopane? - Practically speaking it is better to treat Zakopane as a full-day destination. Two hours each way mean that the actual time on site during a short trip is very limited.
Where can I find information on whether carriages are operating on a given day? - Check city announcements and local notices. The city sometimes introduces temporary restrictions on carriage stands for safety or animal welfare reasons.
How much does a carriage ride cost? - Prices vary depending on route and duration; always agree the cost with the driver before starting.
Are carriages only at the Main Market Square? - Most carriages are traditionally found in the Old Town, but occasional stands may appear in other tourist areas — however this should not be assumed as a rule.
- If you only have half a day in Krakow — choose Rynek Podgórski and a gentle walk with an element of local history instead of rushing to the mountains. This will let you feel a different, less touristy side of Krakow.
- If you dream of the Tatras — reserve a full day (or better, two), so you can truly taste the region and not hurry.
- Check local announcements before a planned carriage ride and always ask the driver about route and price in advance.
- Do you have questions about a specific date, bookings, or would you like guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz to prepare a program tailored to your family or group? Write — I will gladly help plan a stress-free day in Krakow and the surrounding area!
