Yes — this is a popular plan for visitors who stay in Kraków for a few days. One day in Zakopane and another day for a relaxed walk along the Planty and a visit to the Jagiellonian University Botanic Garden complement each other well: the mountains give spectacular views, the garden offers rest and contact with nature, and the Old Town provides atmosphere and good places to eat.
In practice, it’s worth planning the route and order: a trip to Zakopane is best done in the morning (by bus or private transfer), while the Botanic Garden visit and a stroll through the Old Town should be scheduled for another day — that way you avoid tiredness and rushing.
This article gives concrete information: how to get to Zakopane from Kraków, when and where the Jagiellonian University Botanic Garden is open, which parking options are most convenient near the Old Town, and practical tips that will save you time and nerves.
The Jagiellonian University Botanic Garden is located at ul. Kopernika 27 — a pleasant, historic green space right by the center; you can reach it from the Market Square on foot in a 12–20 minute walk along the Planty.
Season and opening hours: the garden has seasonal visiting hours — in summer the paths and greenhouses are open longer, while off-season some facilities may be closed. Generally you can expect longer opening hours in spring and summer and shorter hours in autumn. If you care about a particular greenhouse exhibition or access to the orangery, check the opening times shortly before your visit.
Tickets and entry: the garden charges a small entrance fee and has separate rules for greenhouses; for groups and guided visits it’s worth booking in advance. Photography for private use is usually allowed; remember that bikes are not always permitted on garden paths.
What to see: ornamental plant collections, historic greenhouses, a palm house and tucked-away corners with rare specimens — it’s a great place to relax, take a small photo session or enjoy an educational walk with children.
Closest to the Market Square and most convenient: Galeria Krakowska car park (next to the Main Railway Station). It’s a large guarded parking facility under the shopping center — a convenient option if you want to leave your car for a few hours and explore on foot. Hourly prices can be higher than P+R lots, but comfort and availability are big pluses.
Underground alternatives: the car park beneath the National Museum or the parking near Wawel are solutions close to the centre. These places are practical for people planning a walk along the Planty, a visit to Wawel and the Market Square.
Economical options: if you don’t need to be right in the centre, consider Park & Ride (e.g. Czerwone Maki) and take a tram into the city — this is usually cheaper and faster during peak hours. Many P+R lots have good tram and bus connections to the centre.
Zones and apps: the centre is covered by the Paid Parking Zone (fees typically apply Monday to Saturday during specified hours). You can pay at a parking meter or via popular apps (Mobilet, SkyCash, Pango and others). Note: changes to the fee system were introduced in August 2025 — with different rates for holders of the Kraków Card and other drivers, so check current rules and prices before your visit.
Practical note: parking directly at the Market Square is restricted (for residents and service vehicles). Illegally parking in the centre risks a fine and additional charges, so choose a trusted car park or a P+R lot.
By bus: the most convenient and fastest option for many tourists — long-distance bus operators run connections. The trip usually takes about 2–2.5 hours; it’s wise to buy tickets online in advance (the earlier, the better the prices).
By train: rail travel is possible, but routes are sometimes longer and less direct — the journey may take up to around 4 hours depending on the connection. This is an option for travelers who are not in a hurry and enjoy the scenery.
By car/private transfer: driving takes about 2 hours (depending on traffic and road conditions). A private transfer offers comfort and flexibility, especially for groups or families — remember there can be traffic in the high season and parking on Krupówki is limited.
What to do in Zakopane: for a short trip try a stroll along Krupówki, the funicular to Gubałówka, the local market with regional products and, if time allows, a walk into one of the Tatra valleys or a short mountain hike. Mountain weather changes quickly — bring layered clothing and comfortable shoes.
For a mountain trip: comfortable, waterproof shoes, layered clothing (it can be cooler in the Tatras than in Kraków), sunscreen and a water bottle. If you plan to visit Morskie Oko or higher trails — check the weather forecast and trail conditions.
For the Botanic Garden: comfortable shoes, a camera and something waterproof in case of changeable weather. Remember that some greenhouses may have limited access, and parts of the collections can be closed during renovation work.
Documents and payments: have your car registration number handy when paying at a parking meter and keep payment apps installed for convenience. If you plan guided visits or group tours, confirm reservations in advance.
Near the Old Town you’ll find many highly rated cafés and restaurants: consider visiting Cafe Camelot or Charlotte (fresh bread and atmospheric interiors) as well as places serving local cuisine that are popular with visitors. These are friendly options well-liked by tourists.
Near the Botanic Garden — after a walk it’s nice to stop for coffee and cake at one of the cafés around the Planty or on Kopernika Street. The city centre offers a wide selection of gelaterias and coffee shops, perfect for a break after sightseeing.
Accommodation: if you plan evenings in the Old Town and quick access to the railway station, choose a location near the Planty or the Main Station. For visitors who want easy access to Zakopane, hotels and guesthouses with good road connections to the ring road and proximity to public transport loops are convenient.
Mistake: trying to park “right by the Market Square” without checking rules — result: a fine or towing. Solution: choose a trusted car park (Galeria Krakowska, the National Museum car park) or a P+R lot and take a tram.
Mistake: planning “Zakopane and the Botanic Garden in one day” — result: tiredness and not enough time. Solution: split the attractions into two days, reserving a full day for the mountains or dedicating another day to the garden and the Old Town.
Mistake: not checking greenhouse opening hours or special exhibitions — result: arriving to a closed section. Solution: check current opening hours and any renovation notices before your visit.
Can I enter the Botanic Garden with a dog? Rules may vary — generally dogs on a leash are accepted outside greenhouses, but it’s best to confirm before your visit.
What are the best hours for a quiet visit to the Garden? Early mornings and weekdays outside the high season are the best times for peace and smaller queues to the greenhouses.
Is it worth buying tickets online? If the garden offers online sales for greenhouses or special events — yes, especially in the tourist season. For parking — use an app if you want to avoid standing at the meter.
How long does it take to get from Kraków to Zakopane? By bus about 2–2.5 hours in good road conditions; trains can take longer, and private transfers offer the most flexibility.
If this guide helped you plan a trip, share it with friends or on social media — let others benefit from these practical tips!
If you’d like to explore Kraków with a guide, I invite you to use the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details and offerings are available directly on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
I wish you successful trips, safe travels and many green moments — both in the Tatras and in the Jagiellonian University Botanic Garden!
