Short answer: yes — but only if you plan your time well. The Lajkonik is a colorful, very Kraków-specific tradition that takes place at a set time (usually in the octave of Corpus Christi), while Zakopane is a mountain getaway idea for any season. If you dream of a romantic escape, you can start in Kraków (take in the Lajkonik for a while) and then head to the Tatras — or leave Lajkonik for a separate visit and focus only on mountain peace.
For couples the most important thing is that the trip doesn’t turn into a race against the clock. Lajkonik is a great urban experience — a colorful procession, local tunes, a little ritual (a tap with the mace is said to bring luck) — while Zakopane is about walks, views and moments just for two. Combining the two gives variety: a bit of folklore, a bit of nature and lots of shared memories.
The Lajkonik is one of the most recognizable Kraków traditions. The procession, in which a rider on a hobby horse and his retinue travel through the city, traditionally takes place during the octave of Corpus Christi and has roots stretching back centuries.
The route runs from Zwierzyniec toward the Main Market Square, and the starting place and some ceremonial points are deeply rooted in local history. Remember that Lajkonik is a live spectacle — if you want to see everything up close, arrive with enough time to find a good spot.
Practical small things: bring comfortable shoes (there’s a lot of walking and standing), double-check the start time for the year you’ll be attending and expect crowds — this is a very popular event. For couples it’s a charming and unusual way to take photos together and experience a local tradition.
It’s possible, but tiring. The “Lajkonik in the morning, Zakopane in the evening” plan requires good logistics and some flexibility. Lajkonik has a set schedule and times — check the timetable in advance and pick a convenient viewing spot so you don’t waste time moving around after the procession ends.
After Lajkonik it’s best to travel to Zakopane by bus or car. The route from Kraków to Zakopane is about 100–120 km — in normal conditions it’s roughly 2–3 hours by car. Buses (many daily connections) usually take between 2 and 3 hours — in high season roads can be congested, which lengthens travel time.
If you want an evening romantic stroll along Krupówki and dinner in Zakopane, choose a late connection and book accommodation in advance — especially in season and on weekends. An alternative is to spread the program over two days: Lajkonik and a night in Kraków, then depart for Zakopane in the morning — that way it will be calmer and more enjoyable.
Car - the most comfortable option if you want the freedom to stop along the way and keep an evening schedule. The route runs mainly along the Zakopianka; in season or in bad weather you can hit traffic jams.
Bus - usually the best balance of price and travel time. Services are regular and tickets can be bought online in advance. For couples it’s a good choice if you want to avoid the stress of driving and parking.
Train - train travel often takes longer than the bus but can be enjoyable for those who like scenic, more relaxed journeys. Check timetables and direct connections, as not all services are fast or direct.
Private transfer - a comfortable but more expensive option. For couples seeking comfort (for example, direct pickup from the hotel) this can be a reasonable investment for a special evening or weekend.
Walk along Krupówki - Zakopane’s lively main street is a classic: stalls with local souvenirs, regional flavors and atmosphere. In the evening, when lights reflect in the shop windows, Krupówki feels more intimate.
Ride up Gubałówka for sunset - a short and impressive idea for a shared moment with the Tatra panorama behind you. It’s a great spot for a photo and a coffee at sunset.
Morskie Oko - if you enjoy mountain walks, this is one of the most iconic places in the Polish Tatras. A walk to the lake offers space and views that stay in memory for a long time. Remember comfortable footwear and clothing for changing weather.
Thermal baths and spa - relaxing after a day in the mountains or after a long drive is a perfect way to unwind together. Many facilities offer pools, saunas and couple treatments.
Highlander-style dinner - choose a cozy place serving regional flavors. Booking a table for a romantic evening is a good idea, especially in season.
Alternative walks - the surroundings of Zakopane also include less crowded valleys (for example, Kościeliska Valley), which are great for a walk as a couple, with a break for a thermos of tea and sandwiches.
One-day quick trip (intense): a very early departure from Kraków - morning coffee in Zakopane - walk along Krupówki and a quick ride up Gubałówka - regional lunch - trip to Kościeliska Valley - return in the evening. This plan is tight and recommended if you’re short on time, but remember it will be a long day.
Romantic weekend (slower version): arrive on the first evening, take a walk and have dinner - second day: morning hike (Morskie Oko or an easy trail), afternoon spa/relaxation, evening by a fireplace or on a terrace with a view. Third day: slow breakfast and return to Kraków.
Combining Lajkonik and Zakopane (spread sensibly): if Lajkonik falls on the dates of your trip, stay overnight in Kraków after watching the procession and travel to Zakopane the next morning. That way you won’t be rushing; you can have a relaxed breakfast and set off for a calm, romantic escape.
Book accommodation and dinner in advance during the high season. Zakopane can be very crowded on weekends and holidays - available rooms and tables disappear fast.
Check the weather and dress in layers. Mountain weather can change within hours - even in summer it’s worth having a light rain jacket.
If you plan trails — comfortable shoes and enough water are essential. For shorter walks bring a thermos with a hot drink; for longer routes remember a map and a return plan.
Safety on the trail: if you plan a longer trek, check the trail difficulty and your abilities. If in doubt, choose an easier route rather than risking too much.
Documents and payments: many places accept cards, but on trails and in small stalls it’s useful to carry some cash.
If you want a truly special moment - plan a surprise for your partner: breakfast in a mountain shelter, a romantic photo at sunrise or an evening walk with a local dessert.
Lajkonik happens at a set time, so if you’re not in Kraków then, don’t worry. Kraków offers many other romantic experiences: a walk through the Old Town at dusk, a Vistula River cruise, a visit to Kościuszko Mound for city views, and intimate cafes and restaurants with local cuisine.
You can also plan a separate trip to Kraków during the Lajkonik dates — if seeing the procession is important to you, set the travel dates early and book in advance.
Combining Kraków’s Lajkonik tradition with a romantic trip to Zakopane is possible and can create many unforgettable moments — provided you plan sensibly and book ahead. If you prefer a calmer, more pampered trip, split the events over two days: Lajkonik + night in Kraków, then a relaxed move toward the Tatras.
If you’d like, I’ll gladly help you with a trip plan tailored to your expectations — whether it’s a short, intense getaway or a lazy weekend with a massage and a mountain view. You can find more practical advice and ready plans at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com, and I’m always happy to advise on route choice or where to have a romantic dinner.
I wish you a pleasant journey, beautiful views and many shared moments you’ll remember with a smile. See you on the trails and in Kraków’s streets!
