Would you like to see Zakopane differently than through the souvenir stalls on Krupówki? In five hours we focus on what gives the town its unique character – the Zakopane style architecture, wooden villas, places connected to Polish cultural history, and stories about the people who made Zakopane more than just a resort. The route is compact but full of curiosities, anecdotes and explanations that make the buildings and streets come alive.
On the itinerary: a walk along Krupówki, Kościeliska Street with its old villas, Villa Koliba as an example of the original Zakopane style, the Old Cemetery at Pęksowy Brzyzek, the Chapel at Jaszczurówka and a viewpoint (for example Gubałówka or another spot with a panorama of the Tatras). I’ll also tell stories about Stanisław Witkiewicz, local crafts, oscypek cheese and how Zakopane became a meeting place for artists and intellectuals.
This program is perfect for people coming from Krakow on a day trip, families with children, couples and anyone who wants to learn the essence of Zakopane in a comfortable, well-planned time. As a licensed guide I tailor the pace and emphasis to your interests – art history, architecture, everyday life in Podhale, or quick culinary tips.
If you prefer less walking, we can include short transfers (for example by minibus or taxi) between some points. When the weather allows, we choose a viewpoint so the story is seasoned with a Tatras panorama – often the most memorable moment.
Remember: five hours is the time spent in Zakopane touring with a guide, not counting travel from Krakow. The trip from Krakow usually takes about two hours, so you can plan the day comfortably and without rushing.
1) Start – meeting and brief introduction (10–15 minutes) – route overview and a short introduction to Podhale’s history and the Zakopane style.
2) Krupówki – the town’s heart (45–60 minutes) – a walk along the main promenade, discussion of the town’s tourist development, examples of wooden and masonry architecture, local crafts and customs.
3) Kościeliska Street and the Old Church (45 minutes) – the oldest parts of the town, historic chapels, local necropolises and stories of notable residents and artists buried at Pęksowy Brzyzek.
4) Villa Koliba and the Zakopane style (40–50 minutes) – the story of Stanisław Witkiewicz, the origins of the style, characteristic architectural features and museum interiors (visit outside or inside depending on opening hours).
5) The Chapel at Jaszczurówka and the Sanctuary at Krzeptówki (30–40 minutes) – examples of wooden sacred architecture and modern votive sites tied to recent history.
6) Viewpoint / Gubałówka or another panorama (20–30 minutes) – a short rest, photos and a talk about the Tatras landscape and its influence on the region’s culture.
7) Ending – summary, recommendations for places to eat, shops with regional products, practical information (10–15 minutes).
At each stop I focus on stories that connect buildings with people – those stories are what make architecture meaningful and memorable.
Krupówki – don’t be put off by the commercial side of this street. This is where contemporary Zakopane beats, but also where history meets folklore. I’ll talk about changes in local trade, how the tourist trail developed, and which buildings hide interesting architectural details.
Villa Koliba – the first house in the Zakopane style, designed by Stanisław Witkiewicz. Visiting it is essential to understand how a local version of Art Nouveau developed and how artists shaped the town’s identity.
The Old Cemetery at Pęksowy Brzyzek – the resting place of Tatra guides, writers and artists. Graves and epitaphs tell the region’s story better than many textbooks. It’s also a chance to discuss the figures who created Zakopane’s legend.
The Chapel at Jaszczurówka – a subtle wooden jewel of the Zakopane style. Witkiewicz’s design shows how traditional carpentry techniques became elements of artistic expression.
The Sanctuary at Krzeptówki – an important memorial site and evidence of how contemporary events are inscribed in Podhale’s religious and cultural landscape.
Museums and artists’ villas – short stops at places connected with Karol Szymanowski, Tytus Chałubiński or Antoni Kenar. These house-museums are full of stories about past social and artistic life in the region.
Meeting and transport – we usually meet at a central point in Zakopane or by your car/bus. If you’re coming from Krakow, plan to depart in the morning to avoid the largest crowds on Krupówki.
What to bring – comfortable shoes, a rain jacket if the forecast is uncertain, a camera or phone for photos, water and a light snack. In winter bring warm clothing and appropriate footwear.
Visiting interiors – some museums and villas have limited opening hours. If you want to enter Villa Koliba or another museum, let me know when you book – I’ll do my best to arrange access and avoid closed doors.
For families and visitors with limited mobility – the route can be shortened or modified to be stroller- and mobility-friendly. I always adapt the pace to the group.
Seasonality – Zakopane shows two different faces: green spring and summer, and picturesque snowy winter. Autumn offers calm and color, early spring fresh air and fewer tourists. Each season brings its own stories and views, so consider this when choosing a date.
As a licensed guide I put emphasis on accuracy and reliability. Architecture and history are more than dates and names – they are social context, building techniques, historical changes and local customs. My role is to put these pieces together into a story that is both accessible and verified.
Benefits of touring with a licensed guide: - confidence that you’ll hear checked facts, - the ability to tailor content to your interests, - pointing out places off the beaten track worth seeing, - practical advice on timing, food and buying regional products.
I work in a friendly, informal style – I like tours to feel like meeting a friend who gladly shares stories. I want you to return to Krakow feeling that you’ve seen Zakopane from the inside, not just from the window of souvenir shops.
If you have special interests (art history, photography, local music), tell me when you book and I’ll personalize the route to make it the best possible experience for you.
I lead tours in Polish and English – if you have foreign guests in your group, I’ll gladly prepare an English version of the route.
Book in advance, especially during the winter and summer seasons. When the meeting is confirmed I’ll send the route details, meeting point and alternative suggestions in case of bad weather.
Price – the final quote depends on the number of participants, possible entrance fees to museums and any additional transport. I make costs transparent – I always state what is included and what may be an extra charge.
Contact and questions – if you have questions about the route, access to interiors, touring with children, or want to book for a specific date, write or call. I’ll happily advise how to plan the day so it’s enjoyable and stress-free.
In conclusion: five hours in Zakopane with a licensed guide is the ideal mix of history, architecture and local atmosphere. You are warmly invited – let’s discover together the Zakopane I love most: warm, talkative and full of surprises. - Małgorzata Kasprowicz.
