Krupówki is the heart of Zakopane: a pedestrian promenade full of stalls, restaurants and an unmistakable atmosphere. At the lower station of the funicular you can easily reach Gubałówka — a convenient viewpoint with a panorama of the Tatra Mountains. In winter, especially during the Christmas period, the area is lively: illuminations, holiday stalls and the scent of hot chocolate make a walk especially atmospheric. The funicular reaches the top from the lower station on Krupówki in just a few minutes; as an alternative you can take a short but steep walk along the black trail (about 50–70 minutes depending on pace).
This guide gives you a practical, timed plan for a day in Zakopane during the holidays, plus logistical tips, food recommendations and common mistakes to avoid — so you can enjoy the mountains stress-free. If you want, the plan can be adjusted for a longer stay.
08:30 — Arrival in Zakopane, coffee and breakfast on Krupówki. Pijalnia Czekolady is a great warm-up spot among the festive decorations. 09:30 — Short walk along Krupówki: stalls with regional products, souvenirs and local atmosphere. 10:30 — Ride the funicular to Gubałówka; consider buying a ticket online to reduce waiting time. 11:00–13:00 — Enjoy the viewpoint terrace, walk along the Gubałówka ridge, and have a snack at one of the small cafés on the top. 13:30 — Return to town, lunch at a restaurant on Krupówki — seek places known for good regional cuisine and positive reviews. 15:00 — For those seeking peace: walk down Kościeliska Street and visit the Tatra Museum or take a short trip to a nearby viewpoint shelter. 17:00 — Relax at the thermal baths (for example Termy Chochołowskie or a local aquapark) — a perfect way to end a cold winter day. 20:00 — Dinner and an evening stroll along the illuminated Krupówki.
This plan is flexible: if you come with family or want to avoid crowds, start earlier or schedule Gubałówka for the afternoon when the light is softer and views of the Tatras can be especially beautiful. If it snows — the weather can add magic but also lengthen walking times.
Gubałówka is primarily about the views of the Tatras and Zakopane: viewing terraces offer excellent photo opportunities. On the summit you'll find small food stalls, souvenir stands and seasonal attractions for children. For active visitors I recommend walking the Gubałówka ridge (2–3 km), which links several viewpoints and shows the Tatras from different angles.
On the top pay attention to local curiosities: small chapels, a cross and elements of regional architecture. In winter there are also slopes and entertainment areas, so if you plan snow activities bring appropriate footwear and clothing. The most convenient return to the center is by funicular, but descending on foot is an option if conditions allow.
If you have more time or want to diversify the day: visit Kościeliska Street with its historic villas and the Tatra Museum, take a short walk under the Wielka Krokiew ski jump, or plan an afternoon of relaxation at Termy Chochołowskie or a local aquapark. Thermal baths are an excellent choice after a winter walk — warm water and saunas soothe tired legs.
For families with children, simple, safe attractions on Gubałówka and the playground on Rówień Krupowa are good picks. Also check local Christmas markets — they often offer handmade crafts and regional treats.
Buy your funicular ticket to Gubałówka online if you want to shorten queue time — during the season and on holidays lines can be long. During holidays parking in the center is paid and fills up quickly, so arrive early, use parking outside the center or travel by public transport.
It can be slippery on Gubałówka and on walking routes; bring shoes with good grip and thermal clothing. Temperatures at the summit can be much lower than in town and wind can be unpleasant. If you plan to walk after dark, remember reduced daylight in winter and bring a light source.
For visitors with strollers or limited mobility: part of the route on Gubałówka (the promenade by the upper station) is stroller-accessible, but mountain trails are not always. Check accessibility beforehand and allow extra time.
On Krupówki you will find many places at different price levels. Recommended and often well-rated spots serve traditional Podhale dishes and modern takes on highland cuisine. Look for places with good reviews and reserve a table, especially during the holidays. A popular spot on Krupówki for a warm treat is Pijalnia Czekolady; for hearty regional meals consider restaurants such as Gazdowo Kuźnia and other local mountain inns that serve podhale specialties and create a cozy atmosphere.
For a festive evening I suggest booking a table at a popular Krupówki restaurant or enjoying dinner in a place with highland atmosphere and live music. If you want to relax after a day in the cold, choose accommodation close to the center — it shortens walks and makes logistics easier when arriving or leaving. Pay attention to guest reviews and parking availability if you come by car.
Visitors often make the same mistakes: not booking funicular tickets or restaurant tables in advance, assuming everything will be open throughout the holidays, underestimating limited parking and dressing too lightly. To avoid this: make reservations ahead, check opening hours for the specific holiday date, arrive earlier or use public transport and dress in layers with a hat and gloves.
Another common mistake is ignoring the weather forecast. Mountain conditions can change fast — check forecasts for morning and afternoon and any announcements from the Tatra National Park if you plan to go above Gubałówka. In poor weather consider visiting the thermal baths or spending more time in museums and indoor attractions in town.
Does the funicular to Gubałówka run in winter? Yes — it operates year-round and the ride takes just a few minutes; during the season and holidays it's wise to buy a ticket online to reduce waiting. How long does the walk to Gubałówka take? Walking the black trail from the center typically takes about 50–70 minutes depending on pace and conditions. Are Krupówki open at Christmas? Yes — Krupówki buzz with activity during the holidays, but some shops or services may have reduced hours or closures — it's best to check in advance. Where is best to park? There are several paid parking lots in the center, but at peak holiday times they can be full — consider parking outside the center and walking or taking public transport.
If you have special needs (accessibility, baby strollers, pets), contact places you plan to visit in advance to confirm rules and facilities.
Sometimes on winter mornings the clouds sit low over the town, while from Gubałówka the view of the Tatras is clear and impressive — try riding at different times of day, not just at noon. Local stalls sell handmade ornaments and unique sweets that often make better souvenirs than mass-produced items from shopping centers.
If you have a sweet tooth — hot chocolate at a trusted chocolate café on Krupówki is a quick way to warm up and enjoy a local treat. For those who value quiet: an extended afternoon walk down Kościeliska Street shows a very different side of Zakopane than the main tourist artery.
If you found this article helpful — share it with friends or on social media; it's the easiest way to help others plan a festive trip. If you prefer a tailored plan or want to explore with a local guide, Małgorzata Kasprowicz from zwiedzaniekrakowa.com offers private guiding and can adapt the route to your needs, ensuring a stress-free and memorable day in Zakopane.
Thank you for reading — wishing you a pleasant, warm and safe holiday in the mountains! If you like, I can adapt this plan for a specific date or number of people.
