Looking for a mountain weekend with a touch of comfort, without rushing or stress? The premium option means comfortable accommodation, breakfasts included, the ability to tailor activities, and sometimes extra discounts for restaurants or spa. It’s a great way to see the most interesting spots in Zakopane and the surrounding area at a pace that lets you really enjoy the scenery and local atmosphere.
With a premium package it’s also easier to add unusual experiences — panoramic rides by cable car or private vehicle, a guided private tour of the area, a quad excursion, or an evening at thermal baths. If you want to add something related to cinema or television at the same time, you can include a so-called film trail — places that appeared in various productions or places that simply have a cinematic vibe.
In this article I prepared a friendly, ready 3-day plan plus practical tips on how to arrange the trip so it’s comfortable and memorable. I wrote it with people in mind who want a bit more than a “quick getaway” — relaxation, good food and a little local color.
If you prefer a personalized guided tour in Krakow — feel free to visit my site zwiedzaniekrakowa.com; this text focuses on Zakopane and the surrounding area.
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Day 1 — arrival, check-in at a comfortable apartment, stroll along Krupówki, a ride up to Gubałówka or relaxing in a café with a view.
Day 2 — classic Tatras day: Morskie Oko (full day) or, alternatively, Kościeliska Valley and a cable car ride to Kasprowy Wierch; in the evening relax at the thermal baths (large pool complexes in the region).
Day 3 — film trail and premium activities: visit places used as film/TV locations or with a cinematic character, an easy hike, a quad ride or a visit to a local museum and return home.
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This plan is flexible: if you prefer less walking, choose more comfortable attractions — scenic strolls, cable cars, pools and culinary stops. If you love the mountains, treat Morskie Oko or Kasprowy Wierch as the highlight of your trip.
The most convenient ways to reach Zakopane are by car (the drive from Krakow usually takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic) or by train/bus. After arrival, check in and drop off luggage — for a premium stay choose an apartment with a mountain view or a guesthouse with a sauna.
A walk along Krupówki is a must: stalls with local cheeses, oscypek and small souvenirs, atmospheric cafés and restaurants. If you want a quick panorama of the Tatras, take the cable car to Gubałówka or choose a short walk to a viewpoint.
In the evening I recommend a local dinner — traditional Podhale cuisine has delicious secrets. The premium version is also the time to book attractions for the next days, tickets to the thermal baths or a dinner reservation — it’s smart to do it right away before places fill up.
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By the way: many "premium weekend" offers include 2 nights and breakfasts — this is a convenient solution so you don’t waste morning time looking for a place to eat.
If you choose Morskie Oko, prepare for a hike along the tourist road (depending on pace and weather the total round-trip time is roughly 4–5 hours). This classic destination rewards you with unforgettable views of the mountain lake and surrounding peaks.
An alternative for those who prefer a shorter but spectacular experience is the cable car to Kasprowy Wierch (availability depends on weather), followed by a short walk in the upper parts of the Tatras. Another option is Kościeliska Valley — a beautiful and easy route with several interesting spots to see.
After a full day in the mountains, relaxing at the thermal baths is an excellent idea. In the region you’ll find large pool complexes with saunas and relaxation zones — perfect to loosen muscles and warm up. For premium trips it often pays to reserve entry in advance.
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If you plan to visit Morskie Oko in season, head out early — you’ll avoid crowds and make the most of the day.
You can organize the film trail in several ways: independently, by selecting places that were used as film locations or that simply have a cinematic atmosphere; or as part of a premium package, where the itinerary includes a guide or short storytelling about each location.
In Zakopane and its immediate surroundings you’ll find spots often seen in Polish films and TV series: distinctive wooden villas, chapels in the Zakopane style, panoramas of the Tatras and iconic streets. It’s also worth visiting museum corners and local galleries that showcase Podhale culture — these often provide the strongest “stage-like” atmosphere.
If you want to spice things up: choose an activity like a quad trip or a short off-road excursion — these are popular, exciting options available from local operators. You can also book an afternoon at an upscale thermal complex or a dinner with live highlander music.
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Remember that a "film trail" doesn’t have to be a formal, signposted route — it’s more a concept: selected places arranged into an enjoyable route with stories about their film and historical roles.
For a premium stay I recommend apartments with a view of the Tatras or guesthouses that offer extra amenities: breakfasts served to the room, a wellness area, parking and a concierge to help reserve attractions.
It’s worth checking voucher deals — some sites offer ready-made packages “Weekend in Zakopane | PREMIUM (3 days)” with 2 nights, breakfasts and additional benefits. That’s convenient if you’d like most of the organization taken care of.
When booking, pay attention to location: the center (Krupówki) is the liveliest part, while quieter areas nearby (e.g. Kościelisko) give easier access to trails and more peace. If comfort matters, choose a place with parking or easy access by car.
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If you travel with a group or family, check whether an apartment comfortably fits everyone — premium options often include 3–4 person units.
Podhale cuisine is more than just oscypek — try kwaśnica (sauerkraut soup), moskole (potato flatbreads), regional meat dishes and desserts with local berries. For a premium experience plan one elegant dinner featuring local ingredients and one cozy, traditional meal in a highlander inn.
Krupówki has plenty of quick eateries and souvenir shops, but the real culinary gems are often a little off the main street. Booking a table for a weekend evening is a good idea, especially in high season.
If you stay in an apartment, morning coffee on the balcony with a view of the Tatras is one of the nicest “premium” pleasures — and breakfast included in a package makes planning easier.
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I also recommend buying local cheeses directly from producers — the taste and freshness are incomparable.
Weather in the Tatras can change quickly — pack layered clothing, a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes. Even in summer evenings can be chilly. If you plan to go to Morskie Oko or Kasprowy, bring a thermos with water and some snacks.
Book cable car and thermal bath tickets in advance if you prefer to secure your spot. Popular attractions can fill up quickly on busy weekends.
If you travel by car, allow extra time for access and possible traffic — especially during holidays and summer weekends. Premium packages often include parking, which is a big advantage.
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For a three-day trip bring your documents, a basic first-aid kit, a power bank and a camera — the Tatras deliver beautiful photo opportunities.
Premium packages vary widely — some are simple vouchers with 2 nights and breakfast, others include spa, transfers or activities. Check what’s included in an offer before you book.
When budgeting, include: premium accommodation, meals (one or two restaurant dinners), cable car/thermal tickets, any equipment rentals (e.g. quads) and transport. Booking early often saves money and gives a better choice of dates.
If you want maximum comfort, add a margin for extra activities or better transport — for example a private transfer from Krakow.
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If you prefer a ready-made solution, look for weekend offers that clearly list what’s included and the cancellation policy.
Check the weather forecast before you leave and adapt clothing and your itinerary accordingly.
If you want to use thermal baths, book entry times — this saves time and guarantees a spot.
The film trail is a great idea for a personalized tour: design a route from places you like, match it to the mood of the film you have in mind, and don’t be afraid to add local history or stories about filming — it all makes the experience richer.
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And most importantly: leave some slack in your schedule — the best memories come when you’re not racing through a checklist, but simply look at the Tatras and breathe the mountain air.
Zakopane in a premium 3-day version is a good balance between active mountain discovery and comfortable relaxation. You can combine the classics (Morskie Oko, Krupówki, Gubałówka) with unique experiences: thermal baths, quad rides and your own film trail.
If you’d like, I’ll gladly help prepare a personalized trip plan — both for Krakow and with suggestions on how to arrange a stay in Zakopane so it’s perfect for you. Feel free to contact me and enjoy a memorable, film-flavored mountain weekend!
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Małgorzata Kasprowicz, Krakow guide (zwiedzaniekrakowa.com)
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