HELICOPTER SIGHTSEEING ONE DAY TOUR ZAKOPANE FROM KRAKOW

Imagine soaring above the stunning peaks of the Tatra Mountains, wandering through charming wooden villages, tasting traditional cheese, and unwinding in thermal waters—all in one day. That’s exactly what the Helicopter Sightseeing Tour to Zakopane from Krakow promises. This carefully curated experience combines the thrill of a bird’s-eye view with cultural stops, making it an ideal choice for travelers craving both adventure and authenticity.

What really makes this tour stand out is the scenic helicopter flight over Zakopane—offering some of the best views you’ll get in Lesser Poland. Plus, the tour is thoughtfully designed with professional guides and smooth transportation, ensuring a comfortable and well-organized day. That said, keep in mind the helicopter flight costs €300 per person, which is a significant add-on, but for many, the views and experience justify the price.

This tour suits those who love adventure, cultural exploration, and relaxing spa moments. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone returning for a new perspective, the blend of natural beauty, history, and local culture makes this experience worthwhile.

Key Points

• Unmatched aerial views of Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains from the helicopter.
• Expert guides provide informative and friendly support throughout the day.
• Authentic highland experiences including walking through Chochoów and sampling oscypek cheese.
• Relaxing thermal baths offering a revitalizing end to a busy day.
• Convenient roundtrip transport from Krakow ensures stress-free travel.
• The helicopter flight is a major highlight, but it costs extra, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off from a central location at Wielopole 13, conveniently opposite a Zabka store in Krakow. From here, you’ll hop into a comfortable van for the approximately 2-hour ride to Zakopane and surrounding areas. This transfer is included, making the day seamless without the hassle of organizing your own transport.

The Village of Chochoów and Its Charm

Your first stop is Chochoów, a village recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its unique wooden architecture. We appreciated the guided walk lasting about an hour, where a knowledgeable guide shares stories about the traditional homes and local customs. Reviewers often highlight how the guides are well-informed, friendly, and eager to answer questions, adding depth to the experience.

Walking through Chochoów, you’ll notice the distinctive wooden houses, some dating back centuries. The atmosphere feels like stepping back in time, and it’s a genuine look at highlander culture. Many travelers mention the “beautiful scenery and the tranquility” as the perfect backdrop for photos or just some quiet reflection.

Sampling Traditional Oscypek Cheese

Food is an integral part of this tour, and grilled oscypek is the star. You’ll get the chance to grill your own piece of smoked cheese, which is both fun and tasty. The guide explains the tradition behind oscypek, a salty, slightly smoky cheese made from sheep’s milk, and how it’s a staple in the region. Several reviews mention how delicious it is, especially when freshly grilled.

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The Helicopter Flight – A Major Highlight

Now, onto the high-flying part—the roughly 20-minute helicopter flight over Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains. We loved the way this segment adds a wow factor to the day. From the air, the peaks look massive, and the town of Zakopane appears as a quaint alpine jewel nestled in the mountains.

Reviewers consistently praise the professionalism of the pilot and team, noting they feel safe and well taken care of. You’ll find that the views are truly unforgettable, with many mentioning how they could spend hours trying to capture the scenery with their cameras.

Guided Tour of Podhale and Zakopane

After landing, you’ll enjoy a short guided tour of Podhale, which offers insights into the region’s traditions and natural beauty. The tour lasts about 30 minutes and includes stops that highlight local architecture and vistas. Many mention that the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, adding context to what you’re seeing.

You’ll then get around 2.5 hours of free time in Zakopane itself. This is a good chance to explore at your own pace—visit the local market, browse craft shops, or sample more highlander cuisine. The town’s lively yet relaxed atmosphere is worth soaking in, especially with the mountain backdrop.

Relaxing in Chochoowskie Thermal Baths

The day wraps up with a visit to the thermal baths. This large complex offers thermal pools, jacuzzis, and treatment zones with sulphide and brine waters. Travelers have appreciated this part for its rejuvenating qualities, often describing it as a perfect way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. The waters are said to be rich in micronutrients, promoting wellness and vitality.

Many reviews mention how the baths are spacious and well-maintained, providing a relaxing end to your adventure. The 2.5-hour time slot gives enough space to enjoy a variety of pools and treatments, making this a highlight for those seeking relaxation.

Returning to Krakow

The journey back to Krakow is straightforward, with a drop-off at your starting point. The tour’s organization ensures you’re not rushed, and the entire day is paced comfortably.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $161 per person, plus the €300 helicopter fee, this tour offers a well-rounded day that combines sightseeing, culture, adventure, and relaxation. When you factor in the convenient transport, expert guides, and unique experiences like the helicopter flight, many will find the overall value quite good. The experience of flying over Zakopane, in particular, is something many travelers say they will never forget.

Practical Tips for Booking

• The helicopter flight is an extra cost, so budget accordingly.
• Bring swimwear, a towel, flip-flops, and cash, as these are not provided.
• The journey is suitable for most, but pregnant women and those with mobility limitations should consider restrictions.
• The tour is conducted in English, with professional support.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for adventure-seekers eager for aerial views and cultural enthusiasts interested in highlander traditions. It also suits travelers who want a full-day, all-in-one excursion that offers a mix of sights, tastes, and relaxation. If you love stunning landscapes, local culture, and unique activities like helicopter flights, this tour will deliver.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer to avoid additional costs, you may want to weigh the helicopter fee carefully. It’s also less suitable for pregnant women or those who prefer less strenuous activities.

Final Thoughts

The Helicopter Sightseeing Tour to Zakopane from Krakow stands out as a comprehensive and memorable day trip—combining spectacular views, cultural insights, and relaxing baths. The professional guides and well-organized logistics make it a stress-free experience. While the helicopter flight adds a hefty price tag, many find it justifies the expense for the extraordinary perspective it provides.

This tour is especially well-suited for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation in one day, with a dash of local culture thrown in. If you’re looking for a way to see Zakopane from a different angle and enjoy some authentic mountain town charm, this could be the perfect choice.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter flight?
The flight lasts approximately 20 minutes, offering plenty of time to take in the stunning mountain views and capture photos.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes round-trip transport from Krakow, guided walks, cheese grilling, thermal baths, bottled water, and support from an English-speaking guide. The helicopter flight is an optional extra costing €300 per person.

Is the thermal bath visit part of the tour?
Yes, you get about 2.5 hours to enjoy the thermal baths, which offer pools, jacuzzis, and treatment zones with mineral-rich waters.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, children should be able to handle the walking, and note that the helicopter flight might be less suitable for very young kids or those with certain health conditions.

Do I need to bring my own cash?
Yes, you’ll need cash for small expenses, snacks, or additional activities not included in the package.

To sum it up, this tour offers an engaging way to experience Zakopane’s highlights—especially if you’re eager to see the mountains from above and enjoy authentic highlander culture. Its blend of scenic, cultural, and relaxing elements makes it a comprehensive and enjoyable choice for many travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby