Krakow: Zakopane Tour with Funicular Ride and Cheese Tasting

Planning a day trip from Krakow to Zakopane offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and authentic Polish flavors. This guided tour takes you through some of the most iconic sights around the Polish Mountains, offering experiences that go beyond just taking photos. Whether it’s a scenic funicular ride, sampling traditional cheese, or exploring remarkable wooden churches, this tour aims to give you a well-rounded taste of this captivating region.

What really catches our eye about this experience is the combination of outdoor adventure and culture. The highlight for many is undoubtedly the ride on the Gubaówka funicular, which provides panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains—an absolute must-see. However, some travelers might find the full-day duration a little tight if they prefer more relaxed or unstructured exploration. It’s best suited for those eager to see a variety of sights with a guided touch, particularly if you love scenic views, local food, and cultural landmarks.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The funicular ride up Gubaówka Hill offers breathtaking vistas of the Tatra Mountains.
• Authentic Tastes: Enjoy tasting traditional smoked sheep’s cheese, Oscypek, paired with local spirits.
• Cultural Highlights: The wooden church of Jaszczurówka and the energetic ski jump hill showcase the region’s unique architecture and sporting culture.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Krakow make this a seamless experience.
• Balance of Activities: The day combines sightseeing, food, outdoor fun, and free time, appealing to diverse interests.
• Value for Money: All major transportation, entry tickets, and tastings are included, making it a cost-effective way to explore Zakopane.

Discovering Zakopane: An Authentic Mountain Escape

Zakopane is often called the winter capital of Poland, but it’s more than just a ski hub. This charming town offers a blend of natural beauty, rustic architecture, and lively local culture. This tour makes sure you experience its highlights in a single day, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The journey begins with a pickup from central Krakow, usually between 8:50 and 9:20 AM, depending on your chosen location. Once you’re in the van, the roughly 1.5-hour drive whisks you away from the city’s hustle into the peaceful mountain scenery. The comfortable, air-conditioned transport ensures your ride is relaxed, allowing you to soak in the changing landscape.

One of the first stops is Chochoów village, a delightful spot to walk around, take photos, and get a sense of rural life in the mountains. Here, you’ll have a chance to taste Oscypek, a traditional smoked sheep’s cheese, which is a real treat for cheese lovers. Reviewers mention the tasting as a highlight, with some noting the cheese’s smoky flavor paired with local spirits as a perfect introduction to regional tastes.

The Scenic Funicular Ride and Gubałówka Hill

The real star of the tour is the funicular ride to Gubałówka Hill. Typically, tickets are included, so you can enjoy the scenic ascent without extra hassle. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Tatras—an ideal spot for photos and taking in nature’s grandeur. If the cable car is under maintenance (which happens from April 1-4), your driver will take you up by car instead, ensuring you don’t miss out on the summit vistas.

Travelers often mention how the ride is not just about the views but also about the experience of riding a historic funicular, which adds a sense of adventure. On the hill, you can take a walk, snap countless photos, or simply enjoy the fresh mountain air. The brief stop allows ample time to appreciate the panoramic landscape and absorb the peaceful atmosphere.

Exploring Zakopane and Its Architectural Gems

After descending, the tour includes a visit to Zakopane itself, where you’ll have around 2.5 hours of free time. This gives you space to explore the town’s lively streets, pick up souvenirs, or simply relax at a local café. Many visitors love strolling through the bustling market stalls, browsing traditional crafts, and trying regional snacks.

A particular highlight is the Jaszczurówka wooden church, a beautifully crafted example of regional ecclesiastical architecture. Set against the backdrop of the mountains, this small yet striking church is a photographer’s dream and offers a glimpse into Poland’s wooden church-building tradition. Reviewers have appreciated its peaceful atmosphere and unique design, which contrasts sharply with modern architecture.

Next, you’ll walk around the Wielka Krokiew ski jump hill, a site that embodies Zakopane’s sporting spirit. Watching athletes soar off the jump is exhilarating, and the view from the hill offers both thrill and scenic beauty.

The Exciting Gubałówka Hill and Cultural Highlights

After some free time, the tour takes you back up Gubałówka Hill via the funicular or car, depending on maintenance schedules. Once again, you’ll enjoy sweeping views and the chance to walk around the summit area. This part of the trip is often described as the most picturesque, with many travelers noting how the mountain vistas give a real sense of the region’s rugged beauty.

The tour concludes with a nice walk around Jaszczurowka Chapel, a small wooden structure that showcases the traditional architectural style of the area. Its charming appearance and panoramic setting make it a favorite photo stop.

Finally, the return journey provides a comfortable ride back to Krakow, where you’ll be dropped off at one of several convenient locations. The whole experience spans approximately 9 hours, making it a full, engaging day out.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that the guides play a significant role in elevating the experience. Mido and Mito, the guides mentioned, are praised for their friendliness, insider tips, and ensuring everyone’s comfort. They enhance the trip with local knowledge and a warm, approachable attitude, turning a sightseeing tour into a memorable trip.

The value here is also notable—transport, entry tickets, and tastings are included, which simplifies planning and budgeting. While there’s no lunch included, the free time in Zakopane means you can grab a local meal or snack, often at reasonable prices.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip that combines scenic views, cultural sights, and local flavors, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suited for those who prefer guided tours to maximize their time and want to avoid the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets independently. Outdoor enthusiasts, food lovers, and cultural explorers will all find something to enjoy here.

However, if you’re a very relaxed traveler who prefers unstructured exploration or has mobility issues (not suitable for wheelchair users), this might feel a bit rushed or challenging in certain stops. Also, keep in mind that the full-day format requires a reasonable level of comfort with bus travel and walking.

Final Thoughts

This Zakopane day tour offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and delicious local food, all wrapped up in a convenient package. The inclusion of the funicular ride, cheese tasting, and visits to iconic sites like Jaszczurówka Church and Wielka Krokiew makes it a comprehensive introduction to this beloved mountain town.

Travelers who love stunning vistas, authentic regional cuisine, and a taste of local architecture will find this tour packed with memorable moments. The guides’ friendly approach and the smooth logistics make it a stress-free way to experience Zakopane without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

If your goal is to get a good feel for the region in a single day and you’re happy with a guided experience that balances adventure with cultural highlights, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially beneficial for those who appreciate value-packed experiences, where transportation, tickets, and tastings come together for a seamless outing.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Krakow, with several pickup locations available around the city.

How long is the journey from Krakow to Zakopane?
The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours, providing a comfortable start to your day of exploration.

What is included in the price?
Transport by air-conditioned van, visits to Chochoów village, cheese tasting of Oscypek, funicular railway ticket to Gubałówka Hill, and free time in Zakopane are all included.

What is not included?
Lunch is not included, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to eat during your free time in Zakopane.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and some walking is involved at stops like Jaszczurowka Chapel and Wielka Krokiew.

What happens if the cable car is under maintenance?
During maintenance (from April 1-4), your driver will take you up to Gubałówka Hill by car instead of the cable car.

Are guided tours available in languages other than English and Polish?
Written booklets are available in other languages, which can be selected during the booking process.

How much time will I have in Zakopane?
You’ll have approximately 2.5 hours of free time to explore, shop, or relax in the town.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since there is some walking involved at various stops.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While offered year-round, the scenery and experiences are most stunning outside of the winter ski season, although winter adds to Zakopane’s charm. Check availability for your preferred dates.

To sum it up, this tour balances sightseeing with authentic local experiences, making it ideal for travelers wanting a well-structured day in Zakopane. It’s perfect for those who value scenic views, cultural landmarks, and delicious regional foods—all wrapped up in a hassle-free package.