From Krakow: Slovakia Treetop Walk and Zakopane Tour

This full-day tour from Krakow invites you to explore two captivating mountain regions, combining a scenic treetop walk in Slovakia with a lively visit to Zakopane in Poland. Spanning approximately 11 hours, it’s a well-balanced mix of nature, culture, and local flavor. The highlight? That breathtaking treetop walk in Slovakia, where you’ll stroll above the forest canopy and enjoy expansive views of the Tatra Mountains. Added to that, Zakopane offers a bustling mountain town atmosphere, famous for its Krupówki Street and the panoramic ride up to Gubałówka Hill.

What’s great about this tour is the seamless combination of adventure and relaxed sightseeing, all delivered with expert guiding and comfortable transport. Our favorite part? The stunning vistas from the observation tower and Gubałówka, plus the chance to test traditional regional foods like Oscypek cheese and local vodka. On the flip side, some travelers might find the time in Zakopane a little rushed—it’s a busy schedule, after all. This experience suits those craving a mix of nature, scenery, and authentic local culture, especially if you love a good mountain view and a bit of adventure.

Key Points

• Unique treetop walk experience with incredible mountain and forest views.
• Comfortable, modern transport with excellent guides who share insightful local knowledge.
• Balanced itinerary with enough free time to explore Zakopane and the Slovakian market.
• Includes all tickets and gondola/funicular rides making it a hassle-free day.
• Ideal for nature lovers and culture seekers wanting a taste of both Slovakia and Poland.
• Possibility of a private tour if you prefer more personalized experiences.

A Balanced Look at the Experience

This tour offers a fantastic opportunity to visit two regions in one day, and the itinerary is crafted to maximize your sightseeing while maintaining a relaxed pace. We’ll go through each part of the trip, explaining what makes it special and what you might want to keep in mind.

The Journey from Krakow to Slovakia

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Krakow, a perk that many reviews highlight as a big plus for convenience. The drive lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes, giving you a comfortable start to your adventure. The coach is modern and clean, with plenty of space, and your driver (who also acts as your guide) will share local insights along the way. Reviewers often mention how they appreciated the friendly and professional approach, which sets a positive tone for the day.

The Slovakian Treetop Walk in Bachledka

Once across the border into Slovakia, the highlight begins. The Treetop Walk Bachledka is a wooden walkway stretching about 600 meters (1,960 feet) through the trees, and it’s elevated roughly 79 feet (24 meters) above ground. For many, this is a highlight because it offers a panoramic view of the Tatra Mountains—a rare chance to walk among treetops safely while soaking in the scenery.

At the end of the walk, you’ll reach the observation tower, which rises 105 feet (32 meters). From here, the views are extraordinary, giving visitors a sweeping perspective of the forest canopy and mountain range. The walk takes about an hour, with some reviewers mentioning they enjoyed taking their time, pausing at scenic spots for photos. The walk is accessible by foot or cable car, offering options based on your preference or mobility needs.

One reviewer, Emma, said, “The treetop walk in Slovakia was stunning,” highlighting how impressive the scenery is even on a clear day. This part of the tour is well-organized, with tickets included, so you won’t have to worry about lines or extra costs. The experience is worth the price—many travelers felt the vistas and the walk’s uniqueness justified the cost of $147 per person.

The Ride Back and Zakopane

After the Slovakian walk, you’ll return via cable car (another five-minute ride) to continue your journey. Then, about an hour later, your destination shifts to Zakopane, Poland’s famed mountain resort town. Zakopane is about 62 miles (100 km) south of Krakow—an easy drive, but what you’ll love is the vibrant atmosphere.

Your free time in Zakopane is roughly two hours, which some reviews suggest is enough to soak in the main sights, browse the local market for regional crafts, or grab a meal at a traditional restaurant. The town is lively, especially with the Christmas market vibe during winter, as some reviewers noted.

Gubałówka Hill and Scenic Views

A key highlight here is the funicular ride up Gubałówka Hill, included in your ticket. The ride is short but offers breathtaking views of the Tatra Mountains, especially if the weather is clear. From the top, you can walk around, take photos, or simply soak in the landscape. Reviewers rave about how spectacular the views are, with one noting, “The ride to Gubałówka Hill gives a brilliant view of the mountains,” making it a must-do for first-timers.

Final Stop: The Charm of Zakopane

Your free time allows for a leisurely stroll along Krupówki Street, where you can sample local cheeses like Oscypek and buy souvenirs. One reviewer fondly described Zakopane as having “a Christmas feel,” emphasizing its festive charm and friendly vibe. It’s a great spot to relax, eat, and people-watch before heading back.

Return Journey

The day concludes with a two-hour drive back to Krakow, giving you ample time to reflect on your day of mountain vistas, scenic walks, and culture. Your driver, often praised for their helpfulness and local knowledge, will ensure a smooth and safe return.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

For $147, you’re getting a full day of varied experiences. All transportation, tickets for the treetop walk, gondola, and funicular are included, which simplifies planning and often saves money compared to doing each part independently. The guide’s expertise—many reviewers commend guides like Dawid or Tomasz for their friendly professionalism and helpfulness—adds a lot to the overall experience. If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural exploration, this tour offers an authentic taste of both Slovakia and Poland.

Reviewers consistently mention how much they appreciated the well-organized schedule and the opportunity for plenty of free time to explore or relax. It’s a great choice for those who want a day packed with highlights but also value comfort and convenience.

Final Thoughts

This tour is ideal for travelers who love mountain scenery, outdoor adventure, and authentic local culture. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple, or traveling with friends or family, the mix of scenic walks and cultural stops suits many interests. The inclusion of all tickets and smooth transport means you can focus on enjoying each moment without worrying about extra costs or logistics.

The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach make the experience warm and informative, adding a personal touch that many reviewers found memorable. Plus, the stunning views from the treetop walk and Gubałówka Hill are guaranteed photo-worthy moments, making this trip a highlight of any Poland trip.

If you’re ready for a day of mountain beauty, local flavors, and a dash of adventure, this tour delivers a well-rounded and satisfying experience that will leave you with plenty of stories—and perhaps a few new favorite photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most reviews mention a fairly accessible experience, with options for foot or cable car access at the treetop walk. However, if mobility is a concern, checking the specific accessibility options may be wise.

What should I bring for the treetop walk?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and dressing in layers is wise since mountain weather can change quickly.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price. You’ll have free time in Zakopane to eat, so consider bringing snacks or planning for a meal at one of the local restaurants.

How long is the treetop walk?
The walk is approximately 600 meters (about 1,960 feet), taking around an hour, with scenic views along the route.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, reviews note a festive, Christmas-like atmosphere in Zakopane during winter. The scenery is beautiful year-round, but winter or late spring often provide the best mountain views.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, mountain views and outdoor walks are best enjoyed in clear weather. Tour operators typically monitor the forecast and may reschedule in extreme conditions.

How long are the stops?
Each stop varies: about 1 hour at the treetop walk, 2 hours in Zakopane, and additional short rides and breaks in between.

What’s the group size?
While specific group sizes aren’t mentioned, most reviews suggest a comfortable experience with an English-speaking guide and a small to medium group size, ensuring personalized attention.

This tour from Krakow offers a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and cultural charm of Slovakia and Poland in just one day. With its blend of scenic walks, mountain vistas, and lively town exploration, it’s perfect for travelers looking for an authentic, well-organized adventure that balances activity with leisure.