Zakopane is a resort town in southern Poland, at the base of the Tatras Mountains. It’s a popular departure point for winter sports and summertime mountain climbing and hiking. Kasprowy Wierch and Gubałówka, reachable by cable car and funicular, are nearby ski destinations offering sweeping mountain views. The town is also known for its turn-of-the-20th-century wooden chalets, symbols of Zakopane-style architecture. ― Google
December to March ❄️
Peak winter season for skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports
Christmas markets and festive atmosphere
June to September ☀️
Ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying cool mountain air
Pleasant weather for exploring trails and nature
April, May, October, November
Shoulder seasons with fewer tourists, but some mountain trails or ski lifts may be closed
No direct train to Zakopane, but you can take a train to Kraków or Nowy Targ, then a bus or shuttle to Zakopane (2-3 hours)
Accessible via DK47 road from Kraków (~2 hours) or other regional cities
Parking available near the town center and ski areas
Stunning mountain landscapes with hiking trails, waterfalls (like Wielka Siklawa), and viewpoints
Popular trails to Morskie Oko lake and Kasprowy Wierch peak
The bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and traditional wooden architecture
Perfect for shopping, dining, and people-watching
Historic wooden villa and museum showcasing Zakopane-style architecture and art
Accessible by funicular, offering panoramic views of the Tatras and town below
Several ski areas like Kasprowy Wierch and Harenda with slopes for all levels
Hiking or trekking in the Tatra Mountains
Skiing, snowboarding, or sledding in winter
Soaking in thermal baths nearby (e.g., Terma Bania, Chochołowska Baths)
Sampling traditional highlander (Górale) cuisine and folklore shows
Exploring local markets for handcrafted wooden souvenirs and regional products
Aries Hotel & SPA – upscale spa hotel near Krupówki
Belvedere Hotel – elegant with mountain views and wellness facilities
Hotel Rysy – cozy and central with modern amenities
Sabala – traditional style with great location on Krupówki
Hostel Zakopane – affordable and close to the town center
Dom Wczasowy Pod Tatrami – simple guesthouse with good value
Oscypek (smoked sheep cheese)
Kwaśnica (sauerkraut soup)
Placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes)
Grzaniec (mulled wine)
Karczma Po Zbóju – hearty regional cuisine and live folk music
Restauracja Zakopiańska – authentic highlander dishes in a rustic setting
Bąkowo Zohylina Wyźnio – cozy spot with local flavors and mountain atmosphere
Bar Mleczny – budget-friendly Polish classics