Zakopane

Tatra Mountains National Park

The main reason many tourists visit Zakopane is the nearby Tatra Mountains National Park, to which Zakopane is the main gateway. The Tatra Mountains Park is the natural jewel of the region, offering breathtaking landscapes and unique biodiversity.

Lake Morskie Oko is considered one of the jewels of the Polish Tatras. This magnificent Alpine lake, set at an altitude of 1,395 metres, is surrounded by imposing peaks that are reflected in its crystal-clear waters. The path leading to the lake is well maintained and accessible to hikers of all levels, offering breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains along the way. During winter, the lake transforms into a frozen mirror, creating a fairytale setting that attracts photographers from all over the world.

The Five Lakes Valley is one of the most impressive routes in the Tatras. This circular route allows you to admire five spectacular alpine lakes, each with unique characteristics. The trail winds through varied landscapes, from coniferous forests to alpine meadows, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The variety of flora and fauna that can be observed along the way makes this hike particularly interesting for nature lovers.

The Kasprowy Wierch, reached by a scenic cable car, is one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Tatras. From its summit, at 1,987 metres, there is a breathtaking view of both sides of the mountain range. In winter, the mountain becomes a popular skiing destination, while in summer it offers excellent hiking opportunities. The weather station on the summit, built in the 1930s, adds a historical touch to the experience.

Krupówki Street

Krupówki Street is the beating heart of Zakopane, a pedestrian artery stretching for over a kilometre in the centre of the city. This lively street is emblematic of the Zakopane lifestyle, where tradition and modernity blend harmoniously.

The street is lined with local craft shops where you can buy typical products such as smoked oscypek cheese, furs, carved wooden objects and traditional jewellery.

Historic cafés and restaurants offer the opportunity to sample traditional Tatra cuisine, such as kotlet po góralsku (mountain-style schnitzel) or kwaśnica (sauerkraut soup). Many places present live folk music performances, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the góral culture.

During the holidays, especially in winter, Krupówki comes alive with Christmas markets and folklore events, creating a magical atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Kościeliska Street

Kościeliska Street is one of Zakopane’s most authentic cultural treasures, offering a fascinating journey back in time through the architecture and traditions of the Polish highlanders.

This historical street, less touristy than the famous Krupówki, winds its way for about two kilometres through the heart of old Zakopane, presenting some of the most beautiful examples of the Witkiewicz architectural style, characterised by elaborate wooden decorations and sloping roofs typical of the region.

Along the street you can admire numerous historical wooden houses dating back to the end of the 19th century, including Villa Koliba, the first building constructed in the Zakopane style and today home to the Museum of the Zakopane Style. Also of particular interest is the Sacred Heart Church, a magnificent example of sacred wooden architecture that blends elements of the Gothic style with traditional motifs from the Tatra region.

The street is also home to several craft workshops where you can watch local masters at work creating traditional wooden objects, embroidery and typical jewellery.

Church of the Holy Family

The Church of the Holy Family (Sanktuarium Najświętszej Rodziny) is an architectural masterpiece that perfectly embodies the ‘Zakopane style’, a unique fusion of elements of traditional mountain architecture with Art Nouveau influences. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, the church is distinguished by its wooden structure, carved decorations and richly ornamented interior.

The exterior of the church is characterised by a steep roof and soaring spires that blend harmoniously with the surrounding mountain landscape. The dark wooden walls are decorated with traditional Gothic motifs, creating a unique and instantly recognisable visual effect.

Inside, visitors are greeted by a warm and cosy atmosphere. The interior is a triumph of local craftsmanship, with colourful frescoes adorning the walls and ceiling, telling biblical stories and scenes from mountain life. Artistic stained glass windows filter the light suggestively, creating plays of colour that change throughout the day.

Themain altar, also made of finely worked wood, is an outstanding example of artistic carving.

Tatra Museum

The Tatra Museum is an essential stop to understand the rich history and culture of the region. Housed in a 19th-century Zakopane-style villa, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of life in the mountains through the centuries.

The museum’s permanent collection includes a wide range of ethnographic artefacts, including traditional costumes, agricultural tools, wood carvings and paintings illustrating the daily life of mountain people. Particularly interesting are the exhibitions dedicated to the evolution of mountaineering and skiing in the region, which played a crucial role in the development of Zakopane as a tourist destination.

The museum also has sections devoted to the unique geology of the Tatras, with displays of minerals and fossils, and to the biodiversity of the region, showing characteristic Alpine flora and fauna. Dioramas and reconstructions of natural environments offer a visual immersion into the mountain ecosystem.

Gubałówka Hill

Gubalówka Hill offers one of the most spectacular views of Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains. This vantage point is easily reached by a scenic funicular railway from the city centre, offering a thrilling ride with breathtaking views.

Once at the top, visitors are greeted by a 360-degree panorama sweeping from the Zakopane valley to the majestic peaks of the Tatras. On a clear day, the view extends as far as the Slovakian mountains, creating a picture-postcard scenery.

Gubalówka is not just an observation point, but a destination in its own right. On the summit is the Gubalowka Adventure Park with attractions for all ages, including a summer toboggan run and a planetarium. Restaurants with panoramic terraces offer the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine while admiring the landscape.

The craft market on the hill is a great place to buy authentic souvenirs, including woollen products, local cheeses and carved wooden objects. During the summer, Gubalówka is the ideal starting point for walks along the ridges of the surrounding hills, offering scenic routes suitable for all ages.

In winter, the hill turns into a small ski resort, ideal for beginners and families. The toboggan runs are particularly popular, offering fun for young and old.

Aqua Park Zakopane

TheAqua Park Zakopane is an oasis of water fun and relaxation in the heart of the mountain town. This modern complex offers a unique experience that combines the thrill of water sports with spa wellness, all with a spectacular view of the Tatra Mountains.

The water park covers an area of over 5,000 square metres and offers a wide range of attractions for visitors of all ages. The main pool is the centrepiece of the Aqua Park, with a connected indoor and outdoor part, allowing guests to swim outdoors even during the winter months, immersed in the surrounding snowy landscape.

The wellness and spa area of the Aqua Park is particularly popular for its mix of tradition and modernity. Several themed saunas can be found here, including a Finnish sauna with panoramic views, aromatic steam baths and a Himalayan salt grotto. The whirlpools offer the perfect moment of relaxation after a day on the ski slopes or hiking trails.

A unique feature of Aqua Park Zakopane is its outdoor thermal pool, fed by local geothermal water. Maintained at a comfortable temperature all year round, this pool allows guests to soak in the warm waters while enjoying views of the snow-capped peaks of the Tatras, creating a striking contrast especially during the winter months.

The Aqua Park Zakopane is a perfect attraction for families looking for fun, for sportsmen and women wishing to relax after a busy day, or for anyone wishing to enjoy a moment of well-being in a unique environment.

Wielka Krokiew

The Wielka Krokiew is Poland’s most famous ski jump and one of the symbols of Zakopane. This imposing structure, part of the COS (Olympic Preparation Centre) complex, is a must-see landmark for winter sports enthusiasts.

Built in 1925, the ski jump has hosted numerous international competitions, including the Nordic World Ski Championships. With its K point at 120 metres, the Wielka Krokiew is one of the largest ski jumps in the world and offers athletes the opportunity to perform spectacular jumps.

Visitors can climb to the top of the ski jump using a chairlift, enjoying a breathtaking panoramic view of Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains. The experience of standing on the starting platform, the same one used by professional jumpers, is exciting and offers a unique perspective on the city below.

At the foot of the ski jump is a museum dedicated to skiing, which tells the history of the sport in Zakopane and Poland. Exhibits include historical equipment, vintage photographs and memorabilia from the most important competitions.

During the summer, the area around Wielka Krokiew is transformed into a recreational park, with family attractions and the possibility of summer sports. Special events, such as concerts and festivals, are often organised in this picturesque setting.

Chochołów and its thermal baths

Just 20 km from Zakopane is the picturesque village of Chochołów, a veritable open-air museum of traditional Gothic architecture. This charming village, situated in the valley of the Czarny Dunajec River, is famous for its characteristic, perfectly preserved wooden houses, which have earned it the nickname ‘the living village’.

Chochołów is a unique example of Polish folkloric architecture. The houses, built entirely of fir wood without the use of nails, mostly date back to the 19th century. Walking through the village streets, visitors can admire more than 100 of these traditional houses, many of which are still inhabited. Some have been converted into small museums or craft workshops, where you can watch local craftsmen at work and buy authentic górale products.

In the vicinity of Chochołów is the Chochołów Spa, a modern thermal complex that makes use of local geothermal waters. These spas offer a perfect contrast to the traditional atmosphere of the village, allowing visitors to relax in outdoor hot pools while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains.

A visit to Chochołów offers an authentic immersion in the culture and traditions of the Tatra region, making it an ideal complement to a stay in Zakopane.

The village is easily accessible by car or local bus, making it a perfect half-day excursion.

Terma Bania

Just 15 km from Zakopane, Terma Bania is a modern spa complex offering a unique relaxation experience. The thermal pools, fed by natural springs, are surrounded by the breathtaking panorama of the Tatra Mountains. The complex includes areas for adults and children, water slides, saunas and relaxation areas. It is the ideal place to relax after a day of hiking or skiing.

Niedzica Castle

About an hour’s drive from Zakopane, Niedzica Castle stands majestically on an artificial lake. This medieval castle, with its rich history and surrounding legends, offers an interesting cultural excursion. The castle museum displays period furnishings and tells the history of the region. The view from the castle over the lake and the surrounding mountains is particularly impressive.

Pieniny National Park

The Pieniny National Park, located about 50 km from Zakopane, offers a different but equally fascinating landscape. The park is famous for its river gorges, in particular the Dunajec Gorge. A popular activity is rafting on the Dunajec River, which offers spectacular views of the cliffs and lush vegetation. The park is also ideal for hiking and cycling.