10 Unforgettable Things to Do in Zakopane in 2027
If you are planning a visit in 2027, here are ten unforgettable experiences to add to your itinerary.
Zakopane, located in southern Poland near the Slovakian border, is a popular destination known for its stunning mountain scenery, traditional highlander culture and wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you are looking for an adventurous holiday, a relaxing mountain escape or a mix of both, Zakopane has something to offer in every season. From hiking and skiing to thermal baths and exploring the town’s charming streets, there is plenty to see and do.
Sky above, earth below, peace within.
1. Explore the Tatra Mountains
No visit to Zakopane would be complete without exploring the spectacular Tatra Mountains. As Poland’s only alpine mountain range, the Tatras offer an impressive variety of hiking trails, from gentle walks through picturesque valleys to challenging routes for experienced hikers.
Popular destinations include the beautiful Dolina Kościeliska and Morskie Oko, one of the most famous mountain lakes in Poland. For more experienced hikers, there are demanding routes with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
The mountains are beautiful throughout the year, although hiking conditions vary considerably with the seasons. Always check the weather and trail conditions before setting off, and choose a route suitable for your experience.
Watching the world from above is mesmerizing
2. Take the cable car to Kasprowy Wierch
If you want to experience the beauty of the Tatra Mountains without undertaking a demanding hike, a ride on the Kasprowy Wierch cable car is an excellent option.
The cable car takes visitors from Kuźnice to the summit area of Kasprowy Wierch, at an altitude of almost 2,000 metres. During the journey, you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, valleys and forests.
Zakopane Cable Car
At the top, you can admire the impressive alpine scenery, take photographs and, in suitable conditions, explore some of the marked mountain trails. In winter, Kasprowy Wierch is also a popular destination for experienced skiers.
It is worth booking tickets in advance, particularly during busy periods. Mountain weather can change quickly, so check the operating conditions before your visit.
Because when you stop and look around, this life is pretty amazing.
3.Visit Gubałówka for spectacular views of Zakopane
One of the most recognisable attractions in Zakopane is Gubałówka, a popular viewpoint overlooking the town and the Tatra Mountains.
You can reach the top using the funicular railway, which takes just a few minutes from the centre of Zakopane. Once there, you will find panoramic viewpoints, restaurants, cafés and stalls selling local souvenirs.
Gubałówka is an enjoyable destination throughout the year. In summer, visitors can admire the green mountain landscape, while winter brings snowy scenery and a completely different atmosphere.
It is also a lovely place to enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the views. If you are short on time, Gubałówka is an easy way to experience some of Zakopane’s most impressive scenery without a long hike.
Take me to the water. Let my soul and spirit fly
4.Relax in Zakopane’s thermal baths
After a day exploring the mountains, there is nothing quite like relaxing in warm thermal water. The area around Zakopane is famous for its thermal baths, which offer a combination of swimming pools, saunas, wellness facilities and relaxation areas.
Some of the popular choices include Chochołowskie Termy, Termy Bukovina and Aqua Park Zakopane. Each has a different atmosphere and range of facilities, from family-friendly pools and water attractions to quieter wellness areas.
Many thermal pools are outdoors, allowing you to enjoy mountain views while relaxing in warm water. Visiting in winter can be particularly memorable, especially when snow covers the surrounding landscape.
Whether you are travelling as a couple, with friends or with children, a visit to the thermal baths can be a wonderful addition to your Zakopane itinerary.
You say Zakopane, you think Krupówki
5. Stroll along Krupówki Street
No trip to Zakopane is complete without a walk along Krupówki, the town’s most famous pedestrian street. Lined with restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops and traditional wooden buildings, it is one of the liveliest places in Zakopane.
Here, you can sample regional specialities, browse local handicrafts, enjoy a coffee or simply soak up the atmosphere. You will also find plenty of opportunities to try oscypek, the traditional smoked sheep’s milk cheese associated with the Podhale region.
Zakopane High Street
Krupówki is particularly lively during the winter and summer holiday seasons, when visitors from Poland and abroad fill the streets. Although it can get busy, it is an excellent place to experience the town’s atmosphere and discover some of its local traditions.
Allow yourself some time to explore the surrounding streets, too, where you can find interesting examples of traditional Zakopane architecture.
Not all those who wander are lost
6. Experience the thrill of adventure activities
If you are looking for something more exciting than sightseeing, Zakopane is an excellent destination for adventure activities. The surrounding mountains and countryside provide opportunities for experiences that are difficult to find elsewhere.
Depending on the season, you can try quad biking, off-road vehicle tours, snowmobiling, rafting or mountain biking. There are also opportunities for climbing and other outdoor adventures for those looking for a greater challenge.
Quad biking and off-road tours are particularly popular with visitors who want to explore the countryside beyond the town. In winter, snowmobile excursions offer a different way to experience the snowy landscape, subject to suitable conditions and local regulations.
If you want to make the most of your visit, consider booking a guided adventure tour. Local guides can help you discover places beyond the usual tourist attractions while ensuring that activities are appropriate for your experience and the conditions.
“A town’s culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people
7. Discover the traditional highlander culture
Zakopane is much more than a mountain destination. It is also the heart of the Podhale region, which is famous for its distinctive highlander culture, traditional architecture, music and cuisine.
One of the best ways to discover this heritage is to explore the town’s traditional wooden architecture. Visit Villa Koliba, the museum dedicated to the Zakopane architectural style, or take a walk through the older parts of town to admire the beautifully decorated wooden houses.
Food is another important part of the local culture. Try regional dishes such as kwaśnica, a traditional sauerkraut soup, and oscypek, often served grilled with cranberry sauce. You may also encounter traditional highlander music and folklore performances at local restaurants and cultural events.
Taking time to discover the local traditions adds another dimension to your visit and gives you a better understanding of what makes Zakopane so distinctive.
Morskie Oko is the mirror-like soul of the Tatras.
8. Visit Morskie Oko, one of Poland’s most beautiful lakes
For many visitors, a trip to Morskie Oko is one of the highlights of a stay in Zakopane. Surrounded by towering mountain peaks, this beautiful glacial lake is one of the most photographed places in the Polish Tatras.
Reaching the lake involves travelling to Palenica Białczańska and following the approximately eight-kilometre paved route to the shore. The walk is manageable for many visitors with reasonable fitness, although it takes time and includes a steady climb.
The Eye of the Sea
Once you arrive, you will be rewarded with magnificent views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. There is also a mountain refuge where you can stop for refreshments before making your way back.
Morskie Oko is popular throughout the summer, so expect crowds during peak periods. If you plan to visit, start early, wear comfortable walking shoes and allow plenty of time for the return journey.
Eat, sleep, ski, repeat
9. Winter Skiing and Snowboarding in Zakopane
Zakopane is often referred to as Poland’s winter capital, and for good reason. When the snow arrives, the town becomes a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding and a wide range of other winter activities.
There are several ski areas in and around Zakopane, including Kasprowy Wierch, Polana Szymoszkowa and Harenda. They cater to different abilities, from beginners to experienced skiers. Bialka Tatrzanska offers a much larger area for Beginners/Intermediate skiers
If skiing is not for you, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the winter scenery. Depending on snow conditions, you can try snowshoeing, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride or enjoy a guided snowmobile excursion.
For those planning a winter holiday in 2027, it is worth booking popular activities and accommodation in advance, particularly during school holidays and the Christmas and New Year period. Remember that snow conditions can vary from year to year.
The landscape belongs to the person who looks at it
10. Explore the beautiful valleys of the Tatras
If you enjoy nature but prefer gentler walks to challenging mountain hikes, exploring the valleys around Zakopane is a wonderful alternative.
Dolina Kościeliska is one of the most popular choices. Its scenic trail passes through a beautiful valley surrounded by dramatic rock formations, forests and mountain scenery. Along the way, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and discover some of the area’s natural features.
Another popular destination is Dolina Chochołowska, the longest valley in the Polish Tatras. It is particularly famous in spring, when crocuses bloom across its meadows, creating a spectacular display of purple flowers.
Both valleys offer excellent opportunities for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. They are also suitable for visitors who want to experience the mountains at a more relaxed pace, although distances can be considerable.
Plan your visit to Zakopane in 2027
As you can see, Zakopane has far more to offer than just skiing and hiking. Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures, breathtaking scenery, local culture or simply relaxing in thermal baths, you will find plenty of ways to make your visit memorable.
The best activities for you will depend on the season, how long you are staying and the type of holiday you are looking for. With so much to see and do, it is worth planning your itinerary in advance to make the most of your time.
If you want to experience more of the region, Addventure Tours can help you discover Zakopane through guided adventures, excursions and personalised itineraries. Whether you are travelling with family, friends or as a couple, we can help you plan an unforgettable trip to the Polish mountains.
Start planning your Zakopane adventure for 2027 and discover everything this beautiful mountain destination has to offer!
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