Poland · Tatra Mountains
Zakopane and the Tatras travel guide
Wooden villas, mountain hikes and winter skiing
The Tatra Mountains above Zakopane. Photo: Jerzy Opioła, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Zakopane is Poland's mountain resort, two hours from Kraków, with wooden villas in the local style and the high Tatra peaks behind it.
In summer there are hikes to lakes such as Morskie Oko, and in winter it's a cheap place to ski or sledge, then warm up with grilled smoked cheese at the market.
What Zakopane is known for
- The Tatras
Poland's highest peaks.
- Morskie Oko
A lake below granite peaks.
- Skiing
Cheap slopes and lessons.
- Oscypek
Grilled smoked sheep's cheese.
Top things to do in Zakopane and the Tatras
Where to stay in Zakopane and the Tatras
Best time to visit Zakopane and the Tatras
Best value: Jan–Mar, May, Sep. June to September for hiking; January to March for skiing.
- Best valueGood weather, smaller crowds
- PeakBusiest, highest prices
- QuietCheapest, cooler or wetter
Getting there and around
About 2h 15m from London to KRK, and flights from most UK airports. How long is the flight from your airport?
Buses run from Kraków in about two hours. Minibuses go to the trailheads.
Good to know
- Book the Kasprowy Wierch cable car online.
- Start hikes early: weather changes fast.
- Avoid weekends and holidays, when it's very busy.
Zakopane and the Tatras FAQ
Is Zakopane good for beginners?
Yes, for skiing and easy hikes.
Can you do it as a day trip?
Yes, but a night or two is better.
More places in Poland
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