In this article:
Find your Zakopane lodgings
Private group cottages or shared stays in a mountain guest house. Hand-picked villas for your hiking trip.
The definitive guide to the most incredible experiences in and around Zakopane, Poland.
From scenic hiking, sports and lodgings to nightlife, local culture and art. Here all the things to do in Zakopane in summer.
Perhaps the most iconic hiking destination is the one to Morskie Oko (Eye of the Sea) and its neighbouring lake Czarny Staw (Black Lake). The two clear alpine lakes can be reached from Palenica Białczańska, accessible by bus from Zakopane. What makes this trail easy is that it’s simply a paved road. The hike is roughly 2 hours in each way and the view is well worth it – you’ll find it’s no surprise Morskie Oko is the most popular lake in the Tatra Mountains.
The lakes are also a starting point for trails to the highest peak in Poland, Mount Rysy.
The Gąsienicowa Valley is a must-see location, especially in spring and summer when the Hala Gąsienicowa meadows are in bloom. You’ll see the beautiful pink fireweed covering the earth, traditional wooden shepherds’ shelters and the HIgh Tatra peaks covering the horizon.
The easier option is take the blue trail from Kuznice. If you’re looking for a challenge, you can start from Kapsrowy Wierch by taking the cable car.
Kapsrowy Wierch → Gąsienicowa Valley → Hala Gąsienicowa → Kuźnice
The longest valley in the Polish Tatras, Chochołowska is on the easier side. Starting from Siwa Polana, a wide path leads through forests and meadows, ending about two hours later at Polana Chochołowska – a vast clearing with a traditional mountain hut, perfect for rest, a meal and soaking up the views.
From here, you can continue to nearby peaks like Grześ or Wołowiec if you want a rewarding challenge. It’s a stunning hike ideal for families, but also flexible to allow for a challenge.
If you’re short on time, Nosal is ideal. The trail starts in Kuźnice and takes less than an hour to reach the summit, making it one of the most accessible hikes in Zakopane. From the top, you’ll get sweeping views over Zakopane, Giewont, and the High Tatras – perfect for photos. The hike is short but very steep in some sections.
At 1,987 m above sea level, the top station of the Kasprowy Wierch cable car is a fantastic starting point for hikes across the Tatras. From here, several trails branch out, ranging from gentle descents to demanding ridge routes, making it a great spot for both casual walkers and experienced mountain lovers.
Any of these trails can be done from the bottom up for a significantly more challenging hike, but an equally satisfying cable car homeward.
A via ferrata (iron path) is a climbing-style route where sections of the trail are secured with fixed cables, metal steps, ladders or chains. Wearing a harness and clip you can move safely over exposed terrain for an extra adrenaline rush and variety in your hiking around Zakopane.
Via ferratas you can try are Swinica and Orla Perc. There are also small chains on Zawrat and Szpiglasowy. Across the nearby boarder, Slovakia’s Czerwona Lawka and Velka Fatra.
We recommend hiking with a guide, especially if you’ve never done via ferratas before. They’ll also help you with equipment and optimizing routes.
Experienced hiking guides know the mountains better than anyone. This means that guided groups get to enjoy the most scenic routes and rewarding trails, without the anxiety of looking for that perfect route (there are so many in the Tatras!)
Let the guide to the decision making so you can focus on the hike, views and conversation with your group. You’ll also see spots and details that other tourists simply glance over, or never come even close to finding.
You can get a custom adventure, personalized to your individual or group’s desired hike difficulty level.
As the heart and soul of the Southern Polish Highlands, Zakopane presents a blend of a highly preserved culture and a thriving contemporary social scene. Next up – the most interesting, novel and down-right COOL things to do in Zakopane in summer, spring and autumn.
The main strip of Zakopane and one of the most popular streets in Poland – Krupowki Street. It teems with life both in summer and winter. There, you will find pubs, restaurants, shops and street stalls where one can buy souvenirs and traditional Pohdale street food, snacks and cheeses – most of which accept both card and cash.
Being the notorious street that it is, it hides many secrets. It connects to incredible attractions that we’ll cover on this list and is a platform for various street musicians and performers. The 1100m long street will give you a good glimpse of the infamous Zakopane-style architecture, which humbly screams of charm and history.
Exactly what it sounds like – just better. Myszogrod is a 200 sq.m. set of miniature scenes, hand-crafted to house over 1,000 mice from all over the world. The adorable mice are of various species, all living and interacting in hands-down the cutest space in Zakopane.
Open daily 10:00 – 19:00, Krupówki 81 B
Zakopane’s Illusion Museum is a super fun place to spend an afternoon. 550 sq.m. worth of rooms full of optical illusions and 3D paintings, you will take plenty of memorable pictures and the memories that go with them. Make sure to make a reservation for your visit, just in case it books out!
Open daily 10:00 – 18:00, Tadeusza Kościuszki 3, 34-500
Every August, Zakopane hosts the International Festival of Highland Folklore, one of the region’s biggest cultural events. Dance troupes, musicians, and folk artists from around the world gather to celebrate highlander traditions and compete for the prestigious Golden Ciupaga trophy. Beyond the performances, you can enjoy craft fairs, concerts, great food, and the unique atmosphere of Podhale’s living folklore. A must-do if you’re visiting Zakopane in late August.
Polish graveyards are worth seeing. Locals make efforts to remember and honour the ones before them – often not only caring for their friends and family members’ gravestones, but also those of strangers. You will notice beautiful ornaments and flower arrangements. The graves themselves support wooden totemic figures or masterfully carved stone and metal graves. Not to mention, there are several known individuals buried in this exact location.
Address: Krupówki 1a, 34-505 Zakopane, Poland
Kasprowy Wierch (1985m) is one of the most popular peaks in the Polish Tatras. Not only is the view from there absolutely mesmerizing, but also because it’s easily accessible through a cable car. Once up, you will be able to literally have one foot in Poland and another in Slovakia. You can also enjoy coffee or lunch in a nice restaurant and even hike down via one of the trails we mentioned in the beginning of the article.
Avoid queues by purchasing a ticket in advance here: www.sklep.pkl.pl/en/
The cable car starts from Kuźnice Street 14
It takes a mere 3.5 minutes to get to Gubalowka using the funicular ride. Up there, you have a view of Zakopane and the majestic surrounding Tatras. If you’re looking for chill things to do in Zakopane in summer, a relaxing picnic here is always a good choice.
The train leaves from Gubałówkę st. 34-500, Zakopane
BeHappy, also known as “The Happiness Museum” is a selfie museum full of colourful sets and illusions. Photographers, influencers, children, couples and friends flock to this space as it inspires creativity and conversation. The beautiful pastel-coloured and photogenic world is conveniently located on Krupówki Street, in the centre of Zakopane.
Built in 1848, the Church of Our Lady of Częstochowa and Saint Clement and is the oldest church in Zakopane. This small wooden temple, founded by Klementyna Homolacsowa, features beautiful folk sculptures, paintings, and altars crafted by local highlander artists. Its intimate interior and rich décor make it a true treasure of Podhale’s wooden architecture and cultural heritage.
Perfect for families, the Tatra Mini Zoo lets you get up close with alpacas, goats, sheep, deer, fallow deer, muntjacs, kangaroos (including a rare white one), donkeys, peacocks, and other eccentric and interesting animals. Visitors can feed and cuddle the animals, explore the rabbit enclosure, and enjoy a playground, trampolines, and seasonal attractions like a tubing slide.
Open daily 10:00 – 20:00, Józefa Piłsudskiego Street, near 26
The Upside Down House is one of the city’s most unusual attractions. Inside, furniture and decor are entirely upside down, creating an eccentric feeling of disorientation. While it’s mainly a playful stop for photos, this isn’t the only upside-down house in Poland’s. The first one in Szymbark was designed as a symbolic statement about the uncertainty of life in post-Communist times.
A charming and relaxing way to experience the Tatra National Park is by horse-drawn carriage. Skip the hike and soak up the views with the rhythmic thumps of horse hooves below you.
Our local English-speaking driver Kazimierz (Casimir) Stopka will take you through the picturesque Chochołowska Valley, especially beautiful when spring crocuses are in bloom. The ride ends at the mountain shelter where you can enjoy a snack before returning.
Take a break from the mountains and dive into a totally different world. Zakopane’s Underwater World is home to endemic and foreign species of sweet water wildlife. There are quirky little surprises too, like rare frogs and a formicarium full of busy ants. The largest aquarium is a whopping 14 m. The audio guide makes it fun and easy to explore, and it’s a great spot for families or just a chill rainy-day activity.
Open daily 10:00 – 19:00, Willa Jan, 34-500 Zakopane, Poland
Put your problem-solving skills to the test at Zakopane’s escape room. Comprised of 6 rooms, this is an ideal adventure for friend groups and families to bond or simply have tons of fun. Zakopane Escape Room is able to accommodate up to 33 players at once, but they can also help plan bigger events. Learn more on their website.
Discover Zakopane’s history, architecture, traditions and secrets with a guide, who’ll show you the most important things to see in town.
Even 30 minutes in Zakopane is enough to understand why the city carries its reputation of mysterious whimsy. And so a guide can be a helpful source of incredible insider information, most overlooked by tourists. The tours are flexible and can be curated according to what you find most interesting and fascinating, but there are standard options as well.
Zakopane is known for being a ski resort, but in summer, the town and its vicinity are ripe with adventures for sports enthusiasts. Here are our favourite things to do in Zakopane in summer that will scratch that adrenaline-seeking itch.
Glide down the Dunajec River on a traditional wooden raft – a centuries-old highlander tradition once for transporting goods, is now one of the most scenic adventures in southern Poland.
The river winds through the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Pieniny National Park, making seven wide loops along the way. One of the highlights is passing beneath the striking Trzy Korony (“Three Crowns”) peaks, towering nearly 1,000 meters above sea level. The trip takes about two hours and ends in the charming town of Szczawnica. Suitable for all ages.
Go quad biking – another refreshing and fun adventure our in nature. Your trip can be anywhere between one and three hours, with the possibility of 2 people riding the same quad. You can also hire a 4-person buggy.
A great way to explore some stunning Tatra trails with a group. The views are incredible, as you’re constantly surrounded by long-winding mountain ranges and fresh air.
Info
Zakopane’s shooting range offers a huge variety of guns to try out. With both an in-doors and out-doors facility, you can experience the thrill of an array of light and heavy weapons. Instructors will provide all the necessary gear – all you need to do is book in advance.
Besides hosts that will help you find and book experiences, we recommend a quiet and peaceful area with easy transport to the centre, in order to easily explore all the incredible things to do in Zakopane in summer. Here are the best places to stay.
The Heritage Highlander Chalet | A traditional highlander chalet with modern comforts and plenty of amenities — no need to overpack.
Shared Polka Guesthouse | A cozy guesthouse with 11 en-suite bedrooms, daily breakfast, and a serene location by the forest and river. Warmly hosted, it’s a great choice year-round.
All accommodation on our list include 24/7 personalized concierge service to help find and book the most fascinating things to do in Zakopane in summer & spring . Find the best lodgings for you below.
Zakopane is bursting with culture, history, and highlander art. Don’t lose time zig-zagging across town. Here we’ve mapped out an optimized walking route covering the essential museums and galleries. Feel free to skip any and just move to the next one. Some of them are closed on Mondays and Sundays, so keep that in mind as you plan your day about Zakopane.
We start from Willa Koliba – The first house built in the Zakopane Style (1892–93), designed by Stanisław Witkiewicz. The very same style of architecture you’ll see all across town. Today it hosts the Museum of the Zakopane Style, where you can explore authentic interiors, Highlander folk art, and the roots of Poland’s first national architectural style.
Muzeum Tatrzańskie (main building) – On Krupówki for over 100 years, this museum presents the rich history, culture, and nature of the Tatra region. Its permanent exhibition features Highlander folk costumes, traditional crafts, musical instruments, wildlife, and geology – a fascinating journey through Zakopane’s heritage and the unique Tatra Mountains.
Next stop – the municipal gallery. Founded in 1911, this is one of Poland’s oldest art galleries and a historic hub of avant-garde culture. It has hosted exhibitions of leading Polish artists from Witkacy to Beksiński and continues to present contemporary art, concerts, film screenings, and cultural events.
As we’re in the spirit of art, right down the street you’ll find Yam – a gallery of contemporary art. It’s a small establishment, so it’s easy to peruse, however, it hosts some beautiful pieces by modern local and foreign artists. Be warned, however… you might go home with a heavier suitcase, if a certain canvas decides to speak to you – most paintings here are for sale.
Galeria Władysława Hasiora – A unique museum dedicated to the celebrated Zakopane artist Władysław Hasior (1928–1999). Housed in his former studio, it showcases his famous banners, assemblages, and sculptures made from everyday objects, blending metaphor, folklore, and modern art into striking, thought-provoking works.
Our delicious next stop is the Muzeum Oscypka. An interactive “live” museum where you’ll see how the famous smoked cheese is made by a real Baca. You can shape your own mini cheese, learn about shepherd traditions, and taste authentic Podhale flavors like bundz and bryndza. Perfect for all ages, especially the foodies! Wondering what to do in Zakopane in summer? This is essential.
Moving with another Stanisław Witkiewicz Zakopane-style house. This 1895 villa is one of the finest examples of highlander-inspired architecture. Today it hosts the Gallery of 20th-Century Art, where you’ll find works by some of Poland’s most influential modern artists. A beautiful blend of history, architecture, and art under one roof.
The most modern of its kind in the region, this interactive showcases the Tatra Mountains through exhibitions, films, and practical fun. This includes Poland’s largest 3D model of the Tatras, realistic dioramas, a 4D cinema with special effects, and a walk-through cave.
Designed to be interesting for both children and adults, this is a great final stop. Of course, this will give you even more context if you decide to explore the Tatra National Park, the entrance to which is just 15 minutes away.
Tytusa Chałubińskiego 42a, 34-500 Zakopane
Hungry and tired from the walk? Let’s take a look at some ways to relax and enjoy the region’s cuisine.
Some would say the heart of a culture is in its cuisine. At least I would say that.
So it would be shame not to highlight the must-try traditional foods of the region and the best restaurants and bars that Zakopane houses.
One of Poland’s most iconic soups, Żurek is rich, hearty, and filling enough to be a meal on its own. Sour rye starter, smoky kiełbasa, bacon, root vegetables, and plenty of herbs, often finished with a splash of cream. Traditionally, it’s served with half a boiled egg. A true comfort food.
Zakopane’s most famous food is without a doubt oscypek, the smoked sheep’s milk cheese protected by EU designation. Made by highland shepherds using centuries-old methods, it’s firm, slightly salty, and beautifully smoky. You’ll usually find it grilled or pan-fried, served warm with a dollop of cranberry jam. Besides in restaurants, definitely try it from one of the artisan street booths.
If you ask Poles about their ultimate comfort soup, Rosół will almost always come up. This clear chicken broth is poured over thin noodles and topped with carrots, parsley, and tender pieces of chicken. Locals swear it’s the best cure for a cold, and many families have their own variations, adding onion, leek, parsnip, or celery root for extra depth of flavor.
For adventurous eaters, tripe soup is a must-try. Known locally as flaki, it’s been a staple in the Polish mountains for centuries, where every part of the animal was used. Beef tripe is simmered for hours with carrots, celery, and a heady mix of spices until tender. It has a bold, distinctive taste that people either love or hate – but it’s an unforgettable experience.
No trip to Poland is complete without pierogi. These stuffed dumplings are a national favorite and come in endless varieties — savory fillings like potato and cheese, cabbage and mushrooms, or meats, as well as sweet versions with blueberries or forest fruits. Every restaurant in Zakopane puts its own twist on them, so it’s worth sampling a few to discover your personal favorite.
Now – where to actually try these fascinating dishes and others? Or simply find a place to relax with a drink in hand after a long day of walking. Here are our top picks for restaurants, bars and clubs.
Nosalowy Dwor | A mix of traditional highlander and European cuisine. This fusion is also evident in the interior itself, a sort of boujee rusticness.
Droga Oswalda Balzera 21d, 34-500
Karczma u Starego | An authentic local’s hangout with tantalizing home-cooked food and local beer. Karczma’s (Polish taverns) are a must-visit and this one is a good start.
Droga Oswalda Balzera 16b, 34-500
Gospoda Polska Kolibecka | Incredibly cozy, wooden and whimsical setting where you’ll feel like a little forest creature snuggled in pure delight. A rich selection of local cuisine, with the mountain trout being a highlight.
Przewodników Tatrzańskich 1b, 34-500
La Playa Beach Bar & Chillout Lounge | Change up the vibe and go to a beach-themed bar – surfboards and beanbags – as well as interesting cocktails and delicious pizza.
Tytusa Chałubińskiego 38, 34-500
Restauracja Browar Watra Dancing | A very big restaurant, and a very popular one in Zakopane. Not only for the food, but the on-site brewery and the dance floor for late night Polka dancing.
Hr. Władysława Zamoyskiego 2, 34-500
Bar Mleczny | Milk bars are a staple in Polish culture – low cost joints with traditional, nutritious dishes. And this one is among the best in Zakopane.
Hr. Władysława Zamoyskiego 5, 34-500
Bakowo Zohylina Niznio | Another beautifully built and decorated villa-style restaurant, bursting with charm. There’s authentic regional music performances every night, not to mention fantastic meat dishes, vegetarian options – all at a reasonable price.
Józefa Piłsudskiego 28A, 34-500
Żarneccy Lodziarnia Kawiarnia | A refreshing ice cream is the best reward after a hike, or simply a trusty companion on a walk around the town. Not to mention delicious home-made waffles and a nice backyard to sit in in the summer.
Krupówki 48B, 34-500
Góralski Browar | Traditional goralskie food, delicious locally brewed beer and an open panorama to enjoy an unbelievable view of the mountains. A rooftop terrace to chill outside too!
Krupówki 40, 34-500
Karczma Góraleczka | One of the oldest taverns on Krupowki. The wooden interior is like from a fairy tale, and the food transports you to it. Naturally, ripe with traditional Polish food options – satiating and memory-forging.
Krupówki 22b, 34-500
Restauracja TUNEL | If you’re looking for a more modern option, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, Tunel is just the spot. Burgers and pizzas are the main highlight.
Krupówki 7, 34-500
Right in the heart of Zakopane, this large complex is perfect if you want both relaxation and fun. It offers thermal pools, aqua park water slides, a bowling alley, and even a fitness zone – all within walking distance of the town centre.
Gorący Potok has 21 pools, both indoor and outdoor. Expect mineral-rich water, a full spa zone, and great massages. A perfect choice for a half or full-day trip.
Termy Szaflary offers some of the best saunas and personalized treatments around Zakopane. The thermal water swimming pools are equipped with hydro massage devices like water jets, massage benches, hedgehogs, geysers, and other neck & shoulder massage utilities. There are 2 restaurants to choose from.
Often ranked as Poland’s top thermal spa, Chochołowskie Termy is also the largest, with nearly 3,000 m² of pools plus an endless menu of saunas, treatments, and wellness zones. The surrounding village of Chochołów, known for its traditional wooden houses, adds even more charm to the trip – making it a destination worth visiting in its own right.
In the lively village of Białka Tatrzańska, Terma Bania offers a wide choice of pools and saunas surrounded by gorgeous mountain views. It’s a family favourite, with plenty of attractions and spaces for children, but also a great spot if you’re after a fun, social vibe – think bubble parties and themed events. Check the itinerary if you want to visit during a specific event, or simply on a quiet, relaxed day.
Poland’s former royal capital, often considered the country’s cultural, historical and academic capital is a must-visit. Luckily, it’s just a couple of hours away from Zakopane.
From gorgeous architecture, legendary museums, the historical Old Town, fascinating events and food… Krakow truly has something for everyone. Arrange transport, spend the day and be back to Zakopane by evening. Send us a message and we can arrange everything for you.
The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is one of the most important places of remembrance in the world. It houses preserved barracks, gas chambers and a raw look into the past, honouring the history and memory of the victims.
We recommend guided tours which will help you fully understand the camp’s significance and history. It’s a sobering and emotional experience.
One of Poland’s more popular attraction, and a UNESCO-protected one, is the Wieliczka Salt Mine. An underground world of hundreds of kilometers. Chambers, tunnels and even chapels carved entirely out of salt can be discovered within. Beautiful sculptures and caverns make this trip a truly magical one. The mine’s history is rich and deep, best digested through a guided tour.
Across the border is a whole new world to explore. With a plethora of choices – Slovakia’s Paradise National Park, Belianska Cave with its unusual and spectacular formations, Hrebienok Peak, the Cold Water Waterfalls, the UNESCO-registered Spis Castle… Slovakia is full of wonders waiting to be seen.
We can organize a full trip for you from Zakopane, with a personalized itinerary and transport – from and back to Zakopane in a day!
If you want a full adventure, curated to you or your group, hit us up. We partner with dozens of local experience providers, and we can hook you up with some sweet discounts too.
Whether it’s a one day trip or your entire stay in Zakopane, we’ll help you find the coolest things to do in Zakopane in summer, spring and autumn. We also arrange transfers and transport to help you get the most out of your stay.
Private group cottages or shared stays in a mountain guest house. Hand-picked villas for your hiking trip.