i have been wanting to visit zakopane for more than 5 years after i was first showed some photos of the beautiful landscapes.
truly this place is very special it reminds me of switzerland, the mountains and valleys are truly something special. september-october is a good time to visit as most of the attractions around zakopane are not as busy as in the summer months but they to stay away at the weekend.
zakopane town
this unfortunately is the only downside to the area. all the big brands have moved into the main street 'krupowki' and it is now reminiscent of most shopping streets in any town in europe. The upside is the views of the surrounding mountains. we only went here to eat as most of the restaurants are located on this street. the prices are slightly higher compared with the rest of poland but very cheap compared with other countries in europe. a meal for two with drinks will cost around $20.
morskie oko lake (tatra mountains)
this was the highlight of the trip. 'morskie oko' is a lake located in the in the tatra mountains. I'm sure like me you may not have heard of the tatra mountains before you arrive but for me it was a special experience.
we drove to the start of the trail just on the border with slovakia (a frequent bus also leaves from zakopane), you have to pay a small amount to access the trail for the day around $3. The walk takes around 2.30hr to the lake and the gradient is quite easy as there is a paved road all the way to the top you can also catch a horse and carriage for $10-$20 dependent on the season.
the walk up was the best part of the day as the scenery is spectacular especially in the autumn months near the top you get great views of the valley below.
my recommended places to visit
- morskie oko lake
- krupowki street
- gubałówka (accessed via a funicular system $5)
places to eat
- the market at the bottom of krupowki street (smoked cheese is the regional speciality)
- dobra kasza nasza (for vegetarians and vegans)
how to get around
- walk around the city
- car or bus for attractions
where i stayed
I stayed in an airbnb just north of krupowki street, it could sleep 2 adults and 2 children conformably. For 3 nights it cost around $120 total.
if you need an apartment
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