Zakopane Travel Guide

Nestled at the foot of the Tatra Mountains in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, Zakopane stands as Poland's premier mountain resort. Known as the "winter capital of Poland," it draws visitors with its stunning alpine scenery, rich cultural heritage, and excellent conditions for winter sports.

Zakopane is a gateway to the Tatra National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offering a myriad of hiking trails, picturesque lakes like Morskie Oko, and the breathtaking Kasprowy Wierch peak accessible by cable car. In winter, the town transforms into a ski paradise, with slopes catering to all levels of skiers and snowboarders, while the famous ski jumping hill at Wielka Krokiew hosts international competitions.

The town itself is an architectural gem, showcasing the unique Zakopane Style, a form of Art Nouveau that incorporates elements from the region’s highlander folk art. The Villa Koliba museum provides an insightful look at this indigenous architectural style. Visitors will also appreciate the charming wooden chapels and the iconic Jaszczurówka Chapel, a fine example of the style.

Zakopane's Krupówki Street is the vibrant heart of the town, lined with shops selling regional arts and crafts, restaurants serving local delicacies like oscypek (smoked sheep cheese), and lively pubs. The town also hosts numerous cultural events, including the International Festival of Highland Folklore and the Zakopane Mountain Film Festival, celebrating the town's cultural and natural significance.

For a panoramic view of the area, travelers can take a funicular ride up to the top of Gubałówka Hill, which offers a stunning vista of the Tatra range and Zakopane below. In the evenings, the town's restaurants and taverns come alive with the sounds of Goral folk music, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the local traditions.