The Ultimate Zakopane Skiing Holiday Guide - Everything You Need To Know
Welcome to the ultimate guide to having a Zakopane skiing holiday you’ll never forget. This small town in the south of Poland is secretly starting to rival Alpine skiing – not only for its amazing powder, but an unparallelled price-to-quality ratio. Let’s dig into all the fun activities you can do, places that you can visit, food that you can enjoy and nightlife that you can experience. This is the Snomads’ ultimate guide to Zakopane.
Learn more about booking ski holidays in Zakopane here.
About Zakopane – the winter capital of Poland
The small winter town of Zakopane lies in the extreme south of Poland, in its Podhale (under the mountains) region. The name Zakopane actually means ‘buried’ in Polish. Situated in the northern part of the Carpathian mountain range, on the slopes of the Tatra mountains, Zakopane lives up to its name in winter.
Zakopane – buried under the mountain
Zakopane is Poland’s most famous ski resort
Locals and foreigners agree – Zakopane is one of the best ski resorts in Eastern Europe.
Nowadays Zakopane attracts millions of tourists every year. People flock to it to ski on its different pistes, or to enjoy the beautiful nature and climate. The local Podhale culture and architecture offer a unique and fascinating experience. It looks like something out of a fairy tale. A favorite part of the culture for many of the visitors is the local cuisine, consisting of many typical southern Polish dishes.
The recorded history of Zakopane begins in 1676 as a village with only 43 inhabitants. Slowly it built a reputation for a place with a healing climate and thermal springs. By the end of the 19th century, it had established itself as a health resort.
Zakopane sports a rich snow sports history
However, in the 20th century, Zakopane gained a lot of attention from ski lovers. Zakopane hosted the Nordic World Ski Championships in 1929, 1939, and 1962. It also hosted the winter Universiades in 1956, 1993, and 2001. The sports history of Zakopane also includes the biathlon World championship as well as several ski jumping world cups. Moreover, Zakopane was the first place outside the Alps that hosted the Alpine World Ski Championships.
Night Skiing in Zakopane
Skiing in Zakopane
Zakopane is a great ski alternative to the Alps
Skiing in Zakopane might not be as well known as the Swiss Alps, but it comes at a fraction of the price. Zakopane has many family-friendly slopes which are perfect for beginners to learn and practice their turns. Advanced skiers can enjoy a world-class skiing experience down a former FIS accredited three-mile-long descent from Kasprowy Wierch.
The Tatra Mountains are the highest mountains in Poland. The Tatra range is a part of the Carpathian chain that runs also through Slovakia, Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Ukraine, and Romania. Read some more about the variety of Zakopane’s ski slopes.
Despite the fact that only 22.3% of the surface of the Tatras are within Poland, there’s still more than enough space to enjoy seemingly never-ending ski touring & split boarding opportunities. One day tours are also available, email maks@snomads.co.uk and Snomads can arrange equipment and local guides to take you out on an adventure you’ll never forget.
Sunrise in Zakopane
Cross-Country Skiing Opportunities in Zakopane
Zakopane also has a fully professional setup for cross-country skiing. There are routes that can be used for training purposes but will also be hosting all kinds of competitions – thanks to the approval of the International Ski Federation (ISF) accreditation. Cross-country skiing provides numberless opportunities for closer contact with nature. The areas at the foot of the Tatras, as well as Szczyrk, Bielsko-Biała, Wisła, Ustroń, and Korbielów are all recommended for cross-country skiers and snowboarders.
Cross-country skiing path around Zakopane
The Great Ski Jump – Wielka Krokiew
Wielka Krokiew is the biggest and most famous ski jumping hill in Poland. It has been the stage for many international competitions especially when the FIS World Cup tournament takes place in Zakopane. You can purchase a ticket and you can go to the top of the ski jumping hill via a chair lift, from here you can enjoy a large panorama of Zakopane town, you can also admire the true steel of the professional ski jumper – it’s a long way down. Situated a 10/15 minute stroll from the Snomads ski chalets.
The Wielka Krokiew Ski Jump
Zakopane Ski Area accommodates all skill levels
Today the Zakopane Tatra Super Ski Area includes over 15 individual resorts and most are covered by a single Tatra Super Ski pass, which we will talk about later. Zakopane offers access to the biggest variety of skiing in both Poland and Slovakia. This means that regardless of your skill level, you will be able to find something that suits your needs.
If you stay with Snomads, we will help you find the best ski area depending on your ability and the snow conditions, and drive you there every day. Take the guesswork out of your Zakopane ski holiday and focus on enjoying the gorgeous Tatra mountains. Below you can see some of our favourite ski areas close to our winter chalets.
Chalet stays come with free daily ski transfer and concierge service
All skiers – Bialka Tatrzanska
Bialka Tatrzanska is Poland’s biggest connected ski area. Poland’s largest Burton Snow Park is situated there with jibs, boxes, jumps, and other features. You can also enjoy snow tubing, cross country and snowmobile tours. Bialka Tatzanska is up there with the best of them in Europe when it comes to night skiing, with the entire resort illuminated until 21:00 each day. There is a plethora of bars and restaurants all over the mountain as well as a geothermal waterpark and spa at the bottom of the piste. There is an annual Red Bull Bandits Run cross country race, that is open for everyone older than 16.
Ski and Spa at Bialka Tatrzanska
Beginner skiers – Learn to ski with us!
Beginners can enjoy a tailored ski learning experience with our friends at WomaSki. Our team can provide equipment hire and direct transport to one of the highest rated ski schools in Zakopane.
You may hire a private instructor for one-on-one sessions, or be part of a private group of you and your friends and family. Learn more here, and kick off your skiing journey at one of the most beginner-friendly resorts in Europe.
But for those who are seeking a challenge…
Beginners learning at the Nosal Ski Center
Improver skiers – Male Ciche Area
The Maleciche area offers a bigger challenge for skiers, who have already learned the ski basics. There are six wide and long blue runs, as well as two modern chairlifts to get you up the slopes. The surrounding forests are full of cross-country and walking trails. There are restaurants and bars all over the mountain. Male Ciche also has a separate area for beginners, this resort is conveniently situated only 10 minute drive from our Stardust Chalet & Stardust II via our complimentary shuttle service if you book with Snomads.
Skiing at Male Ciche
Advanced Skiers – Kasprowy Wierch
Kasprowy Wierch is Zakopane’s “Holy Mountain of Polish Skiers”. This is where the most advanced skiers come to ski. At an altitude of nearly 2000m, there is always snow. The area has Poland’s longest-running gondola, which was recently upgraded. Kasprowy Wierch offers great freeriding possibilities on both sides of the peak Gasienicowa and Gorczkowa. There are wide bowls, couloirs, tree runs, and virtually unlimited ski touring and split boarding options. Our Stardust Chalet & Stardust II are situated only five minutes away from all of these experiences!
Skiing high on Kasprowy Wierch
The Tatra Super Ski Pass
The Tatra Super Ski Pass covers most areas in Zakopane and Slovakia, including a grand amount of over 87 ski lifts. There are only a few areas that require their own individual passes. When you arrive for your Zakopane ski holiday our team will help you create the best skiing based on your group’s needs and wants.
Based on your group’s abilities, the weather conditions, and how much skiing you actually want to do, we can help book suitable ski passes for you online if it’s required. Everything will be done quickly and easily from the comfort of the chalet, and your passes will be ready for collection on the following day. Snomads are dedicated to delivering a hassle-free ski holiday for you!
Tatra Super Ski Pass Prices
| 2022/2023 Prices | Adults | Children (under 16) /Seniors (over 65) | Children under 5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Day | 155zl≈£29 | 145zl≈£27 | 10zl≈£2 |
| 2 Days | 295zl≈£54 | 275zl≈£50 | 10zl≈£2 |
| 3 Days | 425zl≈£79 | 395zl≈£73 | 10zl≈£2 |
| 4 Days | 545zl≈£100 | 505zl≈£94 | 10zl≈£2 |
| 5 Days | 660zl≈£122 | 610zl≈£113 | 10zl≈£2 |
| 6 Days | 760zl≈£140 | 700zl≈£130 | 10zl≈£2 |
| 4 Hours | 135zl≈£25 | 125zl≈£23 | 10zl≈£2 |
| 4 Hours (After 16:00) | 130zl≈£24 | 120zl≈£22 | 10zl≈£2 |
| 1 Day Ski & 3h Spa pass | Price to be released | Price to be released | Price to be released |
* Reduced pass for children under fve when they are accompanied by an adult buying a pass. The reduced pass has the same validity as the adult pass. Only one reduced child pass is allowed per adult.
All passes are valid for consecutive days only, with the exception of the 3 days pass in 5 day period and the 5 days pass in 7 day period.
A refundable 10zł/£2 is added to all pass prices for the hands-free electronic card.
Ski Equipment in Zakopane – Fitting & Servicing
The Snomads team has your back when it comes to rental. No unreasonable prices, no queues, no hassle and the best equipment in resort. We’ll get you fitted and sort everything out when you get to the chalet. We do everything in our power to ensure you enjoy a top-notch experience, that’s why we work only with the official Salomon partner in Zakopane. They have modern Skis, snowboards and if you need something more specialist they’ve got you covered.
Snomads Ski Servicing and Fitting
On arrival, our team will get you fitted as quickly as possible. If you’re arriving late at night, we will arrange everything first thing in the morning. We try to give you as much time on the slopes as possible during your ski holiday in Zakopane.
You don’t have to book anything extra in advance. Our team is always around to answer questions and give suggestions if you’re looking to try something more adventurous while you’re here. At the end of your stay, just drop everything back at the ski shop. Hassle-free.
Ski lessons in Zakopane
If you’re looking to get a lesson or two and build up your confidence on the slopes, then we know the right people. We work with one of the highest-rated ski school providers in Zakopane. They have experienced English-speaking instructors, they offer lessons to groups of all abilities and also keep their class sizes small. This way everyone gets individual attention from the instructors. See more about learning to ski in Zakopane.
Ski Lessons in Zakopane
Is December good for skiing in Zakopane?
Early season, especially around the middle of December is great for skiing in Zakopane. Snow levels are usually perfect, but it is a few degrees colder than the rest of the season, so pack an extra layer. If you’re planning a ski trip to Poland in December or January, take a look at the Zakopane early season guide.
Zakopane in March
March comes with wonderfully mild weather and fantastic snow levels for skiing. On top of that, most slopes are equipped with snow cannons in the off-chance of insufficient snowfall. Still, it’s not uncommon for snow to reach a surprising 35cm. The whole resort is still fully operational, and remains so until well into April.
Check out our Zakopane in March guide for more details.
Zakopane in March
March comes with wonderfully mild weather and fantastic snow levels for skiing. On top of that, most slopes are equipped with snow cannons in the off-chance of insufficient snowfall. Still, it’s not uncommon for snow to reach a surprising 35cm. The whole resort is still fully operational, and remains so until well into April.
Check out our Zakopane in March guide for more details.
Ski Touring - Off-Piste Skiing in Zakopane
Looking for an even more challenging adventure? You can explore the Tatra mountains with your basecamp being Zakopane.
Ski touring has gained significant popularity in the recent years as a freeriding option, especially suitable for hikers. Ski guides help you navigate upwards wild terrain with the goal of an eventual descent. It’s challenging, but extremely freeing and so much fun!
Ski tourers can opt for a single day adventure or a multi-day exploration of the Tatras, which can even go as far as Slovakia.
Things to Do in Zakopane - More Than a Skiing Holiday Destination
Zakopane may be Poland’s winter capital because of the skiing opportunities, but the fun doesn’t end at the slopes. There is a lot more to enjoy, explore and experience in Zakopane and the surrounding areas. Regardless if you enjoy nature, culture, cuisine, or party nightlife, Zakopane accommodates all tastes.
Explore the Snowlandia Ice Maze & Ice Sculpture Park
Snowlandia is open (depending on the snow) from late December to early March and consists of the largest Snow Maze in Poland and at the time of writing – the world, with an area of about 3000m2 – very impressive. There’s even a 15m high Snow Castle & Ice Palace which is full of incredible ice sculptures. It’s a great place for kids.
Snowlandia Ice Maze & Sculpture Park
The Snowlandia Ice Maze is located at the very border of the Tatra National Park. It’s right next to the big ski jump at Wielka Krokiew, and a short stroll away from the Stardust Chalet.
Feed Alpacas At the Petting Zoo
This is by far the cutest thing you can do in Zakopane!! The guys that run the zoo are very professional and really look after the animals. Feeding alpacas, sheep and donkeys with the beautiful Tatra scenery in the background is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. There’s a selection of great bars and restaurants nearby for a well-deserved post feeding mulled wine.
Ride Up the Funicular Train – Gubałówka
If you are looking for something more relaxing, take the Funicular train up the Gubałówka mountain. You won’t be disappointed once at the top. On a clear day, you will have stunning views of the Tatras and of the surrounding valleys. There’s a market up top and many places to eat, drink and watch the sunset.
Explore the Nature around Zakopane and go Winter Hiking
Zakopane offers many opportunities for winter hiking. If you are looking for a more relaxing trail, that isn’t physically demanding, you would enjoy climbing Mt. Nosal. It takes around 30-40 minutes to get to the top and you will enjoy a gorgeous view of the Tatra mountains there. It’s an excellent place to pose for a photo! Best of all, Mt. Nosal is situated right in front of our Stardust chalet.
More experienced hikers would enjoy climbing Giewont (1895m) and Kasprowy Wierch (1987m), which are the two high-profile peaks in the Polish Tatras. You can hike both of them on the same trip if you are feeling fit. This hike takes you through the ridge of the Tatras and reveals jaw-droppingly beautiful scenery, covering woodland, high peaks, and panoramic views into Slovakia. If you also include Kopa Kondracka (2005m), the whole circular route takes about nine hours to complete.
Our favourite hike that we recommend to everyone is the one to Morskie Oko. It’s the largest lake in the Tatras with 862 meters in length. Its name translates to the ‘Eye of the Sea’ and it’s one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, if your feeling lazy or have small children in toe then you can take a horse sleigh there and back. Magical!
Morskie Oko Lake
It will require a bus or taxi ride to get to the base of the trail. From there, it’s about a two-hour walk through the area’s impressive permaculture. The sight at the end of your walk is highly rewarding. There’s also a large mountain hut at the lake for you to enjoy a well-deserved meal and drink- Nasdrave/Cheers!
Relax in the Best Hot Thermal Springs
One of the perks of spending time in the Tatras is the huge number of natural hot springs, rich in minerals that help the muscles relax after a hard day of physical activity. Surrounded by mountain views in picturesque villages you can unwind in hot thermal water and experience true bliss with a drink in hand.
Among the most famous thermal spas in Zakopane is Terma Bukowina, located in Bukowina Tatrzańska village, which is around 25 minutes from Zakopane. Of course, there’s also a thermal baths centre right in Zakopane that doubles as an aquapark on Jagiellonska Street, where you can even go bowling, but it’s a good idea to pre-book an alley.
Check out our guide on the best thermal baths in and around Zakopane.
Terma Bukowina’s hot thermal springs
Some other detoxifying thermal spas are situated in Chocholow, Szaflary (Our personal favorite and one which we can arrange transport from Chalet Stardust & Chalet Stardust II), and Białka Tatrzańska – one of the many enchanting villages situated in the Tatra mountains.
Ski Doo (Snowmobile) Riding Safari
Adrenaline lovers will relish the thrill of snowmobiling through Zakopane’s snowy mountains. Glide across sparkling fields, weave through forest trails, and stop at breathtaking viewpoints — some tours even begin at one of the area’s most iconic vistas. With English-speaking guides, quality equipment, and scenic routes, it’s an unforgettable winter adventure.
Not into snowmobiles? Switch to a 4×4 buggy or quad bike for the same fast-paced rush. However you ride, exploring the Tatra Mountains this way is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Experience Polish Tradition
Take a ride on the traditional Horse Sleigh Kulig and enjoy a BBQ night with the Snomads
Take a trip back in time and explore the panorama of the Tatra mountians. Experience nature away from the crowds of travelers – forests, winding snow-covered roads. The whole Kulig journey takes around 3 hours will leave you truly enchanted.
Traditional Kulig Horse Sleigh
Our favorite Kulig goes on at nearby Podhalańska. It is known for its excellent location overlooking the majestic Gorce, Tatra, and the Babia Gora Mountain Ranges. This setting offers an evening of magical scenery, which can only be topped up with a tantalizing BBQ and unlimited mountain tea and hot wine.
If you wish to experience this excursion during your Zakopane ski holiday, you only need to contact our friendly team. We always enjoy delivering unforgettable moments for our guests.
Visit the Mouse House (yes, this is real)
Think nothing can surprise you in Zakopane? Step into Myszogrod (Mousehouse) — a hidden 200 m² underground world on Krupówki, home to over 1,000 mice from around the globe! See them riding trains, flying UFOs, and living in magical miniature houses, forests, and even guitars.
Created by passionate artists to show mice as charming pets, you’ll meet everything from tiny pygmy mice to elegant Egyptian breeds.
Walk down Krupowki Street & Go Shopping
One of the top things to do in Zakopane is simply strolling along its main high street – Krupowki. This is the heart of the town. This pedestrians-only street stretches for over a kilometer, beginning at the starting point of the Gubalowka funicular ride station.
Whether you are here in Zakopane in winter or in summer, you will find this street bustling with locals and tourists. Dining at many amazing restaurants and bars or unwinding in those adorable cafes. Local band performers will entertain you at night.
Krupowki is the best place for people-watching and soaking up the charm of this town – including its unique, historically rich Zakopane-style architecture. Conveniently you can also sample some of the best sausages, soups, and bread Zakopane has to offer here.
You’ll aslo find a shoppers paradise with designer brands, sportswear and ski gear at lower then normal prices, there’s even a TK Maxx for you to enjoy.
If you are in Poland for Christmas, you will find an additional Christmas market with decorated wooden chalets, Christmas trees, carols, food shops, rides, and more. The street will be transformed into an enchanting Yuletide paradise.
Zakopane Street Market
Enjoy Southern Polish cuisine
It isn’t a Zakopane skiing holiday without trying out the eccentric yet positively delicious meals.
The cuisine and drinks in Poland are exquisite and perfectly suited for those winter days on the mountain. Zakopane town itself is jam-packed with traditional taverns serving all sorts of delicacies. You can have an awesome experience in the restaurants on Krupowki street, as they are very tourist-friendly.
However, if you are looking to try something more local, you should try some of the local milk bars and taverns. We’ve prepared a list for those who are wondering what local dishes to try first. Polish cuisine is rich in taste and offers a great variety of delicacies.
Traditional Polish soups
We’re starting off our food guide with soups because few things can beat a hot bowl of soup on a cold winter day. Especially, if you have spent it skiing on the slopes or exploring snowy landscapes. Polish winter soups are rich in taste and extremely satisfying for cold and weary travelers.
Zurek
Zurek is one of the most Polish soups. Its rich flavor consists of bacon, kielbasa sausage, carrots, onions, garlic, parsley roots, and freshly ground pepper. To make it more nutritious, it also has sour rye and heavy cream. A variety of spices add even more richness to the flavor. To top it off it’s served with a boiled egg. This soup is a whole meal!
Rosol
Rosol soup is another traditional Polish soup. It’s made with clear chicken broth, that is poured over noodles along with chopped carrots, parsley, and pieces of chicken. This is an excellent soup to try if you are feeling under the weather. Some locals swear by its healing power. Varieties of the soup also include onions, celery root, parsnips, leek, and cabbage. Topped off with complimentary spices, this soup is an excellent choice for travelers.
Tripe Soup
Those whose tastebuds are feeling truly adventurous should try the local tripe soup. In the rugged Polish mountains, nothing goes to waste, including the meat from an animal’s belly. The meat is cooked for six hours to remove any impurities. Polish tripe soup is traditionally made from beef, carrots, celery, and a lot of spices. Tripe has a very distinct smell and taste and you will either love it or hate it. But we do encourage you to try it.
Traditional Smoked Polish Cheese (Oscypek)
In the mountainous Podhale region, where crops are hard to grow, animal husbandry flourishes. This means that people in Zakopane have been perfecting their cheese traditions for centuries. Cheese is an essential accompaniment to any traditional Polish lunch or dinner. There is a variety of cheeses to try, but if you had to pick only one, we would recommend Oscypek.
Oscypek is Zakopane’s famed smoked cheese made from sheep milk. It is made using an ancient recipe that is followed exclusively in the Tatra mountains. Oscypek is made by expert sheep shepherds. The first official recipe of Oscypek dates back to 1748. It is usually served warm (sometimes pan-fried) and it goes surprisingly well in combination with marmalade.
Pierogi Dumplings
Pierogi are widely spread in the cuisine of Central and Eastern Europe. They come in a wide variety of shapes, fillings, and flavors. In Poland, there is a special kind of Pierogi for every holiday. Poles love their pierogi. They can be stuffed with potatoes, cheese, herbs, cabbage, mushrooms, buckwheat, millet, and all sorts of meat. There are also sweet pierogi with blueberries or other forest fruits. Pierogi are best served with heavy cream and dill as a decoration.
Every restaurant in Zakopane puts its own unique spin on its Pierogi plates, so we encourage you to experiment and explore the variety of local Pierogi
Where are the best places to eat in Zakopane?
The area in and around Zakopane is filled with restaurants and taverns. You can always find a place to eat, drink, and get warm on the cold winter days. Yet, having so many choices can be torture for any newcomer. That’s why we’ve prepared a list for you of some of our favourite restaurants and eateries. Listed in order of closest distance to Chalet Stardust I&II. Simply use the Google pluscode when using maps on your mobile device.
Nosalowy Dwor Restaurant
Droga Oswalda Balzera 21d, 34-500, +48500575399
PlusCode-7XMP+VW
Very convenient.Situated right next door to our chalets, a delicious mix of traditional and European cuisine in a modern setting.
Karczma u Starego
Droga Oswalda Balzera 16b, 34-500, +48728239335
PlusCode-7XMM+XJ
A true locals hangout where everyone is made to feel welcome, delicious home-cooked cuisine washed down with local beer.
Gospoda Polska Kolibecka
Przewodników Tatrzańskich 1b, 34-500, +48182062635
PlusCode-7XMF+PC
On the way to the centre and very close to the Chalet, very traditional tavern serving some of the best mountain trout in the region.
La Playa Beach Bar & ChillOut Lounge
Tytusa Chałubińskiego 38, 34-500, +48600800000,
PlusCode-7XPC+JH
Says what it is – a relaxed bar-restaurant serving great pizzas among other things.
Bakowo Zohylina WyZnio
Józefa Piłsudskiego 28A, 34-500, +48182012045
PlusCode-7XM7+X5
Close to the ski jump and an especially beautiful Tatra style setting with lots to look at, some unique game dishes served here.
Bar Mleczny
Hr. Władysława Zamoyskiego 5, 34-500, +48539951985,
PlusCode-7XR6+6X
One of Poland’s famous milk-bars, one of the best in Zakopane, home cooked dishes in a served in a super relaxed setting.
Restauracja Browar Watra Dancing
Hr. Władysława Zamoyskiego 2, 34-500, +48 512 351 742,
PlusCode-7XR6+CC
This place is huge and a true staple of Zakopane – there’s even an on site brewery and dance floor for late night Polka dances.
Burger i piwo Zakopane
Stanisława Witkiewicza 10, 34-500,+48608488000,
PlusCode-7XR6+PW
Burgers and beers, what’s not to like, like all restaurants on the list there’s also vegetarian options served.
CZIKAGO Grill Bar&Pizza
Stanisława Witkiewicza 21, 34-500, +48884338187,
PlusCode-7XR7+XG
A family run and cosy restaurant – very good pizza and hamburgers
Casa Mia Zakopane
Krupówki 69, 34-500, +48516645313,
PlusCode-7XR5+W8
High ranking restaurant on trip advisor serving a mix of Polish and European dishes.
Żarneccy Lodziarnia Kawiarnia
Krupówki 48B, 34-500, +48182000210,
PlusCode-7XR5+V6
It doesn’t matter that it’s winter, the best ice cream in Zakopane.
Góralski Browar
Krupówki 40, 34-500, +48538415119,
PlusCode-7XV4+4F
Slick rooftop restaurant with panorama views of the Tatra mountains.
Karczma Góraleczka
Krupówki 22b, 34-500, +48538415119,
PlusCode-7XV3+J5
One of the oldest taverns on Krupówki street and well worth a visit.
Restauracja TUNEL | Krupówki Zakopane
Krupówki 7, 34-500, +48182071102,
PlusCode-7XW2+92
Nice food in a modern setting at the lower end of Krupówki street.
Where to watch sports in Zakopane
Your Zakopane skiing holiday doesn’t have to come at the cost of missing the game. There are a few great bars where you can get drinks and food while watching sports on a big screen. Consider Sport Corner – Pizza & Burger on Kuprowki Street – the preferred location for local sports fans, serving cold drinks and high quality pizza, pasta, burgers and more.
Another fantastic option is bar “Na Koncu Swiata”, literally translating to “At The World’s End”, which might very well be a reference to the eponymous film. In this case, we can guarantee there are no aliens trying to take over the world there.
Nightlife in Zakopane
After you’ve filled your belly with delicious food it might be time to do some late-night exploring. Zakopane has over 30,000 full-time residents and is Poland’s premier mountain resort. As such, it boasts great opportunities to enjoy the nightlife. The ski slopes are open until around 9 pm, so the nightlife usually kicks off after that.
Zakopane at night
Food and drinks are about twice cheaper as compared to the French, Austrian, and Swiss Alps. You can expect to pay around £3 for a large beer in Zakopane. The drinking possibilities here come in a variety of sizes and qualities. From the ubiquitous bar with chart hits played from bad speakers to international DJs playing in elite nightclubs.
A great start to your night out would be at Krupowki street – the beating heart of the town. It stretches over a kilometer long and is filled with shops, restaurants, taverns, hotels, and bars. At the height of the season, the atmosphere here is vibrant and lively. The place is full of portrait artists, street performers, horse sleighs, and the aroma of Southern Polish delicacies in the air.
You can’t really go wrong when choosing a bar to enjoy a pint in. We particularly recommend local hangout “Na Końcu Świata” Bar – 7XR6+MV as a good bet for a delicious beer and great vibes.
However, our humble pick for the coolest bar in the whole of the resort is Cafe Piano – 7XV5+33
Best Clubs in Zakopane
The Zakopane skiing holiday season is peak time – locals, and foreigners descend in their thousands for a spot of skiing, snowboarding, and partying. If you come in early Spring the town quietens down a bit before the summer crowds arrive for some of that mountain air.
During the high season expect many holidaymakers to enjoy the pubs, taverns, and clubs whereas a little later on in the season it might only be you and the locals on the dancefloor. Either Way, there’s a lot of fun to be had in Zakopane, even outside of the traditional ski holiday.
Zakopane might not be Warsaw or Krakow, but it still has a well-deserved spot on Poland’s nightlife party map. There’s almost never a bad night at Dworzec Tatrzanski, which is one of the best clubs in Zakopane.
Party at Dworzec Tatrzanski
There is also the White Nights festival when the party doesn’t stop between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. As far as music goes, think nu-jazz, ragga, a world that accompanies the regular house, breaks, and drum & bass nights throughout the season.
This eclectic programme brings people from as far as Warsaw and nearby Krakow to mash it up on the dancefloor. If the dancefloor gets too much there is a wonderful chill-out room. Its theme is Arabian nights because you will find cushions and shisha pipes that offer a nice break from the beat. If you’re in town just keep an eye out for posters with the famous fish logo.
In 2005 Klub Vavavoom entered the nightclub stage. It’s a high-end-looking venue spread over two floors. It’s definitely worth a look if you’re after a slightly alternative dance music.
Peak time at Vavavoom
Also situated among the fairytale streets of Zakopane we have the shameless, fun and trashy nights, we have Morskie Oko (on Krupowki street) and Genesis (Plac Niepodleglosci), they have all the lasers, bells, whistles, girls, and boys you could wish for.
But there is still PLENTY to do in Zakopane as it’s full of activities, places to visit and sensations to experience. Here’s a full list of 25+ things to do in Zakopane during your winter holiday.
We hope you enjoyed the read
We had a lot of fun putting this guide together and we hope you found it interesting and useful. As you now know, Zakopane offers a huge amount of activities. There is something for everyone, regardless of age or taste. It’s a town with rich history and tradition. It represents its own fairytale world hidden in the Tatra mountains. We hope you come and explore it yourself.
If you decide to bring some friends over for a Zakopane skiing holiday and you’re looking for a bed and breakfast ski chalet, then please consider our Stardust chalets. The Snomads team is always happy to help and deliver unforgettable experiences on and off the slopes.
In this article:
Chalets in Zakopane
Cozy lodgings with easy access to ski slopes and in-house booking for group activities.
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