The Winter Tatras Guide

The winter Tatras are a true mountain paradise, with unforgettable landscapes, a sense of solitude, and plenty of adventures. In our guide, you will find the best places to relax in Zakopane and its surroundings, learn where to stay overnight, which museums to visit, where to ski, and where to find delicious local cuisine.

Where to Stay What to See What to Do Where to Eat

Where to Stay in the Tatras?

If you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay with your family or a group, check out Śnieżna Dolina. This complex features modern wooden cabins with breathtaking views of the mountains and is conveniently located within walking distance from Zakopane. Each building has several bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a beautiful terrace.

For romantics, an ideal choice is Tatrzański Biegun, a stylized "Alpine" chalet with striking decor and a cozy atmosphere. Every day, the owners prepare delicious homemade breakfasts, and in the evening, they invite guests to unwind in a small sauna.

If you seek privacy and first-class service, then choose the NoName chalet. This eco-friendly location, owned by a Polish-Italian couple, offers everything needed for a luxurious stay: beautiful rooms with forest views, a swimming pool, saunas, one of the best spas in the country, and delicious breakfasts and dinners.

What to See in Zakopane?

Zakopane is the true heart of the Tatras. This city, with a rich history and traditions, has become a real mecca for tourists. Originally, it was a small village known for its pastures and livestock. Over time, the untouched Tatra beauty began attracting Polish intellectuals. The influx of visitors led to the rapid development of Zakopane, transforming it into Poland's tourist hub. To feel the pulse of the region, take a walk along the famous Krupówki Street, where you can find various souvenirs and traditional Polish goods, and also see the city from above by riding the Ferris wheel.

While strolling through Zakopane, pay attention to its architectural heritage. It’s like an open-air museum featuring wooden cottages with folk ornaments and unique decorative elements. The emergence of the "Zakopane style" is a special cultural phenomenon, which you can learn about at the Willa Koliba museum. This is one of the first buildings constructed in this style. On the tour, you will learn how the local architecture developed under the influence of nature and how builders of the time adapted traditional techniques to create housing.

Another must-see in Zakopane is oscypek cheese. This is not just a local delicacy; it’s a true symbol of the region. Its uniqueness lies in its intricate patterned shape and recipe, which uses sheep’s milk, as well as the production process. We highly recommend visiting the museum where you can learn the history of the cheese and take part in a workshop with a tasting.

If you’ve come to the Tatras with children, you must visit Myszogród. This project literally jumped out of the pages of the book The Green Mile. Here, they made the dream of millions come true by creating the mouse city where Mr. Jingles was supposed to go. In a small park filled with dozens of incredible attractions, from tiny houses to balloons and ships, hundreds of adorable mice live in perfect harmony. This place will surely thrill little travelers.

Another unusual local attraction is the snow maze. This massive ice structure, located in the center of Zakopane, is one of the largest snow constructions in Europe. The maze features many tunnels, snow frescoes, and even an ice castle, making it a true winter fairy tale.

What Else to Do in the Tatra Mountains?

Zakopane is not only a cultural center but also the gateway to the Tatra National Park, which is considered one of the most significant natural attractions in Poland. Here, you can enjoy scenic hikes along trails with waterfalls, mountain lakes, and dense pine forests. Nearby the city is the Kasprowy Wierch funicular, one of the most popular ways to reach one of the most famous mountains in the Tatras. The lift, built in 1936, will take you to a height with a breathtaking view of the mountains. But don’t forget that it’s better to buy tickets for the funicular in advance, and it’s worth going only in clear weather to fully enjoy the beauty of the region.

Of course, a winter holiday in the Tatras wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the thermal springs, as they are the perfect way to relax after an action-packed day. We recommend Termy Bania, one of the most well-known thermal complexes in the region, featuring several indoor and outdoor pools, a sauna gallery, attractions for children, and a restaurant.

For a romantic end to your day, choose a private sleigh ride. Traditional sleds with fur-covered seats will take you through the snowy forest under the sound of jingling bells on the necks of thoroughbred horses. Then, the driver will stop at a small, cozy clearing where you can enjoy a picnic by the campfire with a view of the Tatras. You can arrange such an experience at the NoName hotel or here.

If you love active entertainment such as skiing or snowboarding, be sure to check out the slopes of Giewont and Szymaszkowa in Zakopane. We also highly recommend the large multi-level lift with slopes of various difficulty levels in Białka Tatrzańska — Bania Ski. At the foot of the slopes, there is also a school offering private lessons with instructors or group lessons.

Where to Eat in the Tatras?

In recent years, local gastronomy in Zakopane has been growing rapidly. Chefs not only offer traditional regional dishes but also focus on developing modern Polish fusion cuisine. One such place is the restaurant Marilor, which was included in the list of Poland's 100 Best Restaurants.

If you're planning a walk in the national park, we recommend stopping for lunch at Leśniczówka Resto Bar. Guests can enjoy delicious dishes made with local products and a panoramic view of the mountains.

For coffee lovers who appreciate good roasting, make sure to visit the specialty café La Mano. If you want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of traditional Tatra life, head to Karcma Pod Stancyjom in Bukowina Tatrzańska. Here, you’ll find an old Polish cottage with elements of traditional life, serving dishes like zurek, kapusniak, a large board of local cheeses, and smoked meats.

To find even more places to visit, use the VacationPoland app. It’s the perfect virtual assistant that showcases all the most interesting and unique locations in the country. With VacationPoland, you can easily plan your trip to the mountains and enjoy unforgettable experiences in Poland.