Travel Tips

Zakopane, Poland in winter: Here’s what to expect from Poland’s winter paradise

Looking for a winter getaway that’s magical yet affordable? Zakopane, Poland in winter delivers snow-covered mountains, cosy mountain culture, and festive charm — minus the alpine price tag!

For European winter escapes, the Alps often steal the spotlight, but they can come with a hefty price tag.

That’s where Zakopane, Poland, comes in: an affordable yet magical alternative.

With its snowy peaks and cosy mountain vibes (minus the alpine price tag), Zakopane in Poland is fast becoming a go-to for UK travellers.

Zakopane’s trails and ski slopes stretch for miles across the breathtaking Tatra Mountains. Meanwhile, the town oozes European charm with wooden chalets, artisan markets, and hearty food that will warm you from the inside out.

In this guide, we’re sharing what to expect from a trip to Zakopane, Poland in winter, including the weather, top things to do, and how to get there.

In this article

What Zakopane’s winter weather is really like

Source: Shutterstock

Every winter, Zakopane’s lush green mountains transform into a winter wonderland. It typically snows from late November until March, offering plenty of powder for skiing, snowboarding, and other mountain adventures.

Daytime temperatures range from −7 °C to 2 °C, so make sure to pack plenty of warm layers, thermals, and a proper winter coat.

Zakopane, Poland in winter sees plenty of crisp, sunny days, perfect for exploring the town or hiking. However, plan your hikes and ski sessions for the mornings as the sun sets very early in the winter (as early as 3:30 pm in December).

Pro tip: If you’re after snowy days and a peaceful alpine vibe, January is your month to visit, as the Christmas crowds have gone and the mountain town regains its tranquil ambience.

Best things to do in Zakopane, Poland in winter

From the adrenaline-pumping slopes to the cosy alpine streets, Zakopane, Poland in winter has something for every traveller. Here’s how to make the most of your snowy escape:

Hit the slopes in the Tatra Mountains

Zakopane has 10 miles (16 km) of slopes, with 12 ski resorts served by 34 lifts. Many of the slopes are ideal for beginners, such as Gubałówka Hill, which offers gentle gradients and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe (and is easily accessible from the town centre).

Meanwhile, Kasprowy Wierch, with its long, scenic runs and steep gradients, is adored by intermediate and advanced skiers.

Ski passes are affordable compared to the Alps, and equipment rentals are available at multiple stations throughout the town.

Best of all, the slopes are generally less crowded than the major Alpine resorts. Hence, you can enjoy fresh powder and peaceful runs without the long lift queues.

Stroll through Krupówki Street

Krupówki Street is the heart of Zakopane town. It’s full of life year-round, but in December, it feels like stepping into a living Christmas card.

The pedestrian-only area transforms into a festive wonderland with snow-topped wooden stalls lining the street and twinkling lights illuminating the area.

Here you can:

Warm up with a hot mulled wine after a day on the slopes
Try traditional Polish street food like oscypek (smoked cheese)
Browse handmade gifts and woollen crafts
Enjoy some live folk music

Relax in the thermal baths

Source: Shutterstock

What makes Zakopane such a perfect ski town is its naturally heated open-air thermal baths with magnificent mountain views.

The most popular is Chochołów Thermal Baths, just 20 minutes from town. These baths are the largest in the region with steaming outdoor pools surrounded by snowy peaks, plus geysers, jacuzzis, and even slides, creating the ultimate post-ski unwind.

For a slightly quieter vibe, head to Bukovina Hot Springs, a 30-minute drive from Zakopane. With multiple hot pools, slides, and saunas, the mineral-rich waters will ease your tired muscles and warm you up from the core.

Eat like a local

Zakopane, Poland in winter is basically a foodie’s dream. There is so much hearty Polish comfort food that tastes like a hug in a bowl. Here’s what we recommend:

Pierogi (dumplings stuffed with potato, cheese, or mushrooms)
Bigos (a rich hunter’s stew)
Oscypek (a smoky, salty sheep’s cheese often grilled and served with cranberry jam)

Pair it all with a mug of grzaniec, Poland’s take on mulled wine.

Pro tip: If you’re spending Christmas in Zakopane, Poland, many resorts put on lavish Christmas Eve dinner buffets featuring traditional Polish festive dishes like barszcz (beetroot soup), carp, herring, and piernik (gingerbread).

How to get to Zakopane from the UK

You can get a direct flight to Kraków (KRK), the nearest airport to Zakopane, from all the major UK airports (London, Manchester, and Edinburgh).

From Kraków, it takes around 2 hours to reach Zakopane by car, bus, or train.

Many travellers opt for the low-cost FlixBus, which runs every hour and costs as little as €8 one-way. Alternatively, you can get the train, which has a direct route to Zakopane and takes 2 to 3 hours. It’s a bit more expensive but offers a more scenic journey.

Similarly, if you’re renting a car, the drive through the Podhale region is stunning, with rolling hills and glimpses of the Tatras along the way.

Pro tip: Consider spending a night or 2 in Kraków to explore the city’s cultural sights before heading to Zakopane for your snowy adventure. And to make navigating between cities easier, stay connected with a Holafly eSIM!

Keep your Phone working in Poland’s winter wonderland

Zakopane is utterly beautiful — a snow-dusted storybook escape that blends adventure, culture, and cosiness. But with winding mountain roads and frequent snowfall, having a strong, reliable connection here is essential.

Your phone will work in Poland, but without the right plan, roaming fees can quickly add up.

That’s why we suggest purchasing an eSIM before you land.

With a Holafly eSIM for Poland, you get reliable coverage (with local cellular providers) and unlimited data for one set price— no sneaky extra costs or unexpected signal drops!

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