The first step to getting to Zakopane is usually getting to Krakow. That’s the home of the closest airport, the John Paul II Kraków-Balice International Airport. If you like, you can rent a car there and be in Zakopane within two hours, traffic permitting. It’s also possible to get to Krakow on international rail links and by bus from a whole host of European cities and capitals and connect to Zakopane using public transport.

Zakopane is a big deal in Poland, and that means there are lots of different locations to stay within the town. If you’re here for a night or two in order to relax, see the sights at a leisurely pace or hit the slopes, then get a hotel, enjoy the facilities and relax in the calm, clear air of this magical town. If you’re here to ski for a few nights, suggest going to the good folks at a hotel or resort and getting yourself an apartment. That way you have your own place to relax and leave your equipment and luggage, and a base to immerse yourself into local life properly. There are a lot of homes with Airbnb in Zakopane, so you should find one that will suit your needs.

When visiting Zakopane, you’ll want to sample some traditional Tatra region dishes that are rich and flavorful. Żurek Soup is a distinctive Polish soup known for its sour taste. It’s typically served with hard-boiled eggs and a unique Polish sausage, making it a hearty and satisfying choice. Kwaśnica Soup features pickled cabbage and meat, usually mutton or pork, and sometimes includes a smoked rib. It’s traditionally eaten with separately boiled potatoes or bread, offering a tangy and robust flavor. Hałuski are potato noodles made from grated potatoes, salt, and flour. This simple yet delicious dish is a staple in the region’s cuisine. Moskole are traditional griddle cakes made from boiled potatoes, flour, water, and salt. They have a slightly crispy crust with a soft, tender center. Kluski Śląskie are potato dumplings that pair well with meat sauces such as goulash. Their soft texture complements the rich flavors of the sauce. These traditional foods provide a taste of the region’s history, reflecting the need for energy-dense meals for those working in the cold, mountainous environment.

In April there's still snow galore on Mount Kasprowy. Additionally, the month is known for thousands of tiny crocuses blooming on the Tatra clearings. May is a real spring month. Just make sure not to come on the May holiday (the first weekend) for between the 1st and 5th of may Zakopane is overcrowded. In June Zakopane gets quiet, the days are long and mostly sunny, the mountain paths welcome tourists tired of the crowds. Christmas in Zakopane is a unique experience. The town gets beautifully decorated, usually covered with loads of fresh fallen snow. Small wooden chapels at mountain trails welcome to Midnight Mass. New Year is welcomed outside at hundreds of bonfires held everywhere in the town.