How to Avoid Crowds in Zakopane: Practical Tips for a Peaceful Stay in the Tatras
Zakopane is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Poland, which means it can get really crowded during the high season. If you’re looking for a quiet stay in the Tatras and want to avoid long lines and crowded trails, check out these handy tips that will help you experience Zakopane in a whole new way!
1. Choose Less Popular Trails
The most famous trails, such as Morskie Oko, Giewont or Kościeliska Valley, attract thousands of tourists every day. Instead, choose alternative, less crowded routes:
- The Valley of the Small Meadow – a picturesque valley with beautiful views, much less frequented than the Kościeliska Valley,
- Rusinowa Glade – a relatively easy trail with an amazing panorama of the High Tatras,
- Lejowa Valley – ideal for people who value peace and quiet,
- Red Peaks – a demanding but rewarding route with fantastic views, less crowded than Giewont.
2. Start Hiking in the Morning or Late Afternoon
The heaviest tourist traffic on the trails occurs between 10:00 and 15:00. To avoid crowds, it is best to start the hike before sunrise or late afternoon, when some tourists are already returning to Zakopane.
An early start is also a chance to admire the amazing sunrise over the Tatra National Park. The ideal places to admire this spectacle are Gubalowka Whether Kasprowy Wierch.
3. Avoid Krupówki during rush hours
Krupówki is the heart of Zakopane, but it can get very crowded during the season. If you want to take a leisurely stroll, go there in the morning (before 9:00) or in the evening. Alternatively, visit other, less crowded places, such as:
- Kościeliska Street – the oldest street in Zakopane with historic wooden houses,
- The Road Under the Regla – a great option for a walk away from the crowds,
- Antałówka – a hill with a beautiful view of Zakopane, little known among tourists.
4. Book Accommodation Outside the Center
Zakopane in the city center can be convenient, but it can be noisy and crowded. For peace and quiet, consider staying in nearby towns:
- Kościelisko – quiet area with picturesque views,
- Murzasichle – ideal for those looking for peace and a highland atmosphere,
- Witow – close to Chochołowskie Termy and Chochołowska Valley,
- Bukowina Tatrzańska – a great base for skiing and trips to the Tatra Mountains.
5. Use Alternative Transport
When visiting Zakopane, it is best to avoid driving in the city centre – traffic jams can be severe and finding a parking space can be time-consuming. Instead, consider:
- minibuses running to the Chochołowska Valley, Kuźnice or Morskie Oko,
- renting a bike or electric scooter,
- walk – this way you will discover many charming places.
6. Avoid Weekends and Long Holidays
If possible, visit Zakopane during the week – there will be significantly fewer tourists there than on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays. It can be particularly crowded during long May weekends, Corpus Christi or winter break.
7. Take advantage of lesser-known viewpointsh
If you want to admire the panorama of the Tatra Mountains without the crowds, instead of the traditional Gubałówka or Kasprowy Wierch, choose:
- Butorowy Wierch – breathtaking views with much fewer tourists,
- Bachledzki Peak – close to the center, but almost empty,
- Szymoszkowa Glade – fantastic panorama of Giewont and the Western Tatras.
Summary
Zakopane is a place full of charm, but planning your trip properly will allow you to avoid the most crowded places and fully enjoy its true atmosphere. Choose less popular trails, set off on trips at unusual times and explore the areas outside the center - this will make your stay in Zakopane much more enjoyable and relaxing.oyable!
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