10 Best Things to Do and See in Zakopane
Exploring Zakopane on foot is one of the best ways to feel the city’s atmosphere, connect its landmark places and discover its neighbourhoods at a more natural pace.
In this guide, you will find the attractions not to miss when planning a walking route in Zakopane, with simple reference points.
To go further, you can also enjoy a private guided tour in Zakopane. It is a smoother way to connect places, understand details you might miss on your own and enjoy a more human, personal discovery adapted to your trip.
1. Tatra National Park
Tatra National Park, starting from Zakopane, offers privileged access to the spectacular landscapes of Poland’s most famous mountains. Discover rocky peaks, deep valleys, alpine lakes, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. The park appeals to hikers and nature lovers alike, with trails for all levels and breathtaking views in every season.
2. Siklawica Waterfall
In the mountains near Zakopane, Siklawica Waterfall is a beautiful mountain waterfall reached on a hike in the Tatra range. It stands out for its preserved natural setting, with water tumbling down a rocky wall among forests and alpine trails. It is a favourite stop for hikers looking to enjoy peace, fresh air, and typical regional scenery. Depending on the season, the atmosphere changes from summer freshness to a wilder winter landscape.
3. MYSZOGRÓD ZAKOPANE
Myszogród Zakopane is a unique attraction in Zakopane dedicated to the world of mice, displayed in carefully designed miniature scenes. The site invites visitors to look closely at small themed sets, tiny houses and playful arrangements that create a whimsical, family-friendly world. It is an enjoyable visit for both children and adults, ideal for taking a break in the city and discovering an unusual local curiosity. The experience focuses on detail, atmosphere and wonder rather than size.
4. ILUZJA PARK ZAKOPANE
ILUZJA PARK ZAKOPANE is a tourist attraction in Zakopane offering a fun, immersive experience based on visual illusions. Visitors discover interactive installations, perspective tricks, and surprising sets that invite original photos while having fun. The site is suitable for all ages, especially for travelers looking for an unusual indoor activity or a good option in changeable weather. It is a short, entertaining visit that fits perfectly into a Zakopane sightseeing plan.
5. Upside-Down House Zakopane
Upside-Down House in Zakopane is a quirky tourist attraction that draws visitors with its striking visual effect: the house appears upside down, with its roof on the ground and its furniture inverted. Inside, everything is designed to create a sense of vertigo and disorientation. Located in the mountain resort of Zakopane, Poland, this original attraction is popular with families and with visitors looking for unusual places and fun photos.
6. Muzeum Oscypka
In Zakopane, Muzeum Oscypka invites visitors to discover the world of the famous smoked cheese from the Polish mountains. This small museum highlights the pastoral know-how linked to Tatra traditions and explains the steps of oscypek production, from milk to maturation. Visitors also learn about the tools, artisan techniques, and the cheese’s role in local culture. The visit offers a vivid glimpse into the region’s culinary heritage and the importance of sheep farming in southern Poland.
7. Zakopane illuminated sign
The Zakopane illuminated sign is an iconic lighted sign in Zakopane, Poland, often photographed for its instantly recognizable look. Set in a busy urban area, it serves as a popular landmark and highlights the name of this mountain resort. Day or night, it catches the eye with its simple, modern design and makes a pleasant stop for a city walk or a souvenir photo during a trip to the Tatras.
8. Tatra National Park Nature Education Centre, Zakopane
The Tatra National Park Nature Education Centre in Zakopane is a museum dedicated to the park’s natural heritage and mountain environment. Explore educational exhibits on wildlife, flora, geology and the landscapes of the Tatras, with modern interactive displays that make the visit accessible to everyone. It is an ideal stop to prepare for a hike or deepen your discovery of the Zakopane region.
9. The Tatra Museum
The Tatra Museum in Zakopane is a local history museum that reveals the identity of the Tatra region and its people. Its collections focus on mountain culture, craft traditions, costume, daily life and the natural environment of the massif. A visit offers insight into Zakopane’s heritage and the cultural role of the Tatras in Poland, with objects, documents and displays that help visitors better understand this unique mountain region.
10. EXPO Krupówki Wax Figures Exhibition
EXPO Krupówki Wax Figures Exhibition in Zakopane is a wax museum offering a fun and accessible visit in the heart of the city. Discover life-size statues of famous personalities, well-known characters, and scenes inspired by entertainment or popular culture. It appeals to families and curious visitors alike, thanks to its immersive atmosphere and the chance to get close to the works, observe the details, and take photos.
Antony M
During my travels, I looked for guides who spoke my language. This search turned out to be long and tedious. That is why I created MYTOGU (My Tourist Guide): a matching site between tourists and professional tourist guides.
