Language
The official language of Poland is Polish. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, such as Krakow and Zakopane.
Currency
The official currency of Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN). Euro and US dollars are also accepted in some places.
Distance
The distance between Krakow and Zakopane is approximately 110 kilometers (68 miles).
How to Reach
There are several ways to get from Krakow to Zakopane:
- By train: The train journey takes about 3 hours and costs around 20 PLN (5 EUR).
- By bus: The bus journey takes about 2 hours and costs around 15 PLN (4 EUR).
- By car: The drive takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Expenses
The cost of a trip from Krakow to Zakopane will vary depending on your budget and travel style. However, here are some general estimates:
- Accommodation: A basic hotel room will cost around 50 PLN (12 EUR) per night, while a more comfortable room will cost around 100 PLN (24 EUR) per night.
- Food: A meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost around 50 PLN (12 EUR), while a meal at a budget restaurant will cost around 20 PLN (5 EUR).
- Activities: A day trip to the Tatra Mountains will cost around 100 PLN (24 EUR), while a guided tour of the Wieliczka Salt Mine will cost around 50 PLN (12 EUR).
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Zakopane is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town can be very busy during this time. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you can visit during the spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October).
Zakopane is also a popular destination for winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding. The ski season runs from December to April.
What to Eat
Polish cuisine is hearty and flavorful, and there are many delicious dishes to try in Zakopane. Some of the most popular dishes include:
- Oscypek: A smoked cheese made from sheep's milk.
- Pierogi: Dumplings filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
- Bigos: A stew made with sauerkraut, meat, and vegetables.
- Zapiekanka: A baked sandwich with mushrooms, cheese, and onions.
Where to Go
Zakopane is a beautiful town with plenty to see and do. Here are some of the most popular attractions:
- The Tatra Mountains: The Tatra Mountains are a stunning mountain range that offer some of the best hiking and skiing in Poland.
- The Wieliczka Salt Mine: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a fascinating underground salt mine that has been operating for over 700 years.
- The Gubalowka Mountain: This mountain offers stunning views of Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains. You can take a cable car to the top.
- The Krupowki Street: This pedestrianized street is the main thoroughfare of Zakopane and is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars.