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10 Best day trips from Krakow, Poland [2025]
As a local Polish girl who’s been living in Krakow for almost 7 years now, I can honestly say that one of the best things about this city is how many incredible places you can visit just outside of it. Whether you’re into mountains, castles, art, history, or relaxing in a hot spring — there’s something for everyone nearby. So if you’re looking to escape the city for a day, here are the best day trips from Krakow — all tried and tested, and totally worth it!
1. Zakopane and Thermal Baths
One of the most popular day trips from Krakow to Zakopane, this one combines stunning mountain views with pure relaxation in thermal baths. Zakopane sits at the foot of the Tatra Mountains and is known for its wooden chalets, hiking trails, and rich highlander culture. Walk down Krupówki Street, take the cable car up Gubałówka for panoramic views, or just enjoy some local food (don’t miss the grilled oscypek cheese!).
To top it off, head to one of the nearby thermal baths like Chochołowskie Termy or Bania, where you can soak in warm mineral water while admiring the mountain scenery. It’s a perfect combo of active and chill, and one of the best day trips from Krakow all year round.
👉 You can book an organized day trips to Zakopane from Krakow here.
Or organise a trip to Zakopane on your own – you might find useful our guide how to get from Krakow to Zakopane.
And if you decide to stay for more time in Zakopane, you can get a 20€ discount on your first booking with Aloha Camp and stay in a place in Zakopane if you register using our 👉🏻link
2. Morskie Oko
If you’re up for a bit of an adventure, Morskie Oko is one of the most breathtaking places in Poland. It’s a crystal-clear lake surrounded by mountain peaks and one of the most popular spots in the Tatra National Park.
This day trip involves a 2–2.5 hour drive from Krakow followed by an easy (but long) 8 km walk through the forest on a paved path. No special hiking experience needed — just comfy shoes and water. It’s a long day, but completely doable and truly one of the most rewarding day trips from Krakow Poland for nature lovers.
You can book a guided tour to Morskie Oko and Slovakia Treetop Walk or plan your own adventure in Tatra Mountains using our guides:
3. Dunajec River Rafting – One of the Best Day Trips from Krakow
If you’re visiting Krakow between May and September, don’t miss the chance to go rafting down the Dunajec River in the scenic Pieniny Mountains. It’s a peaceful ride through a dramatic limestone gorge, with towering cliffs and forested hills surrounding you the whole way.
There are two ways to enjoy this day trip from Krakow:
🛶 Traditional Rafting – Sit back and relax on a wooden raft steered by highlander boatmen (flisacy) wearing traditional mountain clothing. No rowing needed — they do all the work while sharing a bit of local culture.
💪 DIY Rafting or Kayaking – If you’re up for something more active, rent a kayak or pontoon and paddle down the river yourself with a group of friends. It’s fun, a bit more adventurous, and a great way to spend a sunny day.
The ride takes about 2–3 hours depending of the level of water in the river.
4. Wieliczka Salt Mines
Just 30 minutes from the city, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is a must-see. It’s one of the oldest salt mines in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But it’s not just a mine — it’s an underground city with chapels, tunnels, sculptures, and even chandeliers made of salt!
A guided tour takes you through various chambers while sharing the history of salt mining in the region. It’s easy to reach by train, car, or guided tour and is one of the easiest and most fascinating day trips from Krakow Poland. The tour in the Salt Mines itself takes around 2,5h.
5. Ojców National Park & Ogrodzieniec Castle
If you love nature and medieval ruins, this is the trip for you. Ojców National Park is the smallest national park in Poland, but it’s packed with beauty — limestone cliffs, forests, caves, and walking trails.
Nearby, you’ll find Ogrodzieniec Castle, one of the most dramatic castles on the Trail of the Eagles’ Nests. Perched on a rocky hilltop, the castle ruins are fun to explore and offer stunning views. Together, they make for one of the best day trips from Krakow.
👉🏻 Book Guided Tour to Ojow National Park and Ogrodzieniec Castle here
6. Auschwitz-Birkenau
Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a deeply moving experience and something many travelers include when staying in Krakow. Located about 1.5 hours away in the town of Oświęcim, this former Nazi concentration camp has been preserved as a memorial and educational site.
A guided tour is highly recommended to fully understand the history of the place. While this isn’t a “fun” outing, it’s certainly one of the most meaningful and important day trips from Krakow for anyone interested in World War II history.
7. Zalipie – One of the most charming towns in Poland
Zalipie is like stepping into a living folk-art museum. The houses, fences, wells — almost every surface — are hand-painted with bright floral patterns. It’s quiet, charming, and totally Instagrammable.
This colorful little village is about 1.5–2 hours away by car and is best visited in the spring or summer. It’s one of the most unusual and artistic day trips from Krakow Poland.
8. Lanckorona
If you want a calm escape from the city without a long drive, Lanckorona is perfect. This little village sits on a hill just an hour from Krakow and is known for its wooden houses, art galleries, and relaxed atmosphere.
You can visit the ruins of a small castle, stroll through quiet streets, and have coffee in one of the artsy cafes. It’s a great choice for a slow-paced day, and definitely one of the best day trips from Krakow if you just want to relax and enjoy a slower rhythm.
9. Wadowice – John Paul II’s Hometown
Wadowice is the birthplace of Pope John Paul II and a place full of Polish history and pride. You can visit the family home where he was born (now a museum), the church where he was baptized, and even try his favorite cream cake — kremówka.
It’s an easy drive or bus ride from Krakow, and a meaningful choice among the many day trips from Krakow Poland, especially for those interested in Polish culture or Catholic heritage.
10. Energylandia
Need a break from sightseeing? Head to Energylandia, Poland’s biggest amusement park located in Zator, just over an hour from Krakow. With roller coasters, water slides, and themed zones for all ages, it’s a hit whether you’re traveling with kids or just want to let loose for a day.
It’s the most energetic and exciting day trip from Krakow, especially in summer.
The best day trips from Krakow
There are so many amazing day trips from Krakow that it can be hard to choose just one! Whether you’re into hiking, history, castles, or just soaking in a thermal pool, you’ll find something that fits your vibe. Some of these places are easier by car, while others are great with a guided tour or public transport — it all depends on your travel style.
Let us know in the comments if you want help picking one based on the season or your interests. I’ve done all of these, some more than once and I’d happily do them again!
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