For beginners
Ski schools, hire and moderate slopes — the first choice for a first time.
Andrea Nour — CC0 · Rj1979 — Public domain · Rj1979 — Public domain · Rj1979 — Public domain
A ski area on a slope west of Zakopane, the closest of the surrounding ski areas to the town centre. That proximity is its main advantage: it can be reached on foot or by a short bus from the centre, unlike other areas needing a car or a longer trip. The slopes here are of moderate difficulty and suit beginners and intermediates more than advanced skiers, with ski schools, equipment hire and chairlifts. That makes it the logical choice for anyone trying skiing for the first time or skiing with children. In summer the function changes: the slope works as walking ground with a summer slide and a thermal pool on site, and the lift runs to carry walkers up for a view over the town and the Tatras. You should know this is a commercial facility rather than a sight: prices and services change by season, and snow quality in Zakopane is variable because the altitude is not high — check conditions before booking ski days. Clearly seasonal: winter for skiing and summer for everything else.
Ski schools, hire and moderate slopes — the first choice for a first time.
A summer slide, a thermal pool and a lift carrying walkers up.
It needs no car, unlike the other ski areas around Zakopane.
West of Zakopane, on the Szymoszkowa slope
Villa KolibaThe first house built in the Zakopane Style, designed by Stanisław Witkiewicz in12 minutes walk4.7
Antoni Rząsa GalleryA gallery in the house of the Polish sculptor Antoni Rząsa in Zakopane, created 15 minutes walk4.8
GubałówkaA hill rising to about 1,120 metres north of central Zakopane, reached by a funi15 minutes walk4.9
Pęksowy Brzyzek Cemetery of the MeritoriousThe oldest cemetery in Zakopane, established in the mid-nineteenth century, whic17 minutes walk4.1
Scouting MuseumA small museum devoted to the history of the scouting movement in Poland, named 17 minutes walk4.6For beginners and intermediates yes, and at prices far below the Alps. But be realistic: the altitudes are lower, the runs shorter and the snow less reliable than in Austria or Switzerland, and Kasprowy Wierch is the only serious slope with limited capacity. Come for the price and the atmosphere rather than for long runs.
Late December to March, peaking in January and February. New Year and Polish school holidays fill the town completely and raise prices. Early March is often a good compromise: reasonable snow, lower prices and lighter crowds.