Audio Guide of Gubałówka Hill in Zakopane

The most popular way is to take the PKL funicular at the end of Krupówki Street, which generally operates from 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. (hours vary by season). You can also hike up on marked trails if you prefer a walk of about one hour. Check the latest schedules on the official PKL website.

Access to the hill on foot is free, but a round-trip ticket on the funicular costs around 35 PLN (about €8) for adults, with discounts for children and seniors. I recommend buying tickets in advance to avoid lines at the PKL online store.

To enjoy the panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains and have a coffee, you will need between 1 and 2 hours. If you decide to do extra activities such as the gravity slide or walk toward Butorowy Wierch, allow at least half a day.

Although it is not the highest hill, it offers the most iconic and complete panorama of the Tatra range and the town of Zakopane. Its funicular, inaugurated in 1938, made it the region’s main leisure and scenic viewpoint destination.

Sunset is spectacular for watching the sun go down over the mountains; however, in winter, an evening visit is magical thanks to the illuminations of the 'Land of Light.' Try to go early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the midday crowds.

Yes, the funicular is modern and fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. At the top, the main promenade is paved and easy to walk along, although beyond the main area the ground can become uneven.

From the upper station, you can walk about 20–30 minutes toward the **Butorowy Wierch** chairlift for a different descent experience (summer only). Nearby, you will also find the Chapel of Our Lady of the Unceasing Rosary, a gem of local wooden architecture.

Always bring a windproof jacket, as the temperature at the top is lower and it is often windy. Do not leave without trying smoked local cheese with cranberries from the food stalls above; it is the authentic taste of Zakopane.