Audio Guide of the Old Cemetery of Pęksowy Brzyzek

The cemetery is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM in high season (June to September) and from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM in winter, although these hours may vary depending on the weather; check the official website. You can walk there from the center of Zakopane (about 15 minutes) or take a local bus; the main entrance is on Zasmykowski Street. For more details, visit the official Zakopane website.

Admission is free for all visitors, as this is a historic site open to the public. There are no fees and no need to buy tickets, but a voluntary donation in the box for maintenance is recommended. If you want a guide, consider booking an organized tour for around 20–30 PLN per person.

It is recommended to allow between 45 minutes and 1 hour for a complete visit, exploring the notable graves and monuments without rushing. If you are a fan of local history, you might extend it to 1.5 hours, including time to read the plaques. It is a peaceful place, ideal for a short stop during a day in Zakopane.

This cemetery, founded in 1850, is a cultural treasure of the Tatra highlanders, with unique sculptural graves carved in wood by local artists that honor the Gorale tradition. It contains the burial places of key figures such as the painter Tadeusz Brzozowski and regional poets, symbolizing Polish folk heritage. Its Gothic and Romantic style makes it an open-air museum of life in the Carpathians.

The best time is in autumn (September–October) or spring, when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists, avoiding the summer crowds. Visit early in the morning (around 9:00 AM) to enjoy the natural light that highlights the sculptures and a more serene atmosphere. In winter, with snow, it is magical, but check access in case of closures.

The terrain is uneven, with gravel paths and some slopes, which makes it partially accessible; there are level main entrances, but not the entire site has ramps. Wheelchair users can visit the central areas with assistance; contact Zakopane Town Hall at +48 18 201 41 00 for help. Comfortable shoes are recommended for everyone.

Nearby, just a 10-minute walk away, you will find the Tatra Museum (Muzeum Tatrzańskie) with fascinating ethnographic exhibitions. There is also Krupówki Street, the pedestrian heart of Zakopane with shops and cafés, and the funicular to Gubałówka for panoramic views. For more ideas, explore Visit Zakopane.

Bring a map or an audio guide app (such as those from iAudioguia.com) to understand the stories behind the graves, and wear comfortable clothing for the uneven paths. Respect the silence and do not touch the sculptures; if you are traveling in a group, consider hiring a local guide for deeper anecdotes. In summer, bring insect repellent and water to stay hydrated during the walk.