Going to Zakopane, Poland but not taking a ride on Gubałówka Hill Funicular is like having a dish without salt! Based on my own visit, the funicular offers more than just a quick cable car ride. It provides magnificent views of the Tatra Mountains. Furthermore, it allows you to enjoy a charming summit atmosphere that feels straight out of traditional Polish highland culture and busy market stalls.
You can arrive at the peak in a couple minutes with the funicular from the lovely heart of Zakopane, where nature and spirit meet. Familiar or not with travelling? Either way, this tour is the ideal way of getting to know both the area’s natural beauty and local culture.
Gubałówka Hill Funicular tickets, opening hours or prices: in a comprehensive article you will find all the most important information and travel tips that will help you make the most of your trip. Also included are all the authentic visitor reviews, a location embedded with Google Maps, and links to trusted resources to make your trip smoother.
Table of Contents
What Is the Gubałówka Hill Funicular?
The Gubałówka Hill Funicular, known in Polish as Kolej linowo-terenowa Gubałówka, is a cable railway in Zakopane, Poland, running between Krupówki Street and the top of Gubałówka Hill. The funicular operated by Polskie Koleje Linowe (PKL) takes 3–4 minutes to climb to the height of over 1,100 metres, offering a panoramic view of the Tatra Mountains. Whether you’re going there for skiing in winter or for hiking and sightseeing in summer, the trip is smooth, budget-friendly, and scenic. It’s one of the most uncomplicated ways to enjoy the view of Zakopane from above. At the top, you can find local highlander markets, restaurants and trails for a half day. I would highly recommend riding at sunset, it’s golden hour over the mountains! Anyone who is coming to Zakopane for the first time must have this on their itinerary.
A Brief History of Gubałówka Hill
Gubałówka is not only a hill but a major panoramic view also locals deem historical. In 1938, the first funicular railway in Poland was built in Zakopane, to go from the town centre to Gubałówka summit. This was the first-ever project which facilitated mountain travel for the locals and tourists in that area.
Soon after World War II, Gubałówka became a place to visit twelve months a year. In winters, people come to ski in its gentle slopes. Summers attract hikers, nature lovers and families looking for fresh air. Over the years, the funicular was modernized on multiple occasions to enhance capacity and comfort to enable the funicular system to cope with demand.
Funicular on Gubałówka Hill is an important scene of Zakopane’s famous alpine culture Gubałówka whether it is covered in snow or under the summer sun, continues to receive thousands of visitors every year. Many of them travel on the same line that has forever changed spatial communication in the Polish mountains.
Learn more about Zakopane’s historical development through Poland Travel.
Magical Sunset with a View of the Tatra Mountains
Gubałówka Hill Funicular Tickets: Prices and Where to Buy
Gubałówka Hill Funicular tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter or online.
🎟️ Ticket Types & Prices (Subject to change):
- Adult Round-Trip: ~29 PLN
- Child Round-Trip: ~23 PLN
- One-Way Tickets: Available
- Group and Family Passes: Available
- PKL Pass Holders: Discounts included
📍 Where to Buy:
- Online: PKL Official Website
- On-Site: Ticket machines or ticket offices
Tip: Buying online helps you skip lines, especially during high season.
Gubałówka Hill Funicular Reviews from Travelers
We checked multiple platforms to gather Gubałówka Hill Funicular reviews from real visitors.
⭐ Common Highlights:
- Efficiency: Fast, clean, and punctual
- View: Stunning views during the ride and at the top
- Accessibility: Great for families with kids and Family visitors
- Value: Affordable for the experience it offers
Many travelers rate it 4.5/5. On TripAdvisor, people praise the ride and the mountaintop market. Google reviews echo similar sentiments.
💬 Guest Review by KTP310 (January 2024)
“I was glad that I timed my trip up to Gubalowka with just half an hour of daylight left.”
TripAdvisor Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 (2,050 reviews)
👉 Read the full review on TripAdvisor
💬 Guest Review by a TripAdvisor Member (March 2025)
“Outstanding.”
TripAdvisor Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 (2,050 reviews)
👉 Read the full review on TripAdvisor
How to Get to the Funicular Station
The base of the Gubałówka Hill Funicular stands near Krupówki Street in Zakopane’s central pedestrian zone.
🚶 By Foot:
- Just a 5-minute walk from Zakopane’s central square
🚗 By Car:
- Nearby parking is available but fills up fast
📍 Google Maps Location:
View Gubałówka Funicular Station
Arrive early to avoid queues, especially during weekends and holidays.
Attractions at the Summit of Gubałówka Hill
Once you reach the top, Gubałówka Hill offers much more than a great view.
🌄 Top Things to Do:
- Panoramic Viewing Platforms
- Photo Spots with Highland Decor
- Zip lines and Children’s Playgrounds
- Mini snow parks during winter
Visitors who reach the summit via the Gubałówka Hill Funicular are rewarded with more than just the view. Whether you enjoy hiking or just want to relax, the summit caters to all types of travelers.
Dining and Shopping Options at the Top
The top of Gubałówka Hill is filled with traditional wooden stalls and eateries.
🍽️ Food:
- Try Oscypek (smoked sheep cheese)
- Fresh pierogi, grilled sausage, and warm mulled wine
🛖 Shopping:
- Local crafts and souvenirs
- Handmade wool clothing
- Wooden toys and folk art
A ride on the Gubałówka Hill Funicular pairs perfectly with a traditional meal and local shopping experience.
Best Time to Ride the Funicular
The funicular operates year-round, but timing affects your experience.
🌞 Summer:
- Best views of the mountains and greenery
- Ideal for hiking
❄️ Winter:
- Snow-covered views
- Skiing options on nearby slopes
Try visiting early morning or just before sunset for magical light and fewer people.
Accessibility and Seasonal Information
The Gubałówka Hill Funicular is wheelchair-accessible, and the summit is equipped with wide walkways.
💡 Seasonal Notes:
- Winter: Dress warmly, walkways can be icy
- Summer: Wear sun protection and comfortable shoes
- Spring/Fall: Layered clothing recommended due to rapid weather changes
Whether you visit in snow or sunshine, the Gubałówka Hill Funicular operates consistently in all seasons.
Tips for Getting the Best Experience
- 📱 Book tickets online to avoid waiting
- 📷 Bring a camera for unforgettable shots
- 🧵 Dress appropriately for sudden mountain weather
- 🍽️ Eat at the summit—great value and local flavors
- 🧒 Families should try the zipline or sled hill during winter
To capture the full experience, plan your day around a scenic ride on the Gubałówka Hill Funicular. Also, check the live cam at the PKL site before visiting.
Other Activities Nearby
Zakopane has plenty to offer beyond Gubałówka Hill.
🎯 Nearby Attractions:
- Krupówki Street – A lively shopping and dining zone
- Kasprowy Wierch Cable Car – For higher altitude adventure
- Tatra National Park – Ideal for nature lovers
- Chochołowska Valley Thermal Baths – Relax after a long day
After enjoying the Gubałówka Hill Funicular, explore more of Zakopane’s outdoor and cultural experiences nearby.
Conclusion
The Gubałówka Hill serves as your primary connection to explore Zakopane’s most amazing attractions. Visitors of all ages can find something enjoyable at the summit because it combines stunning scenery with traditional cuisine alongside exciting activities.
First-time visitors and Polish mountain enthusiasts will equally be impressed by both the funicular ride and the summit experience.
Get your Gubałówka Hill Funicular tickets then read reviews to experience a memorable scenic journey.
FAQs About Gubałówka Hill Funicular
1. Does visiting the Gubałówka Hill Funicular remain valuable in 2025?
Yes! This attraction ranks among Zakopane’s leading attractions because it provides outstanding mountain views together with quick access to local shops and restaurants and hiking trails.
2. Does the Gubałówka Funicular exist as an alternative to hiking up the mountain?
Absolutely. Visitors who want to walk up or down can follow the marked trail as an alternative to taking the funicular.
3. What are the best times to ride the Gubałówka Funicular?
Travelers who visit early in the morning or right before sunset will experience optimal views with minimal crowds especially when taking photographs.
4. Is the Gubałówka Funicular family-friendly?
Yes! The attraction provides a secure environment that welcomes strollers and brings enjoyment to visitors of all ages who visit Zakopane.
5. Does the Gubałówka Funicular permit dogs to ride along?
The PKL official website has the most up-to-date information about pet policies which include leashed dogs.
