Kolej linowo-terenowa Gubałówka — Attraction in Zakopane

The kolej linowa na Gubałówkę is one of the most iconic attractions in Zakopane, offering visitors a convenient and scenic ride up to the top of Gubałówka Hill. This funicular railway, which has been operating since the 1930s, remains a popular way for tourists and locals alike to experience the breathtaking views of the Tatra Mountains and Zakopane. One of the most appealing aspects of the Gubałówka Funicular is its efficiency. The ride is quick—around 3.5 minutes—and smooth, allowing visitors to bypass the challenging hike while still enjoying stunning panoramic views as they ascend. The cars are modern and well-maintained, offering large windows so you can take in the surrounding beauty during the journey. It's an ideal option for families, elderly visitors, or anyone short on time. Once you reach the top, you're rewarded with spectacular views of the Tatra range, Zakopane below, and the picturesque Podhale region. On a clear day, the scenery is truly awe-inspiring, making it a prime spot for photography and taking in the grandeur of the area. At the summit, there are several restaurants, cafés, and market stalls, where you can enjoy local food and purchase handmade souvenirs. Gubałówka itself offers plenty of attractions. In addition to the viewing terraces, visitors can enjoy walking paths, skiing in winter, and adventure parks in summer. It’s a great place to relax, whether you want to take a leisurely stroll or explore more of the surrounding area. The hilltop is also connected to other trails that lead to nearby scenic spots. However, as one of Zakopane’s main attractions, the funicular can get quite crowded, especially during peak seasons like summer and winter holidays. Long lines are common, and prices for the ride can feel a bit high, especially for larger families. But for the ease and stunning views it provides, the experience is usually worth it. In summary, the kolej linowa na Gubałówkę is a must-do when visiting Zakopane. It offers a quick and beautiful ascent to one of the best vantage points in the region, combining convenience with spectacular views. Whether you're there for the views, the local atmosphere, or outdoor activities, the funicular is a great way to experience the natural beauty...

Gubałówka Cable Car & Mountain Top – Zakopane, Poland

I visited the Gubałówka mountain via the popular Zakopane cable car, expecting a scenic escape into nature and stunning views of the Tatra Mountains. And yes—the views are lovely, once you find them. Unfortunately, the overall experience is marred by a complete lack of regulation and overwhelming commercialism.

Instead of a peaceful mountain-top retreat, you’re greeted by rows upon rows of tacky market stalls, selling cheap plastic toys, knockoff clothes, and low-quality trinkets—most of it looking like it came straight from Temu. The atmosphere feels less like a gateway to nature and more like a cross between a chaotic Turkish bazaar and a run-down travelling circus.

It’s not that markets are inherently bad—they can add charm and local character when done right. But here, the sheer density and randomness of it all detract from what could otherwise be a beautiful, tranquil place. There’s little to no zoning, no thematic cohesion, and hardly any signs of thoughtful curation. Even the food stalls are mostly tourist traps, with inflated prices and bland options.

The cable car itself is efficient and offers a nice short ride up, but it drops you straight into the commercial sprawl with little direction or signage pointing to quieter trails or viewpoints. You have to actively escape the noise to enjoy the natural beauty—an odd thing to say about a mountaintop.

Final Verdict:

If you’re visiting Zakopane and hoping for a peaceful alpine experience, skip Gubałówka unless you’re curious about how over-tourism can ruin a scenic spot. There’s genuine potential here, but it’s buried under an avalanche of cheap souvenirs and missed opportunities. The place urgently needs better planning, limits on vendors, and clearer zoning to restore some balance.

⭐ Rating: 2/5 – Come for the view, leave because...

So me and my Wife are currently in Zakopane on Holiday from our home in Manchester, England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 and it is our first time in Poland 🇵🇱 and Zakopane.

We saw Gubalowka and knew we had to visit Kolej Linowo-terenowa Gubalowka so we got a horse drawn carriage from Zakopane to Gubalowka and we really enjoyed the outdoor market stalls then we headed up to the automated ticket machines(}¥€ and purchased our tickets and we boarded the train and headed up the mountains.

Me and my life were amazed at how stunningly beautiful the journey was and it it only a 3 minute ride up the mountain there are shops, bar, restaurants etc.

Me and my Wife post alot of reviews on Google and we always give our honest opinions and feedback on our experiences we review everything from service, atmosphere, food, drink, value for money etc and we have so far reviewed places from our home in Manchester(England) to Bezier Cap D'agde(South Of France), Rome(Italy), Split(Croatia), Island of Hvar(Croatia), Podgorica(Montenegro), Vatican City(Italy), Tirana(Albania), Sarande(Albanian Riviera), Krakow(Poland) and Zakopane(Poland).

We review everything from being local to home or out and about to holidays etc and we have reviewed everything from beach clubs, Airbnbs, Travel, holidays, beauty treatments, football stadiums, pubs, takeaways, shops, supermarkets, Taxi's, shooting ranges etc and we have over 29,000,000+ views on...