Can anyone provide more info on Zakopane? Is it a doable day trip from Krakow? What exactly is there as far as going for a day? I've heard it's beautiful and great for hiking, but beyond that...? Thanks.

Oh yes, it is a nice day trip from Krakow and a beautiful place in the Tatra Mountains. The area is known for hiking and skiing and snowmobiling. Was discovered in the 19th century because of the clean air and beauty.

We were on a tour and stopped at several unusual churches in town, meandered in the outdoor market place (incl. snacking on the smokey goat cheese), had a meal in Ziebe's Ranger House, then a short carriage ride into the National Park, visited a wood carver's shop, happened onto a special Mass in a rural village where the costumed folks processed around the church, and on the way back saw a black stork which brings one good luck.

ozarksbill
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Do you remember who you used for the tour? Approx. price? I was thinking of hiring a driver, but maybe the tour is a better idea (usually my parents don't like the limitations of a tour.)

absolutkz: Certainly, it can be done as a day trip and if that is what you have in terms of time, I would urge you to do it. It is a beautiful area.
However, you should know that it can take as much as two and a half hours each way to get there and back from Krakow. The one road is loaded with trucks and other slow moving vehicles. If you take a tour (or hire a driver), you can relax during the trip and that won't be so bad. Again, I would urge you to do it. It is very worthwhile.
We were fortunate enough to spend a night there and took advantage of a couple of the many hiking trails. It is beautiful country. Have a great trip.

Actually, we were on a senior age trip through Eastern Europe so already had our tour bus. I would imagine that the hotels in Krakow can direct you to some tour service. Or tourist office.

joegri is right in that it is a winding a mountainous drive, maybe with traffic.
Really worth it, though.
ozarksbill