Tatra National Park Starý Smokovec
A majestic mountain range offering over 600 km of hiking trails, pristine lakes, and dramatic peaks across Poland and Slovakia.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spectacular fall colors
Tatra National Park Starý Smokovec
Best Time
Spectacular fall colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic mountain range offering over 600 km of hiking trails, pristine lakes, and dramatic peaks across Poland and Slovakia.
"Absolutely beautiful in the snow! Feels like a complete winter wonderland."
🚊 Opt for the Electric Railway
Save on parking fees and enjoy scenic views by taking the electric railway from Poprad-Tatry. :train:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Proper footwear is essential for navigating varied terrain, especially in snowy or rocky conditions. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Štrbské Pleso
High Tatras, Slovakia
A stunning glacial lake surrounded by majestic peaks, perfect for leisurely strolls and breathtaking views.
Giewont
Tatra Mountains, Poland
An iconic peak with a distinctive silhouette, offering challenging hikes and panoramic vistas.
Rysy
Tatra Mountains, Poland/Slovakia border
The highest peak in Poland, a rewarding climb for experienced hikers seeking ultimate mountain views.
Bachledka Treetop Walk
Tatra Mountains, Slovakia
Experience the forest from a new perspective on a unique walkway through the treetops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Parking & Transport
Trail Marking Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚊 Opt for the Electric Railway
Save on parking fees and enjoy scenic views by taking the electric railway from Poprad-Tatry. :train:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Proper footwear is essential for navigating varied terrain, especially in snowy or rocky conditions. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Carry a Map & Compass
Don't rely solely on trail markings, especially on higher, less-trafficked routes. :compass:
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather can change rapidly; pack layers to stay comfortable in varying temperatures. :cloud:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚊 Opt for the Electric Railway
Save on parking fees and enjoy scenic views by taking the electric railway from Poprad-Tatry. :train:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Proper footwear is essential for navigating varied terrain, especially in snowy or rocky conditions. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Carry a Map & Compass
Don't rely solely on trail markings, especially on higher, less-trafficked routes. :compass:
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather can change rapidly; pack layers to stay comfortable in varying temperatures. :cloud:
📸 Capture the Scenery
The Tatras offer incredible photo opportunities, from serene lakes to dramatic peaks. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking natural beauty of the Tatra Mountains, describing it as a winter wonderland and a hiker's paradise. The well-marked trails and stunning scenery are consistently praised. However, some travelers express frustration with high and unclear parking fees, suggesting better transport solutions are needed.
"The parking fees keep getting more expensive each year. Recently, we paid 15 EUR for 5 hours of parking just to do a quick hike to Sliezsky dom. The prices aren’t displayed on a sign—only when you scan the QR code, you discover that the minimum parking fee is 15 EUR (1 day). There are no toilets or trash cans at the parking lots, except for a single bin designated for plastic bottles and cans with a deposit system.
TANAP is addressing the issue of excessive cars in the High Tatras with immorally high parking fees instead of implementing a thoughtful solution (like increasing train frequency and capacity, offering free train tickets for guests that are staying longer, etc.).
Moreover, new accommodations are being built on greenfields along TANAP’s direct borders with poor infrastructure that forces visitors to rely solely on car transport, further worsening the situation. Meanwhile, plenty of historic buildings in central areas (e.g. in Stary Smokovec) remain unused and are now in such poor condition that they require demolition."
Anna
"Absolutely beautiful in the snow! Feels like a complete winter wonderland. It's not overcrowded with tourist on the day I visited but there was still a good atmosphere. Easy to get to Strbske Pleso on the electric railway from Poprad-Tatry for €4 for a day pass. A few restaurants, ski rentals, ski schools, cafés, bars and tourist information desk. Staff at various places were able to communicate in English without a problem."
Oscar Phillips
"I have a kind request to TANAP. Please improve the trail markings on Sławkowski Stit. They are particularly absent ( marks)near the mountain's top. In the rock rubble at the top, people wander over shifting rocks, risking their health, if not their lives. There are practically no trail markings there. Sometimes you can find a small 10cm x 10cm sign, probably painted 25 years ago. I don't mean to be rude, but the Polish Tatra National Park (TPN) marks trails much better."
Piotr Niedziela
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a bus from Krakow to Zakopane, which is a popular gateway to the Polish Tatras. From there, you can use local transport or hike into the park.
The electric railway is a convenient and scenic option, especially for reaching Štrbské Pleso from Poprad-Tatry.
While some areas are accessible by bus, many visitors rely on hiking or cable cars for deeper exploration. Parking can be expensive.
Yes, you can drive, but be prepared for potentially high parking fees. Consider parking in towns like Starý Smokovec and using local transport or trails.
Yes, towns like Poprad serve as good hubs, with connections to Štrbské Pleso and other Slovakian Tatra destinations. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park itself is generally free, but there might be fees for specific attractions like cable cars or parking.
Parking fees can be high and are not always clearly advertised, sometimes only visible via QR code. Expect around €15 for a day in some areas.
While park entry is free, discounts might apply to cable cars or other paid services. It's best to check individual attraction websites.
Tatra National Park is generally accessible year-round, but specific trails or facilities may have seasonal closures or limited hours.
For popular cable car routes like Kasprowy Wierch, booking online in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Trails around Štrbské Pleso and the valley walks are generally more accessible for beginners.
Yes, guided tours are available, especially in popular areas like Zakopane, offering insights into the local flora, fauna, and history.
You might spot chamois, marmots, deer, and various bird species. Keep a safe distance and never feed the wildlife.
While many trails are well-marked, it's always safer to hike with a companion, especially on more challenging routes. Inform someone of your plans.
Carry a fully charged phone, know your location, and call emergency services. Mountain rescue is available.
📸 📸 Photography
Štrbské Pleso, Morskie Oko (though technically in Poland, often visited from the Slovak side), and the views from peaks like Giewont are incredibly picturesque. +1
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light, creating beautiful colors across the mountain landscape.
For personal use, no permit is generally required. Commercial photography might need authorization from the park administration.
Drone usage is often restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and maintain the natural environment. Check park regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife are useful. A sturdy tripod is great for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider shorter, well-marked trails in the lower valleys. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for changing weather. While some hikes might be too strenuous for very young children, the accessible paths and the sheer beauty of the mountains make it a memorable trip for the whole family. Look for areas with playgrounds or picnic spots for breaks.
💰 Budget Travelers
Many of the most rewarding experiences, like hiking to stunning viewpoints, are free. Focus on exploring the extensive network of trails rather than relying on expensive cable cars. Consider staying in hostels or guesthouses in towns outside the immediate park vicinity for more affordable accommodation options.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for all types of weather, as it can add to the dramatic mood of your shots. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens for capturing any wildlife you might encounter.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails and Difficulty
More experienced hikers can tackle challenging ascents to iconic peaks like Giewont
For a unique perspective, consider the Bachledka Treetop Walk,
Winter Wonderland in the Tatras
Hiking in winter requires specific preparation. Sturdy, waterproof boots are non-negotiable, and crampons or microspikes can be essential for icy trails.
Even if you're not an avid skier, enjoying the winter scenery from accessible viewpoints or taking a leisurely walk around a frozen lake can be incredibly rewarding. Remember that daylight hours are shorter in winter, so plan your excursions accordingly and always be aware of avalanche risks in steeper terrain.
Navigating Costs: Parking and Transport
As a more economical and environmentally friendly alternative, consider utilizing the electric railway. For instance, the line from Poprad-Tatry to Štrbské Pleso offers a scenic journey and a significantly lower cost than parking.
While public transport options exist, their frequency and capacity might not always meet demand, especially during peak seasons. Planning your transport in advance and being open to using a combination of trains, buses, and your own two feet will likely lead to a smoother and more budget-friendly experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit