Day Trip: Krakow to Zalipie in 2025

Nestled in the heart of Poland, just 68 kilometers east of Krakow, Zalipie is a charming village famous for its hand-painted floral decorations. A day trip from Krakow to Zalipie offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Polish folk culture and admire this open-air gallery of colorful art. Nearly every home, barn, and even well in the village is covered in intricate floral patterns, making it a truly picturesque destination.

If you're wondering how to get to Zalipie from Krakow, you can travel by car, bus, or join an organized tour for a seamless experience. Plan your Krakow to Zalipie trip and discover this enchanting artistic retreat.

Book Your Day Trip from Krakow to Zalipie

From Krakow: Zalipie Guided Tour

Zalipie village is renowned for its unique tradition of hut painting, a custom with roots dating back to the late 19th century. During this period, village women initiated the practice of embellishing cottage interiors with floral paintings, crafting flowers from tissue paper, along with cutouts and straw spiders suspended from the ceilings.

The artistic expression extended beyond the interiors, encompassing external walls of buildings, wells, and fences. Presently, Zalipie boasts approximately twenty painted houses, each preserving and showcasing this vibrant and historic tradition.

A day trip from Krakow to Zalipie offers a chance to immerse yourself in the colorful allure of this living legacy of rural artistry. As you venture into this painted paradise, you'll find yourself in a world where every corner reveals a burst of color and artistic expression.

The village becomes a living canvas, with each stroke of paint telling a story that reflects the warmth, vibrancy, and creativity of the community.

The folk art tradition in Zalipie has deep roots, originating as a way for the villagers to cover the soot marks left by traditional wood-burning stoves. Over time, this practical need transformed into a unique and cherished form of artistic expression. Today, Zalipie's painted structures are a living testament to the continuity of this age-old tradition, symbolizing the villagers' connection to their heritage and the preservation of their cultural identity.

If you're wondering how to get to Zalipie from Krakow, you can travel by car, take a bus, or join a guided tour from Krakow to Zalipie for a seamless experience. Whether you're an art lover or simply looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination, a Krakow to Zalipie trip promises an unforgettable journey into Poland’s folk art heritage.

As you wander through the quaint streets of Zalipie, you'll discover not only the external beauty of the painted buildings but also the warm hospitality of the locals. The village exudes a sense of community, where residents take pride in their artistic heritage and willingly share their stories with visitors.

From Krakow to Zalipie: Tours & Transport

Numerous private tours are advertised online, providing an easier alternative for exploring Zalipie. To ensure a seamless experience, plan your visit wisely and consider booking one of Zalipie Private Tour in advance through Get Your Guide.

Zalipie Day Trip Guide – Tours, Transport & Itinerary Suggestions

If you prefer a hassle-free visit to Zalipie, several private and group tours operate from Krakow. These tours typically include:

Private & Group Options: You can choose between an intimate private tour with a dedicated guide or a group tour with other travelers.

Duration: A Zalipie day trip from Krakow usually lasts 6-8 hours, depending on stops.

What’s Included:

Comfortable round-trip transport from Krakow
Professional guide (available in multiple languages)
Visit to Felicja Curyłowa’s House Museum
Time to explore the Zalipie painted village Poland
Optional lunch or coffee break in a traditional Polish restaurant

Pricing Estimates:

Private tours: €120–€180 per person (depending on group size)
Group tours: €50–€90 per person
Self-guided visit (car rental + entry fees): Approx. €40 per person

Step-by-Step Travel Guide – How to Get to Zalipie from Krakow

How to visit Zalipie from Krakow? Zalipie is located around 100 km from Krakow, making it an easy day trip. Here’s how you can get there:

By Car (Best Option for Flexibility):

Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes

Route: Take the A4 motorway, then follow local roads through Tarnów.

Parking: Free parking is available near the House of Felicja Curyłowa.

By Public Transport (More Time-Consuming):

Step 1: Take a train from Krakow Główny to Tarnów (~1h, tickets from €5).

Step 2: From Tarnów, take a local bus to Zalipie (~40 minutes, ~€2).

Tip: Bus schedules are limited, so check times in advance.

By Organized Tour (Easiest Option):

If you prefer a guided experience with no transport worries, a tour is the best choice. Many tours provide door-to-door pickup, saving time and effort.

Best Time to Visit Zalipie:

Spring & Summer: The most vibrant colors and best weather.

June: The Painted Cottage Competition – a unique event where locals repaint their homes.

Autumn: Fewer crowds, beautiful golden countryside scenery.

For added independence and flexibility, renting a car is also a viable option, allowing you to explore Zalipie at your own pace. If you need to rent a car, save up to 70% with the Car Rental company.

Itinerary Suggestions – What to See in Zalipie

Although Zalipie is best known for its painted houses, there are a few hidden gems worth visiting:

House of Felicja Curyłowa – A small museum showcasing the most famous painted interiors.

Zalipie Cultural Center – Learn about the history of the painting tradition and see live demonstrations.

Local Craft Shops – Buy traditional folk art souvenirs, ceramics, and embroidered textiles.

Traditional Polish Restaurant in Zalipie – Enjoy homemade pierogi and Polish soup.

Extend Your Trip – Nearby Attractions

If you have extra time, consider visiting:

Tarnów – A charming city with a beautiful Old Town (~30 min from Zalipie).

Wiślica – One of Poland’s oldest medieval towns (~50 min from Zalipie).

Dąbrowa Tarnowska – A historic town with a stunning synagogue (~20 min from Zalipie).

My Trip to The Painted Village of Zalipie

Visiting Zalipie always feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Nestled in the Polish countryside, this tiny village is famous for its hand-painted cottages, where nearly every surface—walls, fences, wells, and even dog kennels—is adorned with vibrant floral patterns. While many tourists visit for a quick photo stop, I see Zalipie as something more—a living testament to folk art and the creativity of its people.

My first visit to Zalipie was pure magic. Walking through the village, I felt as if I had wandered into a giant open-air painting. The tradition of decorating homes with floral motifs dates back over a century, when local women started covering soot stains on their walls with colorful patterns. Over time, what began as a simple household trick evolved into a beloved regional art form, passed down through generations.

One of my favorite places in Zalipie is the House of Felicja Curyłowa, the former home of the artist who played a key role in popularizing the village’s unique tradition. Stepping inside, I was amazed to see that every inch of the interior—walls, ceilings, furniture—was covered in cheerful, hand-painted flowers. It felt like entering another world, where art and everyday life merged seamlessly.

Beyond the painted houses, what I love most about Zalipie is its peaceful, unspoiled atmosphere. Unlike many tourist spots, it remains a quiet, rural retreat, where locals still take pride in their craft. Every visit leaves me inspired—not just by the beauty of the paintings, but by the dedication of the people who keep this tradition alive.

If you ever find yourself in Zalipie, take your time. Wander the village, meet the locals, and soak in the charm of a place where art isn’t just something to admire—it’s a way of life.

FAQs – Everything You Need to Know About Zalipie

Is Zalipie worth visiting?

Yes! If you love folk art, photography, or off-the-beaten-path destinations, Zalipie is a must-see. It’s a peaceful, colorful escape from city life.

How long does it take to visit Zalipie?

A typical visit takes 2–3 hours, including time to explore the village and visit the House of Felicja Curyłowa. With a lunch stop, plan for around 4–5 hours.

Can you visit Zalipie on your own?

Yes! You can drive or take a train+bus combination, though tours offer more convenience and insights into local history.

What’s the best way to get to Zalipie without a car?

The best alternative is to take a train to Tarnów and then a local bus to Zalipie. However, due to limited schedules, a self-guided tour of Zalipie village can be tricky without proper planning.

Share Your Experience!

We’d love to hear from you! Have you visited Zalipie? Share your travel experience, and tips through our Contact Form. Your insights will help other travelers plan their perfect trip! Still unsure about something? Drop your questions, and we’ll be happy to answer!

What Are the Other Day Trips from Krakow?

Consider taking one of the remarkable tours or trips from Krakow to discover the wonders that await beyond the city. Follow our suggestions to explore captivating destinations like Zakopane and Warsaw, giving you the opportunity to experience the rich cultural and natural diversity of Poland.