Things to do in
Szczawnica

Our most recommended things to do in Szczawnica

Krakow: Traditional Dunajec Rafting and Mountain Chairlift

Krakow: Traditional Dunajec Rafting and Mountain Chairlift

Begin your journey with a stop at Czorsztyn Castle. The castle, located by the beautiful Czorsztyn Lake, offers picturesque views and a rich historical experience. The second stop will be at a traditional "Bacówka" (shepherd's cabin), where you can immerse yourself in local culture, sample regional delicacies like oscypek cheese, and take wonderful photos. This visit offers a unique glimpse into the life of local shepherds. Next, embark on an exhilarating rafting trip down the Dunajec River. As you float on traditional wooden rafts, marvel at the stunning views of Pieniny National Park, including the majestic peaks of the Three Crowns and Sokolica. Experienced raftsmen will share fascinating stories about the region's history and legends. After the rafting adventure, head to the spa area to taste the renowned healing waters of Szczawnica. Rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron, these waters are celebrated for their health benefits, making this a perfect moment for relaxation and revitalization. Continue your journey with a chairlift ride to the top of Palenica Mountain, reaching an altitude of 722 meters above sea level. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Pieniny Mountains, Beskid Sądecki, and the Dunajec Valley. At the summit, there's a restaurant where you can enjoy a drink while soaking in the beautiful scenery. Finally, visit the main square, the vibrant heart of Szczawnica. This bustling center is home to numerous restaurants, pastry shops, and souvenir stalls. Stroll through the square, sample local delicacies, buy handmade souvenirs, and enjoy the charming atmosphere of this picturesque spa town.

From Krakow: Dunajec River Rafting with Thermal Baths option

From Krakow: Dunajec River Rafting with Thermal Baths option

Start your trip directly from your accommodation. Then, travel from Krakow to discover the natural beauty of Pieniny National Park, located in the south of Poland, near the Slovak border. Enjoy the trip around the picturesque area of Pieniny surrounded by the mountains and thick forests. Learn more about well-preserved ecosystems composed of rare species of flora and fauna. Check out the greatest tourist attraction the National Park has to offer and go rafting on The Dunajec River Gorge. This activity has been organized since the early 19th century. During the two-and-a-half hours, you will be able to observe impressive limestone rocks and mountain peaks. Being on the small wooden raft do not forget to take great pictures of the river which meanders through the valley. At the end of the rafting reach the charming resort town of Szczawnica, 20 kilometers downstream.  If you select an option of the tour extension, make your way to Białka Tatrzańska, a famous ski resort where the complex of thermal baths is located. Dip into the geothermal water, at a perfect temperature of 34-38 degrees celsius. Reduce stress in many pools, among other the external ones overlooking the Tatra Mountains. Do not skip the sauna zone and strengthen your immunity in the salt grotto and Russian banya. The tour ends with the drop-off at your hotel.

Dunajec River Gorge and Zakopane: Full-Day Trip from Krakow

Dunajec River Gorge and Zakopane: Full-Day Trip from Krakow

Travel from Krakow to the Dunajec River Gorge and Tatra Mountains, the most picturesque tourist attractions in southern Poland, on a 9-hour excursion. Marvel at the beauty of the gorge, featured on UNESCO's Tentative List of World Heritage Sites in Poland. Wooden raft trips have been offered since the early 19th century, when customers were guests of the nearby Niedzica and Czorsztyn castles. Your raft trip begins in the village of Sromowce Wyżne-Kąty and ends in the resort town of Szczawnica, 18 kilometers downstream. Enjoy a restaurant lunch at your own expense after rafting. Continue to Zakopane to ride a rail car to admire the Tatra Mountains from the peak of Gubalowka.

Dunajec River Gorge Rafting and Tree Top Walk from Krakow

Dunajec River Gorge Rafting and Tree Top Walk from Krakow

Travel from Krakow to the Dunajec River Gorge and Tatra Mountains, the most picturesque tourist attractions in southern Poland, on a 9-hour excursion. Marvel at the beauty of the gorge, featured on UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites in Poland. Wooden raft trips have been offered since the early 19th century, when customers were guests of the nearby Niedzica and Czorsztyn castles. Your raft trip begins in the village of Sromowce Wyżne-Kąty and ends in the resort town of Szczawnica, 18 kilometers downstream. Enjoy a restaurant lunch to refuel after rafting. Continue on to Bachledova Valley in Slovakia to walk the 1234-meter-long Bachledka Treetop Trail, situated up to 24 meters above the ground and with a 32-meter high observation tower in the heart of majestic forests of the Pieniny National Park. Discover the unique nature of the Belianske Tatras to learn about many animals and plants that can be found only in a few places of the world.

Krakow: City Sightseeing Tour by Golf Cart

Krakow: City Sightseeing Tour by Golf Cart

Join us at our designated meeting spot and embark on a captivating journey through Krakow's most intriguing locales. Immerse yourself in the medieval charm of the Old Town, the cultural tapestry of the Jewish Quarter - Kazimierz, and the poignant history of Podgórze, the former site of the Krakow ghetto. Glide through the city aboard our comfortable golf cart as we explore over 29 significant sites, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or stature. Our mission is to create lasting memories of your visit to our city, offering an alternative approach to sightseeing that combines history, laughter, and breathtaking views, including the stunning panorama from the Krak Mound. Don't miss out on this opportunity—book your Krakow City Tour - Sightseeing Tour today! What will you see? Krakow's History - detailed insights Barbakan Matejko Square St. Florian's Church Planty Park Wawel Castle Jewish Quarter - detailed exploration Skałka Church Church of St. Catherine Wolnica Square - Jewish City Hall Church of Corpus Christi Tempel Synagogue Kupa Synagogue Isaac Synagogue Ciemna Street Old Synagogue Popper Synagogue Family House of Helena Rubinstein Remuh Synagogue and old cemetery Memorial Stone of the Nissembaum Family Foundation Old Jewish Shops Former Ghetto - in-depth overview Ghetto Heroes Square Pharmacy under the Eagle - Tadeusz Pankiewicz's Residence Oskar Schindler's Factory - historical significance Life in the Ghetto - detailed description Ghetto Wall Church of St. Joseph Krakus Mound - panoramic vista

From Krakow: Dunajec River Rafting Private Tour

From Krakow: Dunajec River Rafting Private Tour

Experience one of the greatest tourist attractions in Poland with a thrilling rafting expedition down the Dunajec River through the Pieniny Gorge along the Polish-Slovak border. Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pick-up and transfer from Krakow. En route to the river, you'll stop at the charming 16th century wooden church in Debno for a unique cultural experience followed with a stop on view point over Niedzica Castle. Once you reach the Dunajec River, you'll board a traditional wooden raft and glide gently through the towering cliffs of the gorge, admiring the breathtaking limestone rock formations and picturesque mountain scenery. Your animated river guides will bring the pristine and wild environment to life with fascinating stories and insights. During the approximately 2-3 hour cruise (depending on the water level of the river), you'll enjoy stunning views of the high summits of Trzy Korony and Mt. Sokolica, making for an unforgettable experience. Finally, you'll reach Szczawnica and conclude your adventure having gained a newfound appreciation for the natural beauty of Poland.

From Krakow: Dunajec River Rafting

From Krakow: Dunajec River Rafting

Going rafting down the Dunajec river is one of the most beloved and classic tourist attractions in all of Poland. The tour begins from the center of Krakow, or from your place of accommodation in the city. After about 2 hours, you will reach the boating center, where you will board a traditional wooden watercraft, operated by a river guide in customary regional dress. This stunningly scenic water route will gently take you 15 kilometers downstream, underneath legendary mountain peaks and alongside thick woodlands and winding nature paths. You may even spot some curious local wildlife along the way! After the exhilarating ride, there is a break for lunch in the pretty little resort town of Szczawnica. On the way back to Krakow, you will visit a cherished fifteenth century church that’s inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Located in Dębno Podhalańskie, it’s dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel, and is part of the Wooden Architecture Trail around Krakow. This important and distinct church is one of the trail’s highlights. The entire day will last 8-9 hours in total.

From Zakopane: Dunajec River Rafting Trip with Pickup

From Zakopane: Dunajec River Rafting Trip with Pickup

While rafting down the Dunajec River you have the opportunity to admire unchanged nature and fell the wild spirit of Pieniny National Park. The Dunajec Gorge is considered one of the most beautiful river gorges in Europe. Traditional wooden rafts, known as "dunajec flisacy," are piloted by skilled rafters in traditional costumes, providing a cultural and historical context to the journey. Rafting starting point is in Sromowce Nizne from you go down the Dunajec Gorge on traditional wooden rafts to the final station Szczawnica. The expect duration of the whole tour (pick up, transfer, rafting and transfer back to Zakopane) is around 5 hours

Krakow: Dunajec River Rafting & Zakopane Town Private Tour

Krakow: Dunajec River Rafting & Zakopane Town Private Tour

Experience one of the greatest tourist attractions in Poland with a thrilling rafting expedition down the Dunajec River through the Pieniny Gorge along the Polish-Slovak border. Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pick-up and transfer from Krakow. En route to the river, you'll stop at the charming 16th century wooden church in Debno for a unique cultural experience followed with a stop on view point over Niedzica Castle. Once you reach the Dunajec River, you'll board a traditional wooden raft and glide gently through the towering cliffs of the gorge, admiring the breathtaking limestone rock formations and picturesque mountain scenery. Your animated river guides will bring the pristine and wild environment to life with fascinating stories and insights. During the approximately 2-3 hour cruise (depending on the water level of the river), you'll enjoy stunning views of the high summits of Trzy Korony and Mt. Sokolica, making for an unforgettable experience. Finally, you'll reach Szczawnica and conclude your adventure having gained a newfound appreciation for the natural beauty of Poland. Your Zakopane tour begins with a breathtaking panorama of the Tatra Mountains, viewed from the top of Gubalowka Hill, and a cable car will take you there. The charming city of Zakopane is located at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. It is visited all year long by many Polish and international tourists. Next you will explore the local old-school bazaar and Krupowki Street, filled with restaurants, local stores and regional goods, as well as gift shops. Following lunch you will head back to Krakow, passing the famous ski jump and entering a quaint wooden church on the outskirts of Zakopane.

From Krakow: Dunajec River Gorge Rafting Tour

From Krakow: Dunajec River Gorge Rafting Tour

Float leisurely along the Dunajec River in an authentic wooden punt, surrounded by mighty limestone cliffs and towering green vegetation. Heading to the river from Krakow, this tour gives you a chance to admire some of the most amazing scenery in the Polish highlands. Begin your rafting trip at Sromowce Wyżne and end 18 km later in Szczawnica, a charming small town with a cozy atmosphere. Feel safe rafting alongside highly experienced guides that will ensure you have a smooth ride and will keep you informed about the sights you see as well as the history of the trips, which go back to the 1840s. Voyage down the winding Dunajec and take in breathtaking views of mighty limestone cliffs plunging into the water as well as stunning native vegetation, both protected by the second oldest international national park in the world. While heading down the river, there will also be chances to see wildlife, including some rare bird species like the black stork.

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What people are saying about Szczawnica

Overall rating

4.7
(90 reviews)

Pawel was an amazing guide. He was also very well informed and answered all my questions. The van that we traveled in was very comfortable. Water rafting was obviously the highlight. I was in a group of non English speakers but it didn’t affect my experience at all. In fact it was more fun. The river and the mountains are absolutely gorgeous. If you love nature then this is the tour for you. Highly recommend this tour to all.

Great trip, I highly recommend it to everyone! Everything was perfectly organized, contact with the organizer was hassle-free, and our guide, Tomek, was very nice. We visited beautiful places and spent a wonderful day in the mountains. Definitely worth it!

Excellent 🤩 Lots of stops with great experiences. Raft trip was amazing!!! Taxi ride was super informative, friendly and generous with the time for everything :))) Thank you so much, it was so nice, we didn't expect it all :))

My activity was Rafting and Telesilla and Peter G was our guide and driver, very nice and kind. In every moment he was taking care of us and it improved the activities even more!!! I really recommend it!

Great day long activities, highly recommend. Our guide Peter G. Is fantastic.