Zakopane is becoming an increasingly popular destination among international tourists. When planning a trip to Zakopane, many people wonder which airport is the closest. Which airport should you fly into if you’re heading to Zakopane? What airport in the UK flies to Zakopane? Which airport is the Zakopane nearest airport in Poland and in Slovakia? What is the nearest airport to Zakopane from UK? Let’s break it down.
What is the Nearest Airport to Zakopane?
Many blogs online claim that Kraków Airport, located in Balice near Kraków, is the closest airport to Zakopane. While this is somewhat misleading, it is true in practice.
If you look at a map, you’ll notice that the closest airport to Zakopane is not in Kraków Airport (KRK) but rather Poprad-Tatry Airport (TAT), located in the small Slovak ski resort of Poprad. Poprad-Tatry Airport is just 68 kilometers by car from the center of Zakopane, a journey that takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
However, it’s important to note that very few airlines fly to Poprad. It is the closest airport if you’re flying from the UK. Flights from the UK to Poprad for Zakopane are available from London Luton and London Stansted. You can also fly to Poprad from Bratislava in Slovakia and Klagenfurt in Austria. These are the only destinations with flights to Poprad, so many travelers have to land elsewhere – in Krakow.
Most convenient airport to Zakopane
For most travelers, including those flying from the Arabian Peninsula, the only viable option is Kraków Airport (KRK), located near Kraków.
Kraków Airport is approximately 115 kilometers by car from the center of Zakopane, a journey that takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes. However, during the tourist season, especially in winter, the drive from Kraków Airport to Zakopane can take longer due to traffic.
If you’re traveling from Kraków Airport to Zakopane, you can take a direct bus or travel from the airport to Kraków city center, where you can catch a bus or train to Zakopane.
Summary: Which airport is closest to Zakopane?
If you’re lucky, you can fly into Poprad-Tatry Airport (TAT), the closest airport to Zakopane. However, for most tourists, Kraków Airport (KRK) is the only practical option.
Additionally, there are small local airstrips near Zakopane where small private planes can land on grass surfaces. Some resorts near Zakopane also have their own helipads.
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About the Author: Hi, It's Daily Krakow written by a lifelong Krakow resident with 40 years of experience exploring this beautiful city. I’m not part of the tourism industry and I dont make money on tourists that's why I can be honest. My deep local knowledge allows me to share honest, practical tips to help you avoid tourist traps and discover the real Krakow. Whether it’s hidden gems, local customs, or practical advice, I’m here to make your visit unforgettable.
