>>2831742
if Krakow is too expensive for you, you can do southern loop like this i could recommend:
Kraków (starting point)
Myślenice
What: Small town at foothills of Beskid Mountains. Forests, rivers, quiet.
Why: Good for winter walks, a small ski lift (Góra Chełm), local vibe.
Tip: Try walking along the Raba River or climb to Uklejna Hill.
Droginia
What: Quiet village near Lake Dobczyce.
Why: Remote beauty. Not touristy. Views over lake and hills. Cool castle. However recent summer i saw some koreans and hindus there.
Tip: Great place for peace, foggy winter mornings, minimal noise.
5. Lubomierz (Gorce Mountains)
What: Mountain village, gateway to Gorce National Park.
Why: Access to unspoiled forests, wooden huts, local shepherd culture.
Tip: Hike toward Kudłoń or Stare Wierchy if snow permits. Can stay in eco-lodge or agritourism.
6. Nowy Targ
What: Local market town at base of the Tatra foothills. You can approach Gorce National Park from there too.
Why: Noisy but authentic. Cheaper than Zakopane. Good for regional food (oscypek, kwaśnica).
Tip: Visit the Saturday open-air market if the timing works.
7. Kalwaria Zebrzydowska
What: Pilgrimage site with UNESCO basilica, way of the cross trails.
Why: Unique architecture + atmospheric landscape, even better in winter silence.
Tip: Walk the dróżki (religious trails) if snow is not deep.
8. Lanckorona
What: Artist village on a hill, with preserved wooden houses.
Why: Charming, frozen-in-time atmosphere. Cafés with stoves, handcrafts.
Tip: Ideal for quiet evening before returning to Kraków.
9. Return to Kraków
Notes: visit Wieliczka while you are at it, Ojcow etc
Entire loop can be done by rental car or selectively by regional buses.
Accommodation: agritourism, budget pensions, or Airbnb outside Kraków.
Food: local markets, milk bars, avoid chains.
Summary Map (Clockwise Loop):
Kraków Myślenice Droginia Lubomierz (Gorce) Nowy Targ Kalwaria Lanckorona Kraków
