Things to Do in the High Tatras

Cable cars and funiculars

The quickest way to reach high ground is by lift. The cable car from Tatranská Lomnica climbs towards Skalnaté pleso and on to Lomnický štít, which is one of the most visited summits in the range. The funicular from Starý Smokovec goes up to Hrebienok, an easy start for walkers with children.

Opening times and tickets vary by season and weather. Buy tickets in advance during the summer and winter peaks, and check current operations on the lift operator websites.

Lakes and waterfalls

Glacial lakes (plesá) are the signature sight. Štrbské Pleso is the easiest to reach, with a path around the shore. Popradské pleso, a short hike from the same area, is a classic with a mountain hut beside the water. The Studenovodské waterfalls near Hrebienok are a good short walk in spring and summer.

Hiking

Marked trails range from forest walks to exposed ridge routes with chains. Plan according to your fitness, start early and carry water, a rain layer and a map. Many trails above the treeline are closed from 1 November to 15 June, so check TANAP for current rules. Our guide to the best hikes in the High Tatras goes deeper.

Rainy days and rest days

When the clouds sit low, head to Poprad for its old square and museums, or to a thermal or aquapark option in the region. Spiš Castle is a short drive and a strong choice for a weather-proof half day. See Spiš Castle.

Winter things to do

Between December and the end of the ski season, the focus moves to skiing, snowboarding, cross-country tracks and snowshoeing. Read High Tatras in winter for resort details.

Family-friendly ideas

Families with young children do well in the resorts. The funicular to Hrebienok removes the steep climb, the lake path at Štrbské Pleso is flat, and playgrounds and short forest trails are easy to find near the hotels. Poprad has an aquapark, which helps on a wet afternoon. Check opening times and any age or height rules with each operator before you set out.

Keep a spare layer for each child, because the temperature drops sharply with every few hundred metres of altitude, even in summer.

Choosing a base and planning days

If you have three days, a sensible split is one lift day, one hiking day and one flexible day for the weather or a trip to the Spiš region. Starý Smokovec is the most central base for this mix, while Tatranská Lomnica suits the cable car and Štrbské Pleso suits lake walks and ski trips. Look at our High Tatras guide for a closer comparison and at Slovakia travel cost for budgeting.

Check the forecast each evening for the next day. Mountain visibility is the biggest factor in how much you enjoy a lift ride, so switch your plans around when needed rather than waiting for a perfect day.