Places for a Wedding Session – 10 Most Beautiful Locations for a Wedding Session in Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains
Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains are one of the most beautiful places for a romantic wedding session. Mountainous landscapes, picturesque valleys and spectacular views create an unforgettable backdrop for photography. Each of these places has its own unique atmosphere, so it is worthwhile to plan the outdoor session well to perfectly match the character of the bride and groom.
Good organization of a session in the mountains is the key to success. In this article, you’ll find detailed information on the best locations for an outdoor wedding, along with practical tips on logistics, weather conditions and access.
Check out my offer for sessions at these locations
What should you know before planning a session in the mountains? Tips from a photographer in Zakopane
Before you choose a venue, consider the following points:
- Season: Spring and summer are theoretically the best time for outdoor sessions in the Tatra Mountains. However, autumn offers beautiful golden landscapes, and winter adds a fairy-tale atmosphere, but requires more preparation, which I will write about later.
- Weather: the Tatra Mountains are famous for their changeable climate, so it’s a good idea to have a plan B prepared. It’s also a good idea to trust a local photographer who has experience shooting in the mountains.
- Getting there: Some locations require a longer hike, which you need to take into account when planning your session time. There are also locations that you can easily reach by car.
- Consents and permits: Some locations, such as in the Tatra National Park, may require additional permits. A local wedding photographer will certainly make sure that the session is done legally 🙂
10 Most Beautiful Places for a Wedding Session in Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains
| Location | Difficulty of access | Time / Availability | Photo climate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kasprowy Wierch | Very easy | Entry by train (20 min) | High-mountain, majestic |
| Rusinowa Polana | Easy | Walking approx. 50 min | Panorama of the Tatra Mountains, sheep, idyll |
| Chocholowska Valley | Easy | Long walk (can be done by bicycle) | Rustic, boho, mountains, streams 🙂 |
| Lapszanka | Very easy | Access by car under the view | Intimate, sunset |
| Zdiar (Slovakia) | Very easy | Access by car | Majestic view of the Belianske Tatras |
| Black Caterpillar Pond | Difficult | Hike (Approx. 25 min. from Hala Gąsienicowa) | Dramatic, raw, lake |
| Hala Gąsienicowa | Average | Approx. 1.5 – 2h on an easy trail (can be reached by bicycle) | Wooden huts, heart of the Tatra Mountains, great place in autumn |
| Kalatówki | Average | A short walk from Kuznice | Idyllic view |
| Glodowka Glade | Very easy | By car / Walking | View of Zakopane with the Tatra Mountains in the background |
| Furmanova | Very easy | Directly on the road | Powerful panorama, intimacy |
1. kasprowy Wierch
Kasprowy Wierch is one of the most famous places in the Tatra Mountains. Located at an altitude of 1987 meters above sea level, it offers spectacular views of the entire mountain range. It’s the perfect place for couples who dream of an outdoor ceremony against a backdrop of majestic peaks.
- Altitude: 1987 meters above sea level.
- The best time of year: spring and autumn (in winter the conditions are very demanding, but not impossible to do a session)
- Advantages: spectacular views n the Tatra Mountains, possibility to enter by cable car, certainly one of the most beautiful places in all of Poland.
- Disadvantages: train trip fee, crowds of tourists (I can avoid the crowds by choosing the right time and day to shoot)
- Tips: It’s best to take the first or last course of the cable car to avoid tourists. Although Kasprowy Wierch is very easy to get to, keep in mind that these are high mountains and it is good to be properly prepared. Mountain shoes are a must (I happened to refuse to be photographed as I saw stilettos on my feet), warm clothes and something to drink and eat.
2. Rusinowa Polana
Rusinowa Polana is one of the most picturesque places in the Tatra Mountains, with a panoramic view of the highest peaks. It is easily accessible, making it suitable for couples who do not want a long hike.
- Best time of year: all year round
- Pros: easy access, ideal location for a session at any time of day
- Cons: It can be crowded in high season. In the summer months, the parking lot at the entrance to Rusinowa Polana fills up very quickly
- Tips: a great option for couples who do not want a long hike. The walk to Rusinowa Polana takes about 50 minutes. Although the route is not difficult, I recommend wearing appropriate footwear and taking a jacket with you, regardless of the season.
3. Chocholowska Valley
Chocholowska Valley is the largest valley in the Polish Tatra Mountains, known for its spring carpets of crocuses and beautiful views of the Western Tatras. It is an ideal place for wedding and engagement sessions.
- Best time of year: spring and autumn
- Advantages: wide open spaces, beautiful views of the Western Tatra Mountains
- Disadvantages: may require a long walk
- Tips: great place for rustic and boho sessions. In spring, Chocholowska Valley turns into a purple sea of crocuses – a perfect backdrop for a romantic session. If your outfit allows it, I recommend going to Chocholowska Valley by bike.
4. Łapszanka
Lapszanka is one of the more intimate places for a wedding session, although it has been beloved by wedding photographers for some time, which is no surprise. Located near the Polish-Slovakian border, it offers a peaceful atmosphere and a panoramic view of the Belian and High Tatras.
- Best time of year: summer and autumn
- Pros: peace and quiet, view of the entire Tatra Mountains
- Disadvantages: necessary access by car
- Tips: an ideal place for couples looking for an intimate atmosphere. This is one of the lesser-known places that offers views like a fairy tale.
5. Zdiar (Slovakia)
Zdiar is a picturesque village in Slovakia, known for its traditional architecture and incredible views of the Belianske Tatras. It’s a great alternative for couples who want to avoid crowded trails.
- Best time of year: summer and autumn
- Advantages: picturesque village overlooking the Belianske Tatras, no tourist crowds
- Disadvantages: need to cross the border
- Tips: Zdiar is a great place for a wedding session in the Tatra Mountains when the weather is not quite right. Usually when the view is poor in Poland, in Zdiar it doesn’t disappoint 🙂
6. the Black Caterpillar Pond
This is one of the most spectacular places in the Tatra Mountains, surrounded by soaring peaks and a picturesque sheet of water that creates a perfect reflection.
- Best time of year: summer and autumn
- Pros: dramatic landscape, reflections in the water
- Disadvantages: challenging route
- Tips: perfect for active couples who are not afraid of challenges. With the reflection of the mountains in the lake, the photos gain extraordinary depth and space effect.
7. Hala Gąsienicowa
Located in the heart of the Tatra Mountains, Hala Gąsienicowa is one of the most beautiful places to photograph. The atmospheric shelter, open spaces and view of the Orla Perć massif make it an ideal location for couples who appreciate the raw beauty of nature.
- Best time of year: all year round
- Advantages: wooden shelters, Tatra atmosphere
- Disadvantages: large number of tourists in high season
- Tips: a great option for couples who like the traditional mountain atmosphere. This is one of the most picturesque places in the Tatra Mountains, where you can capture the unique atmosphere of highland sessions.
8. kalatówki
If you dream of a session in a place that offers easy access and amazing views at the same time, Kalatówki will be a great choice. The golden grasses in autumn and the surrounding valleys give the photos a unique character.
- Best time of year: autumn
- Pros: close to Zakopane, easy to get to and from
- Disadvantages: a lot of tourists on weekends
- Tips: it is possible to organize a session with an overnight stay at the hostel. They offer beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and the Tatra Mountains.
9. furmanova
This is one of the lesser-known but incredibly charming places for an outdoor wedding. Located on a hill above Zakopane, it offers spectacular views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
- Best time of year: all year round
- Pros: amazing view of Zakopane and the entire Tatra Mountains
- Disadvantages: none
- Tips: a great option for an intimate session surrounded by nature. This is a perfect location for a sunset, where the panorama of the mountains takes on a unique glow.
10. other places with a view of the Tatra Mountains
The Tatra Mountains offer many lesser-known but equally beautiful locations for photo shoots. If you’re looking for something more intimate, consider less popular locations.
- Examples: Glodowka Glade, Gubalowka off the main routes, Plazowka.
- Tips: look for lesser-known locations to avoid crowds. A huge advantage of hiring a local photographer is that he or she is familiar with less touristy but equally beautiful locations, Such places allow for more relaxed posing and more intimacy in the frame.
Photographer Zakopane – FAQs about a wedding session in the Tatra Mountains:
Are session approvals needed in the Tatra National Park?
Yes, a permit is required in the TPN to photograph special sessions. I have such a permit, so you don’t have to worry about that. You can find more information here: https://tpn.gov.pl/zalatw-sprawe/wykonywanie-zdjec-fotograficznych
How much does it cost to get a permit for a wedding session in the Tatra Mountains (TPN)?
The fee for a photo session in the Tatra National Park in 2026 is 200 PLN. The fee is paid online or at the Park Directorate. Remember that it covers the photographer and the bride and groom, and the funds support the protection of Tatra nature. If I am the one photographing your session – you do not have to worry about the fee to TPN. It is included in the price of the session.
What is the best time to start a session in Zakopane?
The best light will be obtained during the so-called golden hour – just after sunrise or before sunset. In the Tatras, these hours are magical due to fewer tourists on the trails.
Can we do a sunrise session?
Yes, sunrise is the best time, next to sunset, for a session in the Tatra Mountains – the light is soft and the trails are empty. However, you need to be ready for a very early rise and sometimes demanding pre-dawn hike.
Does a session in the Tatra Mountains require physical fitness?
Not every one! Places such as Rusinowa Polana or Hala Gąsienicowa are accessible after walking an easy trail. The walking pace is always adjusted to you. I also take photos in places where you can directly reach by car or exit by train, such as on Kasprowy Wierch or other places with mountain views.
Is it worth it to hire a guide for the harder to reach places?
I do not photograph in places that may be too dangerous, so there is no need to hire a guide.
How long does a wedding session in the Tatra Mountains take?
The duration of the session depends on the location – in easily accessible areas (e.g. Lapszanka) it can take 1-2 hours, while in more remote areas (e.g. Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy) you need to reserve up to half a day.
What clothes will work for a wedding session in the mountains?
The bride and groom should have comfortable shoes for getting to the location. I leave the choice of shoes for the session to you, but I don’t mind if they are mountain shoes. We are photographing in the mountains after all 🙂 It’s also a good idea to bring a warm covering, especially in autumn and winter, and necessarily something to eat and drink.
Is it possible to do a wedding session in winter?
Yes, but it requires additional preparation – proper clothing, checking weather conditions in advance and trusting me to choose a location.
Can we choose multiple locations during a session?
I usually photograph one location during a session.
Is a session in the Tatra Mountains suitable for every couple?
If you like nature and are not afraid of short hikes, the Tatras are the perfect place. However, if you want convenience and a quick session, I will suggest another beautiful place overlooking the Tatra Mountains 🙂
How early do I need to book a session date?
It is best to book the date at least 2-3 months in advance, especially if the session is to take place during the peak summer season or during the golden autumn. However, it happens that I book a wedding session in the Tatra Mountains overnight. It is always a good idea to ask about a free date 🙂
Do you offer assistance in choosing a location for the session?
Of course! I advise on which locations best suit your style and expectations, and help with logistics and preparations for the session.
The most important question – will you recommend any places for us to have dinner after the session :)?
Sure! I love local restaurants and will definitely recommend something delicious to you! 🙂
The Tatra Mountains offer plenty of spectacular locations for a wedding session. The choice of location should depend on the couple’s style and weather conditions. If you are planning an unforgettable session, contact me – I can help you plan the perfect outdoor wedding in the mountains!
In addition, if you have specific questions about the organization of the session, I will be happy to advise you on logistics, preparations and choosing the best date. Write to me and together we will create exceptional frames!