Ždiar

A Goral village at the foot of the Belianske Tatras, where traditions and folk architecture are still alive today.

Ždiar
236

Historic buildings in 4 groups

150 cm

Door Height in Original Log Cabins

1,234 m

Total Length of the Tree-Top Walk

A charming village at the foot of the Belianske Tatras, where vibrant Goral traditions blend with folk architecture, hiking, and year-round experiences

The first written mention of Ždiar dates back to 1590, although the village is believed to have been founded as early as the beginning of the second half of the 16th century. Its founder was František Lužinský, the castellan of the Horvát family, the local landowners. The first inhabitants made their living primarily through logging, charcoal burning, and herding. Gradually, they established a scattered settlement of mountain hamlets in the valleys and on the slopes below the Belianske Tatras.

The unique character of the village is still defined by traditional Ždiar log houses with blue caulking, red window frames, and white floral ornaments. In 1977, Ždiar was designated a historic preservation district for folk architecture. There are 236 historic buildings here, divided into four groups. The Ždiarsky Dom Museum offers a glimpse into the lives of the local Gorals, their traditional costumes, crafts, and wedding customs.

Today, Ždiar is a popular destination for hiking, winter sports, and family activities. A trail leads from the village through Monkova Valley to the Široké and Kopské Saddle passes, offering views of the Belianske Tatras. In the nearby Bachledová Valley, you can visit the Tree Top Walk—open year-round—with its 32-meter-high observation tower, or enjoy the local ski slopes and other attractions.

The site is open year-round
What We Offer
A Visit to the Ždiarsky Dom Museum
A stroll among the traditional wooden houses of Ždiar
Hiking Through Monková Valley to Kopské Saddle
A Trip to the Treetop Walk in Bachledka
What do you need to know before you arrive?
Ždiar is accessible by bus or car
The village stretches for several kilometers, so be sure to plan your route in advance
The opening hours of the Ždiarsky Dom Museum vary by season
Larger groups should arrange their museum visit in advance
The hiking trail through Monkova Valley is subject to seasonal closures
The operation of the attractions and the cable car in Bachledka may be affected by weather or maintenance
Parking lots near popular attractions may be full during peak season

Please read this before your visit

Opening Hours of the Ždiarsky Dom Museum

The museum's hours of operation vary throughout the year. Groups of more than ten people can also arrange for a private tour outside of regular hours by appointment. Before your visit, please check the Ždiarsky Dom Museum website for the latest information.

Seasonal Closures of Hiking Trails

The high-altitude trail through Monkova Valley, Široké Pass, and Kopské Pass is subject to seasonal closures. Before setting out on your hike, check the current trail conditions, weather, and any restrictions on the TANAP Administration website.

Attraction Operations in Bachledka

The treetop walk is open year-round, but its operation may be affected by weather or scheduled maintenance. Before you go, check the opening hours, cable car schedule, admission prices, and parking options on the Bachledka Resort website.

Where to Stay in the Area

Plan a comfortable stay—choose accommodations near this location and enjoy the region to the fullest without unnecessary travel.

Discover other cities and towns in the region

Every town and village in the Tatra Mountains has its own history, character, and atmosphere—explore other destinations worth visiting.

The Tatra Mountains wake up differently every day

Current conditions, upcoming events, and editorial recommendations. Everything you need to know before heading to the Tatras.

Webcams

Most sidewalks are open
The chairlifts are in operation
The bike trails are open

Everything You Need to Know Before Your Trip

Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the High Tatras region.

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    The High Tatras have something to offer all year round. The best time for high-altitude hiking is from June to October, when the hiking trails at higher elevations are open. Fall brings more stable weather, pleasant temperatures, and beautiful views. Winter is ideal for skiing, winter walks, and visiting locations that are accessible year-round. Before setting out on a trip, always check the current weather conditions and any trail closures.

    You do not need a special permit for regular hiking on marked trails. However, you must comply with TANAP’s visitor regulations and seasonal closures, and you may only hike on open trails. Special rules apply, for example, to rock climbing, ski mountaineering, hiking off marked trails, or bringing a dog into the park.

    You can easily reach the main Tatra resorts by train. The Tatra Electric Railways connect Poprad, Starý Smokovec, Štrbské Pleso, and Tatranská Lomnica. A cog railway runs from Štrba to Štrbské Pleso. You can also take advantage of regular bus routes and seasonal shuttle services in the region.

    You can park in designated parking lots in the various Tatra villages. During peak periods, we recommend using the P+R park-and-ride lot at Eurocamp in Tatranská Lomnica and continuing by shuttle bus. From this parking lot, you can take public transportation to destinations such as Tatranská Lomnica, Tatranské Matliare, Biela Voda, or the Belianska Cave.

    For hiking, choose sturdy hiking boots with non-slip soles that stabilize your feet and protect them on rocky or wet terrain. Your gear should also include weather-appropriate clothing and a rain jacket. Sandals and regular city shoes are not suitable for more demanding hikes.

    When a storm is approaching, leave peaks, ridges, saddles, mountain passes, and open areas as soon as possible. Descend to lower elevations, avoid standing near isolated trees or metal objects, and keep your distance from other members of your group. If possible, take shelter in a mountain hut or a safe building. The best prevention is to check the weather forecast, set out early in the morning, and shorten or cancel your hike in a timely manner if conditions take a turn for the worse. Safety must take precedence over reaching your destination.