Interview with Łukasz Filipowicz, Mayor of Zakopane
Can you tell us about your background and how you became the mayor of Zakopane?
My journey started with my small, family-run hotel business. After studying in Switzerland, I returned to Zakopane in 2014 to manage my business and felt the need for change in the city. I first ran for mayor at 26, but we didn’t win due to lack of experience. However, I joined the city council, gaining valuable knowledge. A decade later, I successfully ran for mayor as an independent candidate—unique in Zakopane’s history, as previous mayors were affiliated with political parties.
What are your current priorities as mayor?
Enhancing Zakopane’s public relations and image is important. The city is highly talked about, and stories about it gain traction online, so positively shaping this perception is a priority. We are also focused on making local government more user-friendly and transparent, ensuring that residents can easily access services and information online without excessive bureaucracy.
What is the situation with tourism in Zakopane?
Tourism is vital for our city. The COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine have shifted our tourist demographics. We used to have many visitors from Western Europe and Russia, but now we see more tourists from neighbouring countries like Hungary, Slovakia, Czech Republic, and the Baltic states. Interestingly, we’ve seen an increase in visitors from the Middle East, which opens new opportunities for targeted tourism strategies.
Are there any specific steps you’re taking to attract tourists from new markets?
How would you describe Zakopane’s ‘magic and unique’ appeal?
Zakopane is one of the few cities embedded directly within mountain landscapes. The Tatra National Park is part of the city itself, offering a unique blend of urban and natural experiences. It’s not uncommon to see wildlife like deer roaming the streets, adding to the city’s charm. The panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains are spectacular, making the city ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, climbing, and ski touring.
What challenges have you faced with this wildlife integration?
While most tourists are respectful, some treat wild animals as pets, which can lead to dangerous situations, especially with male deer. Ensuring tourists understand how to interact with wildlife safely is an ongoing challenge.
How do you manage Zakopane’s winter season and tourism during that period?
Winter is significant for us, but changing weather patterns mean we must adapt. For example, heavy snowfalls can disrupt the city, as seen in past Novembers with unexpected, massive snowfalls. While the peak winter season remains popular, I often recommend visiting in March. The city is less crowded, there is ample snow, and the weather is typically sunny—perfect for winter activities.
What are your long-term goals for Zakopane?
Beyond tourism, fostering transparency and accessibility in local governance remains a top priority. We want residents and taxpayers to easily find information and stay informed in real-time, enhancing trust and engagement. Balancing tradition and innovation while ensuring the city continues to thrive will guide our efforts moving forward.