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Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour – tickets, prices, discounts, timings, what to expect, FAQs

The Wieliczka Salt Mine, situated near Kraków in southern Poland, has been producing salt since Neolithic times. 

Excavated in the 13th century, it is one of the oldest operating salt mines in the world, having continuously produced table salt until 2007.

Extending over 287 kilometers (178 miles) through horizontal passages and chambers, the Wieliczka Salt Mine reaches a depth of 327 meters (1,073 ft). 

The mine showcases the evolution of mining techniques in Europe from the 13th to the 20th centuries, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the industry.

It is also an official Polish Historic Monument and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for the Wieliczka Salt Mine tour.

Top Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour Tickets

# Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour with optional transport # Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided One Day Tour # Day Trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine from Krakow including Lunch

Table of contents

What to expect at wieliczka salt mine tour, where to book tickets, how do online tickets work, wieliczka salt mine tour ticket prices, wieliczka salt mine guided tour tickets with optional transport, auschwitz-birkenau and wieliczka salt mine guided one day tour tickets, day trip tickets to auschwitz-birkenau and wieliczka salt mine from krakow including lunch, wieliczka salt mine guided tour tickets from krakow with hotel pickup, meeting point for wieliczka salt mine tour, wieliczka salt mine tour timings, how long does the tour take, best time to go on wieliczka salt mine tour, faqs about the wieliczka salt mine tour.

Experience the rich history and unique beauty of the Wieliczka Salt Mines, a true treasure of Poland.

Tour the 3.5-kilometer (2.2-mile) visitors’ route, which surprisingly represents less than 2 percent of the total length of the mine passages.

Seize the chance to witness one of the world’s rare underground churches as you embark on uncovering the hidden pathways beneath.

Enjoy a variety of attractions in the mine, including shafts and labyrinthine passageways, displays of historic salt-mining technology, an underground lake, and four chapels. 

As you make your way down, be amazed by the roughly carved statues depicting legendary beings and the delicate salt formations resembling strands of spaghetti.

The mines also feature numerous statues carved by miners out of the rock salt, as well as more recent sculptures by contemporary artists. 

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Tickets for the Wieliczka Salt Mine tour are available to be purchased online or at the Wieliczka Salt Mine ticket office.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the attraction’s ticket counters.

When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.

Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, during peak days they may sell out. Booking early also helps avoid last-minute disappointments

To book tickets for a Kraków Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour, head to the booking page and choose your desired date and the number of tickets. 

Once you have made your purchase, your tickets will be sent to your email. 

You do not need to carry printouts. 

On the day of your visit, show the e-ticket on your smartphone and start the tour.

Don’t forget to bring your official IDs.

Tickets for the ​​ Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour with optional transport are available for prices ranging between 175zł to 435zł for adults, depending on the tour option you choose.

Tickets for children and senior citizens are available at reduced prices ranging from 175 zł to 435zł.

Infant tickets are generally complimentary, with the exception of specific tour options that may require a separate fee.

Adult tickets for the Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided One-Day Tour are priced at 407zł for visitors over 18 years of age.

Youth tickets for the tour are priced at 398zł for visitors aged between 13 to 17 years.

Child tickets for the same tour are available for 389zł for visitors between five and 12 years of age.

Infants up to four years of age can get in for free.

Adult tickets for the Day Trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine from Krakow including a Lunch tour , are available to visitors between 18 to 74 years for 443zł.

Senior citizens over 75 years and youth between 14 and 17 years old can get tickets for the tour for 438zł.

Children between five and 13 years of age can get tickets for the tour for 407zł.

Infant tickets for the tour are available for a reduced price of 206zł for visitors up to four years of age.

The tickets for the Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour are available at discounted prices at different times across the year.

Visitors can save up to 15% on ticket costs if they plan ahead.

Visit the booking pages to find specific dates when discounted prices are available.

Experience the wonders of the Wieliczka salt mines on a half-day guided tour.

Step away from the hustle and bustle of Krakow and explore one of the first UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

The tour commences with a descent of 64 meters via stairs and moves through various chambers and underground lakes, shrines, and salt monuments. 

The tour ends at a depth of 135 meters below the surface, followed by a return ascent to ground level via an elevator.

A knowledgeable guide provides insight into the fascinating history of the mines while you marvel at the intricate and stunning salt sculptures.

With the option of a morning or afternoon departure, choose the time that suits you best and prepare for an unforgettable excursion. 

Book your spot now and escape to the breathtaking world of the Wieliczka salt mines!

Ticket Prices Adult Ticket (26 to 64 years): 435zł Senior Ticket (65+ years): 435zł Youth Ticket (16 to 25 years): 368zł Child Ticket (6 to 12 years): 340zł Infant Ticket (up to 5 years): 340zł

Discover the history of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp and the intriguing Wieliczka Salt Mine.

The tour begins early in the morning, taking visitors on a comfortable bus ride from Krakow to the memorial and then to the beautiful mines.

Pay your respects at the solemn Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, and explore the UNESCO World Heritage salt mine’s echoing caverns.

As you arrive at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum, a professional guide will commence the tour and introduce the memorial sites’ historical significance.

Visitors will then head to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, where a knowledgeable local guide will provide insights into the mine’s history. 

Get an opportunity to witness extraordinary chambers, genuine sculptures, and the actual workplaces of miners.

Ticket Prices Adult Ticket (18+ years): 407zł| Youth Ticket (13 to 17 years): 398zł Child Ticket (5 to 12 years): 389zł Infant Ticket (up to 4 years): Free

Experience two of Krakow’s most significant historical landmarks in a full-day tour, featuring hotel pickup and lunch. 

Begin with a moving tour of the Auschwitz-Birkenau complex, where you will learn about the harrowing truths of the largest Nazi concentration camp complex. 

Proceed through the gate adorned with the words “Arbeit macht frei” as you enter Auschwitz I, with a certified historian and guide leading you through the preserved grounds.

The museum’s three-and-a-half-hour tour is designed to educate visitors about the millions of victims affected by the Holocaust.

After lunch, venture underground to explore the UNESCO-listed Wieliczka mine, one of the world’s oldest working salt mines. 

You will be transported to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, which has been producing salt for over 700 years. 

Your English-speaking guide will lead you on a two-and-a-half-hour tour of tourist routes featuring chambers with impressive salt carvings and statues, taking you up to 140 meters underground. 

This full-day tour includes entrance fees, lunch, and hotel pickup, providing excellent value for money. 

Ticket Prices Adult Ticket (18 to 74 years): 442zł Senior Ticket (75+ years): 438zł Youth Ticket (14 to 17 years): 438zł Child Ticket (5 to 13 years): 406zł Infant Ticket (up to 4 years): 205zł

Join a small group and explore the ancient salt mine at Wieliczka during this guided excursion from Krakow. 

During your journey to the mine, you’ll pass by some of the city’s most renowned sites, such as the Wawel Royal Castle, the Former Jewish District, Ghetto Wall Fragment, The Ghetto Heroes Square, and Krakow’s Rynek Glowny Central Square. 

Explore the Wieliczka Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, offering a truly unique experience.

Discover intriguing facets of the mines shrouded from public view and steeped in mystery and lore.

As you wander through the attraction, admire the chapels, chambers, and saline lakes while your guide provides interesting insights. 

With a small group size, visitors are sure to have a more personalized experience with great attention from the guide on their tour of one of the world’s oldest operating salt mines.

Choose from multiple tour timings to accommodate your schedule, with the added convenience of seamless transfers from your Krakow hotel.

Ticket Prices Adult Ticket (19+ years): 259zł Youth Ticket (17 to 18 years): 241zł Child Ticket (5 to 16 years): 241zł Infant Ticket (up to 4 years): 112zł

Save time and money! Explore 39 museums effortlessly with the convenient 1, 2, or 3-day Krakow City Card . Discover the hidden gems beneath Main Market Square, delve into Oskar Schindler’s legacy, hear the trumpets at St. Mary’s Basilica, and much more!

The meeting point for the Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour will vary depending on the tour option you choose. 

It’s important to keep in mind that the meeting location may change.

Hence, visitors are advised to check the booking page before arriving to confirm the exact location.

The timings for the Kraków Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour depend on the tour option you choose.

You can choose between tours starting around 6.45 am or 4.15 pm.

Visitors are advised to check the respective booking pages for the exact tour timings.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour can take anywhere between 2.5 hours to over 13 hours.

The duration varies depending on the tour you book.

To maximize your day and explore other activities in Krakow, it’s best to start your tour of Wieliczka Salt Mines early in the morning. 

For a comfortable visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, it is recommended to plan your trip during the summer season. 

During the winter season, the mine’s temperature can drop significantly, creating a less comfortable experience for visitors.

Here are some questions visitors usually ask before visiting the Wieliczka Salt Mines.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour is a guided tour of one of the oldest salt mines in the world, located in Wieliczka, Poland. 

The standard tour can last about 2 to 2.5 hours and covers approximately 3.5 kilometers of the mine’s corridors and chambers.

The tour involves walking down and up approximately 800 steps, so it can be physically demanding for those with mobility issues.  Nevertheless, there are alternative routes accessible for individuals who may find it challenging to navigate the stairs.

It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes with good grip and clothing appropriate for a cool underground environment.

Yes, photography is allowed during the tour, but flash photography is prohibited in some areas.

Large bags and backpacks are not allowed on the tour, and there are restrictions on the size of personal belongings that can be brought into the mine.  It is best to check the official website for specific guidelines.

Yes, there is a gift shop and restaurant located on-site for visitors to enjoy after the tour.

Tours are available in languages including English, Polish, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, and Japanese.

No, personal guides are not allowed on the tour.  Visitors must follow the tour guide provided by the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

The tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the number of stairs involved.  However, there are special arrangements available for visitors with mobility issues, such as a lift and alternate routes.

You can book a tour online or at the Wieliczka Salt Mine ticket office.  It is recommended to book online in advance , especially during peak tourist season.

Sources # Discovercracow.com # Wieliczka-saltmine.com # Tripadvisor.in The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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This article was researched & written by

Hanan Irfan

Hanan Irfan is fascinated by exhilarating treks, alpine lakes, landscape photography, and football. He loves trying different cuisines and meeting people from around the world. He's a sucker for solitude and sunsets, capturing memories on the run. His favorite cities: Tromsø, Reykjavik, and Seychelles

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Explore the Wieliczka Salt Mine: Tour and Tickets

• Places to visit , Travel
• March 25, 2024

• 0.1 Key Takeaways
• 1.1 4 Best Ways to Travel from Krakow to Wieliczka
• 2.1 What to Expect on The Salt Mine Tours Wieliczka
• 3 Introduction to Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tours 
• 4 Booking Your Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour Tickets
• 5.1 Managing Crowds and Waiting Times
• 6 Exploring the Depths: Wieliczka Underground Tour
• 7.1 The Majestic Chapels
• 7.2 Unique Salt Sculptures
• 7.3 The Subterranean Salt Lakes
• 8 Practical Information for Visitors
• 9.1 Advantages of Group Tours
• 9.2 Bespoke Experience with Private Tours
• 9.3 Customizing Your Journey
• 10 Navigating the Wieliczka Salt Mine: Tips and Tricks
• 11.1 What can I expect from a Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour?
• 11.2 How should I prepare for my visit to the mine?
• 11.3 Are there different types of tours available at Wieliczka Salt Mine?
• 11.4 How can I book my Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour tickets?
• 11.5 What is the best time to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine?
• 11.6 What are the highlights of the Wieliczka Underground Tour?
• 11.7 What practical information should I know before visiting the mine?
• 11.8 Should I opt for a group or a private tour of the Wieliczka Salt Mine?
• 11.9 Are there any tips for navigating the Wieliczka Salt Mine?

Subterranean wonders lie beneath the Polish town of Wieliczka, where over one million visitors annually embark on a journey through time via the  Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour . This storied mine eloquently tells tales of Earth’s geologic past and mankind’s unyielding diligence, unfurling a cavalcade of underground chambers, each meticulously carved from salt. Charting an awe-inspiring course that stretches over 300 kilometres, it represents one of Poland’s grand triumphs of conservation and echoes a history that spans the medieval period to the present.

Your anticipation for the  best salt mine tour to Wieliczka  has to offer can barely be contained. Envision treading through the same labyrinthine galleries once navigated by historic miners, your footsteps echoing off the crystal-veined walls steeped in the remarkable blend of history and geology. This tour isn’t an ordinary excursion; it’s a cultural deep-dive into the heart of Polish heritage. We created a guide on everything you need to know before visiting one of the most iconic salt mines in the world. You’ll learn how to make a trip to and back from Krakow, what to bring to the mines, and all the must-see attractions.

Key Takeaways

• The  Wieliczka Salt Mine  is a top cultural attraction, drawing over a million visitors each year.
• The tour provides an immersive look at historical mining, architecture, and art, all carved from salt.
• With over 300 kilometres of tunnels, it stands as one of Poland’s most ambitious conservation successes.
• Booking the  salt mine tours Wieliczka  offers before your visit is highly recommended due to its popularity.
• Discover the scale of the mine’s passages, chapels, and sculptures on what is arguably the  best salt mine tour Wieliczka  has on display.

How to plan a day trip from Krakow to Wieliczka

4 best ways to travel from krakow to wieliczka.

Public buses

Krakow’s transportation network extends all the way to the salt mines, which makes public buses one of the most convenient options to reach the salt mine from the City of Kings. The 304 bus line provides a direct connection between Krakow Old Town and Wieliczka .  The journey should take you around  It operates daily between 4 am and 10 pm . Here you can find the specific time table of departures from Krakow Main Station as of March 2024:

Train services

Koleje Malopolskie (KML) is Lesser Poland’s regional train service. You can use it to transfer from  Balice airport  or any of the train stations in Krakow directly to Wieliczka town centre, which is directly next to the entrance to the Salt Mine Museum. The  Krakow Airport-Wieliczka line is serviced every day on an hourly basis between 4 am and 9 pm . The journey from the John Paul II Airport  costs 21 PLN for a one-way ticket and takes around 45 mins . If you leave from Krakow Main Station , the train ride will cost you 6,50 PLN and take you around 25 mins . Check the official timetables online or physically or at the station for more info. Make sure to exit the train at the  Wieliczka Rynek-Kopalnia station. It’s just a 5 min walk away from the main mine shaft and ticket booth.

Car rentals

There are two types of car rental services in Krakow:

• Daily rental – these are the more classic car hiring services. You retrieve a car from the airport or train station and you pay a flat fee for every day of usage. A multitude of rental car providers operate in Krakow, with notable inclusions being  Europcar , SIXT, and  CarJet.  
• Carsharing – is the more modern and alternative method of hiring a rental car. The pricing is dynamic and depends on the distance traversed as well as time of the rental. They’re usually based around a mobile app, which allows you to find available cars as well as track your spending. While they also tend to have cars in major transportation hubs, car sharing companies tend to also have long-term contracts with the Krakow city transportation department, which allows them to park their fleet all around the city.

While car-sharing provides a lot of extra convenience and is basically unbeatable for short trips when in terms of price, the peace of mind that comes with a flat daily fee makes static car rental services a viable alternative for day-trips and long-term stays in the city.

The commute from Krakow to Wieliczka Salt Mine by car takes around 25 minutes . The mine provides paid parking next to the facilities, which costs a flat 30 zł fee per car . However, you can drive around the block in search of cheaper, private parking options.

Private day tours

For maximum convenience, you can book a minibus tour with a hotel pick-up option. One such option are our partners at KrakowDirect . You can expect a more premium experience, with higher comfort cars, English-speaking drivers and a guide tour service included with the price. They also have many bundle offers, meaning you can experience a combined tour of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp and Wieliczka Salt Mine . Similar deal is also available with Schindler’s Factory in Krakow. This is by far the best option to sightsee everything the Krakow area has to offer in a very short time.

How to Prepare for Your Visit

Preparation is key to enjoy the full breadth of what Wieliczka has to offer. Dressing in warm clothing is essential due to the mine’s cooler temperatures, and comfortable footwear will serve you well on its uneven terrain. Moreover, clairvoyant booking is recommended; securing your tickets in advance can save you from the disappointment of sold-out tours, especially during the tourist surge in the warmer months.

What to Expect on The Salt Mine Tours Wieliczka

As you embark on your underground pilgrimage, a guide will lead you through corridors lined with saline art and chapels that have hosted many a worshipper. Over the course of approximately two to three hours, you will travel through a fraction of the mine’s vast network. You can anticipate stories of past exploits, demonstrations of mining techniques, and even immersive exhibits that bring the mine’s humble beginnings to life.

Introduction to Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tours 

Visitors to the famed Wieliczka Salt Mine can select from a variety of tour experiences, each customised to enrich their encounter with this historic underground marvel. Whether it’s the camaraderie of a  Wieliczka salt mine group tour  or the tailored focus of a  Wieliczka salt mine private tour , there is a sojourn below the earth’s surface for every type of traveller. Engage in a comprehensive  Wieliczka salt mine excursion  that embraces the full breadth of the mine’s grandeur and cultural significance.

• An educational and immersive experience within a larger congregation can be found on a  group tour , ideal for those who enjoy the dynamic exchange of ideas and insights.
• Alternatively, a  private tour  affords an intimate journey through the mine’s strikingly silent chambers, allowing for personalised interaction with the guide.
• For those wanting to delve deep into the annals of the mine’s history, specialised  excursions  are on offer, designed to enlighten and educate.

Deciding on the right tour type is integral to the experience:

From the echoing footsteps of miners past to the sculptural elegance of saline artwork, the  Wieliczka Salt Mine  encapsulates a microcosm of Polish heritage waiting to be explored. Each tour beckons with its unique allure, promising an experience that resonates long after you’ve surfaced back into daylight.

Booking Your Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour Tickets

Embarking on one of the famous  salt mine tours Wieliczka  has to offer is a mesmerising experience that requires a bit of planning. To secure your spot on this unforgettable journey, procuring tickets ahead of time is not just suggested; it’s imperative. Throughout the year, especially in the peak seasons of tourism, the demand for the  Wieliczka Salt Mine tour  swells. Thus, booking in advance is the most reliable method to ensure your visit is locked in.

Fortunately, acquiring tickets is a task that can be achieved with ease. The official website of Wieliczka Salt mine provides an easy-to-use panel . With just a few clicks, you can confirm your attendance for the adventure that awaits below the Earth’s surface. For those spontaneous travellers, or those reserving their decision until the very day, onsite ticket purchases are also available, though they come with a risk of full booking.

The ticket options are not confined to mere entry but extend to bundle packages that include visits to surrounding attractions, allowing for a more immersive experience of the Wieliczka region. The allure of a combined offer may feature complimentary tours, discounts on guidebooks, and even special access to areas usually restricted from regular tours.

Ensure your visit to one of Poland’s most treasured sites is secured; book your  salt mine tours Wieliczka  tickets in advance. With the proper planning, your excursion into the depths of the Earth will not only be guaranteed but also enriched by the additional opportunities that strategic ticketing provides.

Best Time to Visit the Wieliczka Mine

Planning your visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine is crucial, not only to ensure an enriching experience but to also avoid the inconveniences of peak season crowding. A pivotal factor that shapes the quality of your tour is undoubtedly the time of year you choose to delve into this underground treasure. Seasonal variations in Poland impact not just the weather above ground but also influence the nuances of your subterranean adventure, making it essential to time your visit for the  best salt mine tour Wieliczka  can provide.

Managing Crowds and Waiting Times

Visitor statistics suggest that avoiding long waiting times is imperative for a pleasant visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine. During off-peak seasons, such as late autumn and winter, the thinner crowds contribute to a more leisurely tour, granting you ample time to absorb the haunting beauty of the mine’s chambers and artworks.

If you must visit during peak season, consider early morning or late afternoon tours to evade the throngs seeking the  Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour  experience. Booking online in advance is highly recommended as this is a time-tested tactic to bypass lengthy queues.

Balancing your desire for the ideal weather with manageable crowd sizes is key. Consult seasonal guides, review local events that may affect traffic to the mine, and check the official website for the most current visitor flow information. With a bit of strategic planning, you can ensure that your trip to Wieliczka is as smooth as it is memorable.

Exploring the Depths: Wieliczka Underground Tour

The allure of the  Wieliczka underground tour  is rooted deeply in the mystical journey it offers far below the surface of the Earth. This remarkable adventure transports visitors into an enchanting world sculpted from salt, where the past and present of Polish mining tradition converge. From the moment the descent begins, there’s a palpable sense of embarking on an expedition through time and nature.

The network of tunnels and chambers within Wieliczka unravels a storied narrative of resilience and artistry. Every step through the meandering corridors unveils the labour and skill of those who chiseled this subterranean sanctuary by hand, leaving behind a magnificent testimony to their life’s work. The ingenuity of miners from the middle ages up to the contemporary era is preserved within these salt-encrusted walls, capturing the minds and wonder of those who walk their paths today.

As part of the  Wieliczka underground tour , the silence of the galleries speaks volumes, punctuated only by the echoes of footsteps and the murmur of awe-struck visitors. The craftsmanship evident in the intricately carved statues, chapels, and relief works pays homage to a unique blend of human and natural creation. It’s clear that every detail, from the grandest to the most delicate, has been shaped with utmost reverence and meticulous care.

• Experience the ethereal glow of chandeliers made entirely of salt, casting a soothing luminescence on the walls.
• Marvel at the Chapel of St. Kinga, an impressive underground sanctuary adorned with salt sculptures that tell tales of faith and legend.
• Gain historical insights from informative plaques that detail the mine’s fascinating evolution over the centuries.

The lasting impression of the  Wieliczka underground tour  is the seamless blend of history, art, and geology that emerges so poignantly from the depths. It is a journey that touches the soul, invites reflection, and leaves a profound respect for the natural treasures and historical narratives of Poland.

Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour: An Underground Marvel

Step into the depths of the Earth on a  Wieliczka salt mine history tour  and be transported to an underground world beyond imagination. Within the Wieliczka Salt Mine, each corridor and cavern tells its own unique story, with monumental chapels, intricate salt sculptures, and serene subterranean lakes creating a mystical ambience. This subterranean haven is a living tribute to the historic  salt mine tours Wieliczka  has become famous for, offering visitors a chance to explore a bygone era.

The Majestic Chapels

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is home to some of the most majestic and awe-inspiring chapels carved out of rock salt in existence. Illustrated guides often highlight the Chapel of St. Kinga, an underground masterpiece that showcases the combined power of faith and artistry. With walls, chandeliers, and altarpieces all constructed from salt, the chapels within the mine are considered architectural marvels, illuminating the past with a present beauty.

Unique Salt Sculptures

Salt as a medium has been transformed into works of art by the capable hands of inspired miners and artisans. Art and sculpture publications dedicated to the mine often detail the stunning craftsmanship behind each piece. From mythological figures to historical reliefs, these sculptures are not only a testament to skill but also echo the indelible human spirit that has animated the mine through the ages.

The Subterranean Salt Lakes

Beneath the Wieliczka Salt Mine’s surface are the ethereal subterranean salt lakes, whose briny waters reflect a world turned upside down. Geological studies and visitor accounts speak of the mesmerising visual effect created by these clear and calm waters. The lake’s serene surfaces and the ambient lighting create an otherworldly experience for those on a  salt mine tours Wieliczka .

Practical Information for Visitors

Embarking on the  Wieliczka mine guided tour  is an adventure that demands some essential details be clarified to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable visit. Below, we’ve compiled must-know information for any traveller planning to partake in the magical  Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour .

Located just a short distance from Kraków, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is easily accessible by various means of transport. For those driving, ample parking is available near the mine’s entrance. Public transport options include buses and trains that reliably service the route, with stops conveniently situated close to the mine’s visitor centre.

Upon arrival, you’ll find a range of facilities to enhance your visit. These include fully equipped restrooms, a selection of gift shops where you can purchase souvenirs to commemorate your trip, and eateries to satisfy any hunger pangs post-tour.

For individuals with accessibility needs, the Wieliczka Salt Mine offers modified tour routes. It’s advised to contact the mine ahead of your visit to discuss your specific requirements and arrange any necessary accommodations.

Photography enthusiasts will be delighted to know that personal photography is permitted within the mine for a small fee. However, keep in mind that tripod use is restricted, and flash photography is forbidden in certain areas to preserve the ambiance and integrity of the site.

Your safety is paramount during your visit to the mine. As such, visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear to navigate the uneven surfaces and remain with their group at all times. Detailed safety instructions will be provided by your guide, ensuring peace of mind as you delve into the depths of this historical marvel.

• Location:  Nearby Kraków, with clear signage from major roads.
• Parking:  Available on-site.
• Public Transport:  Bus and train services run regularly.
• Facilities:  Restrooms, gift shops, and restaurants readily accessible.
• Accessibility:  Adjusted routes can be arranged for visitors with specific needs.
• Photography:  Personal use allowed; tripods and flash may be restricted.
• Safety:  Appropriate footwear recommended, stay with tour group for security.

Preparing ahead with these practical tips ensures that your visit to one of Poland’s national treasures is as seamless as it is unforgettable. The  Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour  awaits to take you on a historical journey deep beneath the earth, full of wonder and discovery.

Group vs Private Tours of Wieliczka Salt Mine

Choosing between a  Wieliczka salt mine group tour  and a  Wieliczka salt mine private tour  can markedly affect your visit to this historic site. Both options present unique advantages and can be tailored to fit your preferred style of exploration. Whether you enjoy the social dynamics of a group setting or you’re after a more intimate encounter with the mine, Wieliczka caters to your journey with a spectrum of tour types.

Advantages of Group Tours

A group tour is all about sharing the experience. Gaining insights from fellow travellers and enjoying the diversity of questions and discussions led by a knowledgeable guide. Here’s what to expect with a group tour:

• Ideal for solo travellers and those looking to meet new people.
• Cost-effective, as prices are typically lower when sharing the tour with others.
• Fixed itinerary provides a structured and hassle-free experience.

Bespoke Experience with Private Tours

Opting for a  Wieliczka salt mine private tour  means that your trip will be flexible, intimate, and customised to your pacing and interests. If you’re travelling with family or have specific interests, a private tour guides you into the heart of what you wish to discover about the mine, often with behind-the-scenes access.

• Receive undivided attention from your guide for a more in-depth understanding of the mine’s history.
• Flexibility to stay longer at sights that interest you or skip areas of less interest.
• Ability to ask as many questions as you like, tailoring your learning experience.

Customizing Your Journey

Wieliczka Salt Mine’s allure lies in its ability to cater to diverse interests and needs. Both group and private tours can be customised. Here’s how you can tailor your visit:

Ultimately, whether you cherish the thought of delving into the depths alongside like-minded explorers on a  Wieliczka salt mine group tour , or you yearn for the solitude and personal narrative of a  Wieliczka salt mine private tour , your experience is bound to be memorable. When planning your visit, consider the interaction, cost, itinerary, and educational aspects that matter most to you.

Navigating the Wieliczka Salt Mine: Tips and Tricks

Embarking on a  Wieliczka underground tour  is an otherworldly experience that demands a bit of know-how to navigate effectively. In consideration of the extensive labyrinth that awaits, we’ve curated some practical guidance aimed at enhancing your excursion. This advice will ensure that your exploration ranks among the  best salt mine tours Wieliczka  can conjure up.

First and foremost, selecting the appropriate tour path is crucial. Wieliczka offers various routes, each highlighting different aspects of the mine, be they historical, artistic, or geological. Decide in advance which features pique your interest most and choose a path that aligns with those interests. Some might seek the natural wonders, while others might be fascinated by the extraordinary sculptures and historic chambers.

The mine’s climate remains relatively constant, but it is cooler than the surface, generally stable at around 14-16°C year-round. Dressing in layers is wise, giving you flexibility and comfort as you adjust to the subterranean coolness. Equipping yourself with comfortable footwear is also non-negotiable, given the uneven terrains and the extensive walking involved.

• Consider Tour Length:  Some routes can take a few hours to complete; assess your physical stamina and plan accordingly.
• Check Tour Languages:  Ensure guide commentary is available in your preferred language to enrich your learning experience.
• Photographic Opportunities:  A photography permit is your key to capturing the magic of Wieliczka’s salt-carved interiors; acquire one if photography is a passion.

During the tour, make the most of the educational opportunities. Guides are wells of knowledge, sharing enthralling anecdotes and answering queries. Engage with the stories of the miners and the historical significance of the salt mine. Each narrative adds depth to the grandeur surrounding you.

Ultimately, the wonders of the Wieliczka Salt Mine are best discovered with a blend of preparation and spontaneity. With these tips in your pocket, your visit will not only be comfortable but also profoundly rich in learning and awe-inspiring moments, securing your experience as a highlight when touring Poland.

What can I expect from a Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour?

The  Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour  offers an extraordinary journey through a labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, and sculptures all carved from salt. You’ll be guided through the rich history and stunning subterranean landscapes, which include beautifully crafted chapels and crystal-like salt lakes.

How should I prepare for my visit to the mine?

It’s advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves a good deal of walking. The temperature underground is consistently cool, so a light jacket or sweater is recommended regardless of the weather above ground. Don’t forget to bring a camera – photography is allowed in most areas of the mine.

Are there different types of tours available at Wieliczka Salt Mine?

Yes, the Wieliczka Salt Mine offers several tour options, including group tours, private tours, and history-focused excursions. Each provides unique insights into the mine, whether you’re looking for a comprehensive historical perspective or a more intimate experience.

How can I book my Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour tickets?

Tickets can be booked online through the official Wieliczka Salt Mine website or other ticketing platforms. Additionally, tickets can be purchased directly at the mine, but it’s recommended to book in advance to guarantee entry, especially during peak tourist seasons.

What is the best time to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine?

While the mine is a year-round attraction, the best time to visit can depend on your preferences for weather and crowd sizes. Summer offers warmer weather but also larger crowds. For a quieter experience, consider visiting during the off-peak seasons of spring or autumn.

What are the highlights of the Wieliczka Underground Tour?

The highlights of the  Wieliczka Underground Tour  include the breathtaking St. Kinga’s Chapel, the collection of intricate salt sculptures, and the serene subterranean salt lakes. These natural and man-made wonders present an enchanting world far below the surface.

What practical information should I know before visiting the mine?

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is located a short distance from Kraków and is accessible by public transport or car. Parking is available on-site. Within the mine, there are facilities such as restrooms and a gift shop. Accessibility can be limited in certain areas due to the nature of the underground terrain, so it’s wise to enquire beforehand if you have specific needs. As for photography, personal cameras are allowed, but tripods and professional equipment may require permission.

Should I opt for a group or a private tour of the Wieliczka Salt Mine?

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that covers all the highlights, a group tour might be right for you. Those seeking a more tailored experience with greater flexibility and personal attention should consider a private tour. Either way, you’ll get to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the salt mine.

Are there any tips for navigating the Wieliczka Salt Mine?

Definitely. Staying on the designated paths is crucial for safety and preservation of the mine. It’s recommended to stay close to your guide and group, wear comfortable clothing for a cool environment, and ensure you have a moderate level of fitness to handle the walking and steps involved. Also, consider bringing a small bottle of water to stay hydrated throughout the tour.

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Wieliczka Salt Mines: All You Need to Know

The Wieliczka Salt Mines with their mysterious and evocative halls, the sculptures made over the centuries by the passionate and devoted work of the miners, the underground lakes and the impressive underground cathedrals , are undoubtedly one of the must-see on a trip to Poland .

The Wieliczka Salt Mines are located near Krakow , making them the perfect destination for a day trip suitable for the whole family. That’s why I thought I’d write a complete guide for you with all the information you need to plan your visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mines.

What you will find in this guide to the Wieliczka Salt Mines:

Where are the Wieliczka Salt Mines located?

What makes the wieliczka salt mines a must see in krakow, what to see and do in the wieliczka salt mines, how to visit the wieliczka salt mines, what to expect from visiting the wieliczka salt mines, how to get to the wieliczka salt mines from krakow, what are the best wieliczka salt mine tours from krakow, wieliczka salt mines tickets and prices, frequently asked questions.

The Wieliczka Salt Mines are located near Krakow, in the south of Poland, approximately 16 km from the city center of Krakow . This makes them easy to visit on a day trip, there are great guided tour options , or you can go there on your own by train or bus.

The Wieliczka Salt Mines are a masterpiece of ingenuity, art and creativity that is unique in the world. These mines have been Poland’s main source of wealth for centuries, as well as the oldest Polish industry , owned directly by the King.

From the 12th century to the end of the 19th century, the Wieliczka Salt Mines worked at full capacity, employing thousands of miners and even donkeys and horses, which were used for work in the mine.

The tons of salt produced each day were brought to Krakow, where they were traded for precious goods, fabrics, carpets, precious stones, spices and fragrances from the Far East. Krakow was right on a very important trade route, and its Main Market Square swarmed day and night with merchants from everywhere.

If Krakow flourished as a rich medieval city full of wonderful works of art, this is mainly due to the wealth from the Wieliczka and Bochnia Salt Mines , as salt was considered a very valuable and expensive commodity.

Over the centuries, about 300 km of tunnels , horizontal passages and chambers have been excavated, reaching a depth of 327 meters in the heart of the earth.

Over time, miners began to decorate the empty chambers of the mine’s upper levels, sculpting statues, inscriptions, chandeliers and even creating underground chapels and a huge cathedral carved out of salt.

Since ancient times the mines have attracted visitors from all over the world. In ancient travel diaries, the Wieliczka Salt Mines are listed as one of the main wonders of Krakow and Poland . Among the visitors there are important names such as Nicolaus Copernicus, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Fryderyk Chopin, Dmitri Mendeleyev, Pope John Paul II, the former U.S. President Bill Clinton and many others.

The Wieliczka Salt Mines were active until the late 90s, today the salt is no longer extracted with the mining method, but there is a modern plant (called “ saltworks “) that extracts the salt from the water that flows into the mine and that is collected and pumped out, otherwise it would end up dissolving the entire mine.

Since 1978 the Wieliczka Salt Mines have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site , one of the first protected sites in the world.

BOOK YOUR WIELICZKA SALT MINE TOUR FROM KRAKOW

The Wieliczka Salt Mines have welcomed visitors since 1722, attracted by the magnificence of its halls, the splendor of the underground cathedrals and the incredible and mysterious natural wonders of the underground world.

The Wieliczka Salt Mines are an underground labyrinth of over 300 km of tunnels, spread over 9 levels and largely unexplored and inaccessible to the public.

A small part of the mine, about 3.5 km of tunnels (2% of the total) , is accessible to visitors who can explore the wonderful chambers, underground lakes and amazing masterpieces carved in salt by the miners.

The so-called Tourist Route is the original visitor route, which allows you to visit the mine in total safety : the halls and galleries are very large, you won’t even feel like you’re underground. The path winds through paved tunnels, solid wooden walkways and stairways that allow you to move between the levels of the mine.

Get ready for a long, but suitable for everyone, walk. Descend from the Daniłowicz Shaft , it is about 380 steps to reach Level I of the mine, about 64 meters deep. From there you will walk around 3.5km through a breathtaking path. The route is sufficiently illuminated and safe, there are also some points where the guide will allow you to rest for a while and where you can find toilets, bars and a souvenir shop.

During your visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine you will see some of the most famous rooms, first of all the St Kinga’s Chapel, a huge and amazing cathedral carved in salt .

St. Kinga’s Chapel is the largest underground cathedral in the world, located 101 meters underground and capable of holding over 400 people. It took over 30 years of work to build this chapel. Here everything is made of salt : the floor you walk on, the statues, the bas-reliefs, even the chandeliers are made of salt and crystal.

The chapel is dedicated to St. Kinga (also known as St. Cunegunda), patroness of Poland and Lithuania, as well as patroness of the miners of the Wieliczka Salt Mine. She was the daughter of King Béla IV of Hungary and she dedicated her life to helping the poor. During the visit to the mine her guide will tell you many legends about her.

The St. Kinga chapel was completed in the late 1800s and today is also used for concerts and ceremonies, thanks also to its particular and excellent acoustics.

There are over 20 magnificent chapels in the Wieliczka Salt Mines and as many impressive halls, such as the scenic Michałowice Chamber with its breathtaking wooden architecture and the Stanisław Staszic Chamber , located about 130 meters below ground level .

You will also be able to see scenic underground lakes and rivers, their salinity is very high (much higher than that of famous salt lakes, such as the Dead Sea).

Along the way, the official guide will tell you the history of the mine and many mythological legends about miners. You will also be able to see the tools, trains and machinery used by the miners to extract the salt from the mine.

Over 125 meters deep you will even find a restaurant, the Karczma Górnicza (Miner’s Tavern), which serves simple traditional Polish dishes, cooked with salt from the mine. Eating in the depths of the earth will surely be an unforgettable experience!

The Wieliczka Salt Mines can only be visited on a guided tour . There are several tours per day, in different languages. Official guides take you to discover the wonders of the mine, tell you stories and legends and make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

There are two different types of tour routes in the Wieliczka Salt Mines: the Tourist Route and the Miners Route . The classic tour itinerary is the one called Tourist Route , and it is the one that allows you to visit the magnificent and breathtaking halls of the mine.

The Miners’ Route instead starts from the Regis Shaft and is more a game experience than a cultural visit. You will have to dress like a miner, and they will take you to a different area of ​​the mine, where there are no decorated rooms, but rough, dark and dusty mine.

Here you will learn how to move by the light of the lamp and do some typical mining tasks, such as testing the air in the mine and finding the right route underground, using the methane tester or other tools. It is an RPG that takes place in groups of 20 people, but I would recommend it only to those who have already seen the classic route (Tourist Route) at least once.

The classic tour of the Krakow Salt Mine starts from the Daniłowicz Shaft and lasts approximately 2 hours . During the visit you will walk around 3.5 km of mine tunnels and climb around 800 steps. At the end of the visit you will be brought back to ground level by an elevator in the Regis Shaft.

Tours start at set times , so make sure you arrive on time for your visit time. Keep in mind that ticket lines are usually very long and can take up to an hour.

From Krakow there are pre-arranged guided tours that allow you to easily visit the Krakow Salt Mines and include ticket , full visit with official guide (in a language of your choice between English, Spanish, Italian, German, French, Russian, Polish) and return transport .

Once you enter the Daniłowicz Shaft , you will pass through a series of heavy wooden doors. This is a system that prevents outside air from entering and ruining the mine.

After you leave the last heavy door behind you, you will arrive in a dimly lit room, with walls and ceilings made of huge wooden poles.

The Wieliczka Salt Mines are practically entirely made of salt and wood. Due to the microclimate of the mine and the high salinity, the wood becomes solid as a rock.

From Daniłowicz Shaft you will begin your descent to the heart of the earth, to discover the secrets of the mine. You will descend approximately 380 wooden steps , until you reach Level I , where the labyrinth of tunnels begins.

The first room you come across is the Copernicus Grotto . Copernicus was one of the earliest visitors to the mine, and to celebrate this famous guest here is a salt sculpture of him.

Along the way you will encounter different tools and machinery that were used by miners for their work. In addition to machinery, horses and mules were also used. Horses were used to move heavy loads.

You will follow the old mine train tracks, there is also an ancient station that once served to transport visitors and miners around the mine.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine hides, among the myriad of rooms and galleries, some incredible wonders of nature: the Crystal Caves are a complex of caverns covered in sparkling halite crystals . These caves were formed thanks to the particular microclimate of the mine and are a unique case in the world. They are not accessible to visitors: to visit them it is necessary to obtain specific study and research permits.

Continuing along the path you will come across the Chapel of St. Anthony , dating back to the 17th century, in Baroque style and subsequently the Janowice Cave , where the legend of the Polish prince Boleslao V the Chaste and the Hungarian princess Kinga (Cunegonda) is represented.

According to legend, Princess Kinga was very religious and therefore she remained chaste even after marriage. The girl threw her engagement ring as a sign of devotion to God and it was found set in a salt crystal in the place where the Krakow salt mines now stand.

Going down to the Level II you will discover the magnificent main chapels, including the Holy Cross Chapel , with its characteristic wooden architecture, and the huge and famous Chapel of St. Kinga .

From here the path continues along various halls, until it descends to the lowest level that can be visited. You will be able to see underground lakes and rivers and reach the Level III , located 135 meters below the ground level . Here is the Grota Józefa Piłsudskiego , which can only be reached via an underground lake.

This is the deepest point of the visit, after which you can spend some time visiting the Mine Museum or having something to eat at the tavern located 125 meters below the ground .

The last part of the route winds through a series of tunnels that allow you to reach the elevator and then exit the mine by going up through the Regis Shaft .

The Krakow Salt Mines can be easily visited by booking a convenient guided tour from Krakow , which includes round-trip transport , skip-the-line ticket and full guided tour with an official guide in the language of your choice.

Otherwise you can go there on your own, taking a bus or train from Krakow. Bus 304 leaves near Krakow Central Railway Station and leaves at a stop located just a few hundred meters from the entrance to the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

If you prefer to go by train , you can take one of the suburban trains which from Krakow Central Railway Station take you to Wieliczka Rynek Kopalnia Railway Station in about 20 minutes. The station is located approximately 500 meters from the entrance to the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

If you have a car , or if you want to rent one , it will be quite easy to get to the salt mines from Krakow. Just follow Wielicka street in the direction of the A4 motorway and from there go straight to Wieliczka.

You can find more information on how to get from Krakow to the Wieliczka Salt Mines here .

The easiest and most comfortable way to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mines is to book a guided tour from Krakow .

Guided tours include round-trip transport from Krakow city center, skip-the-line ticket and guided tour usually available in several languages, such as English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Russian and Polish of course.

If you are looking for an even more peaceful and comfortable experience you could book a guided tour with round-trip transport from your hotel in Krakow , and maybe even add a dinner at the best restaurant in Wieliczka , the Karczma Pod Wielka Sola , which serves excellent local specialties.

If you are short on time , you may want to opt for a combo tour that allows you to visit Auschwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mines on the same day . The tour is planned so that you can easily visit both, but if you have the opportunity to visit the two places on two different days, in my opinion, it is better. Visiting both on the same day could be a bit tiring.

Wieliczka Salt Mines tickets can be purchased at the ticket office located near the entrance to the Tourist Route, or purchased in advance online .

The regular ticket price for the Wieliczka Salt Mine is 93 PLN . For children it is possible to get a reduced ticket , at the price of 73 PLN . Admission is free for children up to 4 years old.

Students up to the age of 26 and with a valid student card can get a reduced ticket for the price of 84 PLN.

Prices may be higher (eg 100 PLN for a regular ticket) during the high season (eg July to September).

Keep in mind that entry is only possible with a guided tour , led by an official guide. This is because it is a mining site, and it is a labyrinth of nearly 300 km of tunnels. The visits are organized in small groups and are held at fixed times.

Make sure you arrive early enough for your tour as queues for tickets can be very long . In winter, dress warm, as you may have to wait a long time in the cold (same goes for waiting for the bus or train back to Krakow).

If you decide to go on your own rather than go on a guided tour from Krakow, you may want to book your skip-the-line ticket online so you can avoid queuing for tickets.

These are some of the information you might find useful to know before visiting the Wieliczka Salt Mines.

How deep are the Wieliczka Salt Mines?

The depth of the Wieliczka Salt Mines is 327 meters below ground level.

However, not all 9 levels of the mine can be visited, so the maximum depth that visitors can reach is 135 meters below ground level.

What are the opening hours of the Wieliczka Salt Mines?

The opening hours of the Wieliczka Salt Mines are:

• from 07.30 to 19.30 in the summer
• from 8.00 to 17.00 in the winter

In some periods (e.g. from January to April) the opening hours are from 10.00 to 15.00 on weekdays and from 9.00 to 17.00 on holidays and Saturdays.

In any case, remember that you can only visit the mine during the scheduled tour times. There are several tours in English per day, and some in other languages ​​as well.

Opening hours may change without notice , better check the official website of the Wieliczka Salt Mines before you go.

What are the Wieliczka Salt Mines also called?

The Wieliczka Salt Mines are often referred to in different ways, which may confuse you. Often they could be called Krakow Salt Mines or Kopalnia Soli Wieliczka or Krakow Salt Caves.

It may also happen that you simply find it written in other languages, such as zoutmijn wieliczka, saltgruven wieliczka or wieliczka saltgruva, salzmine wieliczka. Don’t worry, it always refers to the Wieliczka Mines.

Is it possible to combine the tour to Auschwitz and Wieliczka Salt Mines from Krakow?

Yes, even if I don’t recommend it . The ideal would be to visit them on two different days, so as to be able to make the most of each visit.

However, it could be a good solution for those short on time . There are excellent tours to Auschwitz and Wieliczka Salt Mines from Krakow that allow you to visit both places on the same day, saving you a lot of time and money.

Useful Tips for Your Trip

Many people choose to visit the  Wieliczka Salt Mines  on a day trip from Krakow, so here you can find the best useful tips to better plan your trip to  Krakow  and the wonderful region of  Southern Poland :

• The Ultimate List of Best Things to Do in Krakow
• The Complete Guide to Things to Do and See in Krakow and Southern Poland
• Useful tips for planning your trip to Southern Poland

• Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour

About the Salt Mine Tour

The chapel of Saint Kinga in Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the wonders of Poland. Hand-carved one hundred years ago by a group of highly gifted miners, it is an awe-inspiring thing to behold. It would be a great shame to miss it if you’re coming to Krakow, and besides, there are many other attractions to be explored here too, including underwater lakes, as well as ancient, smaller chapels – the mines here date all the way back to the thirteenth century. Although there are so many interesting features about Wieliczka that you will discover on a guided tour, here you can read about 5 of the most amazing facts about the salt mines .

Tour information

We will drive you direct to the mines, which saves you having to mess around with buses or trains. We will pick you up straight from your hotel. Once there, we’ll see to it that you can join an English speaking tour of the interior. Of course, after the tour of the mines, we’ll drive you back to wherever you would like to be dropped off in Krakow!

As always, our tours are original and free of overcrowded buses! We’ll make sure you know all the info and that you won’t miss anything along the way. All of our guides are locals with great personalities and they really know their stuff. They’ll make sure each and every tour is perfect!

Prices and Group Bookings

Price per person (up to 10 people) – 199 PLN

For groups over 10 people, the price is negotiable

What’s included in the Price?

8-seater van transport with hotel pickup/drop off, entrance fees included. On site join others for larger group tour guided in English by someone licensed directly with the Salt Mine Museum..

Time of the tour

Pickup between 3-4pm / return by 8pm

On site tour approx. 2.5h

Different Tour Times possible – just ask!

Minimum of 2 persons per tour. Prices include all entrance fees and taxes. Price provided is for English language tours. For tours in other languages, enquire for availability and pricing.

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How to Visit Wieliczka Salt Mine near Krakow (+Best Tours)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 16, 2023

No stay in Krakow would be complete without a visit to the impressive Wieliczka Salt Mine . With over 1.5 million visitors per year, the Krakow salt mines is one of Poland’s most popular attractions. It’s definitely one of the top places to see when visiting Krakow !

In this article, you can read all about visiting Wieliczka Salt Mines – why, where, and how. Find out!

Before we talk about the practical aspects of visiting Wieliczka Salt Mine from Krakow, let’s take a look at what makes it so special and whether it’s even worth visiting…

One of Poland’s oldest historical monuments, this salt mine near Krakow has been consistently operating since the 13th century . Filled with statues, chapels, and altars intricately carved out of the salt by miners after their shifts, it is an awe-inspiring monument to man’s creativity!

Registered on the UNESCO World Cultural and National Heritage list , the mine is not only valued for its artistic and historical value but is also popular among pilgrims.

The salt mine is vast in scale! It reaches 327 m below ground and features over 245 km (152 miles) of passages and chambers . Can you even imagine that?!

Some people visit the salt mine in order to see the stunning carvings and underground lakes, as well as learn more about the history of this unique and surreal environment. Others are more interested in what daily life was like for the mineworkers or want to learn more about its geological features…

The Wieliczka Salt Mine offers some very different experiences to its visitors. So, no matter what your interests are, you’ll definitely find a specially designed ‘route’ to suit you! Furthermore, you also have the option to do several of these experiences on one ticket – see below for more information.

What to Do at Wieliczka Salt Mine

As mentioned, there are several different routes that you can choose from. Take a look!

The Tourist Route

This route is the most popular way to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine. It allows you to experience the surreal beauty of the mine. You’ll see magnificent sculptures, chandeliers, murals, and 20 chambers… all carved out of salt.

If you choose this tour, you start at the Danilowicz shaft, where you descend 350 steps to 135 m depth under the ground. Working your way through 3 km (1,9 miles) of winding corridors, you will be confronted by one beautiful sight after another and learn more from your guide about the various legends associated with the mine.

The acoustics in some of the chambers are magnificent. This route, therefore, includes a light display over the tranquil waters of one of the underground lakes while listening to the music of Chopin.

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the visit to the Chapel of St. Kinga – the only underground church in Europe. It is decorated with breathtaking works of art carved from salt.

The route ends with an hour at the Krakow Saltworks Museum (admission included in your ticket). You are then brought back to ground level in an elevator (so no need to walk back up those 350 steps).

Practical information for the Tourist Route:

• You can book this tour here . The total time for this experience is 3 hours.
• Children of any age are allowed on the route, although it’s important to note that there is a lot of walking involved. The fact that there are no interactive exhibits – coupled with the length of the tour – may mean that this route is not the best for younger children.
• Comfortable shoes are essential as you will be on your feet for virtually the entire time, and you should dress warmly.
• Although the ground is relatively flat in the mine corridors, the descent into the mine can be quite challenging for some people, particularly those with knee problems. If you are registered disabled, then there is a shorter – 90 minutes – route available that uses elevators instead of the staircase. You would need to contact the mine and reserve a spot in a disabled group to take advantage of this route.

The Miners’ Route

This route is designed for those who want to experience what life was like for Wieliczka’s miners. So put on the working clothes and become ‘Slepry’ (novice miners) for a couple of hours.

Should you choose this option, you’ll enter the mine via the Regis shaft in the center of Wieliczka town. It is located separately from the tourist route and doesn’t connect with it at all.

You’ll be provided with a coverall, mining equipment, a safety lamp, a POG absorber (respiratory device) and a miner’s helmet. You’ll also be given mining tasks by your guide – also known as the ‘foreman’. These tasks – which include testing for methane and digging salt – give you an authentic feel of what life for the miners may have been like, and a greater understanding of the mine’s history and geology.

Practical information for the Miners’ Route:

• The route takes 3 hours and can be booked here . Make sure to be at the mine 15 minutes before your scheduled time.
• Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking! Dress in layers because it might get warmer than expected when you’re moving a lot.
• Because this is quite an authentic experience, it does require some physical effort. You will need to be reasonably fit to enjoy it.
• Children under 10 years of age are not allowed on this tour. Kids between the ages of 10 and 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

The Pilgrims’ Route

A special route is offered for the faithful, accompanied by a priest and demonstrating the piousness of those who worked in the mine. This route includes prayer stops, specially prepared food, and a Mass at the end. It takes about 2,5 hours. For more information about this tour, please check the official website .

Graduation Tower

If you (or a member of your family/group) are not comfortable with the idea of going underground, then another option would be to visit the Graduation Tower.

This 22 m high observation tower is the perfect spot from which to admire the mine shafts and St. Kinga Park from above. The natural brine mist carried by air is said to be therapeutic for those with respiratory problems.

Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour

The most popular way to visit Wieliczka is by joining an organized tour from Krakow . There are many tour options – from small group tours to private tours, and also tours that combine a visit to Wieliczka with other places like Auschwitz or Schindler’s Factory …

Taking a guided tour is the best way to visit salt mines from Krakow because your local guide will take care of all the details upon your arrival at the mine. This can be very helpful as the upper area can be very chaotic at times, with lots of people and long queues.

Good to know: Guided Wieliczka tours from Krakow usually take 4-5 hours, including transfers. Organized tours do the ‘Tourist Route’.

In order to help you choose the best suitable Wieliczka tour from Krakow, here are some of the best options that we found:

• Most popular and best-rated guided tour
• Guided tour with hotel pick up
• Best-rated 2-in-1 tour: Wieliczka & Auschwitz
• 2-in-1 tour: Wieliczka & Schindler’s Factory

Good to know: Most tours include transportation to the mine as well as the entrance ticket, but please check the description carefully, because some only include one but not the other. The tours I listed above, normally include both.

Please note that none of the tours or tickets include a photography permit. If you want to be able to take pictures inside the mine, you’ll have to get an additional permit upon arrival. It’s not expensive, just an extra formality.

Practical Information for Visiting the Salt Mine

If you are visiting Wieliczka with a tour from Krakow, you don’t really need to worry about any practical aspects because the tour guides will take care of it all. Should you choose to visit individually, here are some things you may want to know.

Opening times

The mine is open year-round except for some religious holidays. Opening times also vary per season and per route chosen. The most popular – Tourist Route – is open (almost) daily from 7.30 AM to 7.30 PM in high season and from 8 AM to 5 PM in the low season. For more information, see here .

Entrance ticket for the Tourist Route foreigners costs about 100 PLN (+-26 EUR). You can pay in cash or by credit card. However, it’s best to buy it in advance. Otherwise, you risk having to wait in line for several hours. Children under the age of 4 can enter the mines for free, and there are discounts available for older kids, students, families, disabled visitors, and senior citizens. More info and ticket options and prices here .

Guided tour only!

You can only visit the mine as part of a tour group, led by a local guide. It’s not allowed to walk around the mine without a guide. Tours are available in many different languages and you will need to buy a ticket for a tour at a specific time. For a guided tour, you can also buy skip-the-line tickets here .

Multiple Routes

Another option is to buy a ‘Package’ ticket, which includes entry to both the Tourist and Miner’s Routes. Please keep in mind that this will be quite a lengthy experience and will take a good part of the day. To learn more about the Package Offer, please check the official website .

Clothing & Bags

The temperature inside the mine is around 17°C (62 F), so you’ll want to dress warmer. If visiting in summer, make sure to bring a warm sweater or a jacket with you.

Do not take any large bags with you. If you do, you can leave them at the luggage office located close to the tourist information center.

Food & Drink

There is a bar and restaurant located in the Drozdowicz Chamber of the mine, which gives you the unique experience of dining 125m underground. The cuisine is mainly traditional Polish food, seasoned to perfection with Wieliczka salt!

Other dining options include the child-friendly Grand Sal Restaurant, just around the corner from the Danilowicz shaft. This is a great choice in the summer when you can sit on the terrace and enjoy the beautiful views of St. Kinga Park. Alternatively, try the traditional Karczma Halit, located just across the street from the mine.

When to Visit

Wieliczka Salt Mine is an underground attraction and can be visited at any time of the year and in any weather.

It’s also a hugely popular half-day trip from Krakow and subsequently very busy! Although visitors are admitted in groups that set off several minutes apart, they have a habit of catching up with each other. This means that some of the sights in the mine can be very crowded and it can be hard to take photographs and to hear your guide.

There can also be significant queues for the elevator that brings you back to the surface, which only holds 8 to 9 people at a time. The elevator is open-sided and is usually filled to capacity. Although the journey back to the top only takes around 1 minute, visitors with claustrophobia find using the elevator very uncomfortable, so this is something to bear in mind before your visit.

Needless to say that it’s best to visit the mine during the off-season (November to March). The same counts for Krakow and Auschwitz – both extremely popular destinations that can get crowded in the warmer months.

TIP: If you are traveling in the high season, try to plan your visit to the mines early or late in the day, when there are not as many visitors.

How to Get to the Wieliczka from Krakow

The mine is located just 15 kilometers southeast of Krakow, so it’s fairly quick and inexpensive to visit and you have several options for doing so. Take a look!

Good to know: If you are using the Tourist Route, then you need to head for the Danilowicz Shaft which is located at the mine itself. If you are joining the Miners’ Route, then you need to head for the Regis Shaft, which is located in the center of town (a 5- to 6-minute walk from the mine).

As already mentioned, taking an organized tour is the easiest way to visit Wieliczka from Krakow. See the ‘ Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour ‘ section above for suggestions.

Take bus number 304, which leaves from the area of the shopping mall Galeria Krakowska. You need to get off the bus at the Wieliczka Kopalnia Soli stop, which is just a 5-minute walk from the mine. The bus leaves every 20 minutes and the journey takes about half an hour. Wieliczka is in Zone II of the city’s urban transportation, so you need to buy a ticket that covers zones I and II.

Take a train to Wieliczka Rynek from the main Krakow Railway Station. Get off at Wieliczka Kopalnia Soli (if you are going on the Tourist Route), or the next stop (if you are going to the Regis Shaft). The train leaves once every 30 minutes and takes 20 minutes. The mine is just a 10-minute walk from the station.

Minibusses are a popular means of transportation in Poland. You can get a minibus in the direction of Wieliczka Rynek from the Main Railway Station in Krakow. Get off at the Wieliczka Kopalnia Soli stop, which is located at the crossroads of Dembowskiego and Daniłowicza streets. If you are visiting the Regis Shaft, get off at Wieliczka Rynek, which is one stop later.

If you choose to drive, you will need to budget for parking. Try to use the car park on the hill near the mine entrance. You will pass other car parks before you get to this one (and will often be encouraged by staff to park in them), but you may then be in for a long walk to the mine!

Uber is not permitted to operate within the Old Town of Krakow, but if you use the Uber app, you can easily locate the nearest point at which you can be collected and taken to Wieliczka mine.

Where to Stay

Most people visit salt mines as a day trip from Krakow, so there is no need to look for a hotel in Wieliczka. However, it’s also a popular destination in itself. While there is no accommodation available inside the mine, there are quite a few nice hotels nearby .

One of the most peculiar options is the nearby underground health resort ‘Kopalnia Soli’ (Health Resort Wieliczka Salt Mine). It offers treatments to help with respiratory disorders, but also physiotherapy, massage, and kinesiotherapy… Please see their website for more information.

Turówka Hotel & Spa looks like a much nicer alternative to me. With a beautiful spa and wellness zone as well as a swimming pool, this hotel is a great place to be if you are looking for a relaxing stay near Krakow. It’s perfect for those who don’t like the hustle and the bustle of the city but want to be close to all the main attractions in and near Krakow.

So, this is our guide to visiting Wieliczka Salt Mines. Hope that it helps you plan an unforgettable visit.

Have a great time!

More tips for your trip to Poland:

• Krakow Weekend Itinerary – how to see the best of the city and its surroundings in 2 to 3 days.
• Auschwitz Tour – an essential read before visiting Auschwitz.
• Krakow Tips – things you should know when planning a trip to Krakow for the first time.
• Zakopane Day Trip from Krakow – what to expect and Zakopane tour review.
• Best Things to Do in Krakow – all the top sights.

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Judith Lukowski

Sunday 2nd of August 2020

Is salt from the mine safe to consume. I bought some during my visit last year and just need to be assured it meets our USA FDA standards .. Thank you

Hi Judith, it's hard for me to say as it depends on which salt you bought. I just checked their online shop and they have lots of products under the 'kitchen salt' category. So if it's any of those, yes, it's meant for consumption. And whatever food is approved for human consumption in Europe, in general, is much stricter controlled than in the U.S. So you should be just fine, assuming you use normal quantities of the salt.

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• Important information
• Map and access
• Ticket prices and visiting hours
• Questions and answers

Tourist Route The “Wieliczka” Salt Mine

Ticket prices, discover the secrets of the underground world.

Choose the Tourist Route if you want to discover the secrets hidden deep underground. Check out what the Wieliczka Mine has to offer to millions of visitors from all over the world.

On the Tourist Route

You will admire landscapes that can’t be found on the surface: as saline lakes and beautiful underground chambers, including the unique St Kinga’s Chapel.

You will learn about old mining tools and machines and the methods of salt extraction and transport used in the past.

The tour is available for people of all ages and does not require above-average physical condition, but it is worth bearing in mind that there are more than 800 steps to climb.

Tourist Route by the numbers:

The route in the structure of the mine.

Individual tourist

Organised groups, health resort, useful pages.

• Krakow Attractions
• Wieliczka Salt Mine

St. Kinga's Chapel

• Wieliczka Salt Mine Photos
• Plan Your Visit
• Skip the Line Tours
• Guided Tours
• Krakow to Auschwitz Birkenau Tours
• Oskar Schindler's Factory Tours
• Energylandia Amusement Park
• Wawel Castle
• Zakopane Thermal Baths
• St Mary's Basilica
• Zakopane Tours
• Chocholow Thermal Baths
• Rynek Underground Museum Tickets
• Plaszow Concentration Camp
• Be Happy Museum in Krakow
• Nowa Huta Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Things to do
• Festivals and Events

Discover the Majestic Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a history of more than 700 years. The mine is a testament to human ingenuity and craftsmanship, boating labyrinthine passages, stunning chambers, and intricate salt sculptures.

Also Known As

Kopalnia soli Wieliczka

Quick information

Daniłowicza 10, 32-020 Wieliczka, Poland

RECOMMENDED DURATION

8 AM - 7 PM

VISITORS PER YEAR

NUMBER OF ENTRANCES

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE

0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

UNESCO YEAR

Lying at a depth of 1073 feet, the Wieliczka Salt Mine plunges even deeper than the height of the Eiffel Tower by approximately 10 feet.

The mine has 800 stairs and an extensive tunnel network that stretches almost 300 kilometers across nine levels.

Salt's unique preservation properties have kept ancient mining tools and machinery remarkably intact inside the mine, offering a glimpse into centuries-old mining practices and technology.

Book your Wieliczka Salt Mine tickets

Wieliczka salt mine highlights.

Explore the breathtaking underground salt cathedral, St. Kinga's Chapel carved entirely from salt, adorned with intricate salt crystal chandeliers.

Salt sculptures

See the stunning salt sculptures depicting historical figures and mythical creatures. These salt statues showcases the salt miners' artistic prowess.

Underground lake

Experience the surreal beauty of an underground Wieliczka Salt Mine lake, adding a touch of mystique to your subterranean journey.

Miner's Route

Embark on the Miner's Route tour, delving into the daily life of the salt miners and the challenges they faced while working in the mine.

Tourist's Route

Explore this route and learn about the mining tools and machines, methods of salt extraction, and transportation used in the old days.

Underground salt museum

Explore the informative Krakow Saltworks Musuem offering insights into the mine's rich history, mining tools & techniques, and its cultural significance.

Chamber of Casimir the Great

Visit this grand chamber, named after the medieval king, featuring intricate salt carvings and historical displays.

St. Anthony's Chapel

Admire another underground chapel in the mine, known for its salt reliefs and serene atmosphere.

Karczma Górnicza

Refuel at the Karczma Górnicza, the underground Wieliczka Salt Mine restaurant offering traditional Polish dishes and providing a unique dining experience.

History of Wieliczka Salt Mine

• Established in the 13th century, the Wieliczka Salt Mine, Krakow, Poland, has witnessed the toil of salt mine workers and the shifting tides of history. 
• King Casimir III, recognizing its strategic significance, granted it town privileges in 1368. The mine quickly became a crucial source of salt, a commodity as precious as gold in medieval times. 
• Over the centuries, technological innovations transformed the mine into a marvel of engineering, attracting visitors from all over. You will witness the evolution from primitive tools to intricate machinery as you explore the labyrinthine passages. 
• The mine was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Intriguing tales of miners, monarchs, and technological ingenuity await those who delve into the historical narrative of Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Who built Wieliczka Salt Mine?

The Wieliczka Salt Mine's creation was a collective effort, with no single architect but shaped by generations of miners since its inception in the 13th century. This subterranean masterpiece reflects the toil and craftsmanship of these unsung heroes who carved intricate sculptures, chambers, and chapels entirely from salt. It stands as a testament to the collaborative endeavors of countless individuals rather than a single visionary, each contributing to the creation of this unique underground salt mine.

Frequently asked questions about Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine, Poland, is an underground marvel, a historic salt mine near Kraków, Poland, known for its intricate salt chambers and chapels.

Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a unique underground experience. Explore stunning salt chambers and intricate salt sculptures, and discover the fascinating history of salt mining in an awe-inspiring subterranean world.

A salt mine is an underground excavation where salt is extracted from deposits found beneath the Earth's surface. These mines have been essential throughout history, providing salt for preserving food and various industrial processes. The Wieliczka Salt Mine near Krakow, Poland, is one such remarkable example.

You can purchase Wieliczka Salt Mine tickets online and save both time and money.

Yes, guided tours of Wieliczka Salt Mine are available, providing in-depth insights into the mine's history and unique features.

The mine evolved over centuries with contributions from generations of salt miners.

The mine dates back to the 13th century, continually evolving throughout the centuries.

There are salt-carved chambers, chapels, sculptures, and an underground lake showcasing the mine's rich history.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine depth is 327 meters or 1072.83 feet.

There are 800 stairs in the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Wieliczka Salt Mine is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Wieliczka Salt Mine is located in Wieliczka, approximately 10 kilometers southeast of Kraków city center. The official address is Daniłowicza 10, 32-020 Wieliczka, Poland.

Some areas may be challenging for wheelchair users. Certain sections have accessible routes and elevators.

Yes, photography is permitted for personal use. However, some chambers may have restrictions.

Nearby attractions include Kościół św. Sebastiana w Wieliczce , Stok pod Baranem , Salt City Center for Education and Recreation , the historic town of Wieliczka, and the Kraków city center.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine temperature remains constant throughout the year, hovering around 14°C-16°C.

Wieliczka Salt Mine location

Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tours

Wieliczka Salt Mine opening hours

• Top Attractions
• Day Trips from Kraków

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1978, the Wieliczka Salt Mine was discovered for the first time in the fifteenth century. Nowadays, it has over one million visitors per year. 

The town of Wieliczka in Poland houses one of the oldest salt mines in the world , which has produced salt from the thirteenth century up until 2007.

The mine, popularly called “the Underground Salt Cathedral of Poland”, is 327 meters deep and is nearly 300 kilometers long with numerous subterranean galleries. These maze-like galleries have various rooms and chapels carved out of salt with beautiful sculptures that reflect the history of the quarry.

Exploring the Mine

Discover the fascinating history of the Wieliczka Salt Mine while you explore 3,5 kilometers of underground passages, including 22 chambers with underground lakes, old tools, and machines. You'll also see various sculptures and low reliefs carved out of salt by the miners.  

St. Kinga ’s Chapel is the most captivating element of the mine. This 54-meter carved room illuminated by large crystal chandeliers and salt-based decoration is breathtaking . Many Poles get married here.

There are several ways to explore the mine depending on your preference. There are also specific routes available for small groups like the Miner’s Route, the Pilgrim’s Route, a special visit tailored for families, and a tour that will uncover all the mysteries of the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Essential to visit

Wieliczka Salt Mine (Kopalnia soli Wieliczka in Polish) is one of the most fascinating and original attractions in Kraków and is not to be missed, even if you’re in the city for a weekend.

How to get to Wieliczka?

There are several ways to get to Wieliczka:

• Book a guided tour : This is the easiest and most comfortable way to get to Wieliczka Salt Mine. For a price similar to that of going on your own, you'll get a tour that includes an English-speaking guide, round-trip transportation, and the ticket to the mine.
• Bus : Kraków's public transport system includes bus line 304 which connects Kraków city center and Wieliczka Salt Mine. The bus stop is just outside Galeria Krakowska. Although the bus fare is quite cheap, it stops numerous times before getting to the mine. 
• Train : If you prefer to get there faster, there are daily trains departing from Kraków Central Station.

15km southeast of Kraków

Open daily from 8:30 am - 5:30 pm

Adults: zł 126 ( US$ 31.80) Students under 26 and retired seniors: zł 116 ( US$ 29.30) Children under 4: Free entry

Wieliczka Salt Mine Day Trip € 52.90 ( US$ 57.20)

Nearby places

Schindler's Factory in Krakow (9.8 km) Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow (9.8 km) Nowa Huta (10 km) Pharmacy Under the Eagle in Kraków (10.1 km) Podgórze (10.1 km)

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DESTINATIONS , EUROPE , POLAND

Is it worth visiting the wieliczka mine near kraków (+ best tours).

Visiting this salt mine near Kraków is hugely popular but is the Wieliczka Mine worth it?

As I have visited the Wieliczka Salt Mine, this is where I can help you. Discover all you need to know about visiting the Wieliczka Mine, including how to get there from Kraków and the best tours.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

Where is the Wieliczka Salt Mine?

Variously known as the Kraków Salt Mine and Salt Mines Kraków, this Polish salt mine is located in the small town of Wieliczka, just under 9 miles to the southeast of the city.

Wieliczka: A Mine of History

The  UNESCO World Heritage Site  of the Wieliczka Salt Mine is over 700 years old.

Exploration was halted in the 1990s, partly to preserve the mine’s historical status but also because of the risk of flooding. Nonetheless, it still produces 15,000 pounds of salt each year.

The mine has been a tourist attraction since the 19 th  Century when the Russians opened the first tourist route with miners acting as tour guides. As a nod to Wieliczka Salt Mine’s provenance as a tourist attraction, today’s guides wear uniforms modelled on the miners’ workwear.

Over the years such luminaries as Goethe, Chopin and Pope John Paul II have paid a visit. In 2019, nearly 1.9 million visitors descended into its salty depths, making the Wieliczka Mine one of Poland’s biggest tourist attractions.

Why Visit the Wieliczka Mine?

This underground world of salt-carved chambers is a testament to human skill and creativity.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is the oldest of its type in Europe and showcases the development of mining techniques in Europe from the 13th to the 20th centuries. A small fraction of its 300-kilometre length has been transformed into galleries with works of art, underground chapels and statues sculpted in the salt.

Whether you want to admire the artistry or learn more about salt mining, a journey into Wieliczka’s salty depths is fascinating.

To help you plan your visit to this salt mine near Kraków, you’ll find your options for making the journey to Wieliczka later in this article.

Wieliczka Kraków Salt Mine Routes

The only way to visit the Wieliczka Mine is on a guided tour. As it would be easy to get lost in its labyrinth of tunnels, you are expected to stay with your guide at all times.

There are two main types of tours available – the Tourist Route and the Miners’ Route.

Tourist Route

I took the popular Tourist Route tour of the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Think of it as the Wieliczka’s Greatest Hits, allowing you to experience the surreal underground wonderland of the mine.

The Tourist Route is 3.5 km long and the tour takes about 3 hours. These tours are in English, Polish, German, French, Italian, Russian and Spanish. English-speaking tours are frequent.

Miners’ Route

The Miners’ Route is 2 km long and takes about 3 hours. It is designed to give you a sense of what life was like for Wieliczka’s miners.

This tour is only available in English and Polish and is less frequent than the Tourist Route tours. You will be required to wear protective clothing.

Graduation Tower

If descending into the earth’s salty depths isn’t for you, consider visiting the Graduation Tower.

You’ll get a good view of the mine from its 22-meter height but the tower is promoted on its health benefits. It’s claimed that the salty mist benefits those who are struggling with stress and fatigue, helps to improve your immunity and cleanses the airways.

What It’s Like to Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine

Unsurprisingly, visiting the Wieliczka Mine is all about salt.

It’s everywhere. From the roofs, down to the floor. In the ‘crystals’ hanging from elaborate chandeliers to the walls, which we were encouraged to touch and lick.

At the start of the tourist route tour of the Wieliczka Salt Mine, you descend 47 flights of stairs, helpfully numbered, to the first chamber, ‘ The Bono’ , at 64 meters below the surface. I’d like to think that there is a connection between this chamber and U2’s frontman but think that this is unlikely.

From here, the tour takes you from chamber to chamber, through narrow corridors hewn into the mine’s salt base. These chambers are supported by cylinders of pale wood ‘painted’ with a mixture of brine and lime.

Our guide assures us that they only lose one tourist a month.

Nature’s white gold

Salt played a major role in the fortunes of the Kingdom of Poland.

During the reign of Casimir the Great (1310 – 1370), one-third of the royal revenue came from salt. Casimir gave refuge and privileges to Poland’s Jews and Kraków’s Jewish quarter, Kazimierz, is named after him.

Going back further to the Neolithic Age, 6,000 years ago, salt was known as ‘white gold’ as it was the only means to preserve food. The word ‘salary’ is a Roman term derived from the word ‘salt’.

Wieliczka salt mine’s chapels

But salt mining was a risky business.

Fear was the miners’ constant companion. The fear of being poisoned by methane gas, the fear of flooding.

Asking God for his protection and giving thanks for this was important to these miners, and they created a number of underground chapels at the Wieliczka Salt Mine where they could pray.

The most spectacular of these chapels is St. Kinga’s Chapel. Hewn from a single block of salt in 1862, this is pure sodium chloride, right down to the ‘icicles’ hanging from the chapel’s Christmas tree.

Elaborate bas-reliefs of scenes from the life of Jesus are carved into its walls, including a copy of Da Vinci’s  Last Supper . When I visited on 26 th  December, there was an exquisitely detailed nativity scene carved out of salt.

A salt statue – what else? – of St. Kinga takes centre stage on the altar, flanked by Saints Joseph and Clement. At the rear, a statue of Pope John Paul II towers over an adjacent illuminated Virgin Mary.

Are you searching for an unusual wedding location?

Then why not get married at St. Kinga’s Chapel? It is available for hire and, at just over 100 meters below ground, it really will prove  How Deep Is Your Love .

An indoor hot air balloon ride anyone?

Leaving St. Kinga’s Chapel, we pass a small salt lake, which is saltier than Israel’s Dead Sea. It is said that if you are determined to sink the nine meters to its bed, you would need to strap on a 40 kg ballast.

The final chamber is the deepest at the Wieliczka Salt Mine, at a depth of 135 meters. Reaching a height of 36 meters, the Stanislaw Stasiz Chamber has been the setting for two records. These were the first indoor bungee jump and the first indoor hot balloon flight.

Tour over, we exit through the gift shop. Salty souvenirs anyone?

Tips for Visiting the Kraków Salt Mine

• When your guided tour finishes, that is not the end of your visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine. The ticket price includes the museum, a further 2 km walk. There is also a museum showing a ten-minute film.
• If you are timing your exit with a scheduled train departure, note that from the ‘exit’ there is a 15-minute walk to reach the elevator to the surface. It wasn’t busy when I visited and this took around half an hour.
• It can get humid below ground. Therefore, even if it is cold outside, bring a bottle of water.
• Comfortable shoes are a must. I walked approximately 5km during the course of my visit.
• You are allowed to take photographs in the mine. However, the low light conditions make capturing a decent image challenging (there’s a good reason why there aren’t many images included in this post).
• If you are feeling peckish at the end of the tour, there is a large underground restaurant.

Is it Worth Visiting the Wieliczka Salt Mine?

Although fascinating, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is super- touristy.

It is expensive by Polish standards and I did get the feeling of being processed through the site. I visited Wieliczka during a  Christmas trip to Kraków,  a quiet time of year, and I shudder to think how rammed it becomes during peak season.

That said, it’s not often that you are given the opportunity to visit a Disneyfied mine complete with chapels made from salt. Embrace the kitsch!

On balance, if you have a half-day to spare, visiting the Kraków Salt Mines is a good option, if only to see something unique. However, if time is short, skip it. You are better off focusing on  exploring Kraków , its churches and its museums, and taking a  day trip to Auschwitz .

Plan Your Visit to the Wieliczka Mine

Essential information.

OPENING HOURS

The salt mine is open daily with the exception of a few religious holidays.

At the time of updating this article (August 2023), Tourist Route tours in English take place every 30 minutes from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. Miners’ Route tours operate three times a day.

Check here for up-to-date information.

In 2023, the standard ticket price for both the Tourist Route and the Miners’ Route tour is 126 PLN for foreigners. Tickets for the Graduation Tower cost 9 PLN.

You can buy tickets for the mine here . Alternatively, purchase them from the machines and ticket office at the mine.

They may be purchased online up to 90 days before the planned date of the tour, but no later than one hour before the tour starts.

When is the best time of year to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine?

Save a few holiday closures, the salt mine in Wieliczka is open year-round.  As throngs of tourists descend to its salty depths between June and September, try to visit in late autumn, winter or early spring. 

How to get to the Wieliczka Mine from Kraków

Visiting the Wieliczka Mine is easy to do independently.

Take the  train from Kraków Glówny  (the central station) to the end of the line at Wieliczka Rynek Kopalnia. The salt mine is a five-minute walk from the train station; the route is clearly signposted.

You can buy your train ticket for this 25-minute journey through Kraków’s suburbs from machines at the station or from the conductor on board.

Check the  train timetable  here.

To reach the salt mine from Kraków by bus, take line 304 from the Main Railway Station or Galeria Krakówska. It also stops close to the Old Town.

Buses leave Kraków every 20 minutes and take about 30 minutes to reach Wieliczka. From the Wieliczka Kopalnia Soli stop, it’s a five-minute walk.

On an organised tour

The easiest way to get from Kraków to the Wileiczka Salt Mine is on an organised tour. Most local tour operators offer excursions from Kraków but I have selected a few of the most popular and highly-rated tours.

Tours of the Wieliczka Mine

If you opt for an organised excursion from Kraków, you are looking at 4-5 hours of your time. All of these tours take the Tourist Route.

None will include a photography permit which you will need to buy at the mine. This costs peanuts though.

WIELICZKA SALT MINE TOUR FROM KRAKÓW

Explore the salt mine on the Tourist Route and benefit from a transfer from your hotel and a drop-off in Kraków city centre. You have the flexibility to choose between a shared transfer or a private one.

>>> CHECK PRICES HERE

DAY TRIP TO THE KRAKÓW SALT MINE AND AUSCHWITZ

Can’t choose between visiting Auschwitz or Wieliczka? Problem solved.

Combine a tour of the salt mine with a visit to Auschwitz in an affordable and time-efficient way

SCHINDLER’S FACTORY, JEWISH GHETTO &  KRAKÓW SALT MINE TOUR 

Or perhaps you want to explore Kraków’s Jewish heritage and visit the mine?

Fear not. This value-for-money guided full-day tour excursion includes three of Kraków’s must-see attractions.

And That’s a Wrap!

I hope that this review helps you decide if it’s worth visiting Wieliczka for you. Finally, if you want to make the most of your time in Kraków, take a look at these posts:

• 4 Days in Kraków: The Perfect Itinerary
• A Free Walking Tour of Kraków’s Royal Road
• 6 Reasons for Spending Christmas in Kraków, Poland
• Is it Worth Visiting Auschwitz? What to Expect & How to Do It
• Top 10 Auschwitz Tours from Kraków

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

The Perfect Guide to Wieliczka Salt Mine

I don't like tight spaces, I don't like feeling trapped, but everyone said this was a 'must see sight when in Krakow'. How would I find my way through a mine? Would my plantar fasciitis act up from the walking? How many stairs are there up and down because I'm in terrible shape? These are all questions I was asking myself as I considered weather to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine. I will break it all down for you here in this article. 

Quick Facts About Wieliczka Salt Mine

Wieliczka Salt Mine was one of the first of 12 places to be designated a  UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

How To Get To Wieliczka Salt Mine:  Wieliczka is 20 minutes away from Krakow by bus, shared van or the train. On the train you will travel from Krakow Glowny to Wieliczka Rynek-Kopalnia station. Train tickets one way cost around 4 PL or around $1.50. I would just get a day pass, then you can visit Auschwitz as well on the same ticket. Make sure the ticket will cover the operating hours you need it to, after a certain hour some trains require a 'night pass' or ticket. 

If you take the bus, during the day, take 304 bus will drop you off at the gate of the salt mine, the stop is Wieliczka Kopalnia Soli.

When To Visit : The best time to visit Wieliczka Salt Mine is in the Summer, because of the temperature of the mine itself, it would be even colder in Winter.

Warnings When Visiting Wieliczka Salt Mine:  Do not visit this place if you have extreme claustrophobia even in large spaces. My fear of tight spaces is only bad when I'm shoved in a coat closet with my two other siblings and our older sister won't let us out, sort of fear. Lest I digress, the mine itself is pretty open. The worst parts are when you are walking down the corridors when the safety doors have to be shut every 300-400 feet. You move quickly through these corridors, and always spend the most time in large, open spaces with small groups. 

Do not bring large backpacks or luggage, a small purse and camera is fine, but other than that - they will ask you to just leave it in their luggage storage area.

How Long Does A Tour Take At Wieliczka Salt Mine? I would give yourself at least 3 hours for the tour itself, which will show you only about 1% of the total size of the mine. Then 2-3 hours to tour the adorable town of Wieliczka. It has a lot of charm to it, and buildings and shops that are intricately tied to the history of the mine. Between getting to the mine, taking the tour, and then grabbing lunch there, it is at least a 1/2 day tour. 

In total you will be walking about 2.18 miles (3.5km) on your tour of the mine. There are toliets available here at certain points on the tour, and you can leave the tour at those points as well if it becomes too much. 

Temperature of Wieliczka Salt Mine:  The mine is 443 feet (125m) underground so the temperature is actually warmer than you would think, a balmy 57 F (14C). I wore a light jacket and was just fine, I even took it off at a few points because of the humidity from the moisture in the mine. 

Number of Steps In the  Wieliczka Salt Mine: There are over 800 steps in the Salt Mine, but when you go on a guided tour, you get to use the lift. Let me explain, all the steps you will encounter in the Wieliczka Salt Mine are only ones you have to descend. This place is visited by over 1 million visitors per year, and they have made it pretty accessible to even the most arthritic knees.

I don't know precisely about wheelchair or walker access, but for about 60% of the mine, I wouldn't see that being a huge issue. They allow service animals, and ask that you contact them before bringing your animal at  [email protected]  .

Quick Historical Fact About Wieliczka Salt Mine

This mine was in operation from the 13th Century, up until 1996. It is full of ramparts, sculptures, art, cafe, cathedrals, multiple chapels, a Museum and even a lake! It almost felt like I was walking into a scene from Lord of the Rings. I was anticipating a dwarf or Smeagle to jump out of the corners or tunnels. 

In the 13th century, Salt was better than a Gold Mine. Salt is the flavor of life and everyone needed some of it for treating fish so they would keep, flavoring foods, and so many other uses. Naturally these mines were run by nobles, so be sure to stop by the Wieliczka Castle nearby on your way out. 

Because it has been mined, it was mined for so many centuries, there are a lot of residual tunnels. These residual tunnels are what the tourists get to walk through and what make up the cathedrals, statues and so forth. 

I personally love to hear when things are repurposed for education and enjoyment of all. 

It isn't just the age of the mine that is historically fascinating, but the evolution of how mining began to where it is now. It takes you through the utterly dangerous conditions the men and animals would work in here. Some animals would spend their whole lives in the mine as well as some workers. There are chapels that they would worship in, Salt Carvings from spending Christmas in the mines, and even lakes where the animals and workers were able to get water from. 

Health Benefits of Visiting The Wieliczka Salt Mine

The therapeutic microclimate has been said to help from respiratory ailments like asthma, allergies, bronchitis, and COPD. I personally suffer from allergies and asthma, I'm a Physician Assistant, that takes these claims with a 'grain of salt', lol. Sorry, Dad joke I know. 

I have to admit, I honestly felt like I had taken my Advair (which I hadn't), and a healthy dose of Xopenex. For those who don't know, these are two staples in medicine for treating people with Asthma. 

The air was easy to breathe, I felt like, my joints didn't hurt as much as they did above the mine, and I honestly felt really really good. 

I looked into this in various studies, and found an interesting study from May 2017. The Pediatric Pulmonology Journal, showed that children with mild asthma that went to salt mines for therapeutic reasons (called halo therpay); for seven weeks had improved hyper-reactivity of their symptoms!

If you want to learn more about the health benefits of visiting a Salt Mine, read this article.  

Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour and tickets

All touring of the mines are mandatory guided, because of how massive Wieliczka Salt Mine is - and safety precautions that MUST be followed they don't allow you to wander on your own. 

They have tours offered in seven different languages including Polish, English, German, French, Italian, Russian and Spanish. Each specific language has a designated tour time and hour, so be sure to check the times as they are subject to change depending on demand. 

I personally did a combined Full day tour of Wieliczka Salt Mine and Auschwitz where it was split into two and included lunch. I was on a tight schedule and get major anxiety trying to figure out the train system (although those who are used to it, tell me it is quite easy). 

If you have more time in your itinerary, I would have personally given Auschwitz an entire day to visit. Hire a private guide that can tell you more stories, answer all your questions and give you time to really wander that haunted place. I don't think people understand how big Auschwitz is, it is over 5,000 football field. Sooooo if you want to feel rushed and just hit the highlights then a combined tour is fine. If you want to really let the historical value of Auschwitz sink in, then do the private tour. 

When you have a pre-paid tour, you skip the lines and avoid the issue of having to wait all day for a chance to get in. 

The cost to get in is around $23 or 84 Polish Zloty per person which is a lot of money, but this is also a UNESCO heritage site. It costs a lot to keep the safety and upkeep of the mine intact.

There is a separate fee you must pay if you want to take photos or video. If you have a student ID I would bring it because it can save you a little on the cost of ticket to get into the mine. 

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Entering the Wieliczka Salt Mine (It is Easier Than You Think)

When you enter the mine, it can be a little daunting not knowing where to go. Having all the horror stories of mines collapsing and people getting lost like I did. Wondering if I was going to have to leave because of my fear of tight spaces. 

The tour they provide is ingeniously designed. You meet in the gift shop to go to the entrance of the Daniłowicz Shaft. I got really anxious when I walked into this incredibly dark room, but when my eyes adjusted it honestly looked like a poorly lit cabin inside. Luckily these homie wood tones are scattered throughout the mine. 

They let you sit there for awhile, and just get used to being in the dark and the cold. A guide comes in and explains where the tour will go, how it will go, what you will do, the steps you will take, and how you will get out. They also provide the option to leave, and let you know exactly where and when you will be able to do so. 

This, more than anything else on the tour put my mind at ease. When your mind, in its naturally protective state, is able to have some sort of control of the situation. This control is knowledge, knowing that there is away out. You aren't trapped, it isn't a prison, millions of people visit each year. The solid wood logs, wooden supports, nothing rickety or wobbling along the way - it really provided a huge sense of security for me. 

The steps down the shaft can get a little dizzying, but you are allowed to pause and look down the shaft to right yourself. What I did was actually turn the opposite way on a landing every now and then to help right myself and not feel so dizzy. 

When you get to the bottom, the guide asks if everyone is ok & offers a chance to leave if you are not. They do have lifts available in certain areas if you feel you need to leave at any point. 

Wieliczka Salt Mine Museum

The museum is well worth a visit, as it utilizes multi-media to instruct and enthrall its visitors. In fact, it has the only underground 5D Cinema where you can see how mines are created. 

The museum takes you through the different ages, tools, and techniques used to create the mine. They help you recognize different elements that are within a mine like salt hair, salt trees, stalactites, stalagmites and salt columns. If you have kids, they allow then to virtually mine themselves. 

You also learn about salt extraction methods, see original tools and artifacts made here. There are massive horse drawn treadmills, wheels, crosses, and winches. You learn how fires were extinguished, and what dangers a mine holds (including setting off gas bombs as a safety precaution). 

My favorite item was actually the Renaissance Horn of the Diggers' Brotherhood from 1534. It was like a hazing for the middle ages, where you had to drink from the horn in order to be sworn into the Brotherhood. 

The museum ends at the Aleksandrowice II Chamber—the newest chapel in the mine. It is devoted to St. John Paul II, who I didn't know, was a Polish pope who came from a town near Kraków. He would frequently visit the mine, and there are statues of him throughout Poland.

If you see signs for the glow in the dark minerals, skip it, unless your a geologist - it isn't worth the extra cost. Its just a way to make more money. 

Art In the Wieliczka Salt Mine

Some people call the different areas of the mine here gimmicky, or 'not worth the visit'. I personally found it fascinating that they could carve sculptures out of salt. The intricate details without the pieces just crumbling was really fascinating to me. 

I loved the folklore of the mines, with dwarves and all. I truly appreciated how humans can make something so dark, lonesome and deep in the earth a homey feeling place that still has beauty.

If you scroll to the right, you can see some of my favorite statues in the mine here.  Each room or cavern you enter has a new story, a new fable to tell, and religious connotation told in the statues, reliefs, and monuments. 

Wieliczka Salt Mine Cathedral

The highlight of the whole tour, at least for me, was walking through the entrance into the Chapel of St. Kinga. There are about 3 flights of stairs you have to descend to get to the floor, but it is well worth it. The cathedral is about as big as Notre Dame's interior. 

There are bas-reliefs of different scenes from the Bible (as paint does not stick to the salt and retain its color). There are religious, historical, mythical statues and reliefs throughout the cathedral. Most of the statues here were carved around the turn of the century (19th-20th). The statue of Pope John Paul the II is always a favorite of tour guides as he was the first Polish Pope called to that office. Be sure to find the bas relief of the Last Supper in St Kinga's Chapel. 

The Chandeliers were a particularly fascinating feature for me, as they are completely made of salt. Well, minus the actual lights that are now electric and not from candles. The flooring looks like it is a dark marble, but it also is made of salt, and highly polished. 

There isn't just this cathedral to marvel at though. You can see the smaller chapels that contain statues carved by miners who worshipped here over the last 300 years. These include the St. Anthony, Janowice, Holy Cross chapels, with the Urszula, Spalone, Sielec chambers. The chambers now hold the various digging tools and devices used by miners. 

Life In The Wieliczka Salt Mine

Many of the miners lived in the village, and would go down into the mine every day for work. They would pack their lunch, and head to work. 

They would be required to change their clothes, be provided equipment for working and then go about their daily tasks. The miners treat each other like brothers, including drinking from the horn I mentioned above as a sort of hazing in. They had to look out for each other, work together so everyone got out safe and there weren't any accidents. 

It isn't just physically grueling work, it is psychologically taxing as well. Working in a dark place, and with all the things that could go wrong with one mistake, they had to be extremely focused on the task at hand. 

They also had horses in the mine that would help cart the salt rocks out. Over 100 horses were utilized during mining before WWII. Many of these horses spend their entire lives in the mine. The guide reported that they were treated like royalty, and even had specific workers dedicated to their health and well being. If a horse was injured or mis-handled there were serious repercussions for its handler. The last horse in the mine used was in 2002. 

There were a few miners that had to stay in the mines overnight. These bombers were in charge of strategically setting off the gas bombs from the methane gas. Yes you heard that right, the toxic gas that was produced in the ground often had to be purposefully ignited to keep the workers and animals safe. Otherwise, if you have a tiny spark from metal hitting metal or rock, it could cause a massive explosion. These explosions would have set the wood support beams on fire, and collapsed the mine tunnels. 

Ending the Tour

To get out of the mine it takes about 30-45 minutes depending on how busy they are. You have to wait in your designated tour groups, right near the Karczma Gornicza restaurant. Then you wait for each group to make it up to the top until your turn is up. 

You are then loaded onto an elevator, and slowly make your way up to the top. It is about 442 feet to the top of the mine, or about as long as it would take to climb 41 stories in an elevator. To give you a frame of reference, the empire state building has 102 stories. 

Is The Salt Mine Worth Visiting? 

I think if you know the type of traveler you are, then I can tell you if I think it is worth visiting. 

I am personally an intellectual, I have a Bachelors in Biology, I am an artist, and love the obscure historical tidbits that a lot of people find boring. ie/ What kind of sheets does Queen Victoria prefer? 

So if you are a historical, off-the-beaten-path kind of traveler, then you will loooove the Salt Mine. 

If you are in it for loads of amazing pictures, and Instagram drool worthy photos - theeeen this is probably not for you. 

I personally found the mine to be fascinating. It was a little boring in some parts when they stopped at the Amber shop and Salt Shop & wanted you to buy a bunch of stuff. Other than that, I think it is worth a trip once, just to see what it's like. 

If you are on a compressed itinerary, and are only in Poland for a few days - then I would suggest skipping it and spending more time at Auschwitz. 

Stay in the Salt Mine Overnight? 

You can actually stay in the Salt Mine if you are feeling especially adventurous! I personally didn't have time to do this, and from what I saw it appears you stay in a hostel like space just like the miners did back in the day. 

Where To Stay In Wieliczka Salt Mine

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Wieliczka Salt Mine

About wieliczka salt mine.

Explore the underground splendour of Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland that transports you to a mystifying world of salt beneath the Earth’s surface. Situated near the city of Krakow in southern Poland, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is a bewildering labyrinth with infinite corridors, tunnels, walkways and chambers. It is a huge empire with 2500 chambers, nine levels of mining and galleries that run for 245 kilometres till a depth of 327 metres. It is even home to the largest underground St. Kinga's chapel . Our Wieliczka Salt Mine tours will edify your knowledge about the mining techniques, tools, extraction and transportation of salt as it take you inside the mine and Auschwitz -Birkenau Concentration camp.

You can see 300-year old statues made of salt by the miners at the St. Anthony, Janowice, and Holy Cross Chapels. This 700-year old salt mine had continuously been in operation from the 13th century to the 20th century and is now a world- renowned tourist attraction. The famous St. Kinga’s Chapel is sure to enthral you with its captivating atmosphere, sculptures of illustrious people like Pope John Paul II and a model of Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper made of salt. The rich history and unique geology of Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland together make it a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site and the National Historic Landmark of Poland. It is listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site.

History of Wieliczka Salt Mine

The history of Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland dates back to as early as the 13th century when the first excavation was made. By then, the mine was proudly called Magnum Sal – the Great Sal as it was the largest source of salt in Poland. Today, the mine is one of the oldest salt mining sites in the world and a popular tourist attraction that has seen incredible developments in the mining techniques over the past 700 years.

Brine from salt water springs was boiled in clay pots to extract pure salt during Neolithic times. Old saltworking tools discovered in Barycz village in Central Europe near Wieliczka belong to the prehistoric period. The salt extracted was used as a preservative for meat and it later became a means of payment in trade to those who did not own this valuable substance. This secret of salt production by evaporation was passed on to the next generations in the following centuries.

During the 11th and 12th centuries, when salt water springs began to disappear, the search for brine started. Wells were constructed and saline water was brought to the surface after which it was boiled in pans to get pure evaporated salt. In the 13th century, lumps of rock salt were found for the first time while digging wells which instigated the idea of obtaining salt by mining. The first mining was done in the second half of the 13th century by local specialists with technical knowledge from Western Europe.

During this period, the revenue from salt extraction played a crucial part in the wealth of the nation’s treasury. Casimir III, who was the Polish king then, founded the Krakow Academy and Saltworks Statue from the high profits of salt mining. Around 350 people worked in Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland and the annual production of salt was 7000-8000 tonnes then. However, mining was still seasonal and was done only when agricultural works were not carried out. Visitors were allowed to enter the mine and Nicolaus Copernicus was the first tourist in 1493.

The period from the 16th to 18th centuries marked a dynamic development in the mining of rock salt as it was when the Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland moved to a year-round working pattern. Specialists from various fields were recruited and the first maps of the underground were created. The search for salt extended below the first level and by the 17th century it went till the third level. By 1724, extraction of salt by evaporation was stopped and only the mining methods were used. The number of visitors to the mine also grew steadily during this period.

In 1772, the partition of Poland took place and Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland came under the control of the Habsburg Monarchy. The new owners focused on the development of the mine but did not care for its security. Extraction of salt by gunpowder was formulated and hence production resumed in modern saltworks. Tourism was given importance and different attractions like devil’s drop, horse-drawn railway and boat rides on saline lakes were initiated to attract visitors. The number of tourists grew up to a hundred people per week by the start of the 20th century.

After World War I and repossession of independence by Poland, the Wieliczka Salt Mine came under the Polish administration. The names of excavations and shafts were symbolically changed during this time. Production of salt increased to 203,000 tonnes per year and trade became highly profitable. The mine became stabilised with further developments, expansion and tourist growth during the Interwar Period. Eminent personalities were invited to the mine and events were held for visitors to lure many tourists into coming here often.

Right before the start of World War II, a leaching process in which brine was obtained dissolving salt rocks with fresh water was discovered. The 1940s and 1950s were quite difficult for the Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland since there was an increase in production regardless of the cost and safety of the workers. The mine extended to nine levels but the idea of preserving the mine for future generations rather than industrial production came into existence. By 1978, mining techniques were stopped and production of salt by evaporation using wet mining commenced.

The mine, at present, has no live extraction but around 400 miners work here every day for safety reasons. They toil hard to preserve the mine for tourists by filling the post-excavation voids with brine and taking care of fresh water leaks. New attractions are put up in the underground mine while the existing chambers, corridors and chapels are renovated. The Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland has now become a famous tourist attraction that welcomes nearly 2 million visitors every year. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an official National Historic Landmark of Poland.

Explore The Mines

Endless Corridors : Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland is a complex labyrinth with endless corridors that are spread across nine levels. The underground galleries and corridors of the mine run for 245 kilometres in length and are located at a depth of 327 kilometres. However, only 2% of the underground passages are alone open to the public for visit.

Crystal Grottoes : The Crystal Caves, first discovered in 1860, are made up of Halite crystals and are located at a depth of 70 to 114 metres. These caverns with huge, long and pure rock salt crystals are currently inanimate nature reserves in Poland. Access to the caves is prohibited except for scientific and teaching purposes.

Chambers : Chambers of different sizes, shapes and characters are built on the sites where salt was extracted. There are nearly 2500 chambers but no two of them are identical. Some famous chambers of the mine are Michalowice Chamber, Weimar Chamber, Pieskowa Skala Chamber, St Anthony’s Chapel and St Kinga’s Chapel.

Mining sites : About 400 miners work daily in the Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland for safety work. They fill the post-excavation voids with a mixture of sand and brine and also look for water leaks to protect the mine from fresh water effects. New attractions are put up for visitors along with Miner’s Route and Tourist Route for sightseeing.

Saltworks : Mining of rock salt was discontinued in Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland in 1996 but salt is still produced from the brine. The fresh water that dissolves the rock salt is sent to the Salt Water Disposal Facility, commonly known as ‘Saltworks’, on the surface. The salt water is heated and evaporated under low pressure to get pure evaporated salt.

Pithead Waiting Room : Pithead Waiting Room is the miners’ cloakroom that is found in the buildings on the surface of the Mine near St Kinga’s Shaft. Their clothes are found hanging from the ceiling from a height of 6 metres on hooks and chains. A briefing for the miners is conducted every morning at the Pithead Waiting Room.

Lamp Room : A Lamp Room in the Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland is where the miner’s pit token, lamp and carbon monoxide absorber are kept. There are two Lamp Rooms in the mine; one is for the miners while the other is for tourists who go on the Mining Route.

Geology of Wieliczka Salt Mine

Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland boasts of a unique geology with rocks sculpted in unusual, diverse and complicated forms. The history of salt deposit and mine formation date back to millions of years ago and were caused by natural forces. Today, there are different types of salt hidden deep in the mine which are left behind after excavation.

Around 13.6 million years ago, the cooling of climate, rock mass movements and subsidence caused the seabed of Miocene Sea to drop steadily. This created a reservoir with very high salinity in the Carpathian Foredeep as a result of which salt deposits were formed in the Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland. Slow precipitation of salt deposit along with caving in of seabed and erosion of coastal parts caused excessive deposit of gangue in the salt beds. These salt deposits extend for 300 km in length and 100 km in width which includes Wieliczka deposits that run for 10 km in length and 1.5 km in width.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland has an exclusive geological structure that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The tectonic activity of the Carpathian Mountains caused folding of the salt layers and shaped the deposit into an unusual structure. The two-fold composition of the deposit has two parts namely, upper lump deposit and lower bedded deposit. The lump deposit is made up of chunks of rock salt while the bedded deposit has different types of salt layers like fore-shaft salt deposit and eagle spiza salt.

Rock salt or halite that appears green due to the admixture of claystones is the commonly found salt in Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland. There are different types of Wieliczka salt which are easily identifiable for experienced miners but are difficult for tourists. You can witness the Typical green salt and stained-glass green salt in the lump deposit and fore-shaft salt in the bedded deposit. You can also see the different types of Spiza salt like Eagle spiza salt and the rare Cracking salt in the bedded deposit.

The underground landscape of Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland is even more beautiful because of various forms of Secondary crystallisation salts. As you walk along the sightseeing route, you can see different structures of salts from geological times to modern times. The crystallisation is associated with brine leaks and hence depending on the location of the leak, it can take a variety of forms. You can see spongy growths of salt called ‘salt cauliflowers’, narrow dripstone tubes known as ‘salt pasta’ and the less common salt stains and stalagmites.

Know Before You Visit Wieliczka Salt Mine

Essential Information :

Location: Daniłowicza 10, 32-020 Wieliczka, Poland

Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM on all days of the week

Best Time To Visit :

The best time to visit Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland is during the spring season from March to May or during the autumn months of September to November as the weather is pleasant and favorable for exploring the mine. Since the mine gets colder during winter, it is better to visit the mine during summer, spring or autumn.

How To Reach :

By Train: Board a train at Krakow Glowny Station and a light at Wieliczka Rynek Kopalnia station from where the mine is just 500 metres away.

By Bus: Take the bus on line 304 from Dworzec Główny Zachód stop to Wieliczka Kopalnia Soli stop from where you can walk to the mine entrance in a few minutes.

What is special about the Wieliczka Salt Mine?

Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland is the oldest mine of its kind in Europe and boasts of housing 327 kilometres of tunnels spread over nine levels. The underground chapels adorned with church iconography, statues sculpted in salt and art galleries are the eye-catchy highlights of the Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland. Chapel of St. Kinga, which is located 101 metres below the Earth’s surface, is the world’s biggest church built underground.

Can I book Wieliczka Salt Mine tickets online?

Yes, you can book tickets to Wieliczka Salt Mine Poland online while enjoying the comfort of your home rather than waiting in long queues at the entrance of the mine. You can select the date and time of your visit as per convenience depending on the availability of the tickets.

What is the best time to explore Wieliczka Salt Mine?

The best time to explore Wieliczka SaltMine Poland is during early in the morning when the mine has just opened considering how long the tour around the mine takes.

Why is the Wieliczka Salt Mine important?

The Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland holds such a significance that it has helped shape the legacy of the Krakow region and the people who reside there. The discovery of rock salt was a huge development for the kingdom of Poland since it helped stabilize the economy of the country. The salt mine operated incessantly for 700 years and produced table salt continuously until 2007. It is a portrayal of the growth in mining techniques of Europe from the 13th to the 20th century.

Do we have to buy a separate ticket for kids before visiting Wieliczka Salt Mine?

Children below 4 years of age are allowed to enter the Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland for free. However, other visitors are not allowed without the tickets.

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Salt Mine (Wieliczka) Tour

Wieliczka Salt Mine near Krakow remembers the times of the Middle Ages. It one of the world’s oldest salt mine in the world . This is the only mining facility in the world functioning continuously since the Middle Ages to the present, allowing the evolution of mining technology in different historical periods. Wieliczka Salt Mine is about 260 km of excavation on 9 levels , the first of which – the level of Bono – goes to a depth of 64 meters , while the latter lies 327 meters below the surface. Total length of sidewalks, connecting about 3000 excavation (sidewalks, ramps, service chambers, lakes, wells, shafts), exceeds 300 km. The tourist route is 2,5 km , consists of 20 chambers located at depths from 64 to 135 meters .

Wieliczka Salt Mine is located around 15 kilometres from the city center of Krakow (about 30 min drive). The best option to get to Salt Mine is to book a door-to-door tour with us. Driver will pick you up in the morning from your accommodation or if you wish there is a option to go there afternoon . Salt Mine in Wieliczka should definitely be on your “to do” list during your visit in Krakow.

Package deals

You can book a package Salt Mine tour and airport transfer Krakow to your hotel and back. If you are looking best offer please contact with customer service KrakowDiscovery .

Door to door pick up

Our driver will pick you up from the hotel or apartment and he will takes you directly to the Salt Mine(Wieliczka).

Salt Mine in Wieliczka – 2,5h

We help you to arrange a ticket for a tour there. Regular ticket with (English, Spanish, Italian, French) guide cost 93zl per person or 73zl reduce ticket. The tour in the Mine will takes about 2,5 hours .

After visiting Salt Mine our driver will take you back to Krakow, wherever you wish.

Tour details

Choose tour type to get details information

Offer include:

• Guided tour in the Salt Mine
• Admission fees
• Meeting in appointed place
• Transport to and from (eg. to Salt Mine and return)
• Door to door service
• Private car just for yourselves
• High quality, friendly and helpful English-speaking driver’s
• Assurance of safely and professionalism

Show prices in PLN/ EUR

4-6 persons

All prices presented in the table above are in Euro/Zloty per person. Price includes English guided tour and all admission fees are includes in the price.

27 EURO / person

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KRAKOW SALT MINE TOUR

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Krakow salt mine tours to a unique centuries-old polish landmark, private car salt mine tours with a shared or private guide.

Our Private Salt Mine Tour from Krakow takes approximately 4 hours . We offer door-to-door pickup and drop-off , private, modern car and friendly, English-speaking drivers/tour leaders . The ride lasts for about 30 minutes each way. In the Salt Mine, you can either join a regular/shared guided tour or book a private guided tour . Private guided tours need to be booked at least 8 days in advance. The sightseeing takes about 2.5 hours . We will set up the pickup time based on the hour you have requested and fit it into the entry time options to the Museum to make It as comfortable for you as possible. You can also book Salt Mine and Auschwitz Birkenau or  Salt Mine and Schindler’s Factory in one day to experience more in one tour. After the trip, we will drop you off at your hotel or any other destination in the city centre.

Our special bonus for this Tour

If You decide to book our Tour, we have got something extra for you. Each day at 19:00, we organise an Evening Walking Tour , which you can join completely for free. It starts at the Jan Matejko Square under the “Grunwald Monument”. You will meet our professional city guide there, who will show you the best of Krakow Old Town. You will walk down the Royal Route and finish under Wawel Castle near the Dragon Monument. It takes about 1 hour. You can participate in this tour on any day of your visit in Krakow.

Shared Salt Mine tours from Krakow

Our Shared Salt Mine Tour from Krakow takes about 4 hours . We provide a modern, comfortable Mercedes Benz vehicle and a friendly English-speaking tour leader . We will schedule the pickup time according to the requested hour, as we aim to optimise the minibus route through the city to ensure maximum comfort for you. The journey to the Salt Mine takes about 30-40 minutes each way. A shared guided tour of the Salt Mine takes about 2.5 hours. You can also book Salt Mine and Auschwitz Birkenau or  Salt Mine and Schindler’s Factory in one day to get the most out of your holiday. After the tour, we will drop you off in Krakow city centre.

Early booking deals - 20% off

€ 53 book now

€ 103 book now

Let's see Wieliczka Salt Mine with Krakow Direct

Organized guided tour from the city of Krakow to the Wieliczka Salt Mine is very popular. Book a guided tour and visit the tourist route in the world-famous salt mine. An English-speaking guide or another of Your choice will tell you the interesting history of the place, answer questions of even the most inquisitive tourists and at the same time take care of your safety and transport from/ to the city of Krakow.

If necessary, you have the opportunity to take advantage of free cancellation for group tours up to 24 hours before departure. You do not lose anything, and the tours are organized all the time, so you can go with us another time. Together we will visit one of the most beautiful places in Poland, and our qualified service will take care of all your needs, tickets and transportation from Krakow.

The interesting history of the Wieliczka Salt Mine

It belongs to the unique and one of the oldest salt monuments of Poland. The Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the oldest existing salt mines in the world and was established in the 13th century. Nowadays, salt is no longer mined in Wieliczka, but this original underground complex has been preserved in excellent condition, which makes it a world-class monument. The Wieliczka Salt Mine was inscribed on the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List for its breathtaking underground chambers carved entirely out of salt. An organized tour from Krakow to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the most popular day trips and attracts over a million tourists each year. It is impossible to miss such an attraction when visiting Krakow.

Joint sightseeing tour of the Wieliczka Salt Mine from Krakow

Our joint Krakow salt mine tour takes about 4 hours. We provide a modern, comfortable Mercedes Benz car and a friendly, English-speaking tour leader. We make an appointment with you to pick you up at a pre-arranged time. The journey from the centre of Krakow takes about 30-40 minutes each way. The tour of the Salt Mine in English takes about 2,5 hours. You can also book organized combination tours. Krakow Direct offers guided tours , including the Salt Mine and Auschwitz Birkenau or the Salt Mine and Schindler’s Factory, in one day to make the most of your vacation. Of course, it will take more than 4 hours, but you do not have to worry about anything. After the tour from Krakow, we provide safe transportation to your hotel or accommodation in the centre of Krakow.

What’s more, in the event of unforeseen events or the need to cancel, you can take advantage of a free cancellation by informing us in advance. You lose nothing, and your guided tour from Krakow with Krakow Direct can be taken at another time.

Attractions for children in a Wieliczka salt mine tour

Discover solilandie – a tourist route for children.

While in the mine, during these 4 hours, we recommend that you take the whole family on a trip to the mysterious Solilandia – a land that was once discovered by accident by one of the miners working underground. According to legend, it is home to the Soliludki, the dragon Solizaurus, who you must be on your guard against, and the good spirit of the mine – the Treasurer. The locals believe that the Wawel Dragon from Krakow also came from this dragon family. During a visit to Solilandia, children will learn the habits of the Gnomes and enter a wonderful fairy-tale world. They must, however, carefully look around and creep on tiptoe so as not to awaken the evil dragon. Our guide is already experienced in this and the organized group will feel safe.

Playground underground in Wieliczka salt mine – the chamber of Wincenty Witos

An underground playground located in the Wieliczka salt mine is a great attraction for all the youngest visitors. In the Wincenty Witos’s chamber, a relatively young attraction was built with the smallest visitors to the mine in mind. Children can listen to stories told by Kryształek – the salt lamp which shows the history of the Mine and the miners working there, grab the telephone to hear about the ways of communication between them, or turn the crank and thus turn on the light at different levels of the Mine. This helps them understand more about the whole history and the work that was done there. While looking into a watchmaker’s magnifying glass, they will see a salt crystal magnified. After all, salt is not at the centre of our interest every day. What’s more, they will have a lot of fun using the interactive wall, creating art in the drawing corner and playing at various stations, such as salt, minerals or listening to fairy tales.

Playing together on an underground playground in a salt mine is a great adventure, perhaps even the adventure of a lifetime. After all, not every child has the opportunity to play 125 meters underground. By choosing an organized trip from Krakow to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, you can provide your kids with such wonderful experiences and memories.

Culture crystals in Wieliczka salt mine- beautiful St Kinga’s Chapel, slat mine to marry and world heritage site

The rich salt vaults host various types of events for visitors. The salt mine conducts comprehensive cultural activities, organizing concerts of classical and sacred music, exhibitions, dance tournaments, martial arts tournaments, as well as soccer matches. Interestingly, even bungee jumping has taken place here, others have flown in a basket balloon, thus gaining an entry in the Guinness Book of Records, and Mateusz Kusznierewicz, a multiple worlds and European champion in the Finn class, has sailed on the underground salt lake. The underground salt lake itself is an amazing spectacle, which is really worth seeing with your own eyes. In St. Kinga’s Chapel, many couples have said the magical I do. Perhaps someone of you will also decide to get married in Wieliczka Salt Mine? The chapel there is open to anyone interested. You can come here on Sunday for a holy mass and once a year for a Pasterka mass. It will surely be an even more magical moment.

Participation in the play

The underground salt lake, st. kinga’s chapel, and the whole unique space.

Wieliczka’s underground space delights not only tourists but also filmmakers. The corridors here have become part of the scenery of numerous Polish productions, including the famous film “Sexmission” about the last two men in the world ruled by women.

Time for rest – overnight stay in the Slovakian Chamber

If you like your visit to the Mine very much, you can stay here longer than other visitors. There is an attraction waiting for you which is even more fun than the pyjama party. It is an overnight stay underground. You will open your eyes with amazement, but in the Wieliczka underground there are no impossible things. In the Słowacki Chamber, exactly 125 m under the ground level, a recreation complex was created, where you can find comfortable beds, a TV room, games, a reading room, a restaurant, and convenient sanitary conditions. Staying overnight underground is an incredible attraction for the whole family. It will send shivers down your spine. Just don’t forget to bring your pyjamas.

Why you should choose a Wieliczka salt mine tour with Krakow Direct?

Extreme sports, weddings, concerts, playing in the underground playground, spending the night, and even licking the salt wall… And how would you like to spend your time in the Wieliczka Salt Mine? Our organized tour with an English-speaking guide will provide you with as much excitement and knowledge as all these attractions. What’s more, the salt mine tour with Krakow Direct provides you with safe transportation back to Krakow city in our luxury fleet, as well as the possibility to take advantage of a free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Interesting facts about Wieliczka salt mine

Here are 5 of the most impressive and interesting facts about the Wieliczka Salt Mine that attract crowds of tourists and children’s tours from all over the world.

Basic facts about the Salt Mine

Wieliczka Salt Mine has a total of over 300 km of galleries, which is equal to the distance from Wieliczka to Warsaw. The tourist route itself, however, is 3.5 km long and includes 20 chambers, about 800 stairs and goes down to the third level of the mine – 135 meters below the ground level. The deepest level is 327 meters underground.

Most of the mine is made of salt alone

Although the scaffolding supporting the entire construction is made of wood, most of the tunnels along with walls, floors, roofs, and beautiful crystal decorations and statues were carved only in salt. Especially worth seeing is the chapel of St Kinga.

Wieliczka Salt Mine was inscribed on the UNESCO list- a world heritage site

Since 1978 the Wieliczka Salt Mine has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List under the official name ‘The Royal Salt Mines of Wieliczka and Bochnia’. It is one of the first 12 sites inscribed on the world list and is also one of the oldest salt mines in the world. According to official data, the oldest document confirming its existence dates back to 1044.

Underground, in the salt mine, hides more than you can imagine

Wieliczka salt mine tour provides many interesting attractions that make the visit more interesting. There is Europe’s only underground church – St. Kinga’s Chapel, where to this day masses are held on the occasion of St. Kinga’s name day, Christmas pastorals and weddings of young couples. You can also find there the world’s largest mining machine made of wood, crystals from crystal caves and many, many other attractions adorning the tourist route, delighting all visitors.

Salt Mine tour – interesting events

Contrary to what might seem impossible, in 2014 the first underground balloon flight took place in the highest chamber and lasted more than 4 minutes. In addition, it earned a record entered in the Guinness Book of Records for the largest number of participants in the polonaise dance and the largest lasagna. As you can see, people’s imagination and possibilities know no boundaries. It is not without reason that millions of tourists come on organized trips from Krakow to Wieliczka to see this monument with their own eyes. The Wieliczka mine has also hosted bungee jumping, soccer matches, and even windsurfing on an underground salt lake.

Practical information for tour participants

The temperature underground is 14-16 degrees C so it is better to take warm sweatshirts with you and replace flip-flops and sandals with comfortable shoes suitable for walking on stone and salt ground.

Our knowledgeable guides usually take breaks during their guided tours, when you can use the toilets free of charge. For parents with children, there are facilities such as baby changing facilities and highchairs in the underground Miners’ Inn and restaurant at the Grand Sal Hotel. If you have any questions to our guide, feel free to ask. He is not only excellent in Polish but he is also English speaking.

Do not worry that on the way back you will have to climb hundreds of stairs again. The trip will end in an elevator that will take you back to the surface. And we’ll take care of your safety and quick return to Krakow.

It is worth getting acquainted with the regulations of the Mine beforehand and listen to the guide attentively. What is interesting, in many places underground Wi-Fi is available.

After the tour of Salt Mine – come back to Krakow

The meeting point after the guided tour is at a previously agreed place with our English-speaking guide. The transport takes about 30 minutes from the meeting point to the centre of Krakow or directly to your hotel.

If you are interested in a salt mine tour from Krakow with Krakow Direct, just call us. You can book in advance  Salt mine tour from Krakow or in an emergency, use free cancellation. Just let us know up to 24 hours before the guided tour, and you can use free cancellation without any consequences.

Other trips with Salt Mine from Krakow city centre with KrakowDirect

Our company specializes in transfer services. We organize daily tours of the Salt Mine in Krakow and guarantee high quality at the best prices . Wieliczka Salt Mine tours with KrakowDirect are available in private or shared options.

If you are interested in a longer tour than just the Wieliczka Salt Mine, please check our website for other options. We also offer guided tours to Auschwitz Birkenau and Salt Mine, Salt Mine and Schindlers Factory . But not only salt mines are in our minds. Check the suggestions of an organized tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Schindlers Factory . Each tour is a day trip and includes comfortable transportation, safety, tickets and amazing excitement at great prices per person.

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