Wieliczka Salt Mine
Explore a subterranean world of salt chapels, lakes, and intricate sculptures carved over centuries.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Wieliczka Salt Mine
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a subterranean world of salt chapels, lakes, and intricate sculptures carved over centuries.
"An unforgettable experience—truly one of Poland’s gems!"
🎯 Book Official Tickets Online
Avoid third-party sellers. Official tickets include a guide, crucial for navigating the labyrinthine mine.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll descend ~800 steps initially. Sturdy footwear is essential for the ~3-hour tour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
St. Kinga's Chapel
Underground
An awe-inspiring cathedral carved entirely from salt, featuring chandeliers and intricate sculptures made of rock salt.
Underground Lakes
Various chambers
Ethereal, saline lakes reflecting the dimly lit salt formations, creating a surreal and magical atmosphere.
Miner's Route Experience
Specific sections
An interactive tour where you role-play as a miner, using headlamps and trying out mining tasks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Comfortable Footwear is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Official Tickets Online
Avoid third-party sellers. Official tickets include a guide, crucial for navigating the labyrinthine mine.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll descend ~800 steps initially. Sturdy footwear is essential for the ~3-hour tour.
🧥 Dress in Layers
The underground temperature is a constant 17-18°C (62-64°F), so bring a light jacket.
📸 Photography is Allowed
Capture the stunning salt carvings, but be mindful of other visitors and the tour pace.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Official Tickets Online
Avoid third-party sellers. Official tickets include a guide, crucial for navigating the labyrinthine mine.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll descend ~800 steps initially. Sturdy footwear is essential for the ~3-hour tour.
🧥 Dress in Layers
The underground temperature is a constant 17-18°C (62-64°F), so bring a light jacket.
📸 Photography is Allowed
Capture the stunning salt carvings, but be mindful of other visitors and the tour pace.
🚌 Public Transport is Easy
Bus #304 or regional trains from Krakow are affordable and convenient options. +1
💧 Stay Hydrated
There are restrooms and a cafe underground, but bring water for the ~3-hour tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Wieliczka Salt Mine as an unforgettable, breathtaking experience, highlighting the incredible salt carvings and the awe-inspiring St. Kinga's Chapel. The knowledgeable guides and well-organized tours are frequently commended. However, some recent visitors note that the mine has become overcrowded, leading to a rushed feeling and less time for appreciation or photography.
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An unforgettable experience – truly one of Poland’s gems!
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is absolutely breathtaking—far beyond what I expected. From the moment you descend into the tunnels, you’re immersed in a world carved entirely from salt: winding corridors, intricate sculptures, underground lakes, and the awe-inspiring St. Kinga’s Chapel. It’s hard to believe it was all done by hand over centuries.
Our guide was fantastic—knowledgeable, funny, and passionate about the mine’s rich history. The tour is very well-organized, with just the right balance of storytelling, history, and visual spectacle.
Yes, there are stairs (around 800 to start!), but the walk is paced well and the underground spaces are surprisingly spacious and comfortable, even for those who aren’t fans of tight spaces.
This isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s a deep dive into Polish heritage, art, and ingenuity. I’d call it a must-visit if you’re anywhere near Kraków. Don’t miss it—you’ll walk away amazed."
Tony Macri
"I’ve been to the Wieliczka Salt Mine many times over the years—and I truly love this place. It’s a sight to behold, rich in history and beauty, and absolutely one of Poland’s must-see destinations. But my most recent visit was honestly disappointing 😔
It’s become overcrowded and rushed. We went on a Monday too 😅 We were told they now accommodate up to 12,000 visitors a day, and it really shows. What used to feel like a personal, immersive tour is now more like being herded through a tunnel. Each guide has 30–40 people, and you’re constantly moving because another group is right behind you, waiting to enter the same room. You barely get a moment to stop, appreciate the carvings, or take photos.
I still recommend visiting if you’ve never been—there’s nothing else like it in the world—but prepare for crowds and a fast-paced experience. I hope they find a way to preserve the magic without sacrificing visitor experience.
My name is Adrian—a global traveler and international fixed-wing flight nurse ✈️ I stay in hundreds of hotels, motels, palaces, castles, and everything in between around the world each year. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I seek out the most unforgettable experiences and must-see destinations. This review reflects my honest experience. Wishing you safe travels and unforgettable stays 🫶🏼"
Adrian Kaszuba (Adrian K.)
"Once in a lifetime experience. It is imperative that you visit these mines at least once in your life. It’s a magical and wonderful place.
They have guided tours for many languages. The tour guides were polite and enthusiastic. The guided tours were very informative and instructive.
They have a gift shop and a large restaurant at the bottom level (at the end of the tour).
Tickets must be purchased in advance. High cost ticket prices however reasonable. Although, the experience is well worth the money."
Swann’s Way
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You have several convenient options! The most popular are taking the Bus #304 from Krakow city center, which stops right near the mine, or a regional train from Krakow Glowny to Wieliczka Rynek-Kopalnia station, a short walk away. Both are affordable and take about 25-30 minutes. +1 Some travelers also opt for Uber or a pre-booked transfer for added comfort.
Yes, parking at the Wieliczka Salt Mine is generally considered safe. One Reddit user mentioned they've never heard of belongings being stolen from cars in Poland, suggesting it's a secure option if you're driving.
Absolutely! The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a perfect half-day trip from Krakow. The tour itself takes about 2-3 hours, and with travel time, you can easily complete the visit and return to Krakow within half a day. +1
If you're concerned about leaving luggage in a rental car, consider booking a transfer service or using a taxi. While lockers are available, they might not accommodate large suitcases.
While technically possible, it's generally recommended to dedicate a full day to Auschwitz due to its emotional weight and scale. Trying to do both in one day can feel rushed. If you must, plan for an early start and be prepared for a long day. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but expect to pay around 86 PLN for a standard adult ticket. It's highly recommended to book your Wieliczka Salt Mine tickets online in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment, as tours can sell out. +1
Yes, you cannot enter the mine without an official guide. The mine is a complex labyrinth, and guides are included with all official tickets, ensuring your safety and providing historical context.
The Tourist Route is the standard tour, covering the main highlights like St. Kinga's Chapel. The Miner's Route is more interactive, where you wear a hard hat and headlamp, and participate in simulated mining activities, offering a more immersive experience.
While it might be possible, it's strongly advised to buy Wieliczka tickets online well in advance. Tours are time-slotted by language, and buying on the day could mean long waits or no availability. +1
Opening hours can vary seasonally, but generally, tours start in the morning and run throughout the day. It's best to check the official Wieliczka Salt Mine website for the most up-to-date Wieliczka opening hours for your planned visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The standard Wieliczka Salt Mine tour typically lasts around 2 to 3 hours. This includes time for the guided walk through the various chambers and the initial descent. +1
The tour involves a significant amount of walking and descending approximately 800 steps at the beginning. While not overly strenuous for most, comfortable footwear is essential. The underground spaces are surprisingly spacious.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Wieliczka Salt Mine. However, it's important to be respectful of other visitors and the tour guide.
The temperature inside the mine remains constant year-round at approximately 17-18°C (62-64°F). It's advisable to wear layers, including a light jacket.
Yes, there are restrooms available at various points along the tour route. There is also a cafe located at the bottom level, near the end of the tour, where you can purchase refreshments.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant located at the bottom level of the mine, near the end of the tour. It's a good place to rest and have a meal after your underground exploration.
The restaurant typically serves traditional Polish cuisine. One Reddit user specifically mentioned enjoying 'golonka' (pork knuckle) there.
While there are facilities for food and drink, it's generally recommended to consume your own snacks and drinks before or after the tour, or purchase them at the underground cafe.
📸 📸 Photography
St. Kinga's Chapel is undoubtedly the most photogenic spot, with its intricate salt carvings and chandeliers. The underground lakes and various chambers also offer stunning photographic opportunities.
While general photography is permitted, it's always best to check with your guide on specific restrictions regarding flash photography, especially in sensitive areas like the chapel.
Mobile phone cameras can capture decent photos, but the lighting can be challenging. For the best results, consider using a camera with better low-light capabilities or adjusting your phone's settings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶 Solo Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Wieliczka Salt Mine
Beyond its economic and artistic value, the mine also holds historical significance. During World War II, the Nazis occupied the mine and used it for storage and even attempted to establish an underground factory. The mine's unique microclimate, with its clean air, has also been recognized for its therapeutic properties, leading to the establishment of underground sanatoriums for respiratory illnesses.
Navigating the Wieliczka Salt Mine: Tours and Routes
The Miner's Route offers a more hands-on and adventurous experience. Participants are equipped with hard hats and headlamps and engage in simulated mining tasks, such as testing for methane or transporting salt. This route is ideal for those seeking a more immersive and interactive encounter with the mining profession.
Photography Tips for the Wieliczka Salt Mine
Focus on capturing the intricate details of the salt carvings, the grandeur of St. Kinga's Chapel, and the eerie beauty of the underground lakes. Be patient and look for opportunities when the lighting is most dramatic. Remember that the tours are often crowded, so you might need to wait for a clear shot or be adept at capturing moments between groups.
While your phone camera can still capture memories, don't expect professional-quality images without effort or specialized equipment. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit