Europe's oldest salt mine is located in Wieliczka, 30 minutes' drive from Krakow. A true testament to creativity and local industry, this 700 year-old engineering marvel is almost entirely constructed from salt and its lowest point descends to 1073 feet, deeper than the height of the Eiffel Tower.

Originally built for the production of table salt, the Wieliczka Salt Mine was in operation from about the 13th century until 1996. Now no longer a site of salt production, it operates as a major tourist attraction and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its industrial, historical and cultural significance.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine contains deep shafts that take visitors to a labyrinth of underground tunnels leading to brine lakes, salt sculptures and chapels. It is spectacular place to visit, with kilometres of paths to explore. The unique underground ambience, combined with the mine's high air purity creates an experience that is remarkably airy and not claustrophobic.

Its four chapels are a highlight, that are intricately decorated and feature ornate salt chandeliers, altars and relief carvings. The most famous is St. Kinga's Chapel, a grand chamber which alone is carved from an estimated 20,000 tonnes of salt.

Visitors have the choice between two routes to explore the mine:

Tourist Route:

Duration 2-3 hours

The most common route to take, it begins as the Danilowicz Shaft and leads visitors through 20 chambers over the course of 2km. The route contains approx 800 stairs with 380 at the start, but it is possible to pay a surplus and take the lift down at the beginning.

Miners' Route:

Duration 2.5-3.5 hours

Starting at the Regis Shaft, this immersive route involves visitors dressing in mining attire and following an active expedition through 2 km of tunnels, offering an interactive experiences including measuring the concentration of methane and mining salt themselves. This tour is more exhaustive and does not visit the famous Chapel of St. Kinga.

There is a cafe within the mine that visitors can access after their guided tour.

For those interested in wellness, there is a Health Resort within the mine complex that harnesses the unique microclimate and air purity for health benefits.

How to get tickets for the Wieliczka Salt Mine

We recommend purchasing tickets in advance, they can be purchased on their website or alternatively our Kirker Concierge can organise your excursion, including private transfers from your hotel in Krakow.

Wieliczka Salt Mine Opening Hours

Open daily from 09:00 - 17:00