Background

Salzwelten Salzburg: A Journey into the Heart of White Gold

Journey through 2600 years of salt mining history at Salzwelten Salzburg, exploring underground tunnels, sliding into salt lakes, and discovering Celtic heritage in a unique adventure.

4.6

Descend into the depths of the Dürrnberg mountain at Salzwelten Salzburg, where over 2,600 years of salt mining history come to life. Ride a mine train into the mountain's core, then slide down traditional miners' slides to a mystical underground salt lake. Cross the lake by raft and explore multimedia exhibits detailing the fascinating story of salt, from Celtic origins to the baroque splendor it fueled. Above ground, discover the Celtic Village SALINA and the Salt Manufactory, offering a glimpse into ancient life and modern salt production. With tours available in multiple languages and activities for all ages, Salzwelten Salzburg offers a unique and unforgettable adventure into the world of 'white gold'.

A brief summary to Salzwelten Salzburg

  • Monday 9 am-3 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-3 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-3 pm
  • Friday 9 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-3 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Wear warm clothing and sturdy shoes, as the temperature inside the mine is around 10°C (50°F) year-round, and the ground can be uneven.
  • Book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid queues and secure your preferred tour time.
  • Allow at least 2.5 to 3 hours for your visit to fully experience the mine tour, Celtic Village, and Salt Manufactory.
  • Take advantage of the free audio guide app in 15 languages to enhance your understanding of the mine's history and significance.
  • Consider visiting the Museum of the Celts Hallein, located nearby, for a more in-depth look at Celtic history and culture (discounted entry with Salzwelten ticket).
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take the S3 S-Bahn train to Hallein Bahnhof (approx. 20 minutes, single fare around €4-6). From Hallein Bahnhof, take Bus 41 towards Bad Dürrnberg Salzbergwerk (approx. 10 minutes, single fare around €2-3). The bus stops directly at the Salzwelten Salzburg entrance. Check Salzburg Verkehr for the most up-to-date schedules and fares.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Hallein Bahnhof, a taxi or ride-share to Salzwelten Salzburg will take approximately 10-15 minutes and cost around €15-€25, depending on traffic and the provider. Note that ride-share availability may be limited in this area.

  • Driving

    From Salzburg city center, follow the B159 (Salzachtalstraße) south towards Hallein. After passing through Hallein, turn right onto Dürrnbergstraße. Follow this road to Salzwelten Salzburg. Free parking is available on-site. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season. During winter, ensure your vehicle is equipped for snowy conditions.

Unlock the Best of Salzwelten Salzburg

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Salzwelten Salzburg

Salzwelten Salzburg, nestled in Bad Dürrnberg near Hallein, offers an immersive journey through the history of salt mining, a practice that shaped the region's wealth and culture for millennia. This isn't just a museum; it's an adventure that takes you deep into the heart of the Dürrnberg mountain, following in the footsteps of Celtic miners and prince-archbishops who sought the precious 'white gold'. The adventure begins with a thrilling descent on a mine train, transporting you into the mountain's cool, dimly lit interior. As you journey deeper, you'll encounter two exhilarating miners' slides, a fun and fast way to navigate between levels, echoing the methods used by miners of old. These slides aren't just for thrill-seekers; stairs are available for those who prefer a more traditional descent. One of the highlights is the mystical underground salt lake, shimmering under the soft glow of lights. Here, you'll board a raft for a serene crossing, accompanied by a captivating multimedia show that brings the baroque era of Salzburg to life. This unique experience also involves crossing the only subterranean international border between Austria and Germany. Throughout the mine, multimedia exhibits showcase four distinct epochs of salt mining, from the modern techniques used until 1989 when industrial salt production ceased, back to the baroque period, the Middle Ages, and finally, to the time of the Celts. The exhibits detail the evolution of mining practices, the significance of salt to the region's economy, and the lives of the people who worked in the mines. The Celtic era is particularly well-represented, with artifacts and information about their advanced mining techniques and trade networks. The Celts, who settled the Dürrnberg around 2,600 years ago, were masters of salt extraction, using sophisticated methods to extract the valuable resource. Their prosperity is evident in the elaborate utilitarian items, jewelry, and weapons discovered at the site, including the famous 'beaked jug' of the Dürrnberg. Above ground, the Kelten.Erlebnis.Berg (Celtic Experience Mountain) offers further exploration of Celtic life. Here, you can wander through the SALINA Celtic Village, a reconstruction of a Celtic settlement, providing a glimpse into their daily lives, crafts, and customs. The themed playground offers interactive fun for children, while the new AR Researcher-App provides a playful way to discover the world of the Ancient Celts and the history of salt. Don't miss the Salt Manufactory, Austria's only showcase saltworks, where you can witness the traditional process of hand-scooping BAD ISCHLER gourmet salt from Dürrnberg's natural brine. The master salt maker provides live insights into his daily work, offering a unique opportunity to learn about this ancient craft. Salzwelten Salzburg is more than just a historical site; it's an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Whether you're interested in history, mining, or simply seeking a unique adventure, Salzwelten Salzburg offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of 'white gold' and its enduring legacy. Accessibility is a consideration, as the mine tunnels are not wheelchair-accessible, and the site may not be suitable for those with claustrophobia. However, the above-ground areas offer alternative activities and attractions for all visitors. With its blend of history, adventure, and interactive exhibits, Salzwelten Salzburg provides a memorable and enriching experience, offering a deeper understanding of the region's cultural and economic heritage.

Popular Experiences near Salzwelten Salzburg

Popular Hotels near Salzwelten Salzburg

Select Currency