Discover the Wonders of Wieliczka Salt Mine
Explore the stunning Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring breathtaking salt-carved chapels and rich history.
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of Poland's most extraordinary attractions, located just outside of Kraków. This UNESCO World Heritage site spans over 300 kilometers of tunnels and chambers, showcasing the extraordinary craftsmanship of salt miners over the centuries. Visitors are greeted with stunning salt-carved chapels, including the famous Chapel of St. Kinga, adorned with intricate sculptures and chandeliers made entirely from salt crystals. The mine's rich history dates back to the 13th century, and it has been a source of salt production for over 700 years, making it not only a fascinating tourist attraction but also a significant historical landmark. As you journey deeper into the mine, you'll discover underground lakes, vast chambers, and even a museum that highlights the history of salt mining in the region. The temperature inside remains a constant 14°C, providing a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Guided tours are available in multiple languages and offer insights into the mine's history, geology, and the lives of the miners who worked here. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves walking and descending stairs. The Wieliczka Salt Mine is more than just a tourist site; it is a cultural treasure that combines the beauty of art, history, and nature. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a history buff, this remarkable underground world promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of human ingenuity and the natural wonders of salt formation.
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues and ensure your spot on the guided tours.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the tour includes a significant amount of walking and stair navigation.
- Consider taking the audio guide for a more in-depth understanding of the mine's history and features.
- Check the opening hours before your visit, as they can vary seasonally.
- Plan for a half-day visit to fully enjoy the mine's extensive chambers and exhibits.
A brief summary to Wieliczka Salt Mine
- Daniłowicza 10, Wieliczka, 32-020, PL
- +48122787302
- Visit website
- Monday 7:30 am-6:30 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-6:30 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-6:30 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-6:30 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-6:30 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-6:30 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-6:30 pm
Getting There
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Car
From the Gorce Mountains, head towards Nowy Targ and take the DK47 road north. Continue on DK47 until you reach the junction with the S7 expressway. Merge onto the S7 towards Kraków. After approximately 30 km, take the exit towards Wieliczka (exit number 14). Follow the signs to Wieliczka, and you will reach the Wieliczka Salt Mine located at Daniłowicza 10. Parking is available nearby, but may incur a fee.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, take a bus from various locations in the Gorce Mountains to Nowy Targ. From Nowy Targ, you can catch a bus to Kraków. Once in Kraków, transfer to a bus or train heading to Wieliczka. The train station in Wieliczka is about 15 minutes walking distance from the Salt Mine. Be sure to check the schedule for bus and train times, as they may vary. Ticket costs will depend on your starting point but expect to pay around 20-40 PLN for the entire journey.
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Taxi or Ride-Sharing
For a more direct route, consider using a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber or Bolt. You can request a ride from your location in the Gorce Mountains directly to the Wieliczka Salt Mine. The cost will depend on the distance but expect to pay around 100-200 PLN depending on your exact starting point.
Attractions Nearby to Wieliczka Salt Mine
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Brine graduation Tower | Wieliczka
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Park św. Kingi
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Salt Mine "Wieliczka" Shaft St. Kingi
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Szyb Daniłowicza
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Cracow Saltworks Museum in Wieliczka
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Castle Saltworks - Saltworks Museum Wieliczka
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Rzeźby górników na Rynku Górnym
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Upper market square
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Rynek Górny w Wieliczce
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Fontanna przy Rynku
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The monument of Adam Mickiewicz
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The Regis Shaft
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Stok pod Baranem
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Pałac Konopków
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Roman Catholic Parish of St. Michael the Archangel
Landmarks nearby to Wieliczka Salt Mine
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Zwiedzanie Krakowa dla Firm - Przewodnik Kraków - Slow Up
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The Grey House
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Wapiennik
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Najstarszy budynek mieszkalny Nowej Huty
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Skwer Budowniczych Nowej Huty
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Jewish Ghetto Memorial
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Mural Historii Podgórza
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Dworek Pod Lipkami
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Podgórze Market Square
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Aleja Róż
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Zabytkowy Budynek
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Park Ratuszowy w Krakowie
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Father Bernatek’s Bridge
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Podziemna Nowa Huta
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Czyżyńskie roundabout