The Wieliczka Salt Mine, in the town of Wieliczka, near Krakow, is like a vast underground city that cannot be compared to anything else in the world. Until 2007 it was one of the world’s oldest operating salt mines, producing table salt since the 13th century. In 1978 it was placed on the original UNESCO roster of World Heritage Sites. You can also combine a visit in Wieliczka and Auschwitz in 1 day, just book Auschwitz Tour.

As the legend states, the Salt Mine in Wieliczka was part of the dowry of the Hungarian Princess Kinga when she wedded the sovereign of Krakow, Boleslaw the Shy over 700 years ago. She wanted to bring a wealthy gift for her fiancé. As the people in Poland did not have salt, she asked her father for a salt mine as a dowry, which he provided. She threw one of her rings into one of her father’s salt mines and travelled to Poland. There, she told the people in Wieliczka to dig a deep pit. The miners found salt, and enclosed in the first piece of salt they mined, was Kinga’s ring. Princess Kinga, later beatified, is now the patron saint of miners around Krakow.

Active mining in the Wieliczka Salt Mine stopped in 2007 due to low salt prices and mine flooding, most likely caused by mining operations. The mine now remains open only for touring. It reaches down to a depth of 327m and is over 300km long. It features a 3.5-km tourist route that includes statues of fabulous historic and mythic figures, all sculpted by devout and superstitious miners out of rock salt. Even the crystals in the chandeliers are fashioned of salt. Also featured are beautifully carved chambers, chapels, an underground lake and exhibits on the history of salt mining. The mine is justly referred to as „the underground salt cathedral of Poland.”

Departure point: Hotel pick up

Departure dates: Daily (except January 1, December 25 and Easter Sunday)

Tour duration: 4pm – 8pm

Price:

2-5 persons – 199zl/ per person
6-8 persons – 179zl/ per person
Over 8 persons – price negotiable
If you travel alone you can join a group tour, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with us!

Transport:
Private transport guaranteed for a group of over 3 persons.
1-3 persons – transport in a comfortable van with maximum 3 other passengers.

Inclusions:

  • Comfortable, air-conditioned VW Sharan, VW Caravelle or VW Transporter vans
  • All entrance fees
  • Guided 2.5-hour tour in the Salt Mine with an English speaking guide

Booking details:

  • After arranging tour details via e-mail, confirmation via e-mail will be sent.
  • Payment in cash to our representative after the tour.
  • All currencies are accepted.