Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour from Krakow Old Town

The day begins with midmorning pickup at your Kraków hotel (select hotels only) or a central meeting point, and a short drive in a minivan to reach the mine, located just 10 miles (16 km) outside the city. In operation since the 13th century, the Wieliczka Salt Mine today has been visited by more than 40 million people and was recognized as one of the original World Heritage Sites named by UNESCO.

Trace the long and fascinating history of the mine — one of the world’s oldest and deepest — as you descend almost 450 feet (135 meters) down the shaft accompanied by an English-speaking guide. Be prepared for a considerable workout, as the touring route features a climb down 350 steps. Wander through a 1.9-mile (3-km) labyrinth of tunnels that open into glittering chambers decorated with salt rock carvings and vast caverns filled with saline lakes. There is even an expansive chapel with salt statuary and chandeliers in this remarkable underground city.

Expect to spend around 3 hours exploring the mine’s cavernous and historic highlights, listening to your guide’s live commentary through provided headsets so everyone can hear clearly. An elevator shaft is available to whisk you back to the surface at the end of the tour, where a driver awaits to return you to your original Kraków departure point.