Did you know the tourist section of the Wieliczka Salt Mine reaches as deep as 135 metres underground, and on the standard Tourist Route you will descend several hundred steps and walk roughly 3–3.5 km through underground corridors? This place is at once a museum, a health resort and a UNESCO World Heritage site — perfect for a day trip from Krakow.
Below you’ll find practical advice: how to plan your arrival (train, bus, parking), what to bring, which points on the route are must-sees, and how to avoid the most common tourist mistakes.
The Tourist Route usually starts at the Daniłowicz Shaft (ul. Daniłowicza). From Krakow you can get there quickly by local train — Wieliczka Rynek-Kopalnia station is only a few hundred metres from the entrance — or by bus number 304. There are official parking areas by the shaft, including a large lot on ul. Dembowskiego, useful if you’re arriving by car or coach.
It’s a good idea to check opening hours and ticket availability in advance and to plan travel with extra time — in summer and on long holiday weekends lines at the entrance can grow.
The Tourist Route passes through a dozen or more impressive salt-carved chambers, monumental wooden supports, salt sculptures and underground lakes. The best-known spot is the Chapel of St. Kinga — an underground church with salt chandeliers and intricate salt carvings that leaves a strong impression on visitors.
You’ll also see the Copernicus Chamber, wooden constructions reinforcing the ceilings and brine lakes. Many visitors are surprised that the mine is not only about salt extraction but also a space with a specific microclimate that can be beneficial for the respiratory system.
The Tourist Route opens access to about 20 chambers, sits at depths from roughly 65 to 135 metres, and typically takes 2–3 hours to complete.
Underground temperature is usually steady around 16–18°C year-round, so bring a light sweater or jacket even in summer. Wear comfortable, closed shoes — parts of the route include stairs and stone ramps.
You will climb about 800 steps on the route (the first descent alone is roughly 380 steps). The visit ends with a lift ride back to the surface, which feels like a relief after the walk. Visitors with limited mobility should check available options and accessibility in advance — some sections are not suitable for wheelchairs.
Buy tickets online where possible — it saves time and guarantees your spot, especially in high season. Tours run in guided groups (up to around 35 people) and are available in Polish and many foreign languages.
Only a small fraction of the entire mine is open to tourists — you explore just a tiny part of the huge underground complex. In the Chapel of St. Kinga pay attention to the salt chandeliers — true sculptural works made of halite.
Another lesser-known fact: the underground air is soothing for the respiratory tract, and many visitors with allergies or chronic conditions report relief — which is why you’ll also find a graduation tower (Tężnia Solankowa) nearby that can be visited after the tour.
There are toilets, souvenir points and small food stands along the route, but it’s wise to carry a small bottle of water and a snack — breaks are possible but organized according to the tour schedule.
If you’re after a more active experience, the Miners' Route (Trasa Górnicza) offers visits in miner’s gear, with tasks and an authentic feel of miners’ work — it’s aimed at people in good physical condition. The Miners' Route can be seasonal or temporarily closed, so check current availability before you go.
On the surface you can visit the Graduation Tower (Tężnia Solankowa) and the Cracow Saltworks Museum (Muzeum Żup Krakowskich), which are often available in combination with the Tourist Route. These complements give a fuller picture of salt extraction history and mining life.
Right by the mine entrance you’ll find Bistro Posolone — a convenient spot for a quick coffee or light snack before or after the visit. Nearby in Wieliczka there are also well-reviewed cafes and restaurants, for example Parana resto & cafe, appreciated for good coffee and a relaxed atmosphere.
If you plan to stay overnight, consider lodging in Krakow for a wider choice and easy connections to Wieliczka (train, bus). If you prefer a quieter setting, look for guesthouses in Wieliczka itself — check reviews and the location relative to the Daniłowicz Shaft to save time on transfers.
Not buying a ticket in advance — during high season and weekends you risk long waits or no availability for your preferred time. Book online and arrive a little early.
Wearing uncomfortable shoes or light clothing — remember the constant cool temperature and many stairs. Comfortable shoes and a light layer make the visit much more pleasant.
Not planning transport — if you drive during rush hour allow extra time to find parking, or choose the train for a stress-free trip.
Can children go on the route? Yes — children over 4 years old typically go on the Tourist Route; children under 4 often enter free of charge — check rules when buying tickets.
Can I take photos? Photography is generally allowed on the Tourist Route without an extra fee, but be careful using flash in some chambers.
How long does the visit take? Standard visits last 2–3 hours, depending on the route variant and any extra museum exhibits.
Are there toilets on the route? Yes — there are sanitary points on the route and places for short breaks.
A visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine combines history, craftsmanship and spectacular scenery — ideal for a family outing or a short trip from Krakow. Plan your ticket ahead, dress comfortably and be ready to be surprised by what lies beneath the ground.
If you found this article helpful, share it with friends or on social media — this route is worth recommending! If you prefer a private guided visit, I invite you to use the services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact details and offerings are available on the guide’s website. Have a great trip and enjoy your visit!
