Wieliczka is one of the few places in Europe where an authentic complex of monuments lies beneath the surface — chapels, sculptures and saline lakes carved out of salt. It’s easy to combine a visit to the salt mine with a short stop in Podgórze and a stroll up to Wawel — a great option for a full, rewarding day of sightseeing in Krakow. Below you’ll find a practical plan, suggested hours and tips to make organizing the trip easier.
If you want to see everything without rushing, plan to visit Wieliczka in the morning or early afternoon, stop in Podgórze and visit St. Joseph’s Church while walking around the Podgórze Market, and leave Wawel for the late afternoon — when the light beautifully highlights the castle and cathedral façades. Keep in mind that opening hours for each site can vary by season and special events, so it’s a good idea to check the latest information before you head out.
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a classic on any “what to see in Lesser Poland” list. The Tourist Route generally runs year‑round, but visiting times are seasonal — typically starting in the morning (around 8:00–9:00) and continuing into the late afternoon (roughly 17:00–18:00). It’s best to buy tickets online in advance, especially in the high season, to avoid queues.
Entrance to the mine takes place at designated points (for example, the Daniłowicz Shaft) and you’re often asked to arrive a little earlier — organizers usually request arrival at least 15 minutes before the time printed on your ticket. Different routes (Tourist Route, Miners’ Route) vary in length and difficulty, so check which option matches your fitness and interests.
The temperature underground is steady and cooler than on the surface (usually around 14°C), so bring a light jacket or sweater. Expect stairs and long walks below ground — comfortable shoes are essential. Inside you’ll see the Chapel of St. Kinga, salt sculptures and impressive chambers — allow at least 2–3 hours for a comfortable visit.
St. Joseph’s Church stands at the Podgórze Market (ul. Jana Zamoyskiego) and is one of Podgórze’s most recognisable landmarks. Built between 1905 and 1909 in the neo‑Gothic style, it makes a strong impression both outside and inside — its proportions evoke a small Gothic cathedral with rich fittings and a distinctive tower.
It’s a pleasant place for a short break on the way to or from Wieliczka — the Podgórze Market has an intimate atmosphere, a few nice cafes and spots to rest. If you plan to enter the church, check the parish announcements for current mass times and periods when the building may be closed due to services or conservation work. Since 2021 the church holds the status of St. Joseph’s sanctuary, which gives it additional significance for pilgrims.
The architecture and interior details are interesting even to visitors who aren’t particularly into sacred art — look out for neo‑Gothic altars, stained glass and the organ case. If you plan to photograph the interior, ask about the photography rules first.
The Wawel Hill is unmissable. The Royal Castle and the Cathedral operate on separate schedules: castle exhibitions typically run from Tuesday to Sunday with morning and afternoon sessions, while some exhibitions have reduced hours on Mondays. The Cathedral manages its own timetable, and access to certain areas (for example, the Royal Crypts) may require an extra ticket.
It’s best to reserve specific entry times for the exhibitions you want to see — this reduces surprises and long waits. If you only want to walk the courtyards and take photos, you can often access the hill earlier than the exhibition opening times — but keep in mind that some areas may be temporarily closed for organisational reasons.
When planning your visit, consider the possibility of religious ceremonies in the Cathedral or official events on Wawel that can affect access to particular spaces. For that reason, always check the current information about opening hours and potential closures before you go.
Full‑day option: leave Krakow for Wieliczka in the morning — visit the mine (2–3 hours), return to Krakow for a light lunch, stroll through Podgórze and visit St. Joseph’s Church, then spend the afternoon walking around Wawel and the Cathedral. This pace lets you see all three places without rushing.
If you have less time: choose two attractions — for example Wieliczka + Wawel or Wawel + Podgórze. Wieliczka typically takes half a day; Wawel and its surroundings (without in‑depth visits to every castle exhibition) take a few hours.
If you’re travelling with children, include meal breaks and plan a slightly slower pace; the mine visit is organised and doesn’t allow skipping parts of the route, so match your entrance time to children’s rhythms.
Wieliczka is close to Krakow and well connected — regional trains and buses run regularly, and travel from central Krakow usually takes about 20–40 minutes depending on the mode of transport. Organised tours and transfers are available, but taking the train yourself can be faster during peak traffic.
From Wieliczka to Podgórze and on to Wawel you can use public transport or a taxi/ride‑hailing service. The walk between the Podgórze Market and Wawel is pleasant and takes you through less touristy parts of the city — if you have time, walking gives you a better feel for local life.
There are rules about luggage at Wawel and in the mine — large backpacks may not be allowed; check size limits and whether left‑luggage facilities exist.
Around Wawel and the Old Town you’ll find many well‑rated restaurants — if you want traditional Polish food, consider places that serve pierogi, żurek and roast pork knuckles, or look for highly rated restaurants in Kazimierz. When picking a place, use recent reviews and ratings, especially in high season when tables fill up quickly.
In Podgórze near the market there are several cosy cafés and small restaurants ideal for a light meal before you continue sightseeing. If you need a quick bite near Wieliczka, there is usually a food point by the mine entrance — handy for snacks, although the best culinary experiences are typically found back in Krakow.
Not booking tickets in advance — this is the most frequent mistake, especially in the high season. Book tickets for Wieliczka and for specific Wawel exhibitions ahead of time.
Arriving exactly on time — if your ticket shows a time, arrive at least 15–20 minutes earlier; mine operators often require guests to be present before the scheduled entry.
Trying to fit too much into one day — Wieliczka and Wawel deserve an unhurried visit; allow extra time for transport, meals and the unexpected.
Assuming all interior spaces of the Cathedral or Castle are as accessible as the hill itself — some sections close for ceremonies, renovation or special events. Check notices before visiting.
Do I need to reserve tickets for Wieliczka? Yes — it’s strongly recommended to book online in advance, especially on weekends and during the high season.
How long does the mine visit take? A standard Tourist Route usually lasts 2–3 hours (depending on the route variant).
Is Wawel open every day? Many exhibitions at Wawel operate Tuesday to Sunday, with some reduced hours on Mondays — schedules can change, so check current opening times before visiting.
Is St. Joseph’s Church open to tourists? Generally yes — the interior is usually accessible, but hours may be limited by services or parish events. Check parish announcements before your visit.
Surprising: in Wieliczka you’ll find a real “salt museum” — many chapels and sculptures were carved by miners and artists using salt as their material. Few people realise that the underground temperature is stable, so on hot days the mine can be a cool relief.
If you found this article helpful, share it with friends or on social media — it might make someone’s Krakow planning easier. If you’d like to explore these places with a personal guide and hear extra first‑hand stories, consider a private tour with guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact details and service information are available on the website zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Good luck with your planning and have a great trip!
