Wieliczka is not only one of the most famous attractions in Lesser Poland and a UNESCO site - it’s also a place where a group of friends can share an unusual underground adventure. On the 2–3 hour Tourist Route you’ll see salt‑carved chambers, sculptures, underground lakes and the famous St. Kinga’s Chapel - a perfect backdrop for conversation, jokes and photos, and at the same time a walk that brings people together. Good planning lets you avoid the longest queues and makes the trip pleasant even for those who prefer a more relaxed pace of sightseeing. The tips below will help you prepare practically and logistically - from getting there, through tickets, to a break for rest and somewhere to eat after the tour.
A group of friends has an advantage - you can book a visit at a convenient time, split transport costs and book tickets for a specific entry time together, which significantly reduces waiting time. Below you’ll find several proven ways to avoid queues and to plan the day well. Expect a lot of stairs and a steady, cooler temperature underground - those are the only things that might surprise you if you aren’t prepared.
Tips prepared by Małgorzata Kasprowicz - guide in Krakow.
- Buy tickets in advance and choose a specific entry time. Online booking on the mine’s official website or through trusted resellers allows you to skip the ticket office line.
- Choose the “entry at a set time” option instead of buying a walk‑in ticket on site - this guarantees shorter waiting.
- Arrive 20–30 minutes before your entry time - this gives you time to collect tickets (if needed), quickly brief the group and use the restroom before going underground.
- Avoid weekends and peak season (especially June–August and long holiday weekends) if avoiding crowds is a priority. The lowest visitor numbers are usually early weekday mornings and the off‑season.
- If you want absolute certainty, consider guaranteed "skip‑the‑line" tickets offered by official distributors - check terms and seller reputation before purchase.
The Tourist Route is guided and usually lasts about 2–3 hours. There are different ticket categories (adult, reduced, family) and tours in several foreign languages. When buying tickets online remember to: - choose the exact date and time, - check whether the ticket is for the Tourist Route or for the miners’ route, which has different requirements and equipment, - carry documents proving eligibility for reduced tickets (if you use reductions).
A family ticket can be cost‑effective for small family groups, while organized groups have separate rules and prices. If you plan special attractions (for example, a longer miners’ route) - check requirements for footwear and insurance.
If you plan to visit the graduation tower (brine tężnia) or additional museum exhibitions, check whether your ticket covers these attractions - sometimes there are combo promotions, other times admission is separately charged.
- 08:00 - Departure from Kraków (suburban train or bus) - quick and convenient travel options.
- 09:00 - Arrival in Wieliczka, short walk, coffee and ticket collection - a good chance to stretch your legs before descending.
- 09:30 - Entry to the Tourist Route (reservation for a specific time) - enjoy the route calmly with a guide.
- 12:30 - Lunch at one of the local restaurants and a chat about the highlights of the tour.
- Afternoon - stroll around the Wieliczka market square, visit the graduation tower, check a museum or return to Kraków.
This schedule gives time to explore without rushing, a break for food and a comfortable return. If you prefer an even slower pace, move the entry to a later time while keeping in mind that weekdays generally have fewer visitors.
- Train: from Kraków Main Station there are suburban trains to Wieliczka Rynek‑Kopalnia - the trip takes about 20–25 minutes and the station is a short walk from the mine entrance - this is the fastest option in most cases.
- Bus 304: an alternative that runs from central Kraków - travel time depends on traffic, but it’s convenient and reaches close to Wieliczka’s main attractions.
- Car and parking: there is a paid car park near the mine - during the season it’s best to arrive early because spaces fill up quickly. Check Park & Ride options near train stations if you want to leave the car and continue by train.
- Tip for groups: splitting the cost of a taxi or ride‑sharing between several people is often a comfortable and quick return option after a full day of sightseeing.
- Time and distance: the Tourist Route takes about 2–3 hours and includes several kilometres of walking through corridors - be prepared for a fair amount of walking.
- Temperature: it’s cool underground - usually around 14–18°C. Bring a light jacket or sweater, even in summer.
- Footwear and baggage: comfortable closed shoes are essential. Large suitcases and strollers are impractical - there is usually luggage storage for larger items at the entrance.
- Stairs: expect many stairs - the route is not recommended for people with serious mobility problems. Strollers cannot go on the route - bring a carrier for small children if needed.
- Photography: photos are allowed on most parts of the route, but follow the mine’s rules and the guide’s instructions.
After an intense underground trip it’s nice to sit down together and recharge. Here are a few places in Wieliczka that work well for groups: - Karczma Halit - classic ‘miners’ atmosphere and regional dishes; a good spot for a larger meal after the tour. - Beztroski Pomidor Włoski - a family‑friendly place with a wide selection of pizzas and pastas - great if someone in the group is picky or there are children. - Small cafes by the market square (coffee, cake, ice cream) - ideal for a quick refresh after coming up from underground.
If you plan a longer stay in the area, check opening hours in advance and consider booking a table for a larger group - popular places can be busy on weekends. If you’re returning to Kraków, planning an evening meal in the city center gives you the largest choice and a great atmosphere for sharing stories about your underground adventures.
Note: the restaurant names above are suggestions worth checking - verify current opening hours and reservation options before your visit.
- Agree on a clear meeting point and time at the entrance - the guide starts on time and latecomers may have difficulty joining.
- Divide responsibilities - one person watches tickets and confirmations, another handles maps/transport, a third books the lunch table - this simplifies organisation.
- Listen to the guide - the tour lasts several hours and time is limited; questions are welcome but try to keep the group’s pace.
- Keep a friendly attitude and patience - a positive approach and willingness to compromise will make the trip enjoyable for everyone.
Do I have to buy a ticket in advance? - It’s best to do so. In season and on weekends timed tickets often sell out; buying in advance reduces the risk of waiting in a long line.
Can you tour the mine without a guide? - The Tourist Route is guided - self‑guided walks on the main routes are not possible.
Is the mine accessible for wheelchair users? - The Tourist Route is not fully adapted for wheelchairs - if someone in your group has mobility limitations, contact staff in advance to check available options.
How long does the tour take? - About 2–3 hours for the standard Tourist Route - remember to add travel time and time for a meal.
What should I bring? - ID for reduced tickets, comfortable shoes, a light layer (sweater/jacket), and a small backpack for personal items.
Checklist “48 hours before departure” - check ticket availability for your chosen date and time; confirm the number of people in the group; book transport (train/bus/taxi) if needed.
Checklist “on the day” - arrive 20–30 minutes early; bring a light layer for the underground chill; share contacts within the group and set a meeting point.
Checklist “after the tour” - reserve a table if you plan to eat at a popular inn; take a group photo for memory and share impressions - it’s a great way to end the trip with a smile.
