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Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tours
Headout is a brand trusted by millions of guests worldwide offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
Bypass long ticket queues to explore Poland’s 700-year-old Wieliczka Salt Mine with a multilingual expert-guided tour.
- Descend 800 steps to discover the 23 vast salt chambers, saline lakes, and salt chapels of this UNESCO World Heritage site with skip-the-line access and an expert guide.
- Discover the beautifully carved rock salt altars, reliefs, and historical imagery in the mine’s St. Kinga’s, St. Anthony’s, Holy Cross, and Janowice chapels.
- Admire the artistry in the intricate rock salt figurines of Casimir the Great, John Paul II, and Copernicus, hand-carved by Polish miners.
- Explore the large Stanislaw Staszic Chamber and geological exhibits at the Krakow Saltworks Museum as you walk through the 3 km underground tourist route.
- Your multilingual guide will walk you through the methods of salt extraction, mining tools, and devices, as you take a ride on a real mining elevator.
Bypass long ticket queues to explore Poland’s 700-year-old Wieliczka Salt Mine with a multilingual expert-guided tour.
- Descend 800 steps to discover the 23 vast salt chambers, saline lakes, and salt chapels of this UNESCO World Heritage site with skip-the-line access and an expert guide.
- Discover the beautifully carved rock salt altars, reliefs, and historical imagery in the mine’s St. Kinga’s, St. Anthony’s, Holy Cross, and Janowice chapels.
- Admire the artistry in the intricate rock salt figurines of Casimir the Great, John Paul II, and Copernicus, hand-carved by Polish miners.
- Explore the large Stanislaw Staszic Chamber and geological exhibits at the Krakow Saltworks Museum as you walk through the 3 km underground tourist route.
- Your multilingual guide will walk you through the methods of salt extraction, mining tools, and devices, as you take a ride on a real mining elevator.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of Wieliczka Salt Mine
- Expert English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Polish, or Russian-speaking guide
- Skip-the-line entry to Wieliczka Salt Mine
- Access to Tourist Route
- Round-trip transfers from Krakow (based on the option selected)
- Pick-up from the meeting point or hotel (based on the option selected)
Exclusions
- Access to Miner’s Route
- Access to Graduation Tower
- Food and drinks
- Tip: Check to see if there are any sporting events, concerts, or theatrical performances being held at the mine’s largest salt chamber, which might enhance your visit.
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience. However, guide dogs are permitted.
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair. However, some of the underground paths on the tourist route have been modified to accommodate individuals with limited mobility.
- This experience is not suitable for people who suffer from claustrophobia.
- The temperature inside the mine remains around 14–16°C. Dress in layers for a comfortable experience.
- In exceptional cases, some of the chambers of the tourist route might be excluded from the guided tour.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
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4.5
5,481 ratings
3.7K
1.2K
259
96
227
Guests from United Kingdom, France, Italy and over 62 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Véronique
May 2025Verified booking
If you're ever in Krakow, it would be a real shame to leave without a visit to the salt mine. This centuries-old industrial enterprise has also become a highly artistic work of art. You'll come away richer for your eyes and intellect. In the attached photo, it's all salt. We recommend it!
View original review in French
Michelle
May 2025Verified booking
Superb Site – But Book Direct to Avoid Overpaying! The Wieliczka Salt Mines themselves were absolutely superb – a truly fascinating and unique experience that’s well worth a visit. The underground chapels, sculptures, and sheer scale of the mines are breathtaking, and the guided tour (which is included with the entry ticket) was informative and engaging. However, we were disappointed with the booking company we used. We paid a significantly higher price under the impression we were getting a special guided tour, only to find out that the site includes a guided tour for all visitors as standard. Had we booked directly with the salt mines, we could have saved a considerable amount of money. The experience itself is quite physically demanding – lots of walking and stairs – so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a bit of a workout. Despite the booking issue, we have no regrets about visiting. Just a word of advice: book directly with the salt mines to avoid unnecessary extra costs.
Susanne
May 2025Verified booking
I liked the guided tour in German very much, only with the meeting point we had some trouble, I was in Belgium with my granddaughter who speaks Polish very well and can also use the cell phone, it was not so clear where we should meet.
View original review in German
Susan
May 2025Verified booking
The booking process was easy. Whilst we found the meeting point quite easily we would have preferred a hotel pickup, but unfortunately our hotel wasn't on the list. The tour of the salt mines was fascinating and our tour guide was very knowledgeable and helpful, but we struggled to hear her. Perhaps some form of voice amplification could be used? (Similar to the one she used in the snack bar area to advise everyone in our group to assemble and move on?)
Jukka
May 2025Verified booking
It was nice to see the amasing place. Guide was great and the driver was also a good. Unfortunately the group was so big (c. 40 people), that it was impossible to hear anything, if you wete at the end of the line.
David
May 2025Verified booking
Firstly, running slightly late due to me reading the wrong street sign. The driver called and explained they were waiting, nice touch. I'd seen the mines on social media but they do not come close to the real thing. The sheer scale of the mines is jaw dropping and you only see a fraction. Our guide was very pleasant and informative, but the main thing is the mine itself. No gimmicks no hidden extras it was absolutely mind blowing and a nice touch of having a lift at the end. We also left our souvenir in the car by mistake, but our driver KONRAD went the extra mile and returned it to the office before we returned home the next day.
Monique
Apr 2025Verified booking
With a fairly large group you are led through salt mine at lightning speed. Nevertheless, still spent 3 hours on the road. Go along to the museum. You can take the elevator to the second floor.
View original review in Dutch
Thomas
Apr 2025Verified booking
The tour guide was great and very informative. It's a great experience if you don't mind walking lots of steps but you take the miners lift back up to the top. I'd advise arriving at least an hour before your tour if you wish to store luggage as there simply is not enough lockers to go around, so you will have to wait around for someone to retrieve their bags.
Tatiana
Apr 2025Verified booking
I was especially impressed by the underground church and the mechanism of raising salt to the surface! It's amazing how these people created these caves hundreds of years ago with simple tools! It was convenient to buy tickets online, the transfer was comfortable, the guide was professional, and I would gladly recommend the tour!
Patrick
Apr 2025Verified booking
Excellent very good ...bus transport excellent inside cave and guide excellent a bit rushed at the end but still a 10 all day
Mary
Apr 2025Verified booking
Who knew that salt could be so interesting? We had an amazing trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mines. Tickets are timed and you literally turn up 10 minutes or so before your time slot to meet your guide and off you go. An amazing experience with knowledgeable guides. The beauty of the place took our breath away. Just be prepared to walk. A lot! Tiring but enjoyable- we will return again one day.
Karen
Apr 2025Verified booking
This was easy to book and from start to finish it was absolutely amazing. The tour guide was informative and fun. What an amazing place. Definitely worth a visit. So much to see. We even stayed and had a drink in the cafe in the caves. After licking the walls and inhaling the healing air we were super thirsty. Thank you to all for an amazing visit 🤩 We visited from krakow and got an uber from our apartment.
MARTA
Apr 2025Verified booking
The place of course was lovely and awasome but our guide Ola was outstanding. The best. She made the tour a great experience and made the difference.
Harry
Apr 2025Verified booking
Great experience for healthy walkers; but with the amount of money you receive, having a shortened tour with a down elevator to start (perhaps 1 or 2 levels only) for slower walking persons, would increase income from families who all want to participate?
Apr 2025Verified booking
Parking nearby. Quick and easy entry. Very friendly and attentive guide with very precise explanations. Exceptional, magnificent location
View original review in French
Iain
Apr 2025Verified booking
This trip was most interesting and the guide,a young lady called,Yolanta,was absolutely spot on. She certainly knew the history of the Salt Mines and made the whole experience a brilliant day out
Carol
Apr 2025Verified booking
Great experience no long queue English tour guide who was very good. Very interesting and informative. Would definitely recommend 'Headout'
Jason
Mar 2025Verified booking
Great no problem at all, we booked on the site the day before so we're pleased when we got tickets and the transfer was brilliant too.
Gordon
Mar 2025Verified booking
Beat the queue tickets without transport, easy to get uber from town. All went to plan. Recommend you buy all tickets well in advance ie as early as you can as all Kracow tours are very busy.
Joshua
Jun 2025Verified booking
Amazing ! The whole tour was class, from start to finish.
Michael
Jun 2025Verified booking
A very good guide who gave us all the important stories and information.
Elena
May 2025Verified booking
An extraordinary experience at the salt mine in Krakow – highly recommended!
Kevin
May 2025Verified booking
Excellent experience! Very informative and interesting. Our guide did a great job!
Norbert
Apr 2025Verified booking
The overall setting was perfect. And that Goethe was here too.
View original review in German
Pradeep
Apr 2025Verified booking
A very well organised and guided tour with knowlageable guides.
Discover the salt deposits, natural landscapes, and salt sculptures on this guided tour of the Wieliczka Salt Mine from Krakow.
- Get skip-the-line access to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its 2500 salt excavations, sculptures, and rock salt deposits.
- Gain insights into mining techniques and tools, the lives of miners, and the legend of St. Kinga, with expert commentary from your guide.
- Discover intricate salt artworks dedicated to da Vinci's Last Supper, holy patrons, and secular figures like Nicolaus Copernicus.
- As you walk through 22 chambers inside the mine, find out which chamber is carved in a lump salt deposit and which one in a bedded deposit.
- Travel comfortably in an AC bus with convenient pickup and drop-off at a central meeting point in Krakow.
Discover the salt deposits, natural landscapes, and salt sculptures on this guided tour of the Wieliczka Salt Mine from Krakow.
- Get skip-the-line access to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its 2500 salt excavations, sculptures, and rock salt deposits.
- Gain insights into mining techniques and tools, the lives of miners, and the legend of St. Kinga, with expert commentary from your guide.
- Discover intricate salt artworks dedicated to da Vinci's Last Supper, holy patrons, and secular figures like Nicolaus Copernicus.
- As you walk through 22 chambers inside the mine, find out which chamber is carved in a lump salt deposit and which one in a bedded deposit.
- Travel comfortably in an AC bus with convenient pickup and drop-off at a central meeting point in Krakow.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of Wieliczka Salt Mine
- Expert English, German, Italian, French, Polish, Russian, Ukranian, or Spanish-speaking guide (based on the option selected)
- Round-trip transfers from Krakow with pick-up from the meeting point or hotel (based on the option selected)
- Tip: The mine's unique microclimate can benefit you if you have asthma or allergies, providing a therapeutic and refreshing experience.
- Gear up to take 800 stairs along the tourist route, but take the exit lift to return to the surface with ease.
- This tour is not recommended for participants with walking disabilities or claustrophobia, as the tour involves narrow spaces and significant physical effort.
- The tour is not entirely wheelchair accessible.
- Temperature inside the mine can hover between 14-16°C year-round, so wear warm clothing to stay comfortable. Comfortable footwear is also essential, as there is plenty of walking involved.
- You can carry only one hand baggage with maximum dimensions of 35cmx20cmx20cm.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.7
1,047 ratings
746
274
16
5
6
Guests from United Kingdom, France, United States and over 38 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Susan
May 2025Verified booking
The booking process was easy. Whilst we found the meeting point quite easily we would have preferred a hotel pickup, but unfortunately our hotel wasn't on the list. The tour of the salt mines was fascinating and our tour guide was very knowledgeable and helpful, but we struggled to hear her. Perhaps some form of voice amplification could be used? (Similar to the one she used in the snack bar area to advise everyone in our group to assemble and move on?)
Jukka
May 2025Verified booking
It was nice to see the amasing place. Guide was great and the driver was also a good. Unfortunately the group was so big (c. 40 people), that it was impossible to hear anything, if you wete at the end of the line.
David
May 2025Verified booking
Firstly, running slightly late due to me reading the wrong street sign. The driver called and explained they were waiting, nice touch. I'd seen the mines on social media but they do not come close to the real thing. The sheer scale of the mines is jaw dropping and you only see a fraction. Our guide was very pleasant and informative, but the main thing is the mine itself. No gimmicks no hidden extras it was absolutely mind blowing and a nice touch of having a lift at the end. We also left our souvenir in the car by mistake, but our driver KONRAD went the extra mile and returned it to the office before we returned home the next day.
Tatiana
Apr 2025Verified booking
I was especially impressed by the underground church and the mechanism of raising salt to the surface! It's amazing how these people created these caves hundreds of years ago with simple tools! It was convenient to buy tickets online, the transfer was comfortable, the guide was professional, and I would gladly recommend the tour!
Patrick
Apr 2025Verified booking
Excellent very good ...bus transport excellent inside cave and guide excellent a bit rushed at the end but still a 10 all day
MARTA
Apr 2025Verified booking
The place of course was lovely and awasome but our guide Ola was outstanding. The best. She made the tour a great experience and made the difference.
Iain
Apr 2025Verified booking
This trip was most interesting and the guide,a young lady called,Yolanta,was absolutely spot on. She certainly knew the history of the Salt Mines and made the whole experience a brilliant day out
Jason
Mar 2025Verified booking
Great no problem at all, we booked on the site the day before so we're pleased when we got tickets and the transfer was brilliant too.
Michael
Jun 2025Verified booking
A very good guide who gave us all the important stories and information.
Pradeep
Apr 2025Verified booking
A very well organised and guided tour with knowlageable guides.
Caron
Apr 2025Verified booking
Really well organised. This wasn't top of the list of things to do in Krakow but the one we enjoyed the most
Gustavo
Apr 2025Verified booking
Amazing place, great service, highly recommended!
DEGRE
Jun 2025Verified booking
Very interesting tour with an excellent French-speaking guide and a welcome touch of humor. Everything went according to plan. The only downside was that the exit from the tour was a long way from the mini-bus pick-up point, with no signposting.
View original review in French
Heather
Jun 2025Verified booking
Fabulous tour ! Pick up straight from our hotel . Easy to follow guided tour and wow the salt mines surpassed our expectations ! Only feedback is to highlight exit is on a different street as caused lots of confusion
Manfred
Jun 2025Verified booking
The tour of the mine and the design of the paths and rooms were very good. Overall price/performance ratio not good. If you buy tickets on the spot, you only pay too much for the return trip. Nothing else was included in the service.
View original review in German
Michael
May 2025Verified booking
Daniel, our driver, was great. He texted us in the morning before the pick-up, provided great info on the drive to the salt mine, got us to the front of the line, and we enjoyed chatting with him on the way back. The salt mine was a truly unique experience, and getting to see it on the tour was amazing. Thank you!
Kirsten
May 2025Verified booking
Didn't realize all that can be done with salt, ex. flooring or sculpting. The history of the salt mine was fascinating. Be prepared for a lot of steps and walking.
Charlotte
May 2025Verified booking
Pleasant tour The driver (Matthew) picked us up at the meeting point (location given the day before via WhatsApp). We took the tour with a guide who spoke good French. Atypical place and a must-see if you come to Krakow. Then at the exit, the driver was waiting for us at the expected time, he was top notch and had a good driving style.
View original review in French
Malcolm
May 2025Verified booking
We really enjoyed this tour, even though it was not originally on our tour schedule. The tour operator was excellent both with their pre-tour communication and providing a very knowledgeable pick up driver, Leszek, who made the 40 minute drive out there and back very enjoyable. Be warned that you need to be fit enough or may consider taking a walking/hicking stick to assit you descend the 800 steps into the Mine, thankfully you take a lift to get back to the surface. The various chambers of the mine are a must see, as you are visiting a place we mining started started in the 13th Century and only stopped in 1996.
Jimmy
May 2025Verified booking
The bus arrived on time and the driver was very friendly. We got to the salt mine and the driver gave clear instructions on what to expect.
pincini
May 2025Verified booking
Very good organization of the tour with pickup directly at the hotel. Guide ( Caterina )in Italian language very nice and helpful. Mine absolutely a must see!!!
View original review in Italian
Luciano
May 2025Verified booking
Everything as hoped !!! Very punctual pickup at the appointed point. The driver very nice and very friendly. Very fast entrance to the mines with the directions of the driver who took us. The guide (in Italian language) very nice and engaging. Everything beautiful. Thank you !!!
View original review in Italian
Carol
Apr 2025Verified booking
All the sculptures and chandeliers were fantastic. The one thing I didn't like was that the group was too large so at times we couldn't hear what the guide was saying.
Jacobus
Apr 2025Verified booking
The driver was perfectly on time. The tour also started on time and the group was not too large. Joanna, the guide narrated with passion and was well understood. In short, a great experience!
View original review in Dutch
Benoit
Apr 2025Verified booking
Easy pick-up at the meeting point. Very interesting explanations by a French-speaking guide who combined culture and humor with great skill. I'd recommend this tour without reservation over our visit to Auschwitz, where the time was changed and we ended up with an English-speaking guide who didn't speak French, so we didn't understand a thing because he spoke far too fast for my poor level of English. Extremely disappointed this time. Under these conditions, I don't think I'll use this organization again for a future voyage of discovery!
View original review in French
Combos
Combo (Save 5%): Wieliczka Salt Mine + Schindler's Factory Guided Tour
from zł299.39
zł284.42
5% off
Dive into Krakow’s past with a skip-the-line combo of Wieliczka Salt Mine and Schindler’s Factory.
- Enjoy cost-effective access to two significant historical sites in Poland: Wieliczka Salt Mine and Oskar Schindler's Factory with skip-the-line tickets.
- Venture 135m underground and traverse through 3km of maze-like galleries at the Wieliczka Salt Mine; learn about salt extraction methods from an expert guide.
- Marvel at the artistry of salt-made sculptures and reliefs in St. Kinga's Chapel within the Salt Mine, lit up by salt crystal chandeliers.
- Delve into the tragic history of WWII at Schindler's Factory Museum in Krakow; learn about Oskar Schindler's heroic efforts to save Jews from extermination.
- Engage with meticulously crafted exhibits depicting the era of Nazi-occupied Krakow and gain profound insights from your expert guide at Schindler's Factory.
Dive into Krakow’s past with a skip-the-line combo of Wieliczka Salt Mine and Schindler’s Factory.
- Enjoy cost-effective access to two significant historical sites in Poland: Wieliczka Salt Mine and Oskar Schindler's Factory with skip-the-line tickets.
- Venture 135m underground and traverse through 3km of maze-like galleries at the Wieliczka Salt Mine; learn about salt extraction methods from an expert guide.
- Marvel at the artistry of salt-made sculptures and reliefs in St. Kinga's Chapel within the Salt Mine, lit up by salt crystal chandeliers.
- Delve into the tragic history of WWII at Schindler's Factory Museum in Krakow; learn about Oskar Schindler's heroic efforts to save Jews from extermination.
- Engage with meticulously crafted exhibits depicting the era of Nazi-occupied Krakow and gain profound insights from your expert guide at Schindler's Factory.
Inclusions
Weilickza Salt Mine
- Skip-the-line entry to Wieliczka Salt Mine
- Expert English, German, French or Spanish-speaking guide (as per option selected)
- Access to Tourist Route
Schindler’s Factory
- Skip-the-line entry into Oskar Schindler’s Factory
- Expert English, German, French or Spanish-speaking guide (as per option selected)
Weilickza Salt Mine
- Tip: As the temperature underground reaches 17–18°C, the best way to dress is in layers.
- The route includes around 800 stairs, 380 of which are at the start. So, make sure you are wearing comfortable shoes.
- The excursion is not wheelchair accessible. Some of the underground workings of the Tourist Route are adapted for people with limited mobility.
- In exceptional cases, some of the chambers of the Tourist Route might be excluded from the excursion.
- Service animals/guide dogs are allowed.
Schindler’s Factory
- Tip: Take note of the preserved machinery, tools, and materials to get a sense of the working conditions during that time.
- This experience is wheelchair accessible.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
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4.5
8,729 ratings
5.6K
2.4K
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172
261
Guests from United Kingdom, France, United States and over 64 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Orna
May 2025Verified booking
The enterance to Schindler's factory in Kroakow was orgnized very well, we enterd on time and got hearing divice. The guide and the guidness in the museum was very good and intresting. This experience is very recomended.
Frida
May 2025Verified booking
All the installations were amazing and made you feel like you really were walking through Krakow in the 40s. Our guide was also very good, and so interesting to listen to.
Véronique
May 2025Verified booking
If you're ever in Krakow, it would be a real shame to leave without a visit to the salt mine. This centuries-old industrial enterprise has also become a highly artistic work of art. You'll come away richer for your eyes and intellect. In the attached photo, it's all salt. We recommend it!
View original review in French
Andreas
May 2025Verified booking
Good organization although it seemed clandestine, good guide who spoke very good English. She did speed here and there but she was on hour and time so understandable. It is a mustsee in Krakow
View original review in Dutch
Michelle
May 2025Verified booking
Superb Site – But Book Direct to Avoid Overpaying! The Wieliczka Salt Mines themselves were absolutely superb – a truly fascinating and unique experience that’s well worth a visit. The underground chapels, sculptures, and sheer scale of the mines are breathtaking, and the guided tour (which is included with the entry ticket) was informative and engaging. However, we were disappointed with the booking company we used. We paid a significantly higher price under the impression we were getting a special guided tour, only to find out that the site includes a guided tour for all visitors as standard. Had we booked directly with the salt mines, we could have saved a considerable amount of money. The experience itself is quite physically demanding – lots of walking and stairs – so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a bit of a workout. Despite the booking issue, we have no regrets about visiting. Just a word of advice: book directly with the salt mines to avoid unnecessary extra costs.
Susanne
May 2025Verified booking
I liked the guided tour in German very much, only with the meeting point we had some trouble, I was in Belgium with my granddaughter who speaks Polish very well and can also use the cell phone, it was not so clear where we should meet.
View original review in German
Anita
May 2025Verified booking
Easier find our guild at the door, quick entrance, easy to hear everyone supplied ear pieces, guild knowledge while experience was engaging
Monique
Apr 2025Verified booking
With a fairly large group you are led through salt mine at lightning speed. Nevertheless, still spent 3 hours on the road. Go along to the museum. You can take the elevator to the second floor.
View original review in Dutch
Thomas
Apr 2025Verified booking
The tour guide was great and very informative. It's a great experience if you don't mind walking lots of steps but you take the miners lift back up to the top. I'd advise arriving at least an hour before your tour if you wish to store luggage as there simply is not enough lockers to go around, so you will have to wait around for someone to retrieve their bags.
Zarroca
Apr 2025Verified booking
It's more about the history of Krakow between 39 and 45 than the story of Mr. Schindler. Very interesting to incorporate Schindler's "little" story into the big picture. Instructive and well commented by the guide in French.
View original review in French
Mark
Apr 2025Verified booking
It was so smooth the queues for the trip were massive, but our guide was there and we skipped the queue. She was very informative and made the trip extremely educational and thoughtful. I have already recommended the company to friends and family.
Mary
Apr 2025Verified booking
Who knew that salt could be so interesting? We had an amazing trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mines. Tickets are timed and you literally turn up 10 minutes or so before your time slot to meet your guide and off you go. An amazing experience with knowledgeable guides. The beauty of the place took our breath away. Just be prepared to walk. A lot! Tiring but enjoyable- we will return again one day.
Karen
Apr 2025Verified booking
This was easy to book and from start to finish it was absolutely amazing. The tour guide was informative and fun. What an amazing place. Definitely worth a visit. So much to see. We even stayed and had a drink in the cafe in the caves. After licking the walls and inhaling the healing air we were super thirsty. Thank you to all for an amazing visit 🤩 We visited from krakow and got an uber from our apartment.
Harry
Apr 2025Verified booking
Great experience for healthy walkers; but with the amount of money you receive, having a shortened tour with a down elevator to start (perhaps 1 or 2 levels only) for slower walking persons, would increase income from families who all want to participate?
Apr 2025Verified booking
Parking nearby. Quick and easy entry. Very friendly and attentive guide with very precise explanations. Exceptional, magnificent location
View original review in French
Mary
Apr 2025Verified booking
Very happy we got the tour. I was worried for a minute that we weren't going to find out guide but it was easy. The guide was right there on time. Since the museum is small, meaning the rooms are small it was a bit crowded but the guide managed for us all to hear her well. Very interesting and without a guide it would be difficult to read it all and understand the magnitude of what happened there. She pointed out many small things but important. She also tod us about the ghetto wall and we walked there oursleves. It was the last minute decison the night before to book a tour and I am very happy we did.
Carol
Apr 2025Verified booking
Great experience no long queue English tour guide who was very good. Very interesting and informative. Would definitely recommend 'Headout'
Michael
Mar 2025Verified booking
Extremely busy visit to Schindler's Factory. First class and fascinating commentary from our guide. Spoilt by others groups failing to hold back during descriptions of events and by unaccompanied individuals generally just ambling through the museum. I would recommend researching quiet times if wishing to visit this important historical site.
colin
Mar 2025Verified booking
Visit started right on time, and guide was very informative also adding in a bit of humour to what is a sad tour. Felt like the group could have been smaller as sometimes we were at the back and couldn't see what he was talking about and by time we got to it the group had moved to next stage.very interesting on the whole.would recommend to anyone coming to poland from scotland
Gordon
Mar 2025Verified booking
Beat the queue tickets without transport, easy to get uber from town. All went to plan. Recommend you buy all tickets well in advance ie as early as you can as all Kracow tours are very busy.
Jolanda
Mar 2025Verified booking
We were given an enormous amount of information about Shindler's help and also about his personal background. There is a lot to see in the factory and in terms of information actually everything from the war time is told. A very impressive tour.
View original review in Dutch
Boden
Mar 2025Verified booking
The no-wait access, the guide and the richness of the exhibition itself made our visit a memorable one! I recommend
View original review in French
Joshua
Jun 2025Verified booking
Amazing ! The whole tour was class, from start to finish.
Ross
Jun 2025Verified booking
Well organised Well presented by Marta
Lena
Jun 2025Verified booking
The guide was very informative, and friendly
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION7 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minivan
START POINT
St. Mary Magdalene Square
St. Mary Magdalene Square is a lovely spot for visitors looking to experience a more tranquil side of Krakow. Meet your guide at the Piotr Skarga Monument to go on your Wawel Castle expedition with a knowledgeable guide.
Walk
1
Wawel Castle
Tickets included
Walk through the castle's chambers, halls, and State Rooms and learn all about the secrets and stories of the castle from your guide.
Walk
2
Wawel Cathedral
Tickets included
After exploring the castle, you will visit the Wawel Cathedral where many Polish kings and monarchs are buried, making it a prominent site. See the Cathedral's most famous feature – Sigmund's Chapel to admire its ornate design and lavish decor.
Things to do
Lunch
Lunch
Once you are done exploring the landmarks, you will be treated to a traditional Polish lunch comprising of a soup and a main course dish. Savor these flavors before hopping onto a comfortable minivan to explore the salt mines.
Walk
3
Wieliczka salt mines
Tickets included
Board the comfortable minivan in Krakow and head straight to Wieliczka salt mines, a small town 10 kilometers away from Krakow. Here you will see one of Europe's largest ancient salt mines holding so many stories and facts.
4
St. Kinga's Church
Tickets included
Built deep within the salt mines, St. Kinga's church is entirely carved from salt, including the altar, pulpit, statues, and chandeliers, making it one of the most extraordinary churches in the world.
5
END POINT
St. Mary Magdalene Square
- Set out to explore the rich history and heritage of Poland in the heart of Krakow at it’s must-visit historic landmarks
- An expert English-speaking tour guide will walk alongside you, filling you in on lesser-known facts and chilling tales about the attractions on your itinerary
- Start off on Wawel Hill, where the magnificent residence of Polish kings will take your breath away
- Walk in and out of the Wawel Royal Castle, wandering through the heavily adorned chambers, halls, and State Rooms, filled with secrets and myths of the castle
- Explore the Wawel Cathedral, a great narrative of Polish history where all Polish monarchs are buried
- Tuck into some delectable flavors with a traditional Polish lunch (soup and main course)
- Continue onto the small town of Wieliczka, where you’ll see one of Europe’s largest ancient salt mines
- Over 340 meters deep, 245 kilometers long, and 700 years old, this salt mine is steeped in history
- Visit the underground St. Kinga's Church while here, the patroness of miners, which is decorated with chandeliers, carvings, and sculptures of saints carved out of salt
- Set out to explore the rich history and heritage of Poland in the heart of Krakow at it’s must-visit historic landmarks
- An expert English-speaking tour guide will walk alongside you, filling you in on lesser-known facts and chilling tales about the attractions on your itinerary
- Start off on Wawel Hill, where the magnificent residence of Polish kings will take your breath away
- Walk in and out of the Wawel Royal Castle, wandering through the heavily adorned chambers, halls, and State Rooms, filled with secrets and myths of the castle
- Explore the Wawel Cathedral, a great narrative of Polish history where all Polish monarchs are buried
- Tuck into some delectable flavors with a traditional Polish lunch (soup and main course)
- Continue onto the small town of Wieliczka, where you’ll see one of Europe’s largest ancient salt mines
- Over 340 meters deep, 245 kilometers long, and 700 years old, this salt mine is steeped in history
- Visit the underground St. Kinga's Church while here, the patroness of miners, which is decorated with chandeliers, carvings, and sculptures of saints carved out of salt
Inclusions
- Expert English-speaking tour guide
- Admission into the Wawel Cathedral
- Entry into the Wawel Royal Castle
- Access to the State Rooms
- Entrance ticket to the Wieliczka Salt Mine
- Lunch
- Transportation from Krakow to Wieliczka and back
Exclusions
- Hotel transfers
- A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
- On transportation from Krakow to Wieliczka, infants must sit on laps of parents/guardians.
- Guests with heart conditions or other serious medical conditions must not participate in this tour.
- This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
- There is a fair amount of walking involved on this tour so please wear comfortable footwear.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Wieliczka Salt Mine TicketsGuided Tours
Which Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tour is best for you?
Skip-the-line guided tours
Duration: Flexible
Suited for: Travelers on a tight schedule
Ticket price: from zł98
Why go for it?
- Skip-the-line tickets ensure you spend less time waiting and more time exploring the beautiful salt mine.
- No need to worry about long queues – breeze through the entrance and immerse yourself in the mine's captivating history.
- It is an economical option that guarantees you won't break the bank while still enjoying a guided tour.
Recommended tours: Guided Tour of Wieliczka Salt Mine with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Combo tours
Duration: Flexible
Suited for: History enthusiasts exploring multiple sites
Ticket price: from zł204
Why go for it?
- Combine your Wieliczka Salt Mine adventure with a visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau, Schindler's Factory, or Krakow Old Town for a comprehensive historical journey.
- Streamline your itinerary with a combo tour, ensuring a seamless transition between two extraordinary sites.
- Opting for a combo ticket often comes with discounts, providing excellent value for money.
Recommended tours: Combo: Auschwitz-Birkenau & Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour from Krakow with Optional Lunch | Skip-the-Line Combo: Wieliczka Salt Mine + Schindler's Factory | Combo: Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour & Visit to Krakow Old Town
Krakow Card combo
Duration: Flexible
Suited for: Exploration of multiple top attractions
Ticket price: zł300.49
Why go for it?
- The Krakow Card Combo allows you to personalize your itinerary, including a guided tour of Wieliczka Salt Mine, providing flexibility during your trip.
- Gain access to various attractions with a single card and avoid the hassle of booking multiple tickets.
- Enjoy the perks of the Krakow Card, offering discounts on various attractions and services across the city.
Recommended tours: Combo (Save 10%): Krakow Card + Guided Tour of Wieliczka Salt Mine Tickets
Guided tours with transfers
Duration: 4 - 4.5 hours
Suited for: Travelers seeking hassle-free transportation
Ticket price: Starting at zł203.22
Why go for it?
- Guided tours with transfers ensure a smooth and worry-free experience right from pick-up to drop-off.
- Enjoy the convenience of being picked up directly from your hotel or a designated meeting point, eliminating transportation concerns.
- Engage with an informative guide during transfers, gaining insights into Krakow's rich history before reaching the salt mine.
Recommended tours: Guided Tour of Wieliczka Salt Mine with Meeting Point Pick Up from Krakow | Guided Tour of Wieliczka Salt Mine with Hotel Transfers from Krakow
Why take a guided tour of Wieliczka Salt Mine?
- Expert guide: Guided tours are the best way to explore this salt mine and learn more about how it came into existence, along with an expert tour guide.
- Skip the queues: With a guided tour, you can bid farewell to long queues and hello to a quick entrance. Spend more time exploring the salt chambers and less time waiting.
- Navigate the labyrinthine tunnels effortlessly: The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a vast underground labyrinth, and it's easy to feel a bit like Alice in Wonderland. A guide acts as your trusted navigator, leading you seamlessly through the twists and turns.
- Enhanced educational experience: A guided tour transforms your exploration into a dynamic learning experience, providing context to the geological formations, art installations, and the daily lives of miners. It's a crash course in salt mining with a dash of entertainment.
Highlights covered on your Wieliczka Salt Mine tour
Krakow Saltworks Museum
Founded in 1951, the Krakow Saltworks Museum is located at a depth of 135 metres on the third level of the salt mine. It is the largest underground museum in Europe that houses several fascinating artifacts, old mining equipment, a geological exhibit, and historic and scientific information about the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Check out the Renaissance Horn of the Diggers’ Brotherhood, the most valuable and precious artifact in the museum dating back to 1534.
Stanislaw Staszic Chamber
Located at a height of 36 metres, the Stanislaw Staszic Chamber is the tallest structure in the Wieliczka Salt Mine. It houses several drink machines, gift shops, and a museum. Due to its height, the chamber played host to an underground hot-air balloon flight as well as an underground bungee jump. The event even made it to the Guinness Book of World Records! Balloonist Krzysztof Rekas managed to float 410 metre underground seven feet off the cavern floor.
St. Anthony, Janowice, and Holy Cross Chapels
The salt mine is home to several chapels since Polish miners were quite devoted and, therefore, created several places of worship to pray at during the day. The three chapels of St. Anthony, Janowice, and Holy Cross boast several beautiful altars and salt sculptures depicting historical, religious, and mythological figures. St. Anthony Chapel was built in Baroque style while the chapel of Janowice is filled with legends and stories about the discovery of Princess Kinga’s engagement ring.
St. Kinga's Chapel
The St. Kinga's Chapel is dedicated to the patron saint of salt miners, Saint Kinga, and consists of tiered chandeliers made of salt, a carved floor, a three-piece halite crystal altar, and reliefs depicting events described in the Scripture. Breathtaking murals of The Last Supper, Christ Falling Under the Cross, and Doubting Thomas adorn the walls of the chapel. All these works of art are made entirely of rock salt.
Underground Salt Lakes
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is home to several underground saltwater lakes. The Weimar Chamber is the most popular of them all for being the saltiest water body in the world with a teal hue due to the presence of huge amounts of sodium chloride. The chamber has witnessed several romantic proposals in the backdrop of the beautiful lake. You will also find a sculpture dedicated to the writer Goethe here.
Frequently asked questions about Wieliczka Salt Mine tours
How much does a Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tour cost?
There are a variety of Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tours catering to different preferences and budgets. The prices range from zł98 for a basic guided tour with skip-the-line tickets to zł335.72 for a combo tour that includes a visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau.
How do I book a Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tour?
You can book a Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tour online.
Which is the best Wieliczka Salt Mine tour?
The best tour depends on your preferences and interests. If you're short on time, the skip-the-line option is a fantastic choice. For history buffs, the Auschwitz-Birkenau combo or the Schindler's Factory combo provides a comprehensive experience. Travelers seeking convenience may prefer the Wieliczka Salt Mine tour with hotel pick-ups.
Why should I opt for a guided tour of the Wieliczka Salt Mine, and what does it include?
Opting for a guided tour enhances your Wieliczka Salt Mine experience. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the mine's history, geology, and the fascinating stories behind its chambers and sculptures. Most tours also include convenient features like skip-the-line access, transportation, and even combo options for a broader exploration of the region.
How long does a Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tour last?
The duration varies depending on the chosen tour. On average, a standard guided tour lasts about 4-4.5 hours, providing ample time to explore the underground wonders, including the stunning chapels, sculptures, and saline lakes. Combo tours, combining multiple attractions, may take longer, so check the itinerary for specific details.
Is a Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tour worth it?
Yes. The Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tour is worth it because it’s the best way to explore this iconic and complex heritage site and learn all about its history.
What languages are Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tours available in?
Wieliczka Salt Mine tours cater to an international audience, offering multilingual guides fluent in languages like English, French, German, Spanish, and more. Check the tour details to ensure your preferred language is available for a more personalized experience.
Do I get skip-the-line access with my Wieliczka Salt Mine tour?
Yes, many Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tours include skip-the-line access, allowing you to bypass the queues and make the most of your time underground. This feature ensures a seamless and efficient visit, giving you more time to marvel at the mesmerizing salt formations and historical wonders inside the salt mine.
What is the cancellation policy for a Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tour?
Cancellation policies differ for different tour options. Be sure to review the policy when booking and choose a tour that aligns with your travel plans.
Are the Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tours suitable for children?
Yes, Wieliczka Salt Mine tours are family-friendly and suitable for children. However, keep in mind that the underground environment might be challenging for very young children or those with claustrophobia. Consider the duration of the tour and the child's comfort level when making your decision.
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From happy customers
Susanne
SwitzerlandMay, 2025
I liked the guided tour in German very much, only with the meeting point we had some trouble, I was in Belgium with my granddaughter who speaks Polish very well and can also use the cell phone, it was not so clear where we should meet.
View original review in German
Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Monique
NetherlandsApr, 2025
With a fairly large group you are led through salt mine at lightning speed. Nevertheless, still spent 3 hours on the road.
Go along to the museum.
You can take the elevator to the second floor.
View original review in Dutch
Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Jukka
FinlandMay, 2025
It was nice to see the amasing place. Guide was great and the driver was also a good.
Unfortunately the group was so big (c. 40 people), that it was impossible to hear anything, if you wete at the end of the line.
Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour with Hotel Transfers from Krakow
Iain
United KingdomApr, 2025
This trip was most interesting and the guide,a young lady called,Yolanta,was absolutely spot on.
She certainly knew the history of the Salt Mines and made the whole experience a brilliant day out
Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour with Hotel Transfers from Krakow
David
United KingdomMay, 2025
+ 2 more
Firstly, running slightly late due to me reading the wrong street sign. The driver called and explained they were waiting, nice touch.
I'd seen the mines on social media but they do not come close to the real thing. The sheer scale of the mines is jaw dropping and you only see a fraction.
Our guide was very pleasant and informative, but the main thing is the mine itself.
No gimmicks no hidden extras it was absolutely mind blowing and a nice touch of having a lift at the end.
We also left our souvenir in the car by mistake, but our driver KONRAD went the extra mile and returned it to the office before we returned home the next day.
From Krakow: Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Joseph
MaltaMar, 2025
+ 1 more
Auschwitz-Birkenau opportunity not to be missed. Well prepared guide and very informative. Provided transport from hotel excellent.
Salt Mines interesting but at times a bit lengthy. Exit a bit confusing. Provided transport to hotel excellent.
From Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau & Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour
Mrs.
Aug, 2024
Everything. It was very well organised from picking us up at our hotel and back again. The guide Jo at the mines didn't stop giving us in-depth information the whole time. It was amazing and something we would highly recommend anyone visit Krakow to do.
Guided Tour of Wieliczka Salt Mine from Krakow
Rebecca
Nov, 2019
The service was fantastic we had a wonderful driver (can’t remember his name unfortunately) he was so friendly and knowledgable, the tour itself was so well organised and well worth the money as we feel we got so much for what we paid. Thank you once again will be recommending to friends if they come to visit Poland
Auschwitz Birkenau & Salt Mine: 1 Day Tour from Krakow