Visiting the Wieliczka Salt Mine

After an overnight train ride from Bratislava to Krakow, Sandy and I got off the train, went to our hotel at Hotel Saski Krakow, Curio Collection by Hilton for breakfast and left our bags, and then we were off the Wieliczka Salt Mine! Dating back to the 13th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site has long been one of Poland’s most treasured attractions.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine was about an hour bus ride from our hotel. We opted to do the Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Full Day Tour we found on Trip Advisor so we could make sure we saw everything the first day that was outside of Krakow. We highly recommend this tour and getting the bag lunch they offer.

From the moment you step into the Wieliczka Salt Mine, you’re immersed in a vast underground maze spanning over 178 miles of tunnels. The descent down a wooden staircase builds anticipation, and 210 feet below, the scale of this centuries-old mine becomes clear. The air is crisp, benefiting respiratory health, which is great news for anyone with sinus issues, like myself.

Once a hub for "white gold," the mine is now a masterpiece of history and art. As you walk through salt-carved chambers filled with chapels, statues, and intricate sculptures, including a statue of Pope John Paul II, the craftsmanship shines under soft lighting, creating a magical atmosphere. The highlight is the Chapel of St. Kinga, a breathtaking underground church carved entirely from salt, with chandeliers and a stunning altar 330 feet below ground.

Within the Wieliczka Salt Mine, you'll encounter several unique bodies of water that add to the mine's enchanting atmosphere. These underground lakes and pools, formed by natural seepage and runoff, are stunning in their clarity and hue. The saline water, tinted by the surrounding salt deposits, creates striking reflections of the mine’s intricate carvings and chandeliers. The most famous of these is the "Wieliczka Lake," a vast, mirror-like body of water that glistens beneath the mine’s soft lighting, enhancing the ethereal beauty of the underground world. These saline pools not only contribute to the mine's unique aesthetic but also play a role in its microclimate, adding to the overall sense of serenity and wonder.

More than just a mine, Wieliczka is a testament to human creativity and ingenuity. Exploring its depths is a unique experience full of history, art, and nature. For anyone visiting Kraków, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is an unforgettable experience and a must-see. Check out more photos and videos on our Instagram page.