Wieliczka is a town near Krakow, in southern Poland. It’s known for the 13th-century Wieliczka Salt Mine, which is home to the salt-hewn Chapel of St. Kinga, the Krakow Saltworks Museum and a health resort. Hand-chiseled salt sculptures line the mine’s winding tunnels and underground chambers. Nearby, the Saltworks Castle features reconstructed Gothic architecture and a collection of antique salt cellars.
April to October ☀️
Ideal for sightseeing and tours, especially during warmer months
Underground mine stays ~17°C (63°F) year-round, regardless of weather
November to March ❄️
Fewer crowds, cozy indoor attractions
Christmas market season in nearby Kraków adds festive appeal
By Train:
From Kraków Główny to Wieliczka Rynek-Kopalnia (~25 minutes)
Station is a short walk to the Salt Mine entrance
By Bus/Minibus:
Public buses 304 and 224 go directly from central Kraków
By Car:
20–30 minutes drive, with parking available near the Salt Mine
Guided Tours:
Many Kraków tour companies offer half-day or full-day packages
A 700-year-old salt mine stretching over 300 km, with 20+ underground chambers open to tourists
Marvel at salt sculptures, chandeliers, and even an underground cathedral (St. Kinga’s Chapel)
UNESCO-listed and one of the world’s oldest operating salt mines
Three main tour options:
Tourist Route (most popular)
Miners’ Route (interactive, hands-on)
Pilgrims’ Route (religious/art-focused)
Former administrative building of the salt mine
Now houses the Saltworks Museum, with historic tools and artifacts
Small, charming center with cafés, shops, and a laid-back feel
Peaceful parks and walking paths like Planty Park
Take a 2.5-hour guided tour of the Salt Mine
Try the underground health resort for salt therapy sessions
Visit St. Kinga’s Chapel underground — weddings and concerts are held here!
Explore the Saltworks Museum and town square
Enjoy a quiet lunch or coffee after your tour in the peaceful town center
Grand Sal Hotel – elegant 4-star hotel right next to the Salt Mine
Turówka Hotel & Spa – stylish stay with wellness services, close to attractions
Eko Motel Na Wierzynka – clean and family-friendly
Hotel Galicja – classic Polish style with good value
Wieliczka is so close to Kraków, many visitors stay in the city and take a day trip
Karczma Halit – traditional Polish fare near the Salt Mine
Restauracja Grand Sal – fine dining with local flavors inside the hotel
Klimat – cozy café for snacks, cakes, and coffee
Pierogarnia Dzien Dobry – fresh pierogi with local ingredients
Wieliczka’s identity revolves around salt mining, a source of pride and history
Strong ties to Catholic traditions, visible in religious sculptures underground
Residents are proud of their artisanal heritage, including salt carving and folk crafts
The town blends historic mining culture with modern wellness and tourism
Visitors often experience a sense of wonder and reverence for the sacred underground spaces