One of the most popular day trips from Krakow is a trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine. The mine has been in operation for more than 800 years and today is one of Poland’s most popular tourist destinations. The main attractions are the salt sculptures and in particular the large cathedral where you can see religious sculptures such as the last supper, all made out of rock salt.
To go through the mine you need a guide which means you have to do the visit at their pace ie. extremely slowly. It was interesting to see all the work that has gone into these sculptures but not so interesting that I’d want to spend 3 hours doing so. I would have enjoyed it so much more if we could have quickly had a look around and then been on our way. Everyone I spoke to said how amazing the mine is and that it was a ‘must-see’ when in Krakow but I think my time would have been better spent exploring Krakow itself.
The salt mine is on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites so it’s of cultural and historic significance but I wouldn’t recommend visiting unless you love sculptures, religious monuments, or want to be trapped 100 metres underground for 3 hours.
Are these dwarves working the mines?
The main attraction at Wieliczka, the salt cathedral. They sometimes hold classical music concerts here or you can even get married here if you want.
I did love this 3D salty version of The Last Supper.
More religious works all carved into the rock salt:
About Andrea
I was there less than a month ago with a friend who is from Krakow. I didn’t mind the pace of the tour – our tour guide was wonderful so I think that helped. I was afraid I’d feel a little claustrophobic but not at all. The stairs down weren’t too bad but thank goodness for elevator back up to ground level. I enjoyed it very much!
I’m glad you enjoyed it. It probably helps going with a local. I definitely appreciate the talent and work that was put into the sculptures but I guess I just don’t have the patience for tours.
I agree and when they inform you it’s going to take 3 hours – ugh! The next day we went to Auschwitz – that’s also a 3 hour tour – you can’t roam on your own. We stuck it out for a bit then blended with other groups and got way ahead. The problem with the tour we were on may have been the guide – all he did was read the words on the posters etc – we could do that on our own.
I did the Auschwitz tour too. I found that to be so much more interesting but agree that the guide wasn’t much help. I would have preferred to have been able to wander around in peace by myself instead of following the guide.
Overall though, Krakow was a great place to visit although it was so, so touristy. It was my first time in Poland and would love to go back and visit a few other places. What about you?