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.

Wieliczka Salt Mine Krakow

Are these dwarves working the mines?

Salted Dwarfs

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.

Salt Mine Cathedral

I did love this 3D salty version of The Last Supper.

A Salty Last Supper

More religious works all carved into the rock salt:

Salt Mine Krakow
Salt Mine Poland