A World Beneath the Surface: Inside Poland’s Wieliczka Salt Mine
The Most Unexpected Magic I Found in Poland…
Anyone who knows me knows this: I love Europe. I love everything about it—the way so many countries are nestled so closely together, the endless cobblestone streets, the history layered into every corner, the architecture, the wine, the food… all of it.
Recently, something popped up on my TikTok feed that instantly transported me back to a trip I took years ago through the Czech Republic (Prague), Austria (Vienna), and Poland. I could easily go on and on about Prague—hands down one of the best European cities for first-time travelers—or Vienna, which boasts the most magical Christmas markets in all of Europe and is consistently ranked among the cleanest cities in the world. But I’ll save those love letters for another day.
This story is about Poland—specifically, the absolutely extraordinary Wieliczka Salt Mine.
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is located in southern Poland, in the town of Wieliczka, just outside Kraków. And before we even get to the mine, let me say this: Kraków alone is worth the trip.
Its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, feels like stepping straight back in time. The city is alive and bustling with shops, restaurants, and bars, and the locals are incredibly welcoming. Kraków’s architecture has been beautifully preserved, giving it an “old Poland” charm layered with a slightly edgy, moody nightlife—almost reminiscent of Berlin. It’s a fascinating mix of historic and underground-cool.
The nightlife is lively, with many bars tucked into dark, underground spaces, each more unique than the last. The language can be tricky—especially the spellings. For example, dziękuję (pronounced jen-koo-yeah) means “thank you.” You may want to practice before you go!
And of course, I had to try all the food. Polish cuisine is delicious—especially the pierogi’s (traditional Polish dumplings). You absolutely cannot leave Kraków without having at least one… or many. If you happen to be there in August, you might even catch the annual Pierogi Festival, which I can only imagine is pure joy.
But back to the salt mine.
The Wieliczka Salt Mine dates all the way back to the 13th century and produced table salt continuously until 1996, making it one of the oldest operating salt mines in the world. Having seen it in person, that fact still blows my mind. Like Kraków, the mine is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an official Polish Historic Monument.
Entering the mine, however, is not for the faint of heart. As many know, I am terrified of heights. Bungee jumping? No. Skydiving? Absolutely not. Ferris wheels? Hard pass. (And no—I will not be going on the London Eye. Ever.)
I digress.
To access the mine, you must descend deep underground—very deep. The elevator drops approximately 1,073 feet (327 meters). Had I known that beforehand, I honestly don’t know if I could have done it. The elevator itself is a tiny metal cage, open to a dark shaft. Luckily for me (and for the guy I was dating at the time), it was so dark that you couldn’t see anything. We were packed in like sardines, and while it was… intense… I powered through.
And then—magic.
Once you reach the bottom, it feels as though you’ve entered another world. The mine stretches over 178 miles (287 kilometers) of tunnels and chambers, carved entirely from rock salt in varying shades of gray that resemble unpolished granite (not the white salt I was expecting).
Inside, you’ll find winding passageways, historic mining equipment, a literal underground lake, four chapels, and countless statues carved by miners themselves. There are immersive displays showing how the mine once operated—including replicas of the horses that actually lived and worked underground. You’ll also see stunning contemporary sculptures added by modern artists.
What truly takes your breath away is this: everything is made of salt. The floors. The walls. The sculptures. Even the elaborate, fully functioning chandeliers—yes, made entirely of salt.
Something else extraordinary? You can actually hold events there! The mine is a popular venue for various types of events, including corporate meetings, weddings, and social gatherings. Can you imagine?! In December 2025, a Christmas Mass was even held deep inside the mine, adding yet another layer of wonder to an already surreal place. Standing there, it feels like something pulled straight from a fantasy novel. If I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes, I’m not sure I would believe it exists.
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is extraordinary, unforgettable, and absolutely worth a visit if you ever find yourself in Poland.
COOL Video Link to interview of mine official and tour of mine:
Forbes News Link to Christmas Mass (2025):
VIATOR TOUR:
Krakow Small-Group Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour 2026 - BOOK NOW
-Carrie H.
