Bochnia Salt Mine

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Wieliczka And Bochnia Royal Salt Mines (2013 Extension Of The 1978 Listing). The Oldest Salt Mine In Poland, Worked From 1248 To 1990, With Chambers, Timber Props, A Salt Carved Chapel And An Underground Rail And Boat Trip. Smaller And Quieter Than Wieliczka · Bochnia, Lesser Poland

The Bochnia Salt Mine, about 40 km east of Krakow, is the oldest salt mine in Poland. Salt was dug here from the 1200s, and the town grew rich on it for centuries. Unlike its famous neighbour it is smaller and quieter, with fewer coaches and a more intimate feel. Tours go down the Campi shaft or the Kinga shaft, then along wide chambers, timber supports and salt sculptures. A short underground train ride and a boat trip across a lit salt lake are the highlights for most families. Parts of the mine are also used as a health sanatorium, where visitors breathe the salty air. Entry is by guided tour only, and the route is partly steep stairs, so check the lift option in advance. It is cool all year, so bring a jacket. Do not expect the huge carved chapel of Wieliczka: Bochnia is simpler, more about the working mine than a gallery of art. The town above is small and sleepy, with a modest market square, so most visitors spend a morning here and no more.

Ul. Solna 2, Bochnia, about 40 km east of Krakow, Bochnia, Lesser Poland, Poland

The mine is open to visitors only on guided tours, which start at fixed times through the day and not on demand. Tour times and the language of each group vary by season, with more tours in summer and fewer in winter, so check the current timetable. It is commonly CLOSED on some Mondays or on a set weekday, and for public holidays and maintenance. There is no free entry and no free walking in the mine. The square outside, the town and the shaft building exteriors are FREE to see at any time. The sanatorium and any overnight stays need a separate booking. Confirm opening days close to your date.

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