Krakow to Wieliczka Salt Mine and Zakopane: Private day trip

Wieliczka salt mine produced table salt up to 2007 as one of the world’s oldest salt mines. The mine’s attractions include numerous statues, three chapels and a complete cathedral carved out of the rock salt. New sculptures by contemporary artists now stand side-by-side with the oldest sculptures. The Chapel of the Blessed King is the largest of the three chapels and was built by the miners so they could prey for their own safety. Nowadays, despite its unusual location, the chapel is used for weddings and church services. Everything in the chapel is made from salt and although the floor appears to be from marble, it really is from salt. On the more contemporary side of things are a conference room, spa, and wellness center. Walking through a salt mine may not be a typical tourist activity, but this secret deep below the earth provides an informative and exhilarating experience.

Situated at the foothills of the Tatra mountains just a few miles from the Slovak border lies the town of Zakopane. The region is widely known for its untouched nature and immaculate landscapes. As the winter capital of Poland, Zakopane offers a multitude of skiing and winter activities and is the ideal base point for hiking and mountain climbing. There are many restaurant and shops situated on Krupowski street, the main pedestrian zone of the city. Zakopane's most popular tourist attraction is its cable car. Ride the cable car up to Mount Kasprowy for spectacular views over the town and the surrounding Tatra mountains. There's also a funicular in the center of town that takes visitors up to Gubalowka hill. Zakopane has nine local museums to explore. The most notable museum being the The Tatra Museum. There are also several art galleries, a theater, and a cinema. Whether searching for unspoiled nature, outdoor adventure, or a slice of culture, Zakopane is the place to be.