The Wieliczka Salt Mine
Wieliczka sits barely a dozen kilometres from Krakow, about a 30 minute drive. The tourist route leads down hundreds of steps to underground chambers, lakes and a chapel carved out of salt. The guided visit lasts around 2 to 3 hours and takes place at a steady temperature of around fifteen degrees, so bring something with long sleeves. It is a light, spectacular trip and good for children. The site is on the UNESCO list.
Who it suits: families with children, a first trip out of Krakow, when you want something interesting without the emotional weight.
The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial
Oswiecim is further out, about 70 kilometres west, roughly an hour and 20 minutes by road. Visiting both parts takes around 3.5 hours and is a difficult, reflective experience. Admission is free but requires an advance reservation for a specific time. It is a trip after which you will need a moment to gather yourself.
Who it suits: people interested in history, ready for a heavy subject, without small children.
A quick comparison
Wieliczka is closer, shorter, lighter and child friendly. Auschwitz is further, longer, needs a booked entry time and some emotional preparation. Transfer prices differ too, because the distance differs: to Wieliczka from 200 PLN (approx. 50 EUR), to Oswiecim from 470 PLN (approx. 118 EUR) per car.
Can you do both in one day?
Yes, though the day will be tight. It is best to start early in the morning with Auschwitz at a pre booked time, then look in on Wieliczka in the afternoon, as it is on the way back to Krakow. In a private car with a driver this is doable, because you do not lose time on timetables and changes. That said, if you have to choose, give each of these places its own time, as they are too different to force together.
Want to see both places, or just one, calmly and at your own pace? Book a private transfer with a driver for the whole day.
Book a transfer for the dayFrequently asked questions
Which is better from Krakow, Wieliczka or Auschwitz?
It depends on the mood of the trip. Wieliczka is closer, lighter and good for children. Auschwitz is a memorial, longer and emotionally difficult. For a first trip with children, Wieliczka is usually the better choice.
Can you visit Wieliczka and Auschwitz in one day?
Yes, but the day is tight. It is best to start in the morning with Auschwitz at a booked time, then look in on Wieliczka on the way back. In a private car with a driver it is doable.
How long is the drive to Wieliczka and to Oswiecim from Krakow?
About 30 minutes to Wieliczka and around an hour and 20 minutes to Oswiecim. Wieliczka is a dozen kilometres from Krakow, Oswiecim about 70 kilometres.
How much does a transfer to Wieliczka and to Oswiecim cost?
A private transfer to Wieliczka starts from 200 PLN (approx. 50 EUR) per car, and to Oswiecim from 470 PLN (approx. 118 EUR). These are fixed prices per vehicle, regardless of the number of passengers up to three people.