A unique cultural monument

Word to the wise: Remember to take some warm clothes – the mines have an ambient temperature of just over 50 degrees.

At a depth of over 1,000 feet, the Wieliczka salt mines are one of Europe's deepest – and strangest - attractions. Established in the 13th century, the mines house nearly 200 miles of chambers, chapels and galleries, populated with dozens of intricate sculptures and tableaux - all carved from the rock salt by self-taught miners.

You can only visit with a guide, which can be frustrating if you want to go at your own pace, but the talk is usually informative and entertaining. After your visit head to the undergournd Miners' Tavern for hearty Polish fare prepared with Wieliczka salt.

To get to Wieliczka, take the Lux-Bus shuttle service (PLN 2.50 each way) from outside the main station. A taxi is even easier, but expect to pay around PLN 40. Both will take around 40 minutes.