Discover Sibiu and Turda Salt Mine on a Day Trip from Cluj
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the depths of the Earth 100m below the surface. Learn the secrets of salt extraction from a professional guide. Experience the vibrant pulse of Sibiu’s historic "Historic Heart." Opt for a tower climb for the region's best photo opportunities.
Available options
Private tour - no tickets
entry tickets not included: Turda salt mine, Sibiu Evangelical Cathedral. You can buy the tickets at the entry.<br/>Pickup included
Private tour -tickets included
entry tickets included: Turda salt mine, Sibiu Evangelical Cathedral<br/>Pickup included
What's included
entry tickets to Turda salt mine & Evangelical Church in Sibiu (if you book this option)
hotel pick up and drop off
services of a professional English speaking guide/driver
TripAdvisor Experiences brokerage fee
all transportation by private vehicle or minibus (gas, road tax and parking fees included)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Leave Cluj behind for a journey into the depths of the Turda Salt Mine, widely regarded as one of the most breathtaking underground sites in the world. Your descent begins as you travel 100 meters below the surface, stepping into a massive subterranean world where history meets modern wonder. Explore the grand Franz Joseph Gallery and stand in awe within the colossal Rudolf and Terezia chambers.
Guided by an expert, you will trace the millennia-old legacy of Transylvanian salt mining, evolving from the gritty manual labour of the ancient world to its current status as a spectacular architectural marvel. Marvel at towering salt stalactites and the echo of the "bell" caverns before enjoying free time to customize your visit. Whether you choose to walk among the crystalline salt formations or take a serene boat ride across the glowing subterranean lake, this is an immersive adventure unlike any other.
2
Step into the heart of Sibiu, a grand citadel where medieval history comes to life. After lunch in a local restaurant, your guide will lead you to the iconic Liars' Bridge, where you'll uncover the quirky and dark legends that give this landmark its famous name.
Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere as you wander through the three monumental squares—the Large, Small, and Huet Squares—each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s aristocratic past. For the ultimate perspective, you can choose to ascend the spire of the Evangelical Cathedral. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree panorama of Sibiu’s "houses with eyes" set against the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Carpathian Mountains.
Get back to Cluj in the evening.
What's not included
your meals & drinks
your personal expenses
entry tickets to Turda salt mine & Sibiu Evangelical Church (if option not booked & paid)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
The duration of the tour is approximate, the exact duration will depend on traffic conditions and your personal interests.
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately (from May to September, please take a sweater or a jacket with you as temperature inside is only 10-12° C (50-53° F) all year long)
Elevator Access: Inside the salt mine, an elevator is available to bypass most stairs; however, its use is subject to daily operational status and availability. In full season, because of big queues for the elevators inside the mine, the guide will impose taking the stairs (around 350 steps / one way)
Physical Fitness: A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. This tour involves 3–4 hours of walking across varied terrain, including cobblestones, city hills, and potentially slippery or uneven surfaces.
Stairs & Accessibility: Travelers should be prepared to navigate up to 500 steps throughout the day. Please note that certain sections of the staircases do not have handrails.
Standing: Be prepared for extended periods of standing during guided historical talks and sightseeing stops.
Footwear: Sturdy, non-slip walking shoes are highly recommended for safety on salt surfaces and medieval streets.
Not recommended for travelers with acrophobia
Not recommended for travelers with severe claustrophobia
Not recommended for child aged 3 and under
Not recommended for travelers with moderate to severe mobility impairments
About Cluj-Napoca
Cluj-Napoca, the unofficial capital of Transylvania, is a vibrant university city known for its rich history, medieval architecture, and lively cultural scene. Often referred to as the 'Heart of Transylvania,' it offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern energy, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
St. Michael's Church
A stunning Gothic-style church and one of the most iconic landmarks in Cluj-Napoca. It is one of the largest medieval churches in Transylvania and features beautiful stained glass windows and a tower that offers panoramic views of the city.
Historical/Religious
30-60 minutes
Free (donations welcome), Tower climb: RON 5-10
Matthias Corvinus Statue
A striking statue of Matthias Corvinus, a famous Hungarian king who was born in Cluj-Napoca. The statue is a prominent feature of the Central Square and a popular gathering spot.
Historical/Architecture
15-30 minutes
Free
Botanical Garden
A beautiful and serene botanical garden featuring a wide variety of plants, trees, and flowers. The garden is a perfect place for a peaceful stroll and offers a welcome escape from the bustling city.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
St. George's Orthodox Cathedral
A beautiful Orthodox cathedral with a striking golden dome. The cathedral is an important religious site and a notable example of Romanian Orthodox architecture.
Religious/Architecture
30-60 minutes
Free (donations welcome)
Banffy Palace
A magnificent Baroque palace that now houses the National Theatre of Cluj-Napoca. The palace is a stunning example of 18th-century architecture and a cultural hub of the city.
Historical/Architecture
30-60 minutes
Free (donations welcome for guided tours)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sarmale
Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of minced meat (usually pork or beef), rice, and spices, served with sour cream and polenta.
Main Course
Contains meat and gluten
Mici
Grilled minced meat rolls made from a mixture of pork, beef, and sometimes lamb, flavored with garlic and spices.
Snack
Contains meat and gluten
Papanași
Fried dough balls filled with sweet cheese, usually served with sour cream, jam, or powdered sugar.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten, can be made vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking in Turda Gorge
Rock climbing in Turda Gorge
Exploring Salina Turda
Picnicking in the Botanical Garden
Shopping at Central Shopping Center
Visiting a traditional Romanian bathhouse (baia turcească)
Exploring the medieval citadel in Sighișoara
Visiting the National Theatre in Banffy Palace
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest and most popular time to visit, with long daylight hours and plenty of outdoor activities. The city hosts numerous festivals and events during this period.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Romanian
- Widely spoken: English, Hungarian, German
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Romanian Leu (RON)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (Eastern European Time, EET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Cluj-Napoca is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- Avram Iancu International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Cluj-Napoca Central Station
By bus
Autogara Transilvania Nord, Autogara Centrala
Getting around
Public transport
The bus network is the most extensive public transport system in Cluj-Napoca, covering the entire city and many suburbs. Buses are generally reliable and affordable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central Square (Piața Unirii)
Hoia
Iris
Day trips
Turda Gorge (Cheile Turzii)
30 km from Cluj-Napoca • Half day to full day
Turda Gorge is a stunning natural attraction featuring a deep canyon with towering limestone cliffs, lush vegetation, and a variety of wildlife. It's a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and nature walks.
Salina Turda
40 km from Cluj-Napoca • Half day to full day
Salina Turda is a unique underground salt mine that has been transformed into a tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the mine's chambers, take a boat ride on an underground lake, and even visit an underground amusement park.
Sighișoara
140 km from Cluj-Napoca • Full day
Sighișoara is a charming medieval town and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's known for its well-preserved citadel, colorful buildings, and rich history. The town is also the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Dracula.
Festivals
Transylvania International Film Festival (TIFF) • Late May
Jazz in the Park • July
Cluj-Napoca International Theatre Festival (FIT) • October
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Romanian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Explore the city's vibrant street art scene, which showcases the work of local and international artists
- Visit the city's historic cafes and bookshops, which offer a glimpse into Cluj-Napoca's rich cultural heritage
- Take a day trip to the nearby Turda Gorge or Salina Turda for a unique and unforgettable experience
- Attend a local festival or event to immerse yourself in the city's lively cultural scene
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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