Sighisoara & Turda salt mine (1 day, from Cluj)
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Admire breathtaking natural salt formations and ancient mining machinery. Enjoy free time for an optional boat ride or the underground amusement park. Immerse yourself into Medieval history. Learn about population migration in the Middle Ages and the reasoning behind it. Discover one of the seven fortified cities that gave Transylvania it's German name: Siebenbürgen. Get in love with the colourful Medieval city centre of Sighisoara.
Available options
Private
min. 1 & max. 7 participants: this option insures you that no other traveller will joint you on the tour.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
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)
hotel pick up and drop off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Begin your adventure with a journey from Cluj to the Turda Salt Mine, one of the most spectacular underground destinations in Romania. Descend 100 meters into the earth to explore the vast Franz Joseph Gallery and the awe-inspiring Rudolf and Terezia mines.
Your expert guide will reveal the millennia-old history of Transylvanian salt mining, from ancient manual extraction to its modern-day use as a stunning tourist attraction. Marvel at the giant salt stalactites and "bell" caverns before enjoying free time to explore at your own pace. You can admire the unique salt formations or opt for a peaceful boat ride on the subterranean salt lake.
2
Our second stop is the remarkably preserved medieval fortress of Sighisoara, one of the few still inhabited in Europe. Enclosed by nine of its original fourteen defence towers, the fortress boasts stunning medieval architecture and captivating legends, including tales of Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure behind the Dracula myth. We'll climb the Covered Staircase to the Church on the Hill, wander through colourful medieval streets, and, if you wish, ascend the iconic Clock Tower (closed on Mondays) for breath-taking panoramic views—just as medieval guards once did.
What's not included
your meals & drinks
your personal expenses
entry tickets
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
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Important information
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 (wine tasting option).
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 850 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 claustrophobia
Not recommended for child aged 3 and under
Not recommended for travelers with moderate to severe mobility impairments
Important notes
• Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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