Turda Salt Mine: Day Trips and Tours from Cluj-Napoca

Turda Salt Mine is one of the oldest and most spectacular landmarks in modern-day Transylvania. A natural attraction with a history stretching back almost 2,000 years, the site also features an exhilarating amusement park, making it the ideal destination for all the family.

Day trips to Turda Salt Mine from Cluj-Napoca are easy to arrange and a must for anyone who finds themselves in this region of Romania.

Here's all you need to know about Turda Salt Mine, one of the most exciting day trips from Cluj-Napoca.

How to get to the Turda Salt Mine from Cluj-Napoca?

The Turda Salt Mine is located several kilometers outside the town of Turda in Northwest Transylvania. It is just over 30 kilometers southeast of Cluj-Napoca.

From Cluj-Napoca to Turda Salt Mine by car

The journey to Turda Salt Mine by car takes approximately 50 minutes and follows the E81 the entire way, making it simple to navigate.

From Cluj-Napoca to Turda Salt Mine by public transport

It is possible to make the jaunt to Turda Salt Mine via public transport. A bus runs from Cluj-Napoca to the town of Turda once per day and the route takes approximately half an hour. From here, you can easily hail a taxi to travel the remaining distance to the attraction.

However, if you’d prefer to walk, you can do so, by heading to the “old gate” of Turda Salt Mine, which is around 15 minutes from the bus stop on foot. The “new gate,” on the other hand, is over an hour’s walk.

Guided tour to Turda Salt Mine from Cluj-Napoca

Alternatively, book a guided excursion to Turda Salt Mine and let someone else arrange all the details for you. Aside from tickets and transportation, these excursions also include the services of a professional guide. Guided tours last anywhere from 4 to 11 hours and typically include a convenient hotel pickup service for a seamless experience.

How much does the entrance ticket to the Turda Salt Mine cost?

The cost of Turda Salt Mine tickets varies for adults, depending on the day of the week they visit. Senior visitors, students and children (3 to 18) are entitled to a reduced rate every day of the week.

• Weekday adults: RON50 (€10)
• Weekend adult: RON60 (€12)
• Reduced rate: RON30 (€5)

What is the typical itinerary?

While the itinerary of each Turda Salt Mine day tour is unique, all excursions feature similarities. After meeting your guide, either in the lobby of your hotel or at a monument in the city, you’ll begin the journey to the mine.

Upon arrival, you’ll embark on a guided walk through the site, where you can learn about its history and have the opportunity to check out the mine’s leisure facilities. From here, you may head back to Cluj-Napoca where you can spend the rest of the day sightseeing or relaxing.

However, many Turda Salt Mine day trips continue on to other destinations, such as Corvin Castle and Alba Carolina, to provide you with a deeper introduction to the region. In some cases, your itinerary may work in reverse, visiting these other attractions first, then traveling to Turda Salt Mine at the end of the day.

What kinds of tours are available to go to the Turda Salt Mine?

Guided tours to Turda Salt Mine from Cluj-Napoca

This half-day trip to Turda Salt Mine operates in both the morning and afternoon, and you’ll follow a guide through the site, learning about its history that stretches back to the Roman Empire. You’re bound to be awed by the mine, which is among the largest in the world, and you’ll learn about the 17th-century excavation efforts of the area, covering over 40 square kilometers.

Day trip to Turda Salt Mine plus Corvin Castle and Alba Carolina from Cluj-Napoca

Those wanting to explore the Romania that lies beyond Cluj-Napoca even further can embark on a combination day tour to Turda Salt Mine. As part of a small group, you’ll discover the almost 2,000-year history of the mine before visiting the 14th-century Corvin Castle, which features spectacular Gothic architecture and was a significant fortress in the defense of the region from Ottoman invasion.

The last destination on the itinerary is the Alba Carolina Fortress, which is formed in the shape of a heptagon and showcases Vauban architecture perfectly.

Private tour to Turda Salt Mine plus Alba Carolina from Cluj-Napoca

If you’re seeking greater personalization than a group tour provides, consider booking a private day trip to Turda Salt Mine. The first stop on this excursion is Alba Carolina, which you’ll stroll the site of alongside your knowledgeable guide who will chat one on one with you about its history and answer any questions you have.

From there, you’ll continue to the enchanting village of Rimetea, which is known for its whitewashed buildings, where you’ll devour a local feast. Once you’ve refueled, you’ll travel to the collection of salt mines that form Turda and explore its underground amusement park.

How much does a day trip to the Turda Salt Mine from Cluj-Napoca cost?

A guided tour to the Turda Salt Mine typically costs just over €60 each in a group and about €170 for solo travelers. Groups are usually limited to 8 participants and the tours last about 4 hours.

A day trip to the Turda Salt Mine that includes Corvin Castle and Alba Carolina typically costs about €120 per person. These excursions operate in small groups limited to seven guests and include all entry fees, as well as the services of a professional guide.

On a private Turda Salt Mine day tour, expect to pay €220 as a solo traveler, or as little as €70 with a group. Private excursions are limited to 15 guests and include transportation and a guide.

What will you see and do?

Turda Salt Mine’s roots are believed to travel back as far as the Roman period when it is thought the original mine was formed in order to find gold, silver, iron, polymetallic ores and of course, salt. However, the first documentation regarding the site only dates back to the 11th century, meaning that any further history regarding the attraction can not be proven.

It once served as the main supply of salt to the residents of Transylvania and today, it houses enough resources to cover the salt needs of the entire plant for 60 years. During WWII, the mine was used as an air raid shelter and was turned into a tourist attraction in 1992.

The site features an underground amusement park, which includes mini golf, bowling and a playground. Visitors on a Turda Salt Mine day trip can also enjoy a boat ride around its lake.

What are the opening times?

Turda Salt Mine is open to visitors from 9 AM to 5 PM every day, with last entries at 4 PM.

When is the best time to visit the Turda Salt Mine?

The best time to visit the Turda Salt Mine is during spring (April to June) or early fall (September to October), when the weather is pleasant. The mine maintains a stable temperature year-round, offering a refreshing escape from the heat in summer. However, to truly appreciate its unique beauty without large crowds, the shoulder seasons are ideal.

Travel tips

• The mine's temperature is consistently cool, around 10-12 degrees Celsius. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light sweater or jacket.
• There are some food stalls and a cafeteria inside the mine, but options might be limited, so consider packing snacks.
• Stick to designated paths and observe safety signs. The mine is safe, but it's essential to be cautious.
• The mine's unique ambiance and impressive structures make for great photographs, however some areas may have lighting challenges, so familiarize yourself with your camera's low-light settings.