Turda Salt Mine, Corvin castle & mystery visit (1 day, from Cluj)
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour takes you on a journey through royal history, exploring castles, tombs and legendary acts. Visit Hunyad Castle in Hunedoara, a stunning Gothic masterpiece, ranked among Europe’s top must-see castles. Experience the magic of an underground lake with a surreal boat ride. Delve into the history of salt mining, uncovering its immense value and the urban legends woven into the region’s past. Enhance your experience with an extra visit, chosen by group approval, adding 1-2 hours to the itinerary for a unique and memorable detour.
Available options
Private tour + entry tickets
min. 1- max. 7 participants: This option insures you that no other traveller will joint you on the tour.
Entry tickets included<br/>Pickup included
Shared tour - no entry tickets
min. 3 - max. 7 participants: If less than 3 participants, the tour will not take place and you will receive a full refund or an alternative date / tour.
Private tour -no entry tickets
min. 1 & max. 7 participants: This option insures you that no other traveller will joint you on the tour.<br/>Pickup included
Shared tour + entry tickets
min. 3 - max. 7 participants: If less than 3 participants, the tour will not take place and you will receive a full refund or an alternative date / tour.
What's included
entry tickets (Turda salt mine, Corvin Castle) - if option selected
services of a professional English speaking guide
all transportation by private vehicle or minibus (gas, road tax and parking fees included)
optional bonus visit
hotel pick-up and drop off (only for private tours)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
While visiting the main gallery and three mine chambers, the guide will tell you about the ancient salt exploitation in the area, about the value of salt in the Middle ages or about the reason salt is no longer extracted here. Besides historical facts, you will be able to enjoy a huge ferries-wheel, all sort of activities (table tennis, mini golf, etc.) or riding a boat on an underground lake.
2
Visit the most impressive Gothic castle in Romania. Learn about medieval defence architecture, local legends and historical facts about Hunyad family.
What's not included
your meals and drinks
your personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
7 reviews
5★
7
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
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 (bonus visit included).
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately: from May to September, please take a sweater or a jacket with you as temperature inside the salt mine is only 10-12° C (50-53° F)
In full season, because of big queues for the elevators, the guide may impose taking the stairs inside the salt mine (around 350 steps / one way)
Please try to put on some non-slippery shoes.
In compliance with Romanian law, children under 12 years old or shorter than 135 cm (53 inches) must use a car seat or booster. As we do not provide these, children who meet these criteria can only join the tour if you bring your own seat or booster.
This tour requires moderate walking on varied terrain, including paved paths, cobblestones, uneven, and slippery surfaces, as well as city hills. Expect to climb and descend stairs, including inside the salt mine, which has around 500 steps—though 90% can be avoided by using the elevator, except in case of technical issues. At Corvin Castle, be prepared for steep staircases without handrails, with no elevator access. Extended periods of standing are common, and you may experience changes in altitude and temperature throughout the tour.
Not recommended for travelers with acrophobia
Not recommended for travellers with claustrophobia
Meeting point
Meeting on the sidewalk, in front of the Romanian Theatre House
Important notes
• Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
• The duration of the tour is approximate, the exact duration will depend on traffic conditions and your personal interests (bonus visit included).
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
Instant confirmation
