Turda salt mines (Salina Turda) Cluj County interior view
The legends of Salina Turda: The Sci-Fi Cathedral of the Depths1. The Ghosts of the "Crivac"
The Legend: The machine moved by horses that never saw the sun. The Story: In the Rudolf Mine, you can still see the Crivac—a massive wooden machine used to lift salt blocks. Legend says that the horses used to turn this machine were brought down into the mine and never saw daylight again. Locals whisper that the "spirit of the horses" still haunts the dark corners of the galleries, and sometimes, if you are very quiet, you can hear the faint sound of hooves echoing through the salt walls, a ghostly reminder of the hard labor of the past.
2. The Staircase of the Rich vs. The Staircase of the Poor
The Legend: The social divide carved in salt. The Story: There is a legendary story about the "Staircase of the Rich," a beautifully carved wooden stairs used only by the nobles and officials who visited the mine. It is said that anyone else who dared to step on it would be cursed with "salty luck" (bad luck) for seven years. Today, tourists walk where kings once stood, but the legend of the "lucky" and "unlucky" steps still makes people careful where they tread.
3. The Echo of the Lost Souls (The Echo Gallery)
The Legend: The gallery where your voice travels through time. The Story: There is a specific tunnel where an echo can repeat your voice up to 20 times. Folklore says this isn't just acoustics, but the mountain "answering" back. It was believed that the salt has a memory, and that it "steals" the secrets of those who whisper them in the gallery. For the modern tourist, it’s a fun game, but for the miners of old, it was a way to communicate with the spirits of the earth.
Why Visit Salina Turda?Ranked by Business Insider as the most beautiful underground place in the world, this ancient mine dates back to the Roman Empire. Today, it has been transformed into a modern futuristic park located 120 meters underground.
Key Highlights:
Rudolf Mine: A massive cavern featuring a bowling alley, mini-golf, and a majestic amphitheater.
Terezia Mine: The oldest part of the mine, featuring a cone-shaped hall and an underground lake where you can rent rowing boats.
The Ferris Wheel: The only underground Ferris wheel in the world, offering a unique perspective of the illuminated salt stalactites.
Video presentation of Salina Turda (Turda salt mine)
Health Benefits (Halotherapy)The microclimate inside the mine is famous for its therapeutic properties. With a constant temperature and air rich in salt particles, it is highly recommended for:
Respiratory issues (asthma, bronchitis).
Skin conditions.
Strengthening the immune system.
Visitor Information (What you need to know)
Temperature & ClothingThe temperature remains constant at 10°C - 12°C (50°F - 54°F) year-round, regardless of the season outside.
Tip: Even if you visit in summer, bring a jacket and comfortable walking shoes.
Opening HoursMonday - Sunday: 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM (Last entry at 04:00 PM).
Note: Check the official website before visiting for holiday schedule updates.
Ticket Prices (Estimated)Adults: ~50-60 RON (10-12 EUROs) (Weekdays) / ~70 RON (14 EUROs) (Weekends).
Children/Students/Seniors: Discounts available with valid ID.
Activities: Boat rentals, Ferris wheel, and sports games require separate small fees.
Location & AccessAddress: Aleea Durgăului 7, Turda, Cluj County.
By Car: Approx. 30-40 minutes from Cluj-Napoca.
Parking: Large paid parking lots are available at both entrances (New Entrance and Old Entrance).
Quick Tips for an Unforgettable TripAvoid the Crowds: Visit on a weekday morning to enjoy the silence and the echo of the massive halls.
Hydration: Bring water, but remember that eating is prohibited inside the mine to preserve the air quality.
Accessibility: There is a panoramic elevator, but during peak hours, the stairs are faster (be prepared for over 13 floors of steps!).
And bonus:
Extend Your Adventure: What to See Near TurdaIf you are visiting Salina Turda, don't head back just yet! The surrounding area offers some of the most dramatic natural landscapes and historical sites in Transylvania.
1. Cheile Turzii (Turda Gorge) (see more)
Just 15 km from the salt mine, this is a paradise for hikers and rock climbers.
The Experience: A spectacular canyon carved by the Hășdate River, featuring vertical cliffs over 200 meters high.
Activities: An easy-to-moderate hiking trail (about 1.5 - 2 hours) crosses the gorge over four picturesque suspension bridges.
Best for: Nature photography, bird watching, and fresh mountain air.
2. The Roman Castrum of Potaissa
Step into the history of the Roman Empire. This was the fortress of the 5th Macedonian Legion.
The Experience: You can explore the ruins of the thermal baths, the command building, and the ancient granaries.
Why visit: It offers a panoramic view of the city of Turda and a deep dive into the 2nd-century history of the region.
3. Rimetea Village (The Village where "The Sun Rises Twice") (see more)
Located about 30 km from Turda, Rimetea is arguably the most beautiful village in Romania, famous for its white houses with green windows.
The Experience: A UNESCO-protected site where the architecture hasn't changed for over a century.
Pro Tip: Hike up to Piatra Secuiului (Szekely's Rock) for a breathtaking view of the valley. Because of the steep cliffs, the sun appears to rise once, disappear behind the mountain, and "rise" again.
4. Cluj-Napoca City: The Heart of Transylvania
Only 30 km away, the unofficial capital of Transylvania is a vibrant, youthful city.
Top Spots: Unirii Square (St. Michael's Church), the Botanical Garden, and the Central Park.
Atmosphere: Perfect for high-end dining, specialty coffee shops, and a lively nightlife.
Suggested 1-Day Itinerary
To help you plan your trip, here is our recommended schedule:
09:00 AM: Arrive at Salina Turda (beat the crowds).
12:00 PM: Traditional lunch in Turda or a picnic near the Gorge.
01:30 PM: Hike through Cheile Turzii.
04:30 PM: Visit the Roman Castrum for sunset photos.
06:00 PM: Dinner and evening walk in Cluj-Napoca.
Suggested 1-Day Itinerary
Frequently Asked Questions: Salina Turda (The Underground Wonderland)1. What is Salina Turda?
Salina Turda is one of the oldest and most spectacular salt mines in the world and is considered the most beautiful underground place of the worl. Located in Transylvania, it has been transformed into a unique underground theme park. It is not just a museum of salt mining, but a place for recreation, featuring an amphitheater, a ferris wheel, and an underground lake.
2. How deep is the salt mine?
The mine consists of several chambers, the most famous being:
-Rudolf Mine: The main hall, which is 42 meters deep, 50 meters wide, and 80 meters long.
-Terezia Mine: This is the deepest point accessible to the public, reaching 120 meters below the surface, where you can find the underground lake.
3. What activities can I do inside Salina Turda?
Unlike traditional salt mines, Turda offers a wide range of attractions:
-Ferris Wheel: The only underground ferris wheel in the world, offering a great view of the Rudolf Mine.
-Boating: You can rent a small boat on the salt lake in the Terezia Mine.
-Sports: There are dedicated areas for mini-golf, bowling, table tennis, and a football pitch.
-Amphitheater: Used for concerts and movie screenings.
4. Is the salt mine good for health?
Yes. The mine has a specific microclimate with a constant temperature and air rich in salt aerosols. Speleotherapy (salt air therapy) is highly recommended for people with respiratory issues such as asthma, allergies, or bronchitis. To feel the benefits, a stay of 2–3 hours per day is recommended.
5. What is the temperature inside?
The temperature remains constant year-round at approximately 10°C to 12°C. Even if it's a scorching summer day outside, it will be cold underground. We recommend wearing a jacket and comfortable walking shoes.
6. Is it accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes. Salina Turda is equipped with modern elevators that take visitors down to the main galleries. However, please note that during peak hours, there might be queues at the elevators. There is also a staircase for those who prefer a bit of a workout (over 170 steps).
7. How do I get to Salina Turda?
-Location: It is located in the Durgău-Sărata area of Turda, Cluj County.
-From Cluj-Napoca: It’s about a 30–40 minute drive (30 km). There are also frequent buses and minivans running between Cluj and Turda.
-Entrances: There are two entrances: the old one (Salinelor St.) and the modern one (Durgăului St.). The modern one is recommended for easier parking.
