Turda Saltmine

You will meet with our guide at the statue near the Romano-Catholic church in Union Square. First, we'll delve into the fascinating history of the Turda Salt Mine, one of the world's oldest and most unique salt mines. The mine has a rich history that dates back to the Roman Empire. Salt extraction from this mine began during the Roman occupation in 107 AD, and it continued to be a significant source of salt for the region for centuries. Step inside this remarkable underground world and marvel at the striking salt formations, massive halls, and impressive machinery. Learn about the mine's fascinating history and hear the stories of those who worked here centuries ago. Next, we'll make our way to the majestic Corvin Castle, one of Europe's most stunning castles. The castle was originally built by the nobleman Voicu of Hunedoara in the 14th century, but it was later expanded and transformed into a formidable fortress by his son, John Hunyadi. The castle played a significant role in defending the region against the Ottoman Empire, and it was a vital military stronghold for the Kingdom of Hungary. Step back in time as you wander through the castle's halls and courtyards, marvel at the intricate Gothic architecture, and learn about the castle's storied past. Marvel at its Gothic architecture, learn about its rich history and explore its numerous chambers, halls, and courtyards. Finally, we'll explore the grandeur of the Alba Carolina Fortress, a stunning example of Vauban-style military architecture. Discover the history of this impressive fortress and its role in Romania's past as we explore its many courtyards, ramparts, and bastions. In 1918, Alba Iulia played a pivotal role in the unification of Romania when the Great National Assembly, comprising over 1,200 delegates from all over the country, gathered in the city to declare the unification of Transylvania with Romania. This event is considered one of the most important moments in modern Romanian history and is celebrated every year on December 1st as Romania's National Day. You'll be amazed at the scale and detail of this magnificent structure. You will explore the massive walls, towers, and bastions. In the evening, you will return to Cluj-Napoca, and your day trip will come to an end.

Embark on an excursion from Cluj to visit three of Transylvania's notable sites. See an underground theme park that's nestled inside the Turda Salt Mine, go for a hike through the dramatic Turda Gorge, and encounter traditional rural life in a preserved Rimetea village. Start your experience with pickup and a short drive to the Turda Salt Mine. Take a guided tour and spend some time in its unique underground theme park. Try out the ferris wheel, play a round of minigolf, or ride a boat on its underground lake. Hop back in the vehicle and head for the Turda Gorge. Marvel at the 3-kilometer long canyon, with massive walls sculpted in weathered limestone. Hike through high cliffs with steep ridges, rock towers, caves, and lots of varieties of flora and fauna. Conclude your experience with a visit to Rimetea village. Enjoy strolling amongst traditional white houses with green windows. Get a feel for Transylvanian rural life in a preserved and beautiful location.

Depart from Cluj-Napoca and head to Turda, once the most important economic center of the region where salt, also known as “white gold,” has been extracted since the Roman age. Arrive at the Salina Turda salt mine and discover the history of salt mining in the town dating from the 17th century. Explore the site, including the Terezia mine, Rudolf hall, and the Franz Josef Gallery.  Afterwards, spend the afternoon in the Transylvanian western mountains in the village of Rimetea. The chalk-white houses and the harmonious structure of the village have earned it several distinctions. Considered to be one of the most beautiful village in Transylvania, it received the Europa Nostra Award for its architectural preservation.  Next up, take a 1-hour hike to the ruins of the Coltesti Fortress for an impressive view of the valley below. In the evening, head back to Cluj-Napoca where you’ll be dropped off at the starting point of your tour.

Operating days: Daily Route: Cluj-Turda Salt Mine – Cluj Departure hours: 10:00 o´clock 14:00 o´clock Day Itinerary Starting Point: Cluj • KFC, Piata Unirii Distance: About 30 km (18 miles) from Cluj-Napoca to Turda. Travel Time: Around 40-45 minutes by car or bus, depending on traffic 1. Turda - Salt Mine Turda is a historic city in Transylvania, Romania, best known for its remarkable Salt Mine, Turda Gorge, and rich heritage. It offers an impressive combination of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences. Main Attractions: • The Underground Amusement Park:A large, open space within the mine that houses an underground Ferris wheel, a mini-golf course, and a boating lake. This unique area is a blend of fun and exploration, making it one of the most popular parts of the mine. • The Salt Chambers:Majestic chambers like Crama Mare, Sala de Ecouri (Echo Chamber), and Sala Unirii (Unity Chamber) feature high ceilings and walls entirely covered in salt. The chambers are designed to create a therapeutic microclimate, making the air beneficial for people with respiratory conditions. • The Tunnels and Galleries:A network of tunnels and galleries where visitors can walk through and experience the mining heritage of the region. Some tunnels feature salt stalactites and unique geological formations. • The Salt Museum:The museum showcases the history of salt mining in the region, with exhibits on tools, the history of the mine, and the traditional methods of salt extraction. • The Panoramic Elevator:The modern elevator offers a breathtaking descent into the mine, providing a stunning view of the underground chambers as you make your way down. • The Chapel:A small chapel located underground, adding a unique spiritual dimension to the experience 2. Return to Cluj Following our visit, we’ll head back to Cluj-Napoca, filled with memories of an incredible day exploring the natural wonders and rich history of this beautiful region of Transylvania. This private half day tour from Cluj-Napoca is a unique and unforgettable experience. The tour offers a chance to explore the Turda Salt Mine, one of Europe’s most impressive underground sites, with its fascinating history, massive chambers, and even an underground amusement park. Enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Western Carpathians and Cheile Turzii Natural Park, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful escape from the city.

Start with pickup from Cluj-Napoca at 8:30 am. Begin with a visit to Turda salt mine. With a history of almost 2 millennia, the undergrounds will reveal themselves in a modern and unexpected way. Continue to the Hateg region, where you will arrive in Hunedoara. Here you will discover Corvin Castle, also known as Hunyadi Castle, named after its royal residents. You will have the chance to hear of legends and stories about the royal family, the origin of the castle, and medieval fighting techniques. On the return journey to Cluj, enjoy a special surprise stop, subject to group approval, for a unique and memorable experience. Return to Cluj in the late afternoon.

Experience the historical and legendary places related to the man and the legend behind Dracula on this six-day guided tour. Visit Vlad the Impaler’s birthplace in the medieval citadel of Sighișoara, the imposing Hunyadi Castle, the ruins of Poenari Castle, Dracula Castle, and more. Day 1: Bucharest - Curtea de Argeș - Poenari Castle - Vidraru Dam - Transfagarasan Road - Capra Waterfall - Balea Glacier Lake - Sibiu - Sibiel See the Curtea de Arges Monastery and Poenari Castle from the outside. Drive to the Vidraru Dam and along Transfagarasan Road. Stop at Capra Waterfall and Balea Lake before heading to Sibiel Village. Enjoy a 3-course dinner at Ramona Pension. Savor the pension breakfast in the morning. Day 2: Sibiel - Hunyadi Castle - Alba Iulia - Sibiel Start your second day with a visit to Hunyadi Castle, or Corvins' Castle, and the star-shaped fortress, Alba Iulia Citadel. Hunyadi Castle is one of the largest castles in Europe and is considered one of the Seven Wonders of Romania. Return to Sibiel to enjoy dinner.  Day 3: Sibiel - Sibiu - Turda Salt Mine After breakfast, head to Sibiu’s old town to see the Big Square, Little Square, Bridge of Liars, Romano Catholic Cathedral, and the oldest house in town. Visit the Turda Salt mine, named one of the top 10 underground wonders in the world by National Geographic. Overnight in Turda town at Casa Ratiu. Day 4: Turda - Biertan Fortified Church - Sighisoara Enjoy breakfast and then visit the Fortified Church of Biertan, a UNESCO world heritage site. Visit Sighisoara’s medieval town, including the Clock Tower, the house where Vlad the Impaler was born, and the Church on the Hill. Overnight in Sighișoara. Day 5: Sighisoara - Prejmer Fortified Church - Bran Castle - Rasnov Fortress - Brasov After breakfast, discover the history of the Prejmer Fortified Church, Bran Castle, and Rasnov Fortress. Continue to Brasov and overnight at Casa Timar Pension. Day 6: Brasov - Peles Castle - Snagov Monastery - Bucharest Savor the pension breakfast before starting your final day with a visit to Peles Castle and Snagov Monastery. End your trip with a transfer to your hotel in Bucharest or the airport.

Your guide will pick you up from your accommodation in Cluj at 8:30 am, starting your day with a fascinating journey into the depths of Turda Salt Mine, renowned as the most stunning salt mine in Romania. This ancient site has served many purposes over the years: an antiaircraft shelter during WWII, a cheese maturation facility in the communist era, and now a unique underground amusement park in Transylvania. As you explore, you’ll witness the millions of chisel and hammer marks left by miners—a testament to their labor and craftsmanship. A visit to Salina Turda promises to be an unforgettable experience in the heart of Transylvania. Next, as you venture into the Apuseni Mountains, you’ll discover Rimetea, a beautifully preserved Hungarian village harmoniously nestled in nature. Once famous for its iron mines and skilled blacksmiths, Rimetea offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Transylvania. The final stop of the day is the historic Alba Carolina Fortress, a star-shaped Vauban masterpiece in Alba Iulia. This former imperial military town boasts a wealth of history, from ancient Roman ruins and Hungarian royal tombs housed in Transylvania’s oldest church to the site of Romania’s pivotal unification with Transylvania in the 20th century. By evening, you’ll return to Cluj, wrapping up the perfect mini-tour of Transylvania, filled with unforgettable sights and stories.

Start with pickup from Cluj at 8:30 AM, after which you will make your way to the salt mine of Turda. Learn about the history of the salt mine with your guide through the various galleries and exhibitions. Enjoy the various activities inside the underground amusement park. Some of the features include an underground lake that may be explored with paddles and rowboats, a Ferris wheel, mini-golf, table tennis and pool tables. After discovering the spectacular salt mine, journey through the Apuseni Mountains to arrive at Rimetea. This is a Hungarian village wonderfully preserved in harmony with nature. For centuries, Rimetea was famous throughout Transylvania for its iron mines as well as for the skills of its blacksmiths. You will also have the opportunity to stop for lunch if desired. Heading back to Cluj, stop for a 2-hour walk in the Turda Gorge nature reserve, which is one of Romania’s most important places for rock climbing. Cross the canyon and admire the 200m high crags. See a small fortified cave used by brigands as a refuge over two centuries ago before returning to Cluj in the late afternoon.

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the heart of Transylvania and uncover the truth behind the world's most famous vampire with the "Dracula Beyond the Legend" private tour. This eight-day adventure takes you to 14 eerie destinations throughout Romania, immersing you in the dark and mysterious history of the region. The journey begins and ends in Bucharest, a city shrouded in myth and legend, with a rich history dating back to the 15th century. From here, you'll be transported to some of the most haunted and mysterious landmarks in Romania, including the real Dracula's castle, where you'll learn about the twisted history of the bloodthirsty count. Throughout the tour, your expert guide will take you on a bone-chilling adventure through the most haunted and strange locations in Transylvania. Every step of the way is designed to evoke the ominous aura of the vampire that has captivated imaginations for centuries. From the frightening forest where the count is said to have roamed to the macabre town of Sighisoara where he was born, you'll experience the true terror of Dracula's legacy. The in-depth cultural experience of this tour is not for the faint of heart. You'll stay in a hotel with an eerie past, and your meals, transportation, and other amenities are all included. Throughout the journey, your senses will be overwhelmed by the spooky atmosphere that permeates every location you visit. At every destination, your guide will bring to life the dark and twisted history of Transylvania. You'll hear stories of the vampire's wickedness, his thirst for blood, and the terror that he brought upon the people of the region. You'll discover the origins of the legend of Dracula and how it has evolved over the centuries to become one of the most enduring and captivating myths in popular culture. At the real Dracula's castle, also known as Bran Castle, you'll experience the chilling atmosphere that inspired Bram Stoker's famous novel. From the castle's eerie corridors to the dark and forbidding dungeon, you'll be transported back in time to the era when Dracula ruled the land. The tour also includes visits to other landmarks that are steeped in legend and mystery, such as the fortified churches of Biertan and Viscri, the spooky Hoia Baciu Forest, and the medieval town of Brasov. You'll have the opportunity to explore these locations at your leisure, soaking up the atmosphere and discovering the hidden secrets of Transylvania. The tour plan: Day 1: Bucharest OTP Airport - Bucharest City Day 2: Bucharest – Targoviste Royal Court – Poenari Castle Day 3: Poenari citadel – Transfagarasan Highway – Sibiu Day 4: Sibiu – Corvin Castle – Sarmizegetusa Regia – Densus church – Deva Day 5: Deva – Alba Carolina – Turda Salt Mine – Cluj-Napoca Day 6: Cluj-Napoca – Hoia Baciu Forest - Biertan – Sighisoara Citadel Day 7: Sighisoara – Bran Castle – Brasov Day 8: Brasov - Snagov Monastery - Bucharest city or airport

You can expect to do a 9km long hike as well as you can expect a relaxing afternoon in a medieval city, a visit to the bear sanctuary or a visit to our friend Dracula. We have linked all these activities for you in order to understand what Transylvania means. This tour was built with the intention of making it the best you can choose. Tour has them all.  Turda Salt Mine Turda Gorge Rimetea Village Colteti Forteress Alba Iulia Transfagarasan Brasov Bear Sanctuary Dracula Castle Valea Cetatii cave Racos Volcano Viscri and Crit Biertan Sighisoara Cluj The excursion kicks off at 9 am with a pick-up from your accommodation in Cluj Napoca, setting the stage for a day of exploration and discovery. The first highlight of the day unfolds at the Turda Salt Mine, where you'll descend 120 meters underground into a surreal science fiction-themed park. Next on the agenda is Turda Gorges, a natural wonder that beckons with a 9-kilometer hike through and over the gorge. As the day unfolds, a visit to a Transylvanian village awaits, offering a glimpse into tradition and culture. Take time to explore the village and indulge in a lunch experience steeped in authenticity, savoring the flavors of traditional Transylvanian cuisine. The journey concludes with a visit to Coltesti Fortress, adding a historical touch to your day. As the sun sets, head to your accommodation in the enchanting Alba Iulia, It will be a blend of culture and nature on the second day of your journey, creating a unique and immersive experience that will linger in your memories. The day unfolds with a fascinating exploration of Alba Carolina Citadel, Following the cultural odyssey, the adventure takes a scenic turn as you traverse the Transfagarasan road. Ascend to new heights with a cable car ride, revealing the breathtaking panorama of Romania's most beautiful glacial lake, As the day unfolds, the journey continues to Brasov city, a captivating medieval gem. Explore the city's main attractions, letting the echoes of history guide you through its cobblestone streets. Begin your day with a sumptuous breakfast, setting the stage for an unforgettable exploration of Romania's rich cultural tapestry. Day.3 Visit to the Libearty Bear Sanctuary, a haven for 120 protected bears. Guided by a knowledgeable local guide, immerse yourself in the world of brown bears, gaining insight into their lives and the vital conservation efforts in place. Next, venture into the mystique of the famous Dracula Castle, retracing the footsteps of Count Vlad the Emperor. As the day progresses, the journey takes a nature-infused turn with a visit to the Valea Cetatii Cave. Prepare for an exhilarating hike through the rugged terrain of Racos Volcano, Final day of your immersive Transylvanian journey, a day designed for relaxation and reflection. Today unfolds as a leisurely exploration of cultural gems, weaving through 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 3 Saxon villages, and the Medieval City of Sighisoara.