Salt mines tours

Salt mining has shaped Salzburg's economy for centuries and given the region its name. As early as ancient times – around 600 BC – the Celts mined salt at Dürrnberg (Hallein), making the region a powerful trading center. This white gold was a sought-after commodity that the prince-archbishops of Salzburg deliberately used from the Middle Ages onwards – for example in the 12th century – to secure prosperity and influence.

The Salzburg Salt Mine – “The White Gold Adventure”

The “White Gold Adventure Tour” takes you directly into the fascinating world of the oldest show mine in the world – the Hallein Salt Worlds. Here, visitors can experience first-hand how the “white gold” has been mined for more than 2,600 years and how important salt was for Salzburg's rise to become a prosperous cultural city.

Start of the journey
The tour starts conveniently in the center of Salzburg at Mirabellplatz 2, where a modern coach picks up the guests. During the 30-minute drive to Hallein, you will learn some exciting facts about Salzburg's salt history and enjoy the view of the picturesque mountains.

Underground adventure
Once you arrive at the Salzburg Salt Mine, the real journey of discovery begins. After changing into traditional white miners' suits – which not only look stylish but also provide protection – the mine train takes you deep into the interior of the mountain.
There, visitors can enjoy a multimedia tour through the mysterious tunnels, which document over 2,600 years of salt mining: from the Celts to the prince-archbishops to modern times. Historical films, lighting effects, and original tools bring the past to life.

Highlights of the tour

• Mine train ride: Quickly and safely into the depths of the mountain.
• Miners' slides: Two long wooden slides take you rapidly and enjoyably further into the interior. A highlight – especially for children!
• Underground raft ride: Glide across a mystical salt lake on a raft through an impressive, mysteriously lit world.
• Journey through 2,600 years of salt history: Learn how the “white gold” once made Salzburg rich and shaped Europe.
• Salt Worlds Shop: At the end of the tour, a shop awaits with regional souvenirs and salt products.

Return to Salzburg
After around 90 minutes of adventure in the mine, the bus takes guests back to Salzburg. The adventure ends back at the starting point at around 12:15 p.m. – in time to spend the afternoon visiting other sights such as Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mozart's birthplace, or the old town.

Prices & information

• Adults: €65
• Children (4–16 years): €35
• Duration: approx. 3.5 hours (including transfer)
• Important: Bring warm clothing and sturdy shoes (the temperature in the mine is a constant 10 °C).

Conclusion
The White Gold Adventure Tour is a perfect combination of history, adventure, and family fun. It combines convenient travel from Salzburg with an unforgettable visit to the Hallein Salt Mines, bringing the region's salt history to life in an exciting way.