Located just outside Kraków, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is an awe-inspiring subterranean labyrinth. Operating from the 13th century until 1996, it is one of the world’s oldest salt mines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors descend hundreds of feet to explore winding tunnels, deep underground lakes, and multiple chapels meticulously carved directly out of rock salt. The crown jewel is the magnificent Chapel of St. Kinga, a massive underground church featuring stunning salt-crystal chandeliers and bas-reliefs.

The two-hour-plus tour has you gradually descend 800 steps to a depth of 440 feet below the surface, covering a total walking distance of 3 miles, including the return. Unfortunately, I have developed blisters on the balls of both feet after walking several miles in my rain-soaked sneakers during the Auschwitz-Birkenau tour yesterday, making the tour somewhat less enjoyable.