Venture beyond the historic streets of Krakow and discover an underground realm where coal once fueled the nation. The Zabrze Guido Coal Mine offers an immersive journey into Poland’s industrial past, beckoning visitors to descend into the earth and witness firsthand the challenging lives of miners. This captivating tour takes you deep beneath the surface, unveiling a world of unique attractions and the chance to savor the local flavors in the deepest pub in Europe. Prepare to be transported to a bygone era, where the echoes of industry resonate through the mine’s winding passages.
Key Points
- Tour the historic Zabrze Guido Coal Mine from Krakow, descending via an authentic elevator ride to explore underground attractions at 170m and 320m levels.
- Discover the mine’s rich history, including horse stables, St. Barbara’s chapel, and large-scale mining equipment at the deeper 320m level.
- Conclude the tour with a visit to the deepest pub in Europe, where visitors can enjoy local beers and Silesian cuisine.
- The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an English-speaking guide, making it a convenient and immersive experience.
- Certain health and physical limitations apply, so it’s advisable to consult a doctor before booking the tour.
Overview and Pricing
The tour from Krakow to the Zabrze Guido Coal Mine offers a captivating exploration of the region’s rich mining heritage, with prices starting from €6,335 per person for a 6-hour experience that includes free cancellation and a pay later option.
Set out on a journey that takes you deep into the heart of an active coal mine, where you’ll experience the authentic elevator ride and discover the intricate workings of this underground world.
Venture through two mining levels, 170m and 320m below the surface, and learn about the history, dangers, and traditions of the mining industry.
The tour culminates with a visit to the deepest pub in Europe, where you can savor local beers and Silesian cuisine.
Itinerary
The tour kicks off with a 1.5-hour van ride from Krakow to the Zabrze Guido Coal Mine, where visitors embark on a guided exploration of this captivating underground world.
After arriving, guests will enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour through the mine, descending to both the 170m and 320m levels. At the shallower level, they’ll discover the horse stables, learn about the dangers of mining, and visit the St. Barbara’s chapel.
The deeper 320m level is where the real excitement begins, as travelers witness large-scale mining machines and ride the suspended electric rail.
The tour culminates at the deepest pub in Europe, where visitors can savor local beer and Silesian cuisine.
Authentic Elevator Ride
Visitors descend deep underground aboard an authentic elevator known as a ‘shola’, used in active coal mines to transport workers to their workstations.
This thrilling ride down 170 meters below the surface provides a glimpse into the challenging conditions faced by miners. The elevator, with its creaking gears and metal bars, creates a palpable sense of anticipation and adventure.
As the lift slowly descends, the temperature drops, and the air grows thick with the scent of coal and earth.
Emerging from the elevator, visitors are immersed in the rich history and traditions of the Guido Coal Mine, ready to explore the intricate network of tunnels and galleries that lies beneath the surface.
Exploration of Mining Levels
After descending deep into the earth on the thrilling elevator ride, explorers now set out to uncover the secrets of the Guido Coal Mine’s intricate subterranean network. At the 170-meter level, they’ll venture through the horse stables, where miners once relied on these sturdy animals to haul heavy loads, and discover the chapel dedicated to the mine’s patron saint, Barbara, whose protection was a source of comfort in the perilous depths. Further down, at the 320-meter level, the scale of mining operations becomes staggering, with huge machines and an electric rail system suspended overhead, providing a glimpse into the sheer magnitude of the industry that once thrived here.
| Level | Depth | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 170m | 170 meters | Horse stables, St. Barbara’s chapel |
| 320m | 320 meters | Large-scale mining machines, suspended electric rail |
Underground Attractions
Descending into the Guido Coal Mine‘s depths, visitors discover an array of captivating underground attractions that transport them back in time to the glory days of Poland’s mining industry. Among the highlights are:
The authentic elevator ride (shola) used in active coal mines, offering a thrilling descent to the 170m and 320m levels below the surface.
The 170m level, where explorers can marvel at the horse stables, learn about the dangers of mining, and admire the stunning St. Barbara’s chapel.
The 320m level, showcasing massive mining machines and a suspended electric rail system, culminating in the deepest pub in Europe where visitors can savor local beer and Silesian cuisine.
Tour Inclusions
The tour to the Guido Coal Mine includes a comprehensive package that ensures a seamless and immersive experience for visitors.
It provides hotel pickup and drop-off, along with entrance tickets and an English-speaking guide to lead the way through the mine’s captivating underground attractions.
Adventurers will enjoy an authentic elevator ride (shola) used in active coal mines, exploring two mining levels at depths of 170m and 320m.
The tour highlights the horse stables, dangers of mining, and St. Barbara’s chapel at the 170m level, while the 320m level showcases large-scale mining machines and a suspended electric rail.
Afterward, visitors can unwind at the deepest pub in Europe, sampling local beer and Silesian cuisine.
Recommended Attire and Limitations
Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended attire for the Guido Coal Mine tour, as the underground temperatures range from 13 to 16 degrees Celsius.
Visitors should also note that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with serious health conditions, and it’s advisable to consult a doctor before embarking on the journey if there are any health concerns.
The tour has the following limitations:
- Age limitation: Children younger than 6 years old aren’t allowed, but they can visit the Queen Louise Coal Mine instead.
- Pregnant women and those with serious diseases aren’t permitted to join the tour.
- Wheelchair users are unable to participate in the Guido Coal Mine tour.
Health Considerations
Visitors with health concerns should consult a medical professional before embarking on the Guido Coal Mine tour, as the underground environment may pose risks for individuals with certain conditions. The tour involves descending 320 meters below the surface, where temperatures range from 13-16 degrees Celsius. Plus, the route includes narrow passages and uneven terrain, which could be challenging for some guests. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the tour operators have implemented the following health guidelines:
| Condition | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Pregnancy | Not Suitable |
| Wheelchair Users | Not Suitable |
| Serious Diseases | Consult a Doctor |
It’s essential to carefully consider your physical abilities and any existing health concerns before booking this underground adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
Unfortunately, the tour does not offer any discounted pricing for students or seniors. However, the immersive underground experience and fascinating insights into coal mining history make this an enthralling adventure for explorers of all ages.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Yes, visitors are encouraged to capture photos throughout the guided tour. The historic coal mine offers many visually stunning sights, from the authentic elevator ride to the impressive mining machinery deep underground. Don’t forget your camera to document this unforgettable experience.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, visitors can generally extend the tour duration. Many operators offer add-on options for visitors who want to spend more time exploring the fascinating Guido Coal Mine and learning about its history and operations. Inquire when booking to see what extended tour options are available.
How Many People Can Be Accommodated in the Van?
The van can typically accommodate up to 16 people, providing a comfortable and efficient transportation option for groups visiting the Guido Coal Mine. The exact capacity may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for the latest details.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the End of the Tour?
Yes, visitors can purchase unique souvenirs at the end of the Zabrze Guido Coal Mine tour. The deepest pub in Europe offers a variety of local beer, snacks, and mementos to commemorate this one-of-a-kind underground mining experience.
Recap
Descend into the depths of an authentic coal mine on this immersive Zabrze Guido Coal Mine tour from Krakow.
Discover the captivating history and unique underground attractions, including the deepest pub in Europe.
This 6-hour adventure offers an unforgettable window into the challenging world of mining, complete with a scenic journey, elevator ride, and delectable local cuisine.
