Slănic Voyage Tips and guide

Slănic (Pronounced: Sluh-neek; also known as Slănic Prahova) is a charming spa town in Prahova county, Muntenia, 40 km away from Ploiești.

The town is renowned for its salt mines, therapeutic saline waters, and peaceful mountain surroundings.

Nestled in the Subcarpathian hills, Slănic’s history is deeply tied to its salt deposits, which have been exploited for centuries. The area’s first salt exploitation was first documented around 1688, though local communities likely knew of the mineral springs long before. Over time, the salt mines became the foundation of the town’s economy, drawing traders, craftsmen, and visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of saline water. Today, the mines remain a central attraction, preserving both the industrial heritage and the unique underground mines (some of the largest in Europe) that made Slănic famous.

Beyond the mines, Slănic’s scenic landscapes, hiking trails, and historic architecture make it a relaxing escape for both wellness seekers and nature lovers.

There are frequent minibuses from the northern bus station of Ploieşti (40 minutes - one hour travel time) and several daily buses from Bucharest (two hours and half); some of their schedules are available on autogari.ro

There are nine regional trains running daily from Ploieşti Southern train station to 45.23193425.938471 Slănic train station. The journey costs 9 lei and takes 80 minutes. Despite being slower, the train journey is a lot more pleasant than the bus. Timetables are available on the rail operator TFC website [1].

Slănic is a compact town, and most attractions are within easy walking distance. The town center, salt mines, and spa facilities can all be reached on foot. For trips to nearby villages, hiking trails, or the surrounding Subcarpathian hills, local buses and taxis are available, though schedules can be limited. Driving is the most convenient option for exploring the wider area, including scenic routes through Prahova County.

45°13′57″N 25°56′14″E

Map of Slănic

• 45.23654225.9420781 The Salt Mine (Mina Unirea), Str. Salinei 1. Daily 09:00-15:00. One of Europe’s largest salt mines, featuring vast underground halls, amusement areas, and wellness facilities. Visitors can explore the unique tunnels, enjoy the therapeutic microclimate, use the sports courts, kids’ play areas with mats and inflatable slides, trampolines, karting, table tennis, billiards, air hockey, and mini-golf. The site also features a souvenir shop, café, and food store, plus a saltwater lake, waterfall, and a small museum of mining equipment. A quiet wellness area with loungers and chairs allows guests with respiratory conditions to relax, and the mine hosts sports competitions, contests, and exhibitions. 55 lei adults, 40 lei children. (updated Aug 2025)
• 45.23480325.9374922 The Salt Museum, Str. 23 August 19, Slănic. 12 lei. (updated Aug 2025)
• 45.23198725.9324253 The Salt Mountain. A natural landmark made of salt at the edge of town. (updated Aug 2025)

Slănic offers a mix of wellness, outdoor, and cultural activities. Visitors can relax at the town’s spa facilities, such as Baia Roșie (Red Baths) and 45.23212825.940741 Baia Verde (Green Baths). (updated Aug 2025) or spend time in the quiet wellness areas of the salt mine.

The surrounding hills are perfect for nature walks to one of the springs with sulfate or calcium-rich waters, such as 45.22912125.951162 The Cold Water Spring (Izvorul Fântâna Rece). (updated Aug 2025) and 45.24268425.9344293 Gogon Spring (Izvorul lui Gogon). (updated Aug 2025), and photography.

There are ample routes on the hills west of Slănic, one of them marked with a red band that goes all the way to the main hiking route up Grohotiș peak (1,768 m). The routes are, however, not mapped on any modern app-based maps. However, for the intrepid adventurer, it can present a good challenge. Old maps of these routes can be found here. As with any place in Romania, beware of bears and shepherd dogs and apply the same precautions.

• Slănic – Vârful Gorganul Mic – Vârful Mare Bechet – vârful Poiana Lungă – Șaua Cordun – Valea Crasnei – Schiulesti – Slănic (3-4 hours, red vertical band marking)
• Slănic – Vârful Radila Mare – Vârful Ulița – Vârful Grohotiș – Vârful Bobu Mare – Vârful Bobu Mic – Stâna din Babeș – Cheia (10 - 12 hours, red vertical band marking together with blue band marking)

• 45.22493625.933491 Baia Roșie Resort (Red Baths Resort). Touristic centre comprising in accommodation, restaurant, swimming areas with therapeutic salt water. 450 lei per night. (updated Aug 2025)