Auschwitz Birkenau Salt Mine Guided Tour in English from Krakow: Complete Guide

Krakow, located in southern Poland, is home to several historical and cultural landmarks. If you’re visiting Krakow, taking a guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine is a must-do. This 11-hour excursion includes visits to Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau and a tour of Wieliczka’s underground salt mines. A knowledgeable guide will accompany you throughout the tour, providing historical and cultural context along the way.

Experience

This guided tour combines two of Krakow’s most popular and significant landmarks, the Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine, into one full-day experience. The tour is conducted in English and begins in Krakow, where you’ll board a comfortable bus to take you to each destination.

Itinerary

The itinerary for this tour is as follows:

Starting location: Krakow

The tour begins in Krakow, where you’ll be picked up from your hotel or a meeting point.

Transfer (1.5 hours)

You’ll travel from Krakow to Auschwitz I in a comfortable bus with your guide.

Auschwitz I (2 hours)

You’ll explore Auschwitz I with your guide, learning about the history of the concentration camp and its prisoners.

Break time (10 minutes)

You’ll have a short break before continuing on to Auschwitz II-Birkenau.

Auschwitz II-Birkenau (1 hour)

You’ll visit Birkenau, the largest of the concentration camps, and learn about its grim history.

Transfer (1.5 hours)

After Auschwitz, you’ll journey to the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Free time (1 hour)

You’ll have one hour of free time to purchase lunch or souvenirs.

Wieliczka Salt Mine (2.5 hours)

You’ll tour the underground salt mines and visit the amazing chambers and original sculptures.

Transfer (45 minutes)

After the salt mines, you’ll travel back to Krakow.

Arrive back at: Krakow

The tour will end in Krakow, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or a meeting point. Note: The itinerary is subject to change.

Highlights

This tour is a one-of-a-kind experience that provides historical and cultural context for two of Poland’s most significant landmarks. Here are some highlights of what you can expect: – Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration camp
– Learn about the history of the concentration camps from a knowledgeable guide
– Explore the underground salt mines of Wieliczka and see remarkable sculptures and chambers
– Comfortable transportation to and from Krakow
– Hotel or meeting point pickup and drop-off (if option selected)

How to plan your tour of Auschwitz Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine from Krakow?

Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine can be overwhelming, which is why it’s best to take a guided tour. This particular tour is comprehensive and provides plenty of time to explore both landmarks. Here’s how you can plan your day:

1. Book your tour in advance

Booking your tour in advance ensures that you secure a spot, and you can select the pickup option that works best for you.

2. Choose the right time of year

The most popular time to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine is during the summer months, so consider visiting during the shoulder season to avoid crowds.

3. Wear comfortable and appropriate clothing

Both landmarks require walking, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes and bring warm clothing for the salt mines as it can be chilly underground.

4. Bring water and snacks

You’ll have a break and free time to grab lunch at the salt mine, but bringing water and snacks is always a good idea.

5. Follow the rules and regulations

Both landmarks have specific rules and regulations that visitors must follow, including no large bags or food and drink inside the concentration camps.

6. Book the tour and get started today

You can book the tour for Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine online at GetYourGuide. Book the tour and start your adventure today! Book the tour here

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Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine are two must-visit landmarks in Krakow, and this guided tour is the perfect way to experience both. With a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation to and from Krakow, this tour is a comprehensive and valuable experience. Book the tour today and take the first step in exploring the rich historical and cultural landmarks of Krakow.

Frequently Asked Questions about Krakow

Krakow is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Poland. With its rich culture, impressive architecture, and fascinating history, it’s no surprise that Krakow has become a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Whether you’re planning a visit to Krakow soon or just looking to learn more about the city, this FAQ has everything you need to know.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Krakow?

The best time to visit Krakow is during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so expect crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter time to visit, consider coming in the shoulder seasons of April-May or September-October when the weather is still pleasant but there are fewer tourists around. Winter in Krakow can be cold and snowy, but the city has plenty of cozy cafes, bars, and restaurants to warm up in.

2. What are some must-see sights in Krakow?

There are many spectacular attractions to see in Krakow, including:

• Wawel Castle – A magnificent fortress and palace that has stood for over 900 years
• Rynek Glowny – The largest medieval square in Europe, filled with beautiful architecture and bustling cafes
• Kazimierz – The historic Jewish district with fascinating synagogues, markets, and museums
• Oskar Schindler’s Factory – A museum dedicated to the life of Schindler and the history of Krakow during World War II
• Cloth Hall – A stunning Renaissance marketplace in the heart of the city

3. What is the currency in Krakow?

The currency in Krakow, as well as the rest of Poland, is the Polish złoty (PLN). You can easily exchange money at banks, ATMs, or currency exchange offices throughout the city.

4. What is the food like in Krakow?

Krakow has a rich culinary tradition, with many delicious local dishes to try. Some must-try dishes include:

• Pierogi – Delicious dumplings filled with a variety of savory or sweet fillings
• Kielbasa – Polish sausage that’s grilled, smoked, or fried and served with mustard and bread
• Zapiekanka – A kind of open-faced sandwich made with a long baguette, cheese, mushrooms, and other toppings
• Obwarzanek – A traditional bread ring that’s similar to a bagel but softer
• Golonka – A delicious meat dish that consists of pork knuckle, cooked to perfection and served with sauerkraut and potatoes

5. Is English widely spoken in Krakow?

Yes, English is widely spoken in Krakow, especially in the city center and in tourist areas. You should have no trouble communicating with locals and finding your way around the city. However, it’s always polite to learn a few basic phrases in Polish, such as “dziękuję” (thank you) and “przepraszam” (excuse me).

6. What is the best way to get around Krakow?

Krakow has an excellent public transportation system, including trams and buses, making it easy to get around the city. You can buy tickets at kiosks or from the driver, and they’re valid for both trams and buses. If you prefer to travel by foot, the city center is small enough that you can easily walk to most attractions.

7. Is it safe to visit Krakow?

Yes, Krakow is generally a safe city for visitors. However, as with any big city, it’s important to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding quiet or dark areas at night.

8. What are the best day trips from Krakow?

Krakow is surrounded by stunning countryside and historic towns that make great day trips. Some popular options include:

• Auschwitz-Birkenau – The former Nazi concentration camp is located just 70 km from Krakow and is a sobering but important place to visit.
• Wieliczka Salt Mine – A fascinating underground world of salt chambers, sculptures, and lakes just outside of Krakow.
• Zakopane – A popular ski resort town nestled in the Tatra Mountains with stunning alpine scenery, hiking trails, and traditional highlander culture.
• Czestochowa – The site of the famous Jasna Gora Monastery, which is home to the revered Black Madonna icon and an important place of pilgrimage.

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Krakow is a truly special city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in exploring its World War II past or strolling through its charming medieval streets, Krakow is sure to capture your heart. Use this FAQ to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this enchanting city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Krakow

Krakow, the second-largest city in Poland, is a popular tourist destination in Europe. With its beautiful historic architecture, art, museums, and vibrant nightlife, Krakow has something for everyone. Whether you are visiting for just a few days or planning a more extended stay, there are plenty of things to see and do in Krakow. Here is our guide to help you make the most of your time in Krakow:

1. Explore the Historic Centre

The historic centre of Krakow is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is an absolute must-see for any tourist visiting the city. The cobblestone streets, Gothic and Baroque architecture, and the bustling market square, Rynek Glowny, make the historic centre a beautiful place to walk around. Some notable landmarks in the historic centre include the Wawel Royal Castle, the Cloth Hall, and St. Mary’s Basilica.

2. Visit the Wawel Royal Castle

Located on a limestone hill in the centre of Krakow, the Wawel Royal Castle has been a symbol of Polish national identity for over 1,000 years. It was the residence of Polish kings and is now a museum with collections of armory, tapestries, and other treasures. Visitors can tour the castle’s state rooms, the Royal Private Apartments, the Crown Treasury, and the Armoury. The castle also has a beautiful garden, the Wawel Royal Castle Garden, which is open to the public.

3. Take a Walk in Planty Park

Planty Park is a green belt that encircles the historic centre of Krakow. It occupies the site of the city’s medieval fortifications and offers a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets. The park is full of beautiful trees, flowers, and fountains, and has several walking paths for visitors to explore.

4. Marvel at the stunning St. Mary’s Basilica

St. Mary’s Basilica is a Gothic church located in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town. It is one of Poland’s most famous churches and is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and impressive altarpiece, the Veit Stoss Altarpiece. Visitors can also climb the church’s tower for a fantastic view of Krakow’s Old Town.

5. Learn about History at Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a solemn reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust, and it’s an essential visit for those interested in history. The site contains two of the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camps, Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, where over 1.1 million people were murdered. Tourists can explore the camps’ preserved barracks, gas chambers, and crematoria, and learn about the victims’ experiences and the liberation of the camps by Allied forces.

6. Experience Krakow’s Jazz Scene

Krakow is home to one of Europe’s most vibrant jazz scenes. The city has produced some of the most legendary jazz musicians, and many bars and clubs offer regular jazz concerts. Visitors can head to the legendary Harris Piano Jazz Bar or the Alchemia Jazz Club for an unforgettable night out.

7. Taste Traditional Polish Cuisine

Polish cuisine has a strong culinary tradition that spans several centuries. Tourists can indulge in traditional Polish dishes such as pierogies, kielbasa, and Bigos, a hearty stew made with meat, sauerkraut, and cabbage. Krakow’s markets, such as the famous Stary Kleparz Market, offer visitors the chance to taste local produce and spices.

8. Take a Day Trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine, located just outside Krakow, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is over 700 years old. Visitors can explore the salt mines’ underground caves, grottos, and chapels, which have been carved entirely out of salt. The mine also houses several art installations carved out of salt, such as the beautiful Chapel of St. Kinga.

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Krakow is an incredible city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, art, or just want to have a good time, Krakow won’t disappoint. With so many beautiful landmarks and cultural events, it’s hard to experience everything Krakow has to offer in one trip.