How to Plan Your Auschwitz-Birkenau and Schindler’s Factory Tour from Krakow

Krakow is an enchanting city in Poland offering visitors a wide range of attractions that include historical sites, museums, and scenic locations. One of the noteworthy excursions you can take as a tourist is the Auschwitz-Birkenau and Schindler’s Factory Tour.

This tour exemplifies a feeling of reverence for history, and you get the opportunity to pay your respects to those who suffered and those who perished during World War II. With this step-by-step guide, you can easily plan your tour and have an unforgettable experience.

Experience

This 8-hour tour covers two iconic historical sites in Poland, the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and Memorial, and the Schindler Factory Museum. In addition, you will watch an informative documentary film en route to the concentration camps.

Highlights

• Visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and Memorial on a day trip from Krakow
• Watch an informative documentary film en route to the camps
• Experience Krakow during WWII at Oscar Schindler’s Factory Museum

Itinerary

The tour is available with various timings, usually starting between 7:30 am and 10:30 am. You will be picked up from a designated location in Krakow by a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and driven to Auschwitz-Birkenau.

Upon arrival at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and Memorial, you will be given an audioguide to explore the grounds independently. The guide has a GPS-trigger function that will convey the history of each block you visit. The audioguide is included in the tour price.

After completing your visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau, your driver will take you to the second stop on the tour, the Schindler Factory Museum. Here you will have an insight into the factory during WWII and see the impact of Krakow’s occupation by Nazi forces on the lives of the local population.

Upon completion of the tour, you will be dropped off at the designated location in Krakow.

Booking Your Tour

Booking your Auschwitz-Birkenau and Schindler’s Factory Tour from Krakow is easy. You can book it directly on the GetYourGuide website with the following link: book the tour here. It is recommended that you make a reservation in advance to ensure availability, and note that prices may vary depending on the season and the number of travelers.

Tips for Your Tour

Here are a few tips that will make your tour as pleasant and memorable as possible:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
• Bring a bottle of water and some snacks as you will be on the road for around 8 hours.
• Layer your clothes to adjust to the weather as it can change quickly.
• Auschwitz has restrictions on bags and backpacks, so do not take them with you during your visit. Lockers are available onsite, and you will be able to leave your things there for a small fee.
• To show respect for the victims, it is recommended that you dress modestly for the tour. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or shorts.
• It might be overwhelming to visit the camps, so be prepared for an emotional experience. Take time to reflect and absorb the gravity of the events that occurred.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau and Schindler’s Factory Museum is a solemn reminder of the atrocities that occurred in World War II. It is essential to pay homage to the victims and survivors and learn about the struggles they went through. By planning your tour in advance and following the tips in this article, you can make the most out of your experience and pay your respects to those who suffered during the Holocaust.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Krakow

Krakow is a beautiful city located in the south of Poland, and it is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. It’s a popular tourist destination, and many people plan to visit Krakow every year. If you’re planning a trip to Krakow or you’re just curious about this city, you might have several questions in mind. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Krakow.

1. What is the Best Time to Visit Krakow?

Krakow offers a unique experience to visitors throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Krakow is from April to May or from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and you can avoid the crowds and high prices of the peak tourist season, which is from June to August. You can also witness the stunning autumn foliage during the fall season.

2. What are the Must-Visit Places in Krakow?

Krakow has many attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the must-visit places in Krakow are:

Rynek Glowny

This is the main square of Krakow and is known for its Renaissance-style buildings and medieval architecture.

Wawel Castle

This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was the residence of the Polish kings for centuries. It’s a stunning castle that comprises several buildings, including the Royal Palace, Wawel Cathedral, and the Crown Treasury.

Kazimierz

Kazimierz is a historic Jewish quarter and is famous for its numerous cafes, restaurants, museums, and synagogues.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp

This is a former Nazi concentration camp that has been transformed into a museum. It’s a stark reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust.

The Main Market Square

This square dates back to the 13th century and is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. It’s also home to St. Mary’s Basilica, which is a magnificent Gothic church.

3. What are the Best Ways to Get Around Krakow?

Krakow has an extensive public transportation system that comprises buses and trams. You can purchase a single ticket, a 24-hour ticket, or a 72-hour ticket. However, many of the tourist attractions are within walking distance from the city center, so it’s recommended to explore the city on foot. You can also rent a bike, take a taxi, or use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt.

4. What are the Local Foods to Try in Krakow?

Krakow has a rich culinary tradition, and it’s known for its hearty and flavorful dishes. Some of the local foods to try in Krakow are:

Pierogi

These are Polish dumplings that are stuffed with meat, cheese, vegetables, or fruit.

Kielbasa

This is a type of traditional Polish sausage that’s made from pork and garlic.

Bigos

This is a traditional Polish stew that’s made of meat, cabbage, and sauerkraut.

Zapiekanka

This is a popular street food in Krakow and is a type of open-faced sandwich that’s made of baguette, mushrooms, cheese, and various toppings.

5. How Safe is Krakow for Tourists?

Krakow is a safe city for tourists, and the crime rate is relatively low. However, it’s recommended to take necessary precautions to avoid pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas.

6. What is the Currency of Poland, and Where Can I Exchange Money?

The currency of Poland is the Polish Zloty (PLN). You can exchange money at banks, exchange offices, or at the airport. It’s recommended to avoid exchanging money at unlicensed currency exchange booths as they may offer unfavorable exchange rates.

Conclusion

Krakow is a beautiful city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, Krakow has plenty of attractions and activities to satisfy your interests. We hope that this blog post has answered some of your questions about Krakow and will help you plan your next trip to this stunning city.