How to Plan Your Auschwitz Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour from Krakow

If you’re planning to visit Krakow, Poland, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to explore two of the city’s most iconic attractions: Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine. This comprehensive day tour will take you to both sites and provide you with a hassle-free experience with hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance tickets, and guided tours included. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your visit to these sites with ease.

Overview of the Tour

The Auschwitz Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour starts with hotel pickup and drop-off in Krakow City. You’ll then travel in a comfortable vehicle to the first stop of the day: Auschwitz-Birkenau. You’ll receive headphones to hear the guide clearly at both locations. Next, you’ll explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wieliczka Salt Mine. The guided tour will enhance your experience with historical information about these sites. Finally, the tour concludes with hotel drop-off in Krakow City.

What’s Included in the Tour

The tour includes a professional English-speaking guide in both Auschwitz and Salt Mines. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Krakow City are also included. You’ll receive headphones to hear the guide clearly in both locations. The cost of taking photos in the sites is not included.

Booking Your Tour

Booking your tour in advance is recommended to guarantee availability. You can book the Auschwitz Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour from Krakow through Viator. The tour has a limited capacity, so it’s a good idea to book your tour early. Simply click on the following link, select your preferred date and time, and book your tour: Book the tour here.

What to Expect

You’ll spend a full day exploring two of Krakow’s iconic attractions, so it’s important to come prepared. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Comfortable Clothing and Footwear

Both Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine require a lot of walking, so wear comfortable clothing and footwear, preferably closed-toe shoes. Comfortable shoes are especially important, as there will be stairs and uneven surfaces to navigate.

Food and Drinks

Food and drinks are not included in the tour, but you will have the opportunity to buy lunch at the salt mine.

Photos

You are allowed to take photos at both Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine, but be respectful of the sites and other visitors. However, please note that there is a cost for taking photos inside the sites.

Guided Tours

Guided tours are provided in Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine. The tours are conducted in English and will provide you with historical information about these sites.

Transportation

Transportation is provided on this tour, so you won’t need to worry about transportation arrangements. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Krakow City are included to make your experience as easy and stress-free as possible.

Conclusion

The Auschwitz Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour from Krakow is the perfect way to explore two of Krakow’s iconic attractions. With hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance tickets, and guided tours included, you can focus on enjoying the experience. Remember to wear comfortable clothing and footwear, bring along food and drinks, and be respectful of the sites and other visitors. Book your tour in advance to ensure availability and enjoy a stress-free day exploring these amazing sites.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Krakow

Krakow is a beautiful city in southern Poland, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. As a popular tourist destination, there are many questions that travelers often have before and during their visit. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Krakow.

1. What is the best time to visit Krakow?

Krakow is a city that can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The summer months of June, July, and August are the most popular, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices.Another popular time to visit is during the winter months of December, January, and February. This is when the Christmas markets are in full swing, and the city is transformed into a winter wonderland. The downside is that the temperatures can be very cold, so make sure to bring warm clothing.If you’re looking for smaller crowds and milder weather, then spring and fall are great times to visit. March through May and September through November offer cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, which makes for a more relaxed and authentic experience.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Krakow?

Poland is a member of the European Union, which means that citizens of other EU countries can enter without a visa. If you’re not an EU citizen, you may need a visa depending on your nationality. Check with the Polish embassy or consulate in your country to find out what the requirements are.

3. What are the best places to visit in Krakow?

Krakow is full of amazing sights and attractions, so it’s hard to pick just a few. However, some of the must-see places include:- The Old Town: This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to many of Krakow’s most iconic buildings, including the Main Market Square, St. Mary’s Basilica, and the Cloth Hall.- Wawel Castle: Located on a hill overlooking the city, this castle was the residence of Polish kings for centuries. Today, it’s a museum and one of Krakow’s most popular attractions.- Kazimierz: This neighborhood was once the center of Jewish life in Krakow and is now a trendy and bohemian district with lots of restaurants, bars, and street art.- Schindler’s Factory: This museum tells the story of Krakow under Nazi occupation and the heroic efforts of Oskar Schindler to save the lives of hundreds of Jewish workers.- The Salt Mine: Located just outside of Krakow, this mine has been in operation for over 700 years and is now a popular tourist attraction with underground lakes and impressive sculptures carved out of salt.

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

Krakow is a compact city, so the best way to get around is on foot. However, if you’re looking to cover more ground, there are several other options:- Public transport: The city has an extensive network of trams and buses that are affordable and easy to use. You can buy tickets at kiosks or on board.- Taxis: Taxis are plentiful in Krakow and are relatively inexpensive. Make sure to agree on a price before getting in.- Bicycle: Krakow has a great network of bicycle paths, and there are many bike rental companies in the city.

5. What should I eat in Krakow?

Polish cuisine is hearty and delicious, and there are many local dishes to try in Krakow. Some of the must-try dishes include:- Pierogi: These are similar to dumplings and come in a variety of fillings, including meat, cheese, and potato.- Bigos: This is a traditional stew made with sauerkraut, meat, and spices.- Kielbasa: This is a type of sausage that’s a staple of Polish cuisine.- Zapiekanka: This is a popular street food snack that’s similar to a baguette pizza.- Tatar: This is a dish made from raw beef that’s chopped and mixed with spices.

6. Is Krakow a safe city?

Krakow is a generally safe city, with low levels of violent crime. However, like any city, there is some petty crime, so it’s important to take precautions like keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding quiet or poorly-lit areas at night.

7. What are the customs and etiquette in Krakow?

Polish people are generally polite and friendly, and visitors to Krakow are expected to show respect for local customs and etiquette. Some things to keep in mind include:- Dress modestly when visiting churches or other religious sites.- Greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting for the first time.- Don’t make too much noise or be disruptive in public spaces.- Use basic Polish phrases like “hello” and “thank you” to show politeness and respect.

Conclusion

Krakow is a fascinating city with so much to offer visitors. By keeping these frequently asked questions in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for your trip and able to enjoy all that Krakow has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just great food, this beautiful Polish city won’t disappoint.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Krakow

Krakow is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. The city is known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, which can be seen in its stunning architecture, art, music, and food. If you’re planning a trip to Krakow, here’s a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in the city.

1. Visit the Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is one of the most iconic attractions in Krakow. The castle is located on a hill and offers a stunning view of the city. This Renaissance castle dates back to the 14th century and is a perfect representation of Polish architecture. The castle has a variety of exhibits, including art collections, weaponry, and royal chambers.

2. Explore the Main Market Square

The Main Market Square is the heart of Krakow’s Old Town. It’s a huge square surrounded by stunning architecture and is home to the iconic St. Mary’s Basilica. The square has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops. It’s a great place to explore the city’s history, culture, and cuisine.

3. Visit the Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter, also known as Kazimierz, is a vibrant neighborhood filled with trendy cafes, restaurants, and bars. The area has a rich cultural history and is home to several important synagogues and Jewish cemeteries. It’s a great place to learn about Jewish culture and history.

4. Take a tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau

Auschwitz-Birkenau is a former Nazi concentration camp located just outside Krakow. It’s one of the most important historical sites in Europe and a sobering reminder of the atrocities of World War II. A tour of the camp is a must for anyone interested in learning about the Holocaust and World War II.

5. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow (MOCAK)

MOCAK is a modern art museum located in the city center. The museum has a large collection of contemporary art from both Poland and abroad. It’s a great place to explore the world of contemporary art and to learn about the latest trends in the art world.

6. Experience Polish cuisine on a food tour

Polish cuisine is delicious and unique. On a food tour, you’ll have the opportunity to taste some of the most iconic dishes in Polish cuisine, including pierogi, kielbasa, and bigos. A food tour is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture and try new and exciting foods.

7. Explore the Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the most unique attractions in Krakow. The mine has been in operation since the 13th century and is one of the oldest salt mines in Europe. Visitors can explore the mine’s tunnels, chambers, and underground lakes.

8. Take a day trip to the Tatra Mountains

The Tatra Mountains are located just outside of Krakow and are one of the most stunning natural wonders in Poland. The mountains offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. A day trip to the Tatra Mountains is a great way to escape the city and enjoy the great outdoors.

Conclusion

Krakow is a city with a rich history and culture. There’s so much to see and do in Krakow, from exploring the city’s stunning architecture to tasting its delicious cuisine. If you’re planning a trip to Krakow, be sure to take advantage of all the city has to offer. Visit the Wawel Castle, explore the Jewish Quarter, take a tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau, and so much more.