How to Plan Your Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial and Museum Full Guided Tour from Krakow

If you’re planning a trip to Poland, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, a place that serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II. This memorial is located near Krakow, and it’s easily accessible by car or public transport. However, instead of renting a car, you can book a full guided tour that will pick you up from your hotel and take you directly to the museum.In this guide, we’ll explain how to plan your Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial and Museum full guided tour from Krakow, including what to expect during the tour, the amenities included, and how to book your tickets.

Overview

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is one of the most visited museums in Poland, and it honors the memory of the millions of people who suffered and died there during the Holocaust. The museum is located approximately 70 kilometers west of Krakow, in the small town of Oswiecim.If you’re staying in Krakow, you don’t need to rent a car or public transport to reach the museum. The Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial and Museum Full Guided Tour from Krakow is a popular option that includes hotel pickup and transportation in an air-conditioned minibus. The tour also includes admission and the services of a professional guide, who speaks English.

What’s Included

The Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial and Museum Full Guided Tour from Krakow includes:

Admission and Guide Fees

You don’t need to worry about buying tickets at the museum or paying extra fees. The full guided tour includes admission and guide fees.

Air-Conditioned Vehicle

You’ll be picked up from your hotel in a modern, air-conditioned minibus. The bus is comfortable and equipped with free Wi-Fi.

Group Tours

The Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial and Museum welcomes visitors from around the world. To better organize and manage the large volume of visitors, the museum offers guided tours in groups. The tour operates throughout the year, and the group size is limited to a maximum of 30 people.

The Tour Itself

The Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial and Museum Full Guided Tour from Krakow is a half-day trip. The tour typically starts in the morning, and the exact pickup time depends on your hotel location. The duration of the guided tour is approximately 3.5 hours, and then the bus will bring you back to Krakow.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and you’ll be picked up from your hotel reception desk. The exact time of your pickup will be confirmed by the local provider in advance.

Pickup Points

The tour operator offers pickup from most hotels located in Krakow’s city center. You can check the pickup points at the time of booking and select the one that’s most convenient for you.

Tour Language

The guided tour is conducted in English, and the guide will provide commentary throughout the tour. The guide will share historical facts, personal stories and answer any questions you may have.

How to Book the Tour

The Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial and Museum Full Guided Tour from Krakow can be booked online through the following link – book the tour here. You’ll need to provide your hotel details and the number of passengers when you book the tour. Payment is required upfront, and Viator, the booking platform, accepts credit cards and PayPal.Please note that the museum has some restrictions on visitors. For instance, visitors are not allowed to bring large bags, backpacks, or camera bags into the museum. Photography is allowed, but only for personal use.

Conclusion

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a sobering experience that will give you a chance to learn about the terrible events that took place during World War II. The Full Guided Tour from Krakow is an excellent way to visit the museum without worrying about transportation or admission fees. The tour is informative, comprehensive, and thought-provoking, and it’s suitable for people of all ages. We hope this guide has helped you plan your visit and that you have a meaningful experience at the museum.

Frequently Asked Questions About Krakow: Exploring One of Poland’s Most Historic Cities

Krakow – a city located in the southern part of Poland, is one of the most historic and picturesque places that you can visit in Europe. The city has a rich cultural and historical heritage that attracts millions of visitors every year. If you are planning your visit to this beautiful city, this post is for you! Here are the answers to some of the frequently asked questions about Krakow.

1. What is the best time to visit Krakow?

Krakow experiences a varying climate throughout the year. The best time to visit Krakow is during the spring season from March to May and in the autumn season from September to November. The weather during these seasons is mild, and the crowds are comparatively low. During summer, the city can get very crowded with tourists, and the prices of everything can go high. In contrast, winter in Krakow is severe, with temperatures ranging from -10 to -20°C. However, the city comes alive during Christmas, and you can experience one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.

2. What are the major tourist attractions in Krakow?

Krakow is filled with many historical, cultural, and architectural landmarks. Some of the must-visit tourist attractions are:

Rynek Glowny – Main Market Square

Rynek Glowny, the main market square in Krakow, is one of the largest and most beautiful city squares in Europe. The square is surrounded by historic buildings and colorful markets that offer a unique shopping experience.

Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is one of the most significant cultural and historical landmarks in Krakow. The castle was the seat of Polish kings for more than 500 years and is now a heritage museum.

Kazimierz District

Kazimierz is the Jewish quarter in Krakow that was destroyed during World War II, but now it’s a vibrant and lively place with street art, bars, and restaurants.

Auschwitz Concentration Camp

Auschwitz Concentration Camp is one of the largest Nazi concentration camps that became a symbol of terror, genocide, and the holocaust. A visit to this place is one of the most important and memorable experiences you can have in Krakow.

3. How to get around Krakow?

Krakow is a compact city, and it’s easy to explore on foot or by bike. You can also use the tram or bus to get around the city. The public transportation system in Krakow is efficient, cheap, and eco-friendly, with plenty of routes covering the entire city.

4. Where to eat in Krakow?

Krakow is a foodie’s paradise, and you can find many excellent restaurants and cafes throughout the city. Some of the most famous local dishes that you must try are pierogi, Polish dumplings filled with meat or cheese, and zapiekanka, a special Polish pizza with mushrooms, cheese, and other toppings.

Some of the best places to eat in Krakow are:

• Pod Nosem
• Polakowski
• Milkbar Tomasza
• Klimaty Poludnia
• Starka

5. Where to stay in Krakow?

Krakow has many accommodation options ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the best areas to stay in Krakow are Stare Miasto, Kazimierz, and Nowa Huta. Stare Miasto is in the heart of Krakow and is the most popular tourist area due to its central location and proximity to the Rynek Glowny.

Some of the best hotels in Krakow are:

• Hotel Unicus Palace
• PURO Krakow Kazimierz
• The Bonerowski Palace
• Hotel Wentzl
• Sheraton Grand Krakow

6. Are there any day trips from Krakow?

Krakow is an excellent base for exploring nearby tourist attractions. Some of the most popular day trips from Krakow are:

Auschwitz and Birkenau Concentration Camps

A visit to Auschwitz and Birkenau concentration camps is an emotional and educational experience that provides a glimpse into one of the darkest chapters of history.

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the oldest and largest salt mines in the world, and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Zakopane and Tatra Mountains

Zakopane is a beautiful mountain resort town located in the Tatra Mountains, which is a popular winter and summer sports destination.

7. What are the cultural events in Krakow?

Krakow hosts many cultural and entertainment events throughout the year, such as the Krakow Film Festival, Krakow Picnic, International Jazz Festival, and Christmas markets. The city’s cultural events attract tourists from all over the world and offer an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.

8. What is the currency used in Krakow?

The official currency in Poland is the Polish Zloty (PLN).

9. Do I need a visa to visit Krakow?

Citizens of the USA, Canada, and EU countries don’t need a visa to visit Poland if the trip is less than 90 days. Visitors from other countries should check the official website of the Polish embassy in their country for visa requirements and procedures.

10. What are the language barriers in Krakow?

Polish is the official language of Poland, but English is widely spoken and understood in tourist areas like Krakow. Most of the tourist guides, hotel staff, and restaurant staff speak English, making it easy for tourists to navigate throughout the city.In conclusion, Krakow is a magical city that has something for everyone. It’s a city with a rich history, culture, architecture, and food that will delight you. With this FAQ guide, we hope you have a better understanding of what you can expect and plan your visit accordingly. Krakow awaits you!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Krakow

Krakow is an amazing city with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do in Krakow, and it can be overwhelming for a first-time visitor to decide where to start. In this guide, we’ll give you a clear plan on how to spend your time in Krakow, starting from the must-visit attractions to the best places to eat and stay.

Getting Around Krakow

Before we start, let’s cover some basics. Krakow is a relatively small city, so it’s easy to get around on foot. However, if you don’t feel like walking, there are many other transport options available.

Public Transport

Krakow has an extensive public transport system comprising trams and buses. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or from the driver, but make sure to validate your ticket on board. The easiest way to get around is to purchase a 24- or 48-hour ticket that allows unlimited travel on trams and buses.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available in Krakow, but it’s essential to use licensed companies, such as Eco Taxi, Taxi Barbakan, or IC Cab. Avoid taxis parked outside tourist attractions as they will be more expensive.

Day 1: The Old Town

Krakow’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a perfect place to start your city exploration.

Rynek Glowny

Rynek Glowny is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, and it’s the heart of Krakow’s Old Town. Besides admiring the beautiful architecture, there are many restaurants and cafes where you can grab a bite or drink.

Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is a significant symbol of Polish history and culture, dating back to the 16th century. It is home to several museums, including the Royal Armoury, Crown Treasury, and the State Rooms. Make sure to book your tickets online in advance to avoid queues.

Krakow Cloth Hall

The Krakow Cloth Hall is an impressive structure in the center of the Rynek Glowny. The building dates back to the Renaissance era and has been a market hall since the 14th century. Today, it hosts many souvenir stalls where you can buy traditional Polish gifts for yourself or friends.

Day 2: Kazimierz

Kazimierz is the former Jewish district of Krakow, which has become a trendy and bohemian area filled with cafes, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

The Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter is filled with history and has endured many changes throughout the years. Start at the Remuh Synagogue, which is one of the few synagogues that survived WWII. From there, walk to the lively Plac Nowy, where you can have a snack at one of the food stalls. Finish your walk at the Galicia Jewish Museum, which showcases Jewish life before WWII.

Schindler’s Factory

Schindler’s Factory is a museum that honors the story of the Jewish residents of Kazimierz during WWII. The museum uses multimedia exhibitions to bring history to life and showcase the experiences of those who lived through the era. Make sure to book tickets in advance.

Day 3: Nature in Krakow

Even though Krakow is a busy city, there are several beautiful green areas where you can enjoy some peace and quiet.

Wolski Forest

Wolski Forest is a large green area located on the outskirts of Krakow. Here, you can enjoy beautiful hiking trails or rent a bike and explore the forest. The main attraction of the forest is the Wawel Castle, which provides a beautiful view from up high.

Planty Park

Planty Park is a beautiful green park that surrounds the Old Town of Krakow. It’s a great place to relax and have a picnic after a long day of sightseeing.

Where to Eat in Krakow

Krakow has a vibrant culinary scene, and you don’t want to miss trying some of the local dishes.

Pierogi at Przystanek Pierogarnia

Pierogi is a traditional Polish dish that should not be missed. Przystanek Pierogarnia is famous for its delicious pierogi, which come in both sweet and savory flavors.

Polish Cuisine at Pod Aniolami

Pod Aniolami is a historic restaurant located in a 13th-century cellar. Here, you can enjoy traditional Polish cuisine with a modern twist.

Where to Stay in Krakow

Krakow has accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, but it’s best to stay in the city center close to the major attractions.

The Stary Hotel

The Stary Hotel is located in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town and has a luxurious feel, providing the perfect respite after a long day of sightseeing.

The Kazimierz Hotel

The Kazimierz Hotel is a boutique hotel located in the Kazimierz district. It’s a great option for those who want to explore the area’s bohemian vibe.

Final Thoughts:

Krakow is a beautiful city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and traditions. The city has so much to offer, and you might not be able to see it all in one visit. However, with this guide, you can have a clear plan on how to spend your time wisely in Krakow, from the must-visit attractions to the best places to eat and stay. Take the time to explore and appreciate everything this city has to offer, and we guarantee you’ll fall in love with Krakow.