How to Plan Your Auschwitz Birkenau Museum Regular Tour from Krakow

Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is one of the most somber experiences you can have in Poland. It’s a place where more than 1 million people were systematically murdered by the Nazi regime during World War II. But, it’s also a place where you can learn about the horrors of the Holocaust and honor the memory of the innocent victims.

If you’re planning a trip to Krakow, visiting Auschwitz is a must-do activity. But, how can you plan your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about the Auschwitz Birkenau Museum Regular Tour from Krakow!

Experience

The Auschwitz Birkenau Museum Regular Tour from Krakow is a 7-hour guided tour of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. The tour is provided by a third-party company that offers pick-up from your hotel or apartment. You’ll travel by van or minibus with a driver/guide and other participants to the memorial and museum, which is about 60 kilometers west of Krakow.

Highlights

• Visit one of Europe’s darkest chapters in the history of the 20th century
• See the original buildings of the Auschwitz and Birkenau concentration camps
• Learn about the terrible history of the Holocaust from a more personal perspective

Full Description

The Auschwitz Birkenau Museum Regular Tour from Krakow starts with a pickup from your location of choice in the city. After being picked up by your driver/guide, you’ll travel by van or minibus to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum in Oświęcim.

Once you arrive, a licensed guide will take you on a 3-hour tour of the Auschwitz camps. You’ll learn about the history of the camp and the horrific conditions that prisoners endured while being held captive there. You’ll also see some of the original buildings, visit the museum exhibits, and see the crematoriums and gas chambers.

The second part of the tour is a visit to Birkenau, which was a separate camp from Auschwitz. Birkenau was designed as an extermination center, with gas chambers and crematoriums that could kill thousands of people a day. You’ll learn about the history of Birkenau and the tragic fate of its prisoners.

After the tour, you’ll travel back to Krakow with your driver/guide and be dropped off at your hotel or apartment.

Inclusions

• Pick-up and drop off at your hotel or apartment (if option selected)
• Driver or tour leader
• Transportation by van or minibus
• Licensed guide in Auschwitz and Birkenau
• Insurance
• Entrance fees
• Headset to hear the live guide (in the first camp only)
• Food (bring a packed lunch)

Exclusions

• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if not selected)
• Gratuities (optional)

Requirements

This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as there’s a lot of walking involved. Also, children under 14 are not allowed to participate in the tour due to the sensitive nature of the content.

How to Book

To book the Auschwitz Birkenau Museum Regular Tour from Krakow, visit this link and follow the instructions on the page. You’ll need to select the date of your tour, the number of participants, and whether you want hotel pickup and drop-off. After that, you’ll be taken to the payment page to complete your booking.

Tips for Your Visit

• Dress appropriately for the weather, as you’ll be outside for most of the tour.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s a lot of walking involved.
• Bring a packed lunch, as there are no food options available at the memorial and museum.
• Don’t take any photos inside the museum or the camps, as it’s not allowed.
• Respect the solemnity of the place and behave appropriately.

Book Your Tour Now

Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a profoundly moving experience that everyone should have at least once in their lives. If you’re planning a trip to Krakow, don’t hesitate to book the Auschwitz Birkenau Museum Regular Tour. It’s the best way to learn about the horrors of the Holocaust and honor the memory of the victims.

Frequently Asked Questions about Krakow

Krakow, located in southern Poland, is a rich and beautiful city that offers a lot of historical and cultural significance. Visitors might find it difficult to navigate the city without proper research; hence, we have compiled some frequently asked questions that will help you plan your trip to Krakow.

1. What is the best time to visit Krakow?

Visitors can explore Krakow all year round, as every season offers something different. Krakow has a continental climate; hence, it can have scorching summers and chilly winters. The best time to visit Krakow is in the spring and fall when the weather is warm and pleasant. During these months, tourists can explore the city on foot, enjoy al fresco dining and visit various sightseeing spots comfortably. Winter is also a good time to visit Krakow, especially for those who enjoy winter sports, as there are ski resorts in the nearby Tatras mountain range. However, make sure to pack warm clothes as temperatures can drop to below freezing.

2. Where should I stay in Krakow?

Krakow offers several options for accommodation, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. If you want to be close to the main tourist spots, Old Town is the perfect location. It’s the heart of the city and offers quaint streets, Gothic churches, and medieval buildings. Kazimierz is another popular neighborhood that offers a bohemian vibe with hipster cafes, art galleries, bars, and restaurants. If you’re looking for a quieter location, consider staying in Podgorze, located across the river from Kazimierz. The neighborhood is known for its historic landmarks, including Schindler’s Factory and the Ghetto Heroes Square.

3. What are the must-visit attractions in Krakow?

Krakow is full of historical landmarks and cultural attractions. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Krakow:

• Wawel Castle: This magnificent castle was the residence of Polish monarchs throughout the centuries. It has several courtyards and rooms with exquisite art collections and treasures.
• Main Market Square: It’s the largest medieval square in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The square offers a picturesque view with arcades, historic buildings, street performers, and al fresco dining options.
• Kazimierz: The Jewish Quarter of Krakow is known for its synagogues, Jewish-centric boutiques selling Judaica, and a street art scene.
• Salt Mines: Considered one of the oldest working mines in the world, the salt mines offer a unique experience with underground chapels, sculptures, and mines spread over 9 levels.
• Krakow Cloth Hall: This renaissance-style cloth hall is one of Europe’s most iconic marketplaces, offering a vibrant indoor shopping experience with quirky souvenirs, local crafts, and jewelry.

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

Krakow is a compact city, and visitors can explore several areas on foot. However, if you want to cover more ground, take advantage of public transport options, including buses and trams. A 24-hour ticket for public transport cost around 15 PLN, which is approximately 4 USD. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the city on electric carts or rent a bike to explore popular sites comfortably.

5. What are some traditional Polish dishes I must try in Krakow?

Krakow has a rich culinary scene with several restaurants and cafes serving traditional Polish cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Krakow:

• Pierogi: These are traditional Polish dumplings with various fillings like meat, cheese, mushroom, and cabbage.
• Bigos: It’s a hearty and savory stew made with sauerkraut, assorted meats, and mushrooms.
• Zapiekanka: A Polish take on pizza, this popular street food is a long baguette with a variety of toppings like mushrooms, cheese, ham, and vegetables.
• Golabki: Often served during festivals and celebrations, these cabbage rolls are filled with minced meat, rice, and spices cooked in a rich tomato sauce.
• Kielbasa: It’s a type of Polish sausage, served with crusty bread, mustard, and pickles.

6. Is it safe to travel to Krakow?

Yes, Krakow is a safe city for tourists to travel to. However, visitors should always be mindful of their surroundings and take precautions like not leaving valuable items unattended, especially in crowded areas. It’s recommendable to book taxis from reputable taxi companies rather than hailing one from the street, as some unscrupulous drivers may overcharge tourists. Overall, the city has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it a top destination for tourists.

7. What is the local language, and will it be easy to communicate with locals?

Polish is the official language in Krakow, and not many locals speak English. However, most signs and menus are written in both Polish and English, making it easier for visitors to navigate the city. It’s recommendable to carry a translator app or a phrasebook around, especially if you’re visiting a Polish market or a restaurant off the beaten path.

8. How much does it cost to visit Krakow?

Krakow offers a variety of activities from free walking tours to high-end restaurants and hotels. On average, budget travelers can expect to spend around $40 per day, while mid-range travelers may budget around $100. Luxury travelers can budget $200 and above for activities, accommodation, and meals.

9. Is it necessary to tip in Krakow?

Tipping can be a way to show gratitude for good service in Krakow. Some restaurants and cafes include a service charge in the bill, and it’s not customary to leave an additional tip. In other places, it’s recommended to leave a 10% tip for satisfactory service.

10. What are some souvenirs to buy in Krakow?

Krakow offers several souvenir options for travelers to choose from. Some of the local specialties you can consider buying as a souvenir include handmade jewelry, traditional Polish pottery, amber jewelry, local crafts, and vodka.

Book Your Tour Now

Krakow offers visitors several reasons to plan a trip to this historical city. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or a foodie, Krakow offers something for everyone. With its picturesque streets, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Krakow promises to enchant visitors and make them fall in love with this beautiful city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Krakow

Krakow, one of Poland’s oldest and most significant cities, has a lot to offer to tourists. From its well-preserved medieval architecture to its rich cultural heritage, there’s no shortage of things to explore and enjoy in Krakow. Here are our top recommendations for how to spend your time in Krakow:

1. Explore the Old Town

The Old Town is the historical center of Krakow and is home to numerous museums, town squares, and impressive architecture. You can start by visiting the Main Market Square, the largest medieval town square in Europe, which is surrounded by colorful buildings, cafes, and shops. Don’t forget to check out St. Mary’s Basilica, one of the most significant churches in Krakow. You can also explore Wawel Castle, which was the residence of Polish kings for centuries.

2. Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine, one of the oldest salt mines in the world, is a popular tourist attraction in Krakow. It’s located about 10 kilometers from the city center and can be easily reached by bus or train. The mine has been in operation for over 700 years and features a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers, including an underground chapel made entirely of salt.

3. Try Traditional Polish Cuisine

Polish cuisine is hearty and flavorful, and there are numerous traditional dishes to try in Krakow. Some must-try dishes include pierogi (dumplings filled with meat or vegetables), kielbasa (Polish sausage), bigos (sausage and cabbage stew), and oscypek (smoked cheese made from sheep’s milk). You can find these dishes in many restaurants throughout Krakow, but we recommend going to a local milk bar for an authentic and budget-friendly experience.

4. Take a Tour of the Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter, also known as Kazimierz, is an up-and-coming neighborhood in Krakow that’s rich in history and culture. It was once home to a thriving Jewish community that was nearly destroyed during World War II. Today, the area has been revitalized and is home to numerous cafes, galleries, and synagogues. We recommend taking a guided tour of the Jewish Quarter to learn about its past and present.

5. Visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is located about an hour’s drive from Krakow and is a humbling and sobering experience. The museum is dedicated to the memory of the millions of people who were imprisoned and murdered in the Auschwitz concentration camp during World War II. It’s an essential part of any visit to Krakow, but make sure to plan for a full day and bring comfortable shoes.

6. Enjoy a Night Out in Krakow

Krakow has a vibrant nightlife scene, and there’s no shortage of pubs, clubs, and bars to explore. The Main Market Square is a great place to start, but we recommend venturing out to the Kazimierz neighborhood or the Vistula Riverfront for a more local experience. Some popular drinks to try in Krakow include vodka, beer, and mead (honey wine).

7. Attend a Cultural Event

Krakow has a rich cultural heritage, and there are numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Some notable events include the Krakow Film Festival, the Dragon Parade, and the Jewish Culture Festival. Check the local events calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.

8. Shop for Souvenirs

Krakow has a lot of great souvenirs to choose from, including traditional crafts, food products, and clothing. Some popular items include the amber jewelry, hand-painted ceramics, and Polish textiles. You can find these items in many shops throughout the city, but we recommend checking out the stalls in the Main Market Square for the best selection.

Book Your Tour Now

Krakow is a fantastic city to visit, with a wealth of cultural and historical attractions to explore. We hope this guide has given you some ideas for how to spend your time in Krakow and make your trip memorable. Remember to pack comfortable shoes, dress for the weather, and try to learn a few basic Polish phrases before you go. Have a great trip!