How to Plan Your Day Trip to Auschwitz Birkenau from Krakow

Krakow is a beautiful city in Poland with a rich history that attracts tourists from all over the world. One of the most poignant sites near Krakow is the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Museum, which is a stark reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust. If you’re planning a trip to Krakow, you cannot miss this historical site. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of planning your day trip to Auschwitz Birkenau from Krakow.

Step 1: Choose the Right Tour

There are many tours available that take you to Auschwitz Birkenau from Krakow. However, not all of them are created equal. We recommend booking your tour via this page on Viator, which offers the following options:

• Shared transfer and tour in English: This is a cost-effective option where you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Krakow by a comfortable minivan and taken to Auschwitz-Birkenau. You’ll get to tour both camps with pre-booked tickets and an English-speaking guide.
• Private transfer and tour in English: This option is more expensive, but you’ll have the convenience of a private transfer from your hotel to the camps. The tour comes with pre-booked tickets and an English-speaking guide.
• Private transfer and tour in a language of your choice: This option is similar to the second one, but you can have the tour in any language you prefer.

Step 2: Book the Tour

Once you’ve decided on the tour that suits you best, it’s time to book it. We recommend booking your tour at least a few days in advance to secure your spot. Go to the Viator page we mentioned earlier and select the tour you want to book. Enter your details, including the date you want to take the tour, and make your payment. You’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details you need for the tour.

Step 3: Prepare for the Tour

Here are a few things you need to keep in mind as you prepare for the tour:

• Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. Remember that you’ll be mostly walking outside, so be prepared for the conditions.
• Don’t be late: The tour company will pick you up from your hotel at a specified time. Make sure you’re ready and waiting at the pickup point at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time.
• Bring necessary items: Bring headphones or earbuds so you can hear the guide better during the tour. You can also bring a bottle of water and a light snack to keep you refreshed and energized.

Step 4: Enjoy the Tour

On the day of the tour, the tour company will pick you up from your hotel at the specified time. You’ll be taken to Auschwitz-Birkenau in a comfortable minivan with other tourists who have booked the same tour. Once you arrive, you’ll be given your pre-booked tickets and headphones. You’ll meet your English-speaking guide who will take you through the exhibits and memorials at Auschwitz and Birkenau, giving you an insight into the tragedies that occurred there. The tour lasts for about 7 hours, after which you’ll be taken back to your hotel.

Conclusion

Visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Museum is an important and memorable experience that will stay with you for a long time. By following these steps, you can plan your trip to Auschwitz Birkenau from Krakow with ease. Remember to choose the right tour, book it in advance, prepare for the tour, and enjoy the experience. We hope you have a meaningful trip.If you’d like to book your tour, you can do so by clicking on this link.

FAQs About Krakow: Everything You Need to Know

Krakow is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Poland. This historic city boasts a rich cultural heritage and is home to several tourist attractions that are renowned across the world.Despite being a popular tourist destination, some travelers may still have doubts or queries about Krakow. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Krakow.

1. What Is the Best Time to Visit Krakow?

Krakow has pleasant weather throughout the year, but the best time to visit this city is from March to May or September to November. During these months, the weather is just right, and the city is less crowded. Additionally, if you’d like to experience Krakow’s Christmas markets or participate in the city’s outdoor festivities, December might be the best time to visit.

2. What Are the Popular Tourist Attractions in Krakow?

Krakow has numerous tourist attractions, including:

Rynek Główny

Rynek Główny is the largest and most famous medieval market square in Europe. Tourists can visit numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops that are located around the square.

Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its impressive Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The castle has several galleries, museums, and exhibitions that offer a glimpse into Poland’s history.

Kazimierz

Kazimierz is a historical Jewish quarter that has been beautifully preserved with cobblestone streets and old-style buildings. The area is full of cafes, bars, and restaurants that serve traditional Jewish food.

Oskar Schindler’s Factory

Oskar Schindler’s Factory is now a museum that is dedicated to Krakow’s history during World War II. The museum has several educational exhibits that chronicle the Nazi occupation of Poland and Schindler’s heroic efforts to save Jewish lives.

3. How Do You Get Around Krakow?

Krakow has a well-established public transportation system that includes trams, buses, and trains. Tourists can buy a ticket that offers unlimited travel for one or two days.Alternatively, you can take a taxi or book a private transfer service. You can also rent a car, but parking in the city center can be challenging.The best way to explore Krakow is by walking or cycling. The city has several bike rental services that allow tourists to visit the city’s sights at their own pace.

4. What Are the Best Food and Drinks in Krakow?

Krakow offers a wide range of traditional Polish food and drinks, including:

Pierogi

Pierogi are dumplings that can be filled with anything from meat, vegetables to sweet fillings like fruits and jam. They are typically boiled or fried and served with sour cream or butter.

Zapiekanka

Zapiekanka is a type of Polish street food that is similar to a baguette. It consists of a long, hollowed-out baguette filled with toppings such as cheese, mushrooms, and ketchup.

Vodka

Vodka is the traditional drink of Poland and is usually consumed with a toast. Polish vodka is known for its purity, and tourists can try different flavors such as flavored vodka or fruit liqueurs.

5. Where Can You Shop in Krakow?

Krakow has numerous shopping options, including:

Galeria Krakowska

Galeria Krakowska is a modern shopping mall located in the city center. It has several stores selling international brands and regional products.

Cloth Hall

The Cloth Hall is an ancient shopping arcade in Rynek Główny that has been in operation since the Renaissance era. You can buy traditional souvenirs, handicrafts, and silver jewelry from here.

Nowy Świat

Nowy Świat is a trendy street that is full of small boutiques and shops selling designer clothing, shoes, and accessories.

6. What Are the Cultural Customs and Festivals of Krakow?

Krakow has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its festivals and customs. Some of the popular festivals are:

Kraków Film Festival

The Kraków Film Festival takes place every year in late May or early June. This festival features the unique works of local and international filmmakers in various genres, including documentaries, short films, and animations.

Christmas Market

Krakow’s Christmas Market is one of the most beautiful winter events in Poland. You can buy traditional souvenirs and handcrafts while enjoying mulled wine, Polish sausages, and other festive treats.

Jewish Culture Festival

The Jewish Culture Festival is a week-long event that celebrates Jewish customs and traditions. The festival includes concerts, exhibitions, and Jewish food tasting events.

Conclusion

Krakow is a beautiful and culturally rich city with a rich history and numerous tourist attractions. This blog post answers some of the most frequently asked questions about Krakow and hopefully provides you with enough information to plan a trip to this fantastic city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Krakow

Krakow is a city in southern Poland known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe due to its beauty and charm. In this guide, we’ll show you how to spend your time as a tourist in Krakow and make the most out of your trip.

1. Explore the Old Town

The Old Town of Krakow is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval cities in Europe. It is a must-visit destination for anyone coming to Krakow. The Old Town Square is the heart of the Old Town, and it is surrounded by stunning buildings, including the Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Basilica, and the Town Hall Tower. Take a stroll around the square to explore the beautiful architecture, cafes, restaurants, and shops.

2. Visit Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is a historic castle located on Wawel Hill in Krakow. The castle served as the residence of Polish kings and queens for centuries. The castle complex consists of the castle, the Wawel Cathedral, and the Wawel Dragon Statue. You can visit the castle and explore its stunning architecture, art, and history. Take a guided tour of the castle to learn more about its fascinating history.

3. Discover Jewish Krakow

Krakow has a rich Jewish history, and the Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz, is a must-visit destination. The Kazimierz District was once the center of Jewish life in Krakow, and it is now home to many synagogues, Jewish cemeteries, and museums. Visit the Galicia Jewish Museum, which tells the story of the Jewish community in Krakow, or take a guided tour to learn more about the Jewish history of Krakow.

4. Take a Tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau

Auschwitz-Birkenau is a former Nazi concentration camp located about an hour’s drive from Krakow. It is a powerful and moving experience to visit the camp and learn about the atrocities committed there. Take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the camp and pay your respects to the victims.

5. Explore the Krakow Salt Mine

The Krakow Salt Mine is one of the oldest salt mines in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The mine is located about 10 kilometers from Krakow and can easily be reached by bus or car. Take a guided tour of the mine to explore its stunning underground chambers, salt lakes, and sculptures carved out of salt.

6. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

Polish cuisine is one of the most delicious and hearty cuisines in the world. Krakow has an excellent food scene with many traditional Polish restaurants and cafes. Try pierogi, which are traditional Polish dumplings filled with meat, cheese, or sauerkraut, or zapiekanka, which is a Polish baguette topped with cheese, mushrooms, and meat. Wash it down with a glass of Polish beer or vodka.

7. Relax in the Parks

Krakow has many beautiful parks and green spaces to relax in after a long day of sightseeing. The Planty Park is a large green belt that surrounds the Old Town, and it is a perfect place for a leisurely stroll. The Krakow Botanical Garden is another beautiful park that is home to many plant species.In conclusion, Krakow is a beautiful and captivating city that has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, cuisine, or just want to relax in the parks, Krakow has it all. Follow this guide to make the most out of your trip and create unforgettable memories.