How to Plan Your Visit to Auschwitz Birkenau Museum in Krakow

If you’re planning to visit Krakow, one of the must-see attractions is the Auschwitz Birkenau Museum. Visiting the largest former Nazi concentration camp is a solemn and educational experience that will stay with you forever. If you want to make the most out of your visit while being respectful to the victims and survivors, here’s how to plan your trip.

Experience

First and foremost, let’s talk about what you’ll experience during the tour. You’ll visit Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau and learn about the history of the camps during Nazi occupation. You’ll see the barracks, gas chambers, and crematoria, as well as monuments and exhibitions that honor the victims.

Itinerary

Here’s a breakdown of the itinerary:

Pickup location: Krakow

The tour starts in Krakow, where you’ll meet your guide and group.

Transfer (1.5 hours)

You’ll be picked up by air-conditioned coach and driven to Auschwitz.

Auschwitz I

You’ll start your tour at Auschwitz I, the administrative center of the complex. You’ll see the entrance gate with the infamous “Arbeit Macht Frei” sign and tour the original brick barracks that today house museum exhibitions.

Guided tour (2.5 hours)

You’ll be led through the museum exhibitions by a licensed guide who will provide historical context and answer any questions you may have.

Break time (15 minutes)

There will be a short break where you can use the restroom and grab a snack or drink.

Auschwitz II-Birkenau

Next, you’ll be taken by bus to Auschwitz II-Birkenau, where you’ll see the wooden barracks, the remains of the gas chambers and crematoria, and the memorial to the victims.

Guided tour (1 hour)

You’ll be guided through the memorial by a licensed guide who will provide historical context and answer any questions you may have.

Transfer (1.5 hours)

You’ll be driven back to Krakow by air-conditioned coach.

Arrive back at Krakow

You’ll be dropped off in Krakow, where your tour ends.

Highlights

Here are some of the highlights of the tour:- Visit the largest former Nazi concentration camp on an 8-hour tour of Auschwitz

– Learn about the terrible history of the death camps of Auschwitz and Birkenau

– See monuments from the terrible events of World War II and Hitler’s Third Reich

– Save time and travel in comfort by upgrading to a private transportation option

– Feel more comfortable and connect with your surroundings in a small group

Booking

Booking the tour is easy. You can book online at GetYourGuide.com, the link for which is given below. The tour is available at multiple times throughout the week, and you can choose from a group tour or a private tour. Prices vary depending on the option you choose and whether you want hotel pickup/drop-off. Please note that tickets are limited, and it’s recommended to book in advance.Book the tour here

Tips

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your visit:- Wear comfortable shoes as there will be a significant amount of walking.

– Dress appropriately for the weather, as most of the tour is outdoors.

– Do not bring large bags, food, or drinks as they are not allowed inside the museum.

– Be respectful to the victims and survivors by not taking selfies or loud talking during the tour.

– Allow some time after the tour to reflect and process your experience before doing anything else.

Conclusion

Visiting the Auschwitz Birkenau Museum in Krakow is an emotional and educational experience. By planning your visit and being respectful to the victims and survivors, you can make the most out of your tour. Book your tickets in advance, dress appropriately, and remember to reflect on your experience after the tour. And most importantly, never forget the lessons of history.

Frequently Asked Questions about Krakow: Answered

Krakow is one of the most beautiful and historical cities in Poland, and naturally, tourists have many questions about it. Whether you are planning to visit Krakow soon or you just want to know more about the city, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Krakow in this post.

1. Where is Krakow?

Krakow is located in southern Poland, in the Lesser Poland region. It sits on the banks of the Vistula River, which is the longest river in Poland. The city is roughly halfway between the Tatra Mountains to the south and Warsaw to the north.

2. What is the history of Krakow?

Krakow has a very long and rich history. The first known settlement in the area dates back to the Stone Age, but it was in the 10th century that Krakow began to emerge as an important city. The city served as the capital of Poland from the 11th century to the end of the 16th century. During World War II, Krakow was occupied by Nazi Germany, and many historical sites were damaged or destroyed. However, the city has been rebuilt and today has many well-preserved historical landmarks and buildings.

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

Krakow has many tourist attractions, including historical landmarks, museums, art galleries, and churches. Some of the must-visit tourist attractions in Krakow include:- The Wawel Royal Castle: This castle sits on top of a hill and is one of the most impressive landmarks in Krakow. It was the residence of Polish kings for centuries and today houses a museum.- Main Market Square: This is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe and is surrounded by many restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops.- Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum: This is one of the most significant sites of the Holocaust and is located about an hour’s drive from Krakow. It is a must-visit if you are interested in history.- St. Mary’s Basilica: This church has two towers, and one of them is called the Trumpeter’s Tower, where a bugle call is played every hour.

4. How is the food in Krakow?

Krakow has a very diverse food scene, and you can find many different types of cuisine here. Some of the must-try dishes in Krakow include pierogi (Polish dumplings), zapiekanka (a type of open-faced sandwich), kielbasa (Polish sausage), and oscypek (smoked cheese).

5. What is the best time to visit Krakow?

The best time to visit Krakow is from March to May or from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. The summer months (June to August) are also a good time to visit, but the city can be very crowded, and the prices can be higher. The winter months can be very cold, but Krakow is still beautiful during this time, especially during the Christmas market season.

6. How is the public transportation in Krakow?

Krakow has an extensive public transportation network that includes trams and buses. The fares are very reasonable, and you can buy tickets at the vending machines located at the tram and bus stops. There are also taxi services available, but they can be more expensive.

7. Is Krakow safe?

Krakow is a very safe city to visit, and tourists rarely encounter any problems. However, as with any city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions, such as not leaving your valuables unattended.

8. What souvenirs can I buy in Krakow?

Krakow has many souvenir shops where you can find traditional Polish items, such as amber jewelry, hand-painted ceramics, Polish dolls, and wooden boxes. You can also find many specialty food items, such as Polish chocolates, jams, and spices.

9. What are the customs and etiquette in Krakow?

Polish people are generally very friendly and hospitable, but it is important to be aware of the customs and etiquette in the country. For example, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, and it is considered impolite to interrupt someone when they are speaking. It is also polite to say “please” and “thank you” when interacting with locals.

10. Do I need a visa to visit Krakow?

If you are a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to visit Krakow. However, if you are a citizen of a non-EU country, you may need a visa. It is best to check with the Polish embassy or consulate in your home country to determine if you need a visa.In conclusion, Krakow is a fascinating city with many attractions and a rich history. Tourists from all over the world visit Krakow to experience its culture, cuisine, and historical landmarks. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you can better plan your trip to this magical city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Krakow

Krakow is a beautiful city that is rich in history, culture, and architecture. Every year, it attracts millions of visitors from all over the world. If you are planning to visit Krakow and are wondering how to spend your time as a tourist, then this guide is for you. In this blog post, we will give you a step-by-step guide on how you can make the most of your time in Krakow.

1. Visit the Wawel Castle

The Wawel Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks of Krakow. It is situated on a hill overlooking the Vistula River and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. The castle has a rich history and was once the residence of the Polish kings. Today, it is a museum that attracts thousands of visitors every year.To visit the Wawel Castle, you need to purchase a ticket. You can either buy a ticket for a guided tour or explore on your own. It is highly recommended that you take a guided tour as it will give you a better understanding of the castle’s history and architecture.

2. Explore the Main Market Square

The Main Market Square is the heart of Krakow’s Old Town and is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. It is surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and restaurants. In the center of the square, you will find the Cloth Hall, which is a beautiful Renaissance-style building that houses souvenir shops.Visit the Market Square early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Alternatively, visit in the evening to experience the square’s vibrant nightlife.

3. Visit the St. Mary’s Basilica

The St. Mary’s Basilica is a magnificent Gothic church located in the Main Market Square. It was built in the 14th century and is famous for its stunning interior and the largest wooden altar in Europe. Every hour, a trumpet signal is played from the church tower, which commemorates a famous story of a trumpeter who was shot in the throat while sounding an alarm during a Mongol invasion.To visit the St. Mary’s Basilica, you need to purchase a ticket. You can either buy a ticket for a guided tour or explore on your own. It is highly recommended that you take a guided tour as it will give you a better understanding of the church’s history and architecture.

4. Take a Walk Down the Royal Route

The Royal Route is a historic pedestrian route that leads from the Wawel Castle to the Main Market Square. It passes through some of the most picturesque streets and squares of Krakow and is lined with beautiful historic buildings. The route is approximately 4 km long and can be walked in about an hour.Take your time walking down the Royal Route and admire the beautiful architecture and scenery. Along the way, you will find numerous cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

5. Visit the Kazimierz Jewish Quarter

The Kazimierz Jewish Quarter is located south of the Old Town and is steeped in history and culture. It was once a bustling center of Jewish life and culture before the Holocaust. Today, it is a vibrant neighborhood with many restaurants, cafes, and cultural events.Visit the Kazimierz Jewish Quarter to learn about Jewish history and culture in Krakow. You can also visit the Jewish Museum or take a walking tour of the neighborhood.

6. Try Traditional Polish Cuisine

Krakow is known for its delicious traditional Polish cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include pierogi, kielbasa, and bigos. You can find these dishes in most restaurants and cafes in Krakow.To get a true taste of Polish cuisine, visit a traditional Polish restaurant. Some of the best restaurants in Krakow include Polakowski, Pod Nosem, and Wesele.In conclusion, Krakow is a beautiful city with many things to see and do. With this guide, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Krakow. Don’t forget to visit the Wawel Castle, explore the Main Market Square, visit the St. Mary’s Basilica, take a walk down the Royal Route, visit the Kazimierz Jewish Quarter, and try traditional Polish cuisine.