Krakow Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour: A Complete Guide

Are you planning a visit to Poland and looking for a meaningful and educational experience? A visit to the Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a must-see for those interested in learning about World War II history and the Holocaust. In this guide, we will provide you with all the essential information about the Krakow Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour with tickets.

Experience

The tour takes you on a journey back in time to World War II, exploring the atrocities committed by Nazi Germany. You will visit Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, where you’ll walk through former gas chambers, see barracks, witness the ruins of crematoria, and view the exhibits displaying the personal belongings of previous prisoners. Your guide will also provide you with informative and emotional insights into the life of prisoners during the time of the concentration camp.

Itinerary

The well-structured itinerary for the Krakow Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour includes the following:

Starting location: Krakow

The tour starts at the heart of Krakow city from where you will enjoy a comfortable bus ride to the city of Oświęcim. The journey takes around 1.5 hours.

Memorial and Museum Auschwitz-Birkenau

The tour’s first stop is at the Memorial and Museum Auschwitz-Birkenau, which is also the largest Nazi concentration camp during World War II. Here, you will have a chance to tour through Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau. The museum is open from 8 AM to 3 PM, and the approximate duration of the guided tour is 6.5 hours.

Auschwitz I Guided Tour (2 hours)

You will be guided by an experienced tour guide around of the primary camp Auschwitz I. The guide will show and describe the infamous as the “Arbeit Macht Frei” gate, the gas chambers that were located directly in the basement of the block of death, and the story behind the camp’s creation.

Break time (15 minutes)

After completing the tour of Auschwitz I, there will be a short break of 15 minutes allotted to guests.

Auschwitz II-Birkenau Guided Tour (1.15 hours)

Guests will continue the tour with a visit to Birkenau to understand the sheer scale of the extermination and concentration camp system. The guide will visit all the key sites of this death camp, including the famous “Death Wall,” where prisoners were mercilessly executed.

Bus / Coach (1.5 hours)

After the visit to the memorial, the group will travel back to Krakow in the same bus, where the tour ends.

Arrive back at Krakow

After journeying back to Krakow, the bus will make two stops – main stop and other stop – before ending the tour. Note that the itinerary is subject to change without notice.

Highlights

Visit the infamous concentration camp of Auschwitz:

This guided tour takes you to the Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial and Museum in Oświęcim, which is one of the most significant concentration camps in the world. It’s essential to bear in mind that this is not an easy tour, as it displays the reality of the Holocaust and the actions of Nazi Germany.

Learn about the camp’s tragic history from a licensed guide:

You will have a qualified and experienced guide to take you through the camp and to impart knowledge on the institution’s history. They will share stories of prisoners and life inside the camps along with the horrors that came with it.

Step inside memorials and exhibits to help understand what happened there:

The Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial and Museum have exhibits from personal items of the prisoners, photographs, and objects captured during World War II. Every visitor will have the chance to witness these objects and get a feel of the remnants of this dark period.

Visit the vast open-air concentration camp Birkenau:

Birkenau is known to encompass the tension, fear, and pain that those prisoners went through. Witness the scale of the extermination camp and experience the horror they faced.

How to Plan Your Tour

Here’s all you need to know to plan a successful visit to Auschwitz Birkenau:

Book Your Tour:

Book directly on the website of GetYourGuide. Ensuring that you book this tour helps you to obtain a confirmed reservation, avoid queues, and ensure an official English speaking guide. Book here

Preparation:

This tour requires a great deal of walking, so it’s essential to dress appropriately and wear comfortable walking shoes. We recommend wearing a hat, sunglasses, and using sunblock due to the open area nature of the Birkenau tour. Be ready to carry your bags throughout the tour as there is no storage facility offered by the memorial.

Timing and Weather:

It’s advisable to plan for the memorial’s opening hours, which is 8 AM -3 PM. While the summer months of July and August have the best weather, it is also the peak tourist season. May, June, September, and October are the recommended visiting months as the weather is still warm, but the tourists are fewer.

Transport:

The tour from Krakow is the easiest and comfortable way to visit Auschwitz Birkenau. The guided tour provides a convenient pick up and drop off directly from your accommodation to the site and back.

The Guide:

The English-speaking guide for this tour is an important consideration. They possess the necessary knowledge and experience to walk you through every part of Auschwitz Birkenau and provide accurate and insightful accounts of the history behind the Memorial.

Cost:

The cost of the Krakow Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour varies from time to time. GetYourGuide provides you with transparency between destinations and fair pricing. The tour price includes transport to and from, the services of a licensed guide, and entrance fees to the Memorial.

The Bottom Line

Auschwitz is one of the most tragic and infamous concentration camps worldwide, and visiting it will be an intense and enlightening experience. The Krakow Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour will help you understand one of the darkest periods in history and provide you with knowledge and insight that you will not forget. Book your tour now and be a part of this life-changing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Krakow

Krakow is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Poland. This historical city, located in the southern part of the country, is famous for its beautiful architecture, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant nightlife. If you’re planning a trip to Krakow, you might have some questions about the city. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Krakow, along with detailed answers to help you plan your trip.

1. When is the best time to visit Krakow?

The best time to visit Krakow is during the spring or fall. The weather during these seasons is mild and pleasant, and you’ll avoid the crowds of tourists that come during the summer months. However, if you want to experience Krakow during the holiday season, you can visit in December when the Christmas markets are in full swing.

2. How do I get to Krakow?

The easiest way to get to Krakow is by airplane. Krakow has its own international airport, John Paul II International Airport Krakow-Balice, which is located about 11 kilometers west of the city center. You can also get to Krakow by train or bus from other cities in Poland or neighboring countries.

3. What are some of the must-see attractions in Krakow?

Krakow is home to many historic and cultural attractions. Here are some of the top must-see sights in Krakow: – Wawel Castle: This is one of the most important and picturesque historical monuments in Poland. The castle was the residence of Polish kings and is now a museum with an impressive collection of artworks. – Main Market Square: Located in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town, this square is the largest medieval market square in Europe. You can find many restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops here. – St. Mary’s Basilica: This is one of the most recognizable buildings in Krakow, with its two towers of different heights. The basilica features an impressive Gothic interior with stunning stained glass windows. – Kazimierz district: This is a historic district of Krakow that was once the center of the Jewish community. It’s now a trendy neighborhood with many cafes, bars, and shops.

4. What is the currency used in Krakow?

The currency used in Krakow is the Polish zloty (PLN). You can exchange your foreign currency at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs throughout the city.

5. Is Krakow a safe city?

Krakow is generally a very safe city for tourists. Like any major city, there is some petty crime, such as pickpocketing, so you should take precautions to keep your valuables safe. It’s also a good idea to avoid walking alone in quiet areas at night.

6. What is the nightlife like in Krakow?

Krakow has a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars, clubs, and pubs. You can find something to suit every taste, from intimate jazz bars to raucous nightclubs. The city is especially popular with partygoers on weekends, so expect the streets to be lively and crowded.

7. What is the food like in Krakow?

Krakow has a rich culinary heritage, with many traditional dishes worth trying. Some of the must-try dishes include: – Pierogi: These are Polish dumplings filled with meat, cheese, vegetables, or fruit. – Kielbasa: This is a type of Polish sausage, often served grilled or fried. – Bigos: This is a hearty, slow-cooked stew made with cabbage, meat, and sauerkraut. – Zapiekanka: This is a popular street food in Krakow, made with half of a French baguette topped with cheese, mushrooms, and other toppings.

8. Are there any day trips from Krakow that I can take?

There are many interesting day trips that you can take from Krakow. Some of the most popular ones include: – Auschwitz-Birkenau: This is the site of the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp during World War II. It’s located about 70 kilometers from Krakow. – Wieliczka Salt Mine: This is one of the oldest salt mines in the world, and it’s located just outside of Krakow. You can take a guided tour to explore the underground chambers and tunnels. – Zakopane: This is a popular resort town located in the Tatra Mountains, just south of Krakow. It’s famous for its stunning mountain views and traditional wooden architecture.

Book Your Tour Now

Krakow is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, nightlife, or food, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in this beautiful city. By following our tips and suggestions, you can make the most of your trip to Krakow and create unforgettable memories.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Krakow

Krakow, the former capital of Poland, boasts a stunning Old Town and a rich history that makes it an excellent tourist destination. Whether you are a solo traveler or a family on vacation, Krakow has something for everyone. Here is a guide to help you make the most of your time in Krakow:

1. Visit Wawel Castle and Cathedral

Wawel Castle is one of the most famous landmarks in the city and an iconic symbol of Poland’s history. The castle dates back to the 14th century and was once the residence of the Polish kings. Today, the castle is a museum, and you can visit it to see the beautiful art and architecture. Next to the castle, you’ll find Wawel Cathedral, which is an impressive Gothic church that dates back to the 11th century. The cathedral has been the coronation site for many of Poland’s monarchs throughout history, and it houses a museum and several chapels.

2. Stroll through Krakow’s Old Town

Krakow’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval towns in Europe. One can spend hours strolling through the narrow alleys, admiring the charming buildings, and discovering the hidden gems. The city has several attractions inside the Old Town, including the Main Market Square, the Town Hall Tower, and St. Mary’s Basilica.

3. Explore the Jewish Quarter – Kazimierz

Kazimierz is the former Jewish Quarter of Krakow, and today it’s a trendy and culturally rich area. The neighborhood has several synagogues, restaurants, and cafes which serves a unique blend of cuisine and art. The main attraction in Kazimierz is the Jewish Museum and the Galicia Jewish Museum. You can also visit Schindler’s Factory – a museum that narrates the story of Polish Jews during World War II.

4. Relax in Planty Park

Planty Park is a beautiful green space that surrounds Krakow’s Old Town. The park used to be the moat that surrounded the town in the medieval ages. Today, it’s a popular place for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the greenery. The park has several benches and walking paths, and you can also find several fountains, ponds, and monuments inside the park.

5. Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest and largest salt mines in the world. The mine dates back to the 13th century and has several impressive underground chambers, tunnels, and sculptures, that make it a popular tourist destination. It’s possible to take a guided tour of the mine, which includes a visit to the salt lakes, chapels, and the largest chamber in the mine.

6. Taste the Polish Cuisine

Krakow has a rich culinary tradition, and you can find many Polish specialties in the city’s restaurants and cafes. Pierogi, a type of dumpling, is one of the most famous Polish dishes and is available in many variations. You can also try the traditional Polish soup – Zurek, which is made of fermented rye flour and served with potatoes and sausages. Polish sausages – Kielbasa and the famous Polish Vodka are other delicacies that visitors can’t afford to miss.

7. Attend a Traditional Polish Festival

Krakow hosts several festivals and cultural events throughout the year, making it an exciting place to be. The most famous festival in Krakow is the Wianki Festival – a celebration of the summer solstice, where people throw garlands into the Wisła river. Krakow also hosts several music festivals, including the Jewish Culture Festival, the Drum Festival, and the Krakow Jazz Festival.

Book Your Tour Now

Krakow is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture, making it a perfect tourist destination. You can visit the Wawel Castle and Cathedral, stroll through the Old Town, explore the Jewish Quarter – Kazimierz, relax in Planty Park, visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine, taste the Polish cuisine, and attend a traditional Polish festival. With so many activities to choose from, you’re sure to enjoy your time in Krakow.