Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour with Pickup – How to plan your visit

If you’re planning a trip to Krakow, then you must include a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. This historic site serves as an important Holocaust memorial and is a reminder of the tragic past. To make your visit hassle-free, we’ve put together this guide on how to plan your trip to the Auschwitz-Birkenau tour with pickup.

Tour Experience

The Auschwitz-Birkenau tour is a must-visit experience that will take you back in time. The tour includes pickup and dropoff from your hotel in Krakow, transportation by air-conditioned bus, entry ticket to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, and a professional licensed guide.

Tour Highlights

During the tour, you’ll get to:

– Ponder the past as you walk through the infamous “Arbeit Macht Frei” gate
– Travel by bus to the largest camp used by the Nazis during the Holocaust
– Go to the original barracks and see where the prisoners were once held
– Listen as a local guide tells you about the events that took place at the camp

Tour Description

Your tour will start with pickup from your hotel in Krakow. From there, you’ll board a comfortable bus for the 1.5-hour trip to the Auschwitz-Birkenau camp complex. You’ll be accompanied by a licensed local guide who’ll give you detailed information about the history of the concentration camp.

Once you arrive at Auschwitz-Birkenau, you’ll walk through the infamous “Arbeit Macht Frei” gate, which translates to “work sets you free.” This gate was the entrance to the camp and serves as a reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust.

Throughout the tour, your guide will provide you with detailed information about the events that took place at the camp. You’ll get to see the original barracks where prisoners were once held, the gas chambers, and the crematoriums. It’s a heartbreaking but essential tour that gives you an insight into the atrocities committed during that time.

Your tour will end with dropoff at your Krakow hotel, where you’ll be able to reflect on your experience and ponder the past.

Tour Tips

Here are some tips to help make your tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau more enjoyable:

– Wear comfortable clothing and shoes as there’s a lot of walking involved.
– Bring some snacks and water for your journey as there are no refreshment stops during the tour.
– Respect the rules and guidelines during your visit, which includes not taking photographs in certain areas.
– You can’t visit the camp without a licensed guide, so ensure you book your tour in advance.
– If you’re visiting during peak season, then book your tour well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Booking Your Tour

Booking your Auschwitz-Birkenau tour with pickup is easy. Simply go to this link, choose your preferred tour date, and make your reservation. You’ll receive a confirmation email shortly after booking.

Conclusion

If you’re visiting Krakow, then the Auschwitz-Birkenau tour is a must-do experience. It’s a reminder of the horrors of the past and provides an insight into the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. By following this guide, you’ll be able to plan your visit with ease and enjoy a smooth and hassle-free experience.

The Insider’s Guide to Krakow, Poland

Krakow, Poland is a city that is rich in history and culture, offering visitors a chance to explore its stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and unique experiences. Here is an insider’s guide to get the most out of your visit to Krakow:

Local Attractions

Krakow is home to a number of local attractions which offer visitors an opportunity to experience the city’s rich history and culture. Here are some must-visit attractions you don’t want to miss:

1. The Main Market Square – This is the heart of the city and one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, surrounded by many historic buildings, shops and cafes.

2. Wawel Castle – This is one of the most prominent landmarks of Krakow, having served as a royal residence for centuries, and now a popular tourist attraction.

3. St. Mary’s Basilica – Located in the Main Market Square, this church is famous for its exquisite wooden altar, the Veit Stoss altarpiece.

4. Kazimierz – The old Jewish quarter of Krakow, with winding streets, historic synagogues, trendy cafes and restaurants, and street art.

Dining Spots

Krakow is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse cuisine and a variety of dining options to choose from. Here are some recommended places to eat:

1. Miod Malina – Offers traditional Polish dishes with a modern twist, in a cozy and elegant atmosphere.

2. Smakołyki – This is a buffet-style restaurant serving traditional Polish food, with affordable prices and an all-you-can-eat option.

3. Bagelmama – A small eatery that offers freshly baked bagels with a variety of fillings, including hummus, smoked salmon, and vegetarian options.

Cultural Experiences

Krakow is home to a variety of cultural experiences, from live music and theater performances to traditional arts and crafts. Here are some cultural experiences to check out:

1. Wieliczka Salt Mines – A UNESCO World Heritage Site just outside Krakow, where visitors can see underground chambers, chapels, and sculptures made entirely of salt.

2. The Krakow Cloth Hall – a historic building located in the Main Market Square, is one of Krakow’s oldest shopping centers and hosts dozens of souvenir stalls.

3. Traditional Puppetry Show – The Teatr Lalek is a puppetry theater where visitors can enjoy shows with hand-carved puppets, highlighted by authentic Polish folk music.

Local History

Krakow has a rich local history, from its role as Poland’s cultural capital to its experiences during World War II. Here are some places to explore the history of Krakow:

1. Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum – infamous camp located just outside Krakow where visitors can see original barracks, gas chambers, and crematoria, which provide visitors with an unforgettable and emotional experience.

2. Schindler’s Factory – A former enamel factory run by Oskar Schindler, became an important site dedicated to the history of Krakow during the Nazi occupation.

Off-The-Beaten-Path

If you’re looking for something different and off the beaten path, here are some suggestions:

1. Podgórze – This is a district of Krakow located on the southern bank of the Vistula river, that often gets overlooked by tourists. Despite not being part of the main tourist circuit, it is worth visiting for its unique architecture, laid-back atmosphere and beautiful views of the Krakow’s Old Town.

2. Zalipie Village – A village located southeast of Krakow, world-renowned for its floral painted houses. Visitors can attend workshops, learn from local artists, or stroll through nearby flower fields.

Conclusion

Krakow is a city that will leave a lasting impression on anyone that visits. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or a combination of all three, Krakow is a city that should be on your travel radar. Plan your visit ahead of time to maximize your time and enjoy everything that this incredible city has to offer!