Krakow: Auschwitz & Salt Mine Day Trip with Optional Lunch

Exploring the timeless and inspiring city of Krakow is a must for anyone visiting Poland. Of the array of things to consider doing, experiencing a tour of both Auschwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mine on the same day with an optional lunch in between is an incredible way to experience the history and wonder of Krakow.

What is Auschwitz?

Auschwitz was established as a concentration camp for Jews and other minorities by Nazi Germany during World War II. It remains one of the most notorious symbols of German cruelty and the Holocaust.

Auschwitz was an extinction camp, which was used to systematically exterminate Jews, as well as Poles and Roma people. Over one million people were murdered in Auschwitz. It has been open as a museum since 1947, and it serves as a reminder of the horrors of World War II. It is also a reminder of the human capacity for cruelty as well as human resilience.

What is the Wieliczka Salt Mine?

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a must-see attraction near Krakow. It is one of the oldest salt mines in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is located about 14 kilometers from the city center, and it has been in operation since the 13th century.

The mine consists of over 300 kilometers of underground chambers, tunnels and galleries. Visitors can take a guided tour to experience the many sculptures and chapels that were carved from the rock salt, such as an enormous figure of Kinga of Poland, sculptures depicting various Medieval figures, an underground lake, and a grand room of chandeliers made from rock salt. The mine reaches a depth of 327 meters below ground level, making it one of the deepest in world.

What will you find on a day trip to Auschwitz & the Wieliczka Salt Mine?

A Krakow: Auschwitz & Salt Mine Day Trip with Optional Lunch is an interesting and educational way to experience two essential destinations in and around Krakow. It’s ideal for those who only have limited time in Krakow and want to make the most out of their trip.

The tour includes round trip transfers from Krakow (in an air-conditioned coach) as well as expert guides to take you through both Auschwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mine. The optional lunch is included in some packages, offering guests a chance to enjoy some traditional Polish cuisine in between sightseeing sessions.

At Auschwitz, you’ll have time for a guided tour and exhibits, learning about the history of what happened there. Auschwitz I was initially used as a concentration camp, while Auschwitz II-Birkenau was a death camp used for systematic extermination during WWII.

At the Wieliczka Salt Mine, you’ll also have a guided tour as you explore different chambers and carve out galleries from thousands of years ago, including an underground chapel and a statue of Kinga of Poland. You will also learn about how salt mining shaped the history of Poland and learn more about how salt was used throughout centuries of European history.

When all is said and done, the tour typically takes around 6 hours in total. However, you can start customizing your tour depending on your itinerary, where you may choose to start earlier or opt for shorter or longer visits at each location. Plus, if you include lunch during your booking you won’t have to stop for too long either!

Benefits & Tips for Taking a Krakow: Auschwitz & Salt Mine Day Trip with Optional Lunch

Visiting Auschwitz and Wieliczka Salt Mine is certainly an enriching experience. While taking this day trip you’ll gain an updated understanding of European history as well as insight into Polish culture as you explore two essential destinations in and around Krakow.

When taking this day trip, keep in mind that Auschwitz can be quite emotional site to visit and that long queues can be expected during peak seasons. So make sure to book your tour in advance to avoid long lines and delays when visiting Auschwitz.

Also note that entrance fees to both Auschwitz and Wieliczka Salt Mine are included in most tour packages. Otherwise, entrance fees are usually €25 for Auschwitz and €19 for Wieliczka Salt Mine (for adults; discounts available for students, children and seniors).

Finally, it’s important to follow all Warsaw tourist rules when visiting these sites. Make sure to dress respectfully (no shorts or sandals) and keep your hands inside enclosed spaces (e.g., inside vehicles). Also remain respectful at all times – this includes avoiding speaking loudly or using inappropriate gestures at either of these sites.

Where to Book a Krakow: Auschwitz & Salt Mine Day Trip with Optional Lunch?

If you would like to book a Krakow: Auschwitz & Salt Mine Day Trip with Optional Lunch then GetYourGuide is a great choice. GetYourGuide offers a variety of tours that cater to smaller groups or even solo travelers, so you can get personalized help throughout your exploration of two essential destinations in and around Krakow! Plus, their tours are designed so you have time for a lunch break – without having to worry about finding time for extra research or having to miss out on part of an experience. So whether you’re looking for an exciting multi-day adventure or just one day full of sightseeing in beautiful Polish cities, GetYourGuide will help you find just what you’re looking for!