Due to numerous questions on my post about Tips for Visiting the Auschwitz Concentration Camps, I’ve decided to expand the information to help those planning their visit.
That original post remains a handy resource for quick facts, but here I’ll delve deeper into aspects that didn’t quite fit there.
Table of Contents:
– What is Auschwitz?
– Where is Auschwitz?
– The Liberation of Auschwitz
– How to Get to Auschwitz from Krakow
– What is a Visit to Auschwitz Like?
– Should You Visit Auschwitz?
– What is the Cost of Visiting Auschwitz?
– Should You Opt for a Guided Tour or Go Independently?
– Pros and Cons of Guided Tours
– Pros and Cons of Traveling Independently
– Advice for Group Tours
– Advice for Independent Visits
– Where to Stay When Visiting Auschwitz
– Where to Stay in Oświęcim
– Where to Stay in Krakow
– Places to Eat When Visiting Auschwitz
– Getting Between the Camps
– What to Wear When Visiting Auschwitz
– Bag Storage at Auschwitz
– When to Visit Auschwitz
– Can You Visit the Salt Mines and Auschwitz on the Same Day?
What is Auschwitz?
Auschwitz, and its larger part, Auschwitz II – Birkenau, were enormous concentration camps established by the Nazis during World War II to execute Jews, Romani people, political prisoners, and other groups labeled as “undesirable.” Auschwitz I, initially a military barracks, became a camp, but the Nazi’s need for a more efficient killing facility led to the construction of Auschwitz II. More than a million people perished in these camps. Estimates range from 1 to 1.5 million.
Auschwitz’s history is a stark reminder of the German “final solution.” Those not immediately executed were subjected to inhumane conditions and forced into slave labor to support the war effort.
There’s also Auschwitz III (Monowitz), a labor sub-camp. It began as part of Auschwitz II but eventually became separate. I haven’t visited it, and it’s generally inaccessible to visitors now.
What’s in a Name?
The name Auschwitz is the German adaptation of the Polish name Oświęcim, probably derived from the name of the family that founded the original settlement.
Where is Auschwitz?
Auschwitz is in Southern Poland, in the city of Oświęcim, part of the Lesser Poland region. It’s conveniently connected to other cities and towns, contributing to its industrial significance. Typically, visitors travel from Krakow, which is about 1-1.5 hours away (approx. 68km).
The Liberation of Auschwitz
On January 27, 1945, Soviet forces liberated the camps. Auschwitz II was freed first, followed by Auschwitz I a few hours later. Previous camps had been liberated, but none matched the scale of Auschwitz. Food and medical aid arrived swiftly for the starved prisoners. The camp continued to house German POWs for several months after liberation.
How to Get to Auschwitz from Krakow
Most visitors travel to Auschwitz from Krakow. Guided tours often include transportation. If traveling independently, buses, trains, or cars are all viable options. The bus and train stations in Krakow are conveniently located next to each other, but in Oświęcim, the train station is about 2km from the camps.
Personally, I find buses easiest. Multiple companies run routes from Krakow, dropping you off at the entrance to Auschwitz I. Tickets are cheap (10-15 zł), and buses run frequently, especially during high season. It’s best to buy a one-way ticket to keep your return options flexible.
What is a Visit to Auschwitz Like?
Visitors can explore two main camps: Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II (Birkenau). Auschwitz I doesn’t immediately resemble a typical concentration camp, having started as a Polish military barracks. In contrast, Auschwitz II’s purpose-built design for mass extermination is starkly evident. For more details, check out my specific posts on visiting both camps.
Should You Visit Auschwitz?
There’s an ongoing debate about visiting sites of such profound human suffering. While “dark tourism” can be controversial, witnessing these places firsthand brings a unique understanding of history’s horrors that reading alone cannot provide. However, if your intent is mere sightseeing or selfie-taking, it’s best to reconsider.
What is the Cost of Visiting Auschwitz?
Entry to the museum is free, but costs can vary based on whether you join a guided tour or go independently. Guided tours can be arranged online or locally. The cost is 85 zł (75 zł for students) for tours in languages other than Polish, with a slight discount for Polish-language tours. Booking via the Auschwitz Museum’s website is recommended.
Independent visitors face some restrictions, particularly during high season (April-October). You can’t start an independent visit between 10am and 3pm. It’s advisable to book your free ticket in advance on the Auschwitz Museum website.
Should You Opt for a Guided Tour or Go Independently?
Both options have their merits. Guided tours provide expert insights and hassle-free logistics, but they might rush you through some areas. On the other hand, independent visits offer flexibility but require more planning.
Pros and Cons of Guided Tours
– Pros
– Arrangements for transport and logistics are handled.
– Guides are typically excellent.
– Access to areas exclusive to guided tours.
– Cons
– Some areas like the first row of blocks may be skipped.
– Limited time in each camp.
– Can be expensive.
Pros and Cons of Traveling Independently
– Pros
– Cost savings as entrance is free.
– Flexibility and time to explore all areas.
– Cons
– You handle all logistics.
– Time restrictions during high season (before 10am/after 3pm).
For a hybrid experience, travel independently and book a guided tour at the camp.
Advice for Group Tours
– Ask about duration at each camp to ensure you won’t be rushed.
– Check if meals are included, affecting your costs.
– Verify support for accessibility if needed.
Advice for Independent Visits
– Arrive early or visit after 3pm during high season.
– Reserve your free entry ticket online.
– Consider visiting Auschwitz II first if you arrive at an off time.
Where to Stay When Visiting Auschwitz
Many prefer to stay in Krakow for its vibrant atmosphere, but Oświęcim has some convenient options too:
– Oświęcim
– Hotel Olecki: Closest to Auschwitz I, good restaurant. | Prices
– Hotel Galicja: Near town center, good quality, 5km from camps. | Prices
– Old Tree Villa: Affordable, great staff, free parking, good restaurant. | Prices
– B&M Guesthouse: Budget-friendly, convenient, variety of rooms. | Prices
– Krakow
– Apartments Rynek Glowny: Central, great for families, kitchen facilities. | Prices
– Hotel Santi: Close to market square, street noise possible, good breakfast. | Prices
– Art Hostel: For backpackers, near market, young crowd. | Prices
– Lemon Tree Hostel: Good location, great staff, dorm rooms only. | Prices
Places to Eat When Visiting Auschwitz
Food options within Oświęcim are ample, but at the camps, choices are limited:
– Cafeteria at the camp: Local heavy dishes.
– Hotel Olecki restaurant: Close to entrance, good alternative to cafeteria.
Getting Between the Camps
A shuttle runs every half-hour for free between Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II. Alternatively, you can walk the 2km distance (about 30 minutes). Note that buses back to Krakow leave from Auschwitz I, so plan accordingly.
What to Wear When Visiting Auschwitz
Comfortable shoes are a must as you’ll be walking on varied terrains. Dress appropriately for the weather and the somber nature of the site.
Bag Storage at Auschwitz
Small bags are allowed (up to 10x20x30 cm). Larger bags must be stored in lockers available on-site for 5 zł, but during busy days these might fill up quickly.
When to Visit Auschwitz
Spring and autumn are preferable for milder weather. Summer is hot and crowded, while winter is cold and may have snow. Low visitor numbers in winter are a plus, but be prepared for the cold.
Can You Visit the Salt Mines and Auschwitz on the Same Day?
It’s possible but not recommended due to the emotional weight of visiting Auschwitz. If you must, a tour combining both might be the best option, but consider dedicating adequate time to each site.
If you found this guide helpful, please share it on social media or link to it to support fellow travelers. For more details on Krakow, check out my Things to Do in Krakow post. And don’t miss my original Tips for Visiting the Auschwitz Concentration Camps post for additional advice.