I received several emails about my recent posts, with many people curious about the ease of getting to Auschwitz, what to know before visiting, and more. Here are some tips for anyone planning a visit to the concentration camps.
If you want more detailed accounts, feel free to read my posts on Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II – Birkenau. I’ve also been working on a comprehensive Visitor Guide to Auschwitz that you might find useful. Let me know what you think!
Getting to Auschwitz: Tour and Transportation Options
Organized Tours
There are plenty of options to reach Auschwitz. You can book an organized tour through tourist agencies in Krakow, take a bus, or travel by train on your own. For organized tours, keep in mind the cost and duration. It takes about 1.25 to 1.5 hours each way. While these tours usually include the museum visit, they are more expensive and you’ll have to follow a fixed schedule. You can book tours at the tourist info booth in the Cloth Hall on Krakow’s old market square.
Independent Travel
For a more flexible and budget-friendly option, consider traveling independently. Buses are a convenient choice; the bus and train station in Krakow are close to each other, and the bus drops you near the museum entrance, whereas the train station is about 2 km away. Look for buses labeled “Auschwitz” or “Oświęcim” (the Polish name for the town). Buses are inexpensive, costing us 10 zł one way and 12 zł the other.
Bus Details
You can get bus schedules from the tourist info booth at the Cloth Hall. Buses fill up quickly, so arrive early. There are mini-buses and regular buses with varying schedules, and during high season, buses run roughly every half hour until 8 pm. All buses to Krakow depart from Auschwitz I, so plan accordingly if you’re at Auschwitz II and need to head back.
Train Travel
Trains are another option, particularly if there’s a long wait between buses. However, remember that the Oświęcim train station is 2 kilometers from the museum, so factor in additional travel time. Train tickets cost around 15zł one way.
Driving
Driving to Auschwitz is also feasible, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours from Krakow. There is parking near Auschwitz I, and various street parking options are available.
Visiting the Camps
Entry and Guided Tours
During peak season (April 1 – October 31), you need to enter the museum before 10 am or after 3 pm if you’re visiting unguided. You must book a free ticket on the official website by selecting “Tour for individuals without an educator.” Note that entry is free, but guided tours cost about 85 zł (75 zł for students). Tickets can be booked up to three months in advance, and guided tours are available in multiple languages.
Getting Between Camps
A free shuttle bus runs between Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II – Birkenau about twice an hour. Alternatively, you can walk between the camps if you prefer.
Plan Your Day Wisely
Visiting Auschwitz is a full-day experience, typically taking 6 to 8 hours, including travel time. It’s both mentally and physically exhausting, so plan accordingly. Trying to combine this visit with other activities, like a trip to the salt mines, can be impractical.
On-Site Tips
Photography
Photography is allowed, but please be respectful of restricted areas and the sensitive nature of the site.
Dress Code
While there is no formal dress code, it’s recommended to dress respectfully. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a lot, sometimes on uneven ground. Birkenau can be muddy, so prepare for that.
Bags
Small bags are allowed, but larger bags must be stored in on-site lockers, which could fill up. Lockers cost 5 zł.
Food and Accommodation
Food options are available at Auschwitz I but not at Auschwitz II. There are cafeterias and a nearby hotel offering meals. While hotels are available in Oświęcim, staying in Krakow is recommended for more activity options in the evening.
Final Thoughts
I hope these tips make your trip to Auschwitz smoother and more meaningful. It’s a tragic and emotional place, but visiting can be profoundly impactful. For guidebook recommendations, I highly suggest Rick Steves’ guides, which offer excellent information for a self-guided tour.
Did you find this information useful? Share it so others can benefit, and feel free to leave any questions or comments below. Your feedback helps me improve this resource. Also, consider supporting this site by using our affiliate links; it doesn’t cost you extra and helps cover hosting costs.