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- Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp
- Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum
- History
- Inside
- Krakow to Auschwitz Tour
- Warsaw to Auschwitz Tour
- Wroclaw to Auschwitz Tour
- Movies & Books about Auschwitz
Auschwitz tours
Experience history with fast-track entry and a guide fluent in your language!
- Journey deep into history with this comprehensive guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau, a solemn testament to the Holocaust's horrors.
- Discover Auschwitz’s history with a guide, who recounts its past events like the 1943 prisoner resistance movement and its courageous acts of defiance.
- Dive into the past with fast-track entry to Auschwitz I and II–Birkenau, bypassing queues and immersing directly into the poignant narrative.
- Walk the path of history with visits to original barracks, gas chamber ruins and Auschwitz's main gate, making your tour hauntingly memorable.
- Enjoy the flexibility of taking the tour in your preferred language or choose a last-minute ticket to enhance your experience to suit your needs.
Experience history with fast-track entry and a guide fluent in your language!
- Journey deep into history with this comprehensive guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau, a solemn testament to the Holocaust's horrors.
- Discover Auschwitz’s history with a guide, who recounts its past events like the 1943 prisoner resistance movement and its courageous acts of defiance.
- Dive into the past with fast-track entry to Auschwitz I and II–Birkenau, bypassing queues and immersing directly into the poignant narrative.
- Walk the path of history with visits to original barracks, gas chamber ruins and Auschwitz's main gate, making your tour hauntingly memorable.
- Enjoy the flexibility of taking the tour in your preferred language or choose a last-minute ticket to enhance your experience to suit your needs.
Inclusions
- Fast-track entry to Auschwitz I & Auschwitz II–Birkenau
- Guided tour by an official English/Italian/German/French/Spanish/Polish-speaking Auschwitz-Birkenau guide (as per option selected)
- Last-minute English guided tour (as per option selected)
- Local host
- Headsets
- Tip: Be sure to pay attention to the photographs and personal belongings displayed in the museum. They provide a heart-wrenching glimpse into the lives of those who were imprisoned in the camp.
- Please note that pets, smoking, luggage or large bags are not allowed.
- Strict dress code: short skirts are not allowed.
- Large bags and backpacks are not allowed inside the museum; only bags up to 30x20x10 cm in size are permitted.
- Larger bags and luggage can be stored in the cloakroom.
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.
- Please note that pick-up timings are subject to change and the pick-up details will be shared by our local partners.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION7 hours 30 minutes
START POINT
Krakow
Begin your journey from Krakow, a vibrant Polish city steeped in history, that blends medieval charm with modern energy. From the stunning Main Square to the historic Wawel Castle, it offers a captivating mix of culture, architecture, and tradition.
66 km
90 minutes
1
Auschwitz I
Tickets included
Explore the 22 brick barracks that once held countless Holocaust victims. Visit Block 11, a chilling prison within the camp, known for its torture chambers and the first Zyklon B gas experiments.
3.2 km
10 minutes
2
Auschwitz II-Birkenau
Tickets included
Larger than Auschwitz I, this site stands as a stark reminder of Nazi atrocities. See the infamous train tracks, all serving as a powerful reminder of the Holocaust's scale.
3 km
10 minutes
3
Memorial
Tickets included
The Memorial provides a solemn space to honor and pay respects to the victims of this tragic and harrowing period in history.
66 km
90 minutes
4
END POINT
Krakow
Hassle-free pick-up and drop-off make your Auschwitz-Birkenau visit effortless.
- Embark on a full-day guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau, perfect for those seeking a deep historical experience with convenient transfers from Krakow.
- With an insightful narrative from a licensed guide, available in multiple languages, enrich your understanding of history.
- Comfortable round-trip AC transfers from Krakow are included, eliminating any travel hassles and ensuring a seamless experience.
- Take a walk through Auschwitz I's brick barracks and Auschwitz II's vast concentration camp, each echoing grim tales from the past.
Hassle-free pick-up and drop-off make your Auschwitz-Birkenau visit effortless.
- Embark on a full-day guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau, perfect for those seeking a deep historical experience with convenient transfers from Krakow.
- With an insightful narrative from a licensed guide, available in multiple languages, enrich your understanding of history.
- Comfortable round-trip AC transfers from Krakow are included, eliminating any travel hassles and ensuring a seamless experience.
- Take a walk through Auschwitz I's brick barracks and Auschwitz II's vast concentration camp, each echoing grim tales from the past.
Inclusions
- Fast-track entry to Auschwitz I & Auschwitz II–Birkenau
- Round-trip AC transfers from the meeting point (as per option selected)
- Round-trip hotel AC transfers from Krakow (as per option selected)
- Tip: Don't miss out on visiting the blocks in the camp that are open to the public as these contain important or interesting historical information panels in Polish and English.
- Have your passport or ID ready for a seamless experience.
- Strict dress code: respectful attire.
- Keep in mind large luggage is not allowed for this experience.
- This experience is not wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Per Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum policies, all participants must provide their full name and contact details when booking.
- Your youngest guests will enjoy a special children’s menu and receive delightful gifts.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION11 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
START POINT
Krakow
From Krakow, a city rich in history, your journey leads to the Auschwitz camp, a powerful reminder of the Holocaust, where the past is preserved for reflection and remembrance.
66 km
90 minutes
1
Auschwitz-Birkenau
Tickets included
Auschwitz, the largest Nazi concentration camp, was founded in 1940 near Oświęcim. Over 1.5 million victims from 28 nations perished here. In 1979, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving Holocaust history.
80.8 km
67 minutes
2
Wieliczka Salt Mine
Tickets included
A local guide will take you through breathtaking salt chambers, revealing original sculptures and historic miners' workplaces that highlight the mine’s rich, storied history.
12.4 km
24 minutes
3
END POINT
Krakow
Hassle-free pick-up, language choices, and a perfect trip for history lovers!
- Embark on an enlightening 11-hour journey, exploring Auschwitz-Birkenau and delving into Wieliczka Salt Mine's depths.
- Choose this experience for its expert guides, who bring alive the brutal history of Auschwitz and the intriguing heritage of the Salt Mine.
- Not just a visit, but a comprehensive exploration of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, guided by an expert.
- Dive into an underground world with the Wieliczka Salt Mine where miners carved intricate sculptures and bas-reliefs from salt deep within the chambers.
- Opt for a tour tailored to your convenience with flexible ticket options, including hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Hassle-free pick-up, language choices, and a perfect trip for history lovers!
- Embark on an enlightening 11-hour journey, exploring Auschwitz-Birkenau and delving into Wieliczka Salt Mine's depths.
- Choose this experience for its expert guides, who bring alive the brutal history of Auschwitz and the intriguing heritage of the Salt Mine.
- Not just a visit, but a comprehensive exploration of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, guided by an expert.
- Dive into an underground world with the Wieliczka Salt Mine where miners carved intricate sculptures and bas-reliefs from salt deep within the chambers.
- Opt for a tour tailored to your convenience with flexible ticket options, including hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Inclusions
- Full-day Auschwitz-Birkenau & Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tour
- Entry to Auschwitz-Birkenau I & II
- Entry to the Wieliczka Salt Mine
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Hotel pickup & drop-off (as per option selected)
- Meeting point pick-up (as per option selected)
- Headsets
- Tip: In the Wieliczka Salt Mine, the Chapel of St. Kinga, a large underground church entirely made of salt, is a must-see.
- Have your passport, ID card or student card ready for a seamless experience.
- Keep in mind luggage or large bags are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
- The pace and duration of the tours are determined by the memorial’s visitor service. Hence, the pick-up time/duration of the tour is subject to change.
- Note: As per the requirements of Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, all participants are required to provide their full name as part of the booking. Entry may be refused if the name provided on the booking is not identical to the name on the ID provided when entering.
- Pick-up is possible from the hotels located in the center of Cracow. If your hotel location is in an area beyond this or in an area with limited traffic/accessibility, then you will be picked up from the nearest possible pickup place. The tour operator will provide the exact location and pickup time at least a day before your scheduled tour.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION10 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
START POINT
Krakow
Krakow, Poland's cultural heart, is a city where history and charm meet. From the stunning Wawel Castle to the historic Main Market Square, explore medieval streets, vibrant cafes, and rich traditions. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Krakow offers a mix of old-world beauty and modern energy.
69.4 km
85 minutes
1
Auschwitz-Birkenau
Tickets included
En route to Auschwitz-Birkenau, watch an informative documentary about the horrors of Nazi rule. With a professional guide, explore the ruins of crematoria, gas chambers, and the railway platform, gaining a powerful understanding of the Holocaust and the tragic history of survival and loss.
78.9 km
80 minutes
2
Oskar Schindler’s Factory
Tickets included
The tour continues to the original site of Oskar Schindler’s enamel factory, now a museum that chronicles Krakow's history during the war. Learn about Schindler’s remarkable story, as he risked everything to save over a thousand Jews from the horrors of the Nazi regime.
3.1 km
11 minutes
3
END POINT
Krakow
- Dive into a compelling tour encapsulating the poignant Jewish history in Poland, from Auschwitz Birkenau to Schindler's Factory.
- Enjoy the comfort of door-to-door pickup and drop-off, alongside skip-the-line passes, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free experience.
- Benefit from professional guidance in your chosen language and the consistency of an English-speaking tour leader's assistance.
- Experience a powerful documentary on the journey to the camps, deepening your understanding of the Holocaust as you explore gas chambers, crematoria, and more.
- Go to Schindler's Factory Museum, owned by Oskar Schindler during WWII, where Jewish workers were protected from being sent to concentration camps.
- Dive into a compelling tour encapsulating the poignant Jewish history in Poland, from Auschwitz Birkenau to Schindler's Factory.
- Enjoy the comfort of door-to-door pickup and drop-off, alongside skip-the-line passes, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free experience.
- Benefit from professional guidance in your chosen language and the consistency of an English-speaking tour leader's assistance.
- Experience a powerful documentary on the journey to the camps, deepening your understanding of the Holocaust as you explore gas chambers, crematoria, and more.
- Go to Schindler's Factory Museum, owned by Oskar Schindler during WWII, where Jewish workers were protected from being sent to concentration camps.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of Oskar Schindler's Factory Museum & Auschwitz Birkenau
- Skip-the-line entry to Oskar Schindler's Factory Museum
- Skip-the-line entry to Auschwitz Birkenau
- Guide in the requested language
- Assistance of experienced English-speaking tour leader
- Round-trip door-to-door or meeting point transfers
- Transfers by modern Mercedes minibus
- Documentary movie en route to the Auschwitz Museum
- WiFi access in minibus
- Tip: Early morning tours are less crowded, allowing a more intimate experience. The weather can be more pleasant during spring or fall.
- Have your passport and ID ready for a seamless experience.
- Keep in mind oversized luggage, alcohol and drugs are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
- Hand baggage is considered to be luggage if it exceeds the maximum dimensions of 30cm x 20cm x 10cm.
- As this is a 9-hour trip, it's recommended to bring a packed lunch or order one through the driver.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION7 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
START POINT
Katowice
Katowice, renowned for its vibrant cultural scene and mining history, will be the starting point of your journey to the Auschwitz camp.
36.9 km
43 minutes
1
Auschwitz I
Tickets included
The original camp, now a museum, offers a powerful journey through preserved buildings. Encounter haunting exhibits, including victims' belongings, photographs, and documents, revealing the Holocaust's grim reality.
3.2 km
10 minutes
2
Auschwitz II-Birkenau
Tickets included
The chilling extermination camp serves as a stark reminder of genocide. Explore the remains of gas chambers, crematoria, and overcrowded barracks while your guide shares poignant stories of WWII’s horrors.
36.9 km
43 minutes
3
END POINT
Katowice
- Visit Auschwitz Birkenau concentration camps with a guide and learn all about the Holocaust.
- Set out on a sobering journey through the history of Auschwitz-Birkenau from Katowice, and explore its concentration and extermination camps.
- Make the most of round-trip transfers from selected meeting points and get easy access with skip-the-line entry.
- With insightful narration in the language of your choice, learn about the millions of victims of the Holocaust at this Nazi concentration camp of World War II.
- Explore the harsh realities of inmate life through exhibits of crime evidence, personal items, photos, and testimonies that bring history to life.
- Tour permanent exhibits featuring original camp barracks and remnants of gas chambers, powerful reminders of the Nazi regime’s cruelty and atrocities.
- Visit Auschwitz Birkenau concentration camps with a guide and learn all about the Holocaust.
- Set out on a sobering journey through the history of Auschwitz-Birkenau from Katowice, and explore its concentration and extermination camps.
- Make the most of round-trip transfers from selected meeting points and get easy access with skip-the-line entry.
- With insightful narration in the language of your choice, learn about the millions of victims of the Holocaust at this Nazi concentration camp of World War II.
- Explore the harsh realities of inmate life through exhibits of crime evidence, personal items, photos, and testimonies that bring history to life.
- Tour permanent exhibits featuring original camp barracks and remnants of gas chambers, powerful reminders of the Nazi regime’s cruelty and atrocities.
Inclusions
- 7.5-hour Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial & Museum tour
- Skip-the-line entry to Auschwitz-Birkenau
- Expert English/Italian/French/Portuguese-speaking guide
- Round-trip transfers by AC bus from a selected meeting point
- Tip: Don't miss the haunting exhibits in Auschwitz I, including the collection of personal belongings of the victims.
- The pace and duration of the tours are determined by the memorial’s visitor service. Hence, the pick-up time/duration of the tour is subject to change.
- Note: As per the requirements of Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, all participants are required to provide their full name and contact details as part of the booking. Entry may be refused if the name provided on the booking is not identical to the name on the ID provided when entering.
- The maximum bag size allowed inside the museum is 30x20x10 cm.
- All sightseeing within the camp can only be done in the company of a licensed guide.
- Pick-up is available from central Krakow hotels. If your hotel is outside this area or has limited access, you'll be given the nearest pick-up point and time.
- This tour is not recommended for children under 13 years old. It is up to the parents or guardians to decide whether to let children attend or not.
- Baby carriages and luggage larger than 30 x 20 x 10cm are not permitted inside the museum.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION10 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minibus
START POINT
Wroclaw
With its vibrant cultural scene and rich mining heritage, Wroclaw will serve as the starting point for your journey to the Auschwitz camp.
228 km
2 hours 42 minutes
1
Auschwitz I
Tickets included
At Auschwitz, a licensed guide fluent in English, French, Italian, or Portuguese will lead you through this symbol of Nazi oppression. Explore the barracks, crematoria, and gas chambers that tell its tragic story.
3.2 km
10 minutes
2
Auschwitz II-Birkenau
Tickets included
Pause to honor the victims and survivors at the exhibitions, showcasing furnishings from prisoners' rooms and personal items once owned by Jewish deportees, offering a poignant connection to their
228 km
2 hours 42 minutes
3
END POINT
Wroclaw
- Experience a deeply moving, full-day guided journey to Auschwitz-Birkenau, the grim reminders of the Holocaust, directly from Wrocław.
- Enjoy the privilege of skipping the long queues with a fast-track entry, ensuring you spend more time absorbing the historical significance.
- Complimentary round-trip transfers and hotel pick-ups and drop-offs make this tour a worry-free way to pay your respects to a dark chapter in history.
- The prisoner barracks, railway tracks, gas chambers, and crematoria shed light on the harrowing life of the inmates.
- Choose from varied language options for your guide, ensuring a personalized and convenient exploration of Auschwitz-Birkenau.
- Experience a deeply moving, full-day guided journey to Auschwitz-Birkenau, the grim reminders of the Holocaust, directly from Wrocław.
- Enjoy the privilege of skipping the long queues with a fast-track entry, ensuring you spend more time absorbing the historical significance.
- Complimentary round-trip transfers and hotel pick-ups and drop-offs make this tour a worry-free way to pay your respects to a dark chapter in history.
- The prisoner barracks, railway tracks, gas chambers, and crematoria shed light on the harrowing life of the inmates.
- Choose from varied language options for your guide, ensuring a personalized and convenient exploration of Auschwitz-Birkenau.
Inclusions
- Skip-the-line entry ticket to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial & Museum
- Licensed English, French, Italian, or Portuguese-speaking guide (based on option selected)
- Round-trip transfers by air-conditioned minibus from Wroclaw
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off
- Tip: Ask your guide about the lesser-known 'Canada' warehouses, where the essential belongings of the prisoners were sorted to be shipped back to Germany.
- It is not recommended for children under 14 to visit the Memorial.
- Wheelchairs are available at no cost at the Visitor Service Center. Due to the need to preserve historical authenticity, it may be difficult for disabled guests to move around the grounds and the buildings.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION7 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
START POINT
Warsaw
Begin your journey in Warsaw, a city steeped in history and resilience. From here, you'll travel to the Auschwitz camp, a poignant site that honors the victims of the Holocaust.
326 km
3 hours
1
Auschwitz I
Tickets included
Explore the haunting barracks, gas chambers, and exhibits, gaining insight into the atrocities of the Holocaust while paying tribute to the victims of this tragic period.
3.2 km
10 minutes
2
Auschwitz II-Birkenau
Tickets included
Explore the watchtowers overseeing the camp, view exhibits of personal belongings, photos, and documents, and learn about the camp’s liberation, resistance movements, and inhumane experiments.
326 km
3 hours
3
END POINT
Warsaw
Effortless pick-up, flexible language tours, and a must-book for curious travelers.
- Skip lines to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where over 1.3 million people were killed by the Nazis in WWII.
- Learn from your expert English-speaking guide about the genocide, resistance, and liberation of the camp.
- Travel comfortably in an airconditioned bus and enjoy hotel transfers to the camp and back from Warsaw with a small group of up to 8 people.
- Witness the original buildings, barracks, gas chambers, and crematoria of Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau.
- See personal artifacts and hear moving stories about former prisoners, that give you a detailed idea of the impact of the Nazis.
Effortless pick-up, flexible language tours, and a must-book for curious travelers.
- Skip lines to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where over 1.3 million people were killed by the Nazis in WWII.
- Learn from your expert English-speaking guide about the genocide, resistance, and liberation of the camp.
- Travel comfortably in an airconditioned bus and enjoy hotel transfers to the camp and back from Warsaw with a small group of up to 8 people.
- Witness the original buildings, barracks, gas chambers, and crematoria of Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau.
- See personal artifacts and hear moving stories about former prisoners, that give you a detailed idea of the impact of the Nazis.
Inclusions
- Skip-the-line entry to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum
- English/French/Italian/Spanish/Portuguese-speaking guide
- Small group of up to 8 people
- Round-trip transfers by AC bus
- Round-trip transfers by AC bus
- Pick-up & drop-off from selected meeting point
- Entrance fee
- Tip: Pay close attention to the 'Arbeit Macht Frei' gate, which translates to 'Work Sets You Free.' This phrase was a cruel deception, meant to mislead and dehumanize the prisoners.
- Remember that this is a memorial site and a place of remembrance, so it's essential to be respectful throughout the visit.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Top things to do in Krakow
Why visit Auschwitz?
- Cultural significance: As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Auschwitz-Birkenau holds immense cultural and historical significance. It's a must-visit for those interested in the past but also for those who wish to build a better future.
- Educational value: Auschwitz-Birkenau offers a unique opportunity to learn about the Holocaust and the atrocities committed during World War II.
- Paying respect: By visiting, you pay your respects to the millions who suffered and perished here. It's a way to honor their memory and ensure that their stories are never forgotten.
- It's a place of reflection: Walking through Auschwitz-Birkenau allows for personal reflection. It’s an opportunity to contemplate the importance of tolerance, compassion, and the prevention of such horrors in the future.
Which Auschwitz ticket is best for you?
If you're budget-conscious or short on time
Duration: 3.5 hours
Guide: Yes
- The Auschwitz guided tour with fast-track entry is a time and cost-efficient choice if you're focused solely on Auschwitz-Birkenau without needing transfers or other amenities. The tour is available in 7 languages to help you choose your preferred language.
- For a more in-depth Auschwitz experience in a shorter time, choose the Auschwitz sub-camps tour. It explores lesser-known sites around the camps without taking you inside the camps. Includes round-trip transfers from Krakow and an optional lunch.
Recommended tickets:
- Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour with Fast Track Tickets
- From Krakow: Auschwitz Sub-Camps Guided Tour with Transfers
If you want to explore beyond Auschwitz
Duration: 11 hours
Guide: Yes
- The combo ticket allows you to go on a guided tour of two of Poland's most important historical sites in one day, making it perfect for those who want to make the most of their day.
- This combo ticket provides ultimate convenience during your trip with an English-speaking guide, an option to include lunch, and round-trip transfers from your hotel or a centrally located meeting point in Krakow (based on your selected option).
Recommended ticket:
From Krakow - Auschwitz-Birkenau & Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour
If you're traveling from Krakow
Duration: 7-7.5 hours
Guide: Yes
- These tickets are ideal if you are traveling from Krakow and want a hassle-free experience. Both options include fast-track entry to Auschwitz I & Auschwitz II–Birkenau with a guided tour available in around 7 languages.
- Opt for meeting point transfers ticket option to start your tour from a pre-decided central meeting point in Krakow or get the hotel transfers ticket option to enjoy door-to-door pick-up and drop-off.
Recommended tickets:
- From Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour with Meeting Point Transfers
- From Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour with Hotel Transfers
If you're traveling from other cities in Poland
Duration: 7-10.5 hours
Guide: Yes
- Designed for travelers visiting Auschwitz from Warsaw, Wroclaw, and Katowice, these tours include round-trip AC bus transfers, ensuring comfort for the longer journey. Opt for a meeting point or hotel pick-up and drop-off based on your preferences.
- Each tour includes fast-track entry to Auschwitz-Birkenau with expert tour guides available in more than 7 languages, so you can select the one that suits you best.
Recommended tickets:
- From Warsaw: Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour with Transfers
- From Wroclaw: Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour with Transfers
- From Katowice: Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour with Transfers
Cancelation Policy
Most Auschwitz tour tickets can be canceled 24-48 hours before the experience begins. However, some tickets cannot be canceled or rescheduled. Please check your ticket for details at the time of booking.
Auschwitz tour highlights
Auschwitz-Birkenau is made up of three parts: Auschwitz I, Auschwitz II-Birkenau, and Auschwitz III-Monowitz. The first two camps are about 3 kilometers apart, and any Auschwitz tour will take you to both of them. The third camp was a labor camp and there’s nothing left of it currently, save a memorial on the road.
Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum
This holocaust museum showcases the works made secretly by prisoners that showcase their lives in the concentration camps. You will also find works made for the SS for the expansion of the Auschwitz camps and post-war collections. Visitors here will get to explore two main camps: Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau.
Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum
Auschwitz I
Auschwitz I, which opened in 1940, was the first concentration camp and headquarters of the SS. You can see the barracks, prison cells, and the black and white photographs of the camp from when it was in operation. You will also learn about the horrifying death statistics and encounter belongings of the prisoners here.
Auschwitz concentration camps
Auschwitz II-Birkenau
Auschwitz II – Birkenau was opened in 1941 to keep up with the large numbers of political prisoners and Jews who were being deported to Auschwitz. See the railway tracks and original cattle cars that were used to transport the deportees, the ruins of the crematorium and barracks, and get a glimpse into the living conditions of prisoners.
Auschwitz factsPlan your visit to Auschwitz
Timings
Getting There
Entrances
Facilities
Tips & Guidelines
Dining options
Stay
Auschwitz-Birkenau entrance hours:
- December: 7:30 AM - 2 PM
- January & November: 7:30 AM - 3 PM
- February: 7:30 AM - 4 PM
- March, October: 7:30 AM - 5 PM
- April, May & September: 7:30 AM - 6 PM
- June, July & August: 7:30 AM - 7 PM
Closed on: January 1, December 25, and Easter Sunday.
Duration: 4-5 hours
Best time to visit: Plan a visit in the morning during the weekday in the months of April to May to avoid the peak crowds.
Address: Ofiar Faszyzmu 12, 32-600 Brzezinka, Poland
Find on Map
Getting there:
- By train: Take a direct train from Krakow Glowny station to Oswiecim station, located 2 km from the Auschwitz concentration camp. The journey will take around 1.5 - 2.5 hours.
- By Bus: From Krakow MDA Bus Station, there are four bus carriers that run between Krakow and Auschwitz and will drop you off at the Auschwitz I camp.
- By Car: You can also arrive by car and park your vehicle in the paid car parking spaces available near the concentration camps.
- Guided Tour: You can also take a guided tour from Krakow to Auschwitz which will take around 7-11 hours and can be completed as a day trip.
Auschwitz-Birkenau has two primary entrances:
- Auschwitz I Main Entrance: This iconic wrought-iron gate, adorned with the chilling words "Arbeit Macht Frei" (Work Sets You Free), marks the entrance to the Auschwitz I camp. It's a poignant reminder of the camp's dark past.
- Auschwitz II Birkenau Hell's Gate: The second entrance leads to the vast expanse of Auschwitz II Birkenau, known for its vastness and solemnity, with the iconic railway tracks leading to the camp.
- Toilets: There are toilets available at both the camps but you need to pay a small fee to use them.
- Refreshments: Auschwitz I camp has a restaurant and a fast-food counter to get food and drinks but there is no food available at Auschwitz II camp.
- Free shuttle bus service: A free shuttle bus is available to travel between the two camps — Auschwitz I and Birkenau.
- Storage room: There is a luggage storage facility available near the main entrance.
- Book shops: You can buy books from the book shops that are open in both the camps. You can also buy these books from the online book shop of Auschwitz.
- Wheelchairs: Wheelchairs are available free of charge at the Visitor Service Centre for differently-abled visitors.
- There is a lot of walking involved. Wear comfortable shoes and carry plenty of drinking water. Both camps have limited disabled access, and there are only a few spots inside to sit and rest.
- Ensure your backpack or handbag does not exceed dimensions: 30x20x10 cm. There are lockers available for a small fee, but they tend to get full during peak season.
- You need to pay 2 PLN to use the toilets inside the memorial.
- If you are not familiar with the history of Auschwitz or any other concentration camp, we recommend that you read about the holocaust before your trip. Here are some books to get started on, and if you like movies more than books, here are some suggestions to help explain this better.
- Visitors can photograph the insides of the Auschwitz Memorial but avoid flat photography and pay attention to the No Photography signs inside.
- It is recommended to not bring children aged 14 and under to the museum as the experience can be too traumatic for them.
Auschwitz I has a cafeteria that provides meals and water, but if you want to explore other options, here’s what we suggest:
- Bistro Bilard: If you are looking to eat some pizza and chase it down with some cold beer, look no further than this no-frills joint across the street from the camp.
- Kebab Pizza Burger Allis: A 12-minute walk away, the restaurant offers a wide selection of Italian, American and Turkish dishes. Their burgers come highly recommended.
- A La Carte: For those looking to enjoy an authentic Polish meal, head on to this restaurant, only 1 km away from the Auschwitz Memorial and Museum.
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Here's a list of hotels near Auschwitz:
- Budget hotels: B&M Guesthouse, Hotel Dąbrowski, Villa Centro apartamenty ze śniadaniami
- Mid-range hotels: Hotel Olecki, Hampton by Hilton Oswiecim, Novotel Katowice Centrum
- Luxury hotels: Hotel Imperiale, Qubus Hotel Bielsko-Biała
Beyond Auschwitz
Wieliczka Salt Mine
Admire the unique statues sculpted in salt, underground chapels, and works of art at Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO Heritage Site. Explore the miner workplaces and underground salt labyrinth, and marvel at the underground lakes, the numerous chambers carved in salt, and more.
Wieliczka Salt Mine tickets
Oskar Schindler’s Factory
Visit Krakow's famed Oskar Schindler’s Factory Museum, where WWII history unfolds. Explore Schindler's heroic acts, saving 1,200 Jews. Immerse in recreated rooms, personal artifacts, and photos. Discover wartime Krakow's story, from prewar life to German occupation and Jewish resistance, through exhibits of photos, artifacts, and documents.
Oskar Schindler’s Factory ticketsFrequently asked questions about Auschwitz tickets
How much does the Auschwitz tour cost?
The Auschwitz tour price starts from zł96.19. This includes fast-track entrance to Auschwitz-Birkenau and a guided tour by an official Auschwitz-Birkenau guide.
What is the best way to buy tickets to Auschwitz tours?
The best way to buy tickets to Auschwitz tours is by booking them online. Online booking is easy and convenient as it allows you to avail of exclusive discounts on Auschwitz tickets and reserve your slots well in advance.
Can I buy Auschwitz tours online?
Yes, you can buy tickets to Auschwitz tours online. Scroll up to choose from all the Auschwitz ticket and tour options.
Why should I book Auschwitz tours online?
- Booking Auschwitz tours online offers many advantages like:
-Skip the lines: Auschwitz is a popular place, especially in peak tourist season, so the lines can get long. Booking your tickets online helps avoid these long entry lines and gives you more time to explore.
-Guaranteed entry: When you book tickets online in advance, you get guaranteed entry upon arrival.
-Choose from a variety of experiences: Make your Auschwitz visit your own by picking the type of visit you like. You can have a guide show you around, or book combo tours to see other attractions.
-Discounts and Deals: When you book online, you can get some great discounts and special deals that you won't find at the ticket booth.
Can I get skip-the-line tickets for the Auschwitz tour?
Yes, you can get skip-the-line tickets for the Auschwitz tour and get priority access inside.
Do Auschwitz tour tickets allow entry into the Auschwitz Museum?
Yes, all Auschwitz tour tickets allow entry into the Auschwitz Birkenau Museum.
Are discounts available on Auschwitz and Birkenau tour?
Yes. Children aged less than 12 years and students with a valid ID can enjoy discounts on the Auschwitz tickets.
What is the cancellation policy for Auschwitz tours?
Cancellation policy varies based on the type of ticket you select. Some ticket options provide a complete refund if you cancel up to 48-72 hours before your scheduled visit, while others may not allow cancellations. Pease review the specific terms and conditions before finalizing your reservation.
Can I buy Auschwitz tours on the day?
You can buy the tickets to Auschwitz tours on the day but the tickets are subject to availability and you would have to stand in the long queues during peak times. Furthermore, online ticket holders are prioritized at the venue over on-the-spot ticket buyers. Additionally, if you opt to purchase the Auschwitz tickets offline, you would be missing out on discounts and offers as well.
Do I need an ID for the Auschwitz tour?
Yes, you will need to bring a valid photo ID along with the Auschwitz tickets to enter. Any official ID with a clear photograph of the visitor will work.
What are Auschwitz opening hours?
- December: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- January & November: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- February: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- March, October: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- April, May & September: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- June, July & August: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
How long does the Auschwitz tour last?
An Auschwitz tour can last anywhere between 3 to 11 hours, depending on the experience that you have selected.
