A Guide to Auschwitz-Birkenau Opening Hours

Contents

Auschwitz-Birkenau marks a dark chapter in history. The former German Nazi concentration and extermination camp in Poland remind humanity of the torture and violent past of the region. Auschwitz-Birkenau is not a joyful tourist place but a reminder of the horrors of Nazi Germany. Visitors must behave with due solemnity and utmost respect for those who perished in the death camps. Read on too explore our guide on Auschwitz-Birkenau opening hours.

Auschwitz-Birkenau opening hours

Auschwitz-Birkenau opening hours

What is the best time to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau?

Auschwitz-Birkenau opening hours

Weekday vs Weekend

Auschwitz-Birkenau is an important place in human history. It’s an international landmark visited by thousands of tourists every day. The best way to explore the facility in peace and pay your respects is during a weekday. 

Auschwitz-Birkenau opens at 7:30 AM so you can plan your visit early in the day. Avoid weekends because you may get caught up in the tourist rush. Please make sure you book tickets in advance as it is mandatory to secure an entry.

Auschwitz-Birkenau opening hours

Peak Season vs Low Season

The best time to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau is between April and May during the spring season in Poland. It is the off-season for tourism with lesser crowds. The temperature also stays pleasant between 15 and 18 degrees Celsius.

August is another ideal time to visit the Auschwitz Museum, when temperature touches 29 degrees, with abundant daylight. Autumn falls from September to November, and the climate becomes cold, with temperatures dropping below 15 degrees. December to February is not ideal for visiting as the region experiences sub-zero temperatures.

How long should I spend at Auschwitz-Birkenau?

Plan to dedicate at least half a day, if not more, to explore Auschwitz properly and to fully immerse yourself in its history and the stories it holds.

Auschwitz I

Auschwitz I

Auschwitz I, the main camp, typically requires 2 to 3 hours to explore. Here, you'll find the original camp buildings, exhibitions, and the infamous "Arbeit Macht Frei" gate.

Auschwitz II-Birkenau

Auschwitz II-Birkenau

Birkenau, the larger part of the complex, also deserves around 2.5 to 3 hours. This is where you'll see the iconic train tracks, barracks, and the vast expanse that once held countless prisoners.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial & Museum

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial & Museum

Allocate 30 minutes to an hour at the museum located near the entrance. It provides essential context and houses numerous exhibits, documents, and personal belongings of the victims.

Book your Auschwitz-Birkenau tours

Guided Tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau with Fast-Track Tickets
Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
3 hr. 30 min.
Guided Tour
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Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour with Transfers from Meeting Point & Optional Lunch
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
7 hr. - 7 hr. 30 min.
Guided Tour
Transfers Included
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Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour with Hotel Transfers from Krakow Center
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
7 hr.
Guided Tour
Transfers Included
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Combo: Auschwitz-Birkenau & Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour from Krakow with Optional Lunch
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
11 hr.
Guided Tour
Transfers Included
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Guided Tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau with Lunch & Hotel Pick-Up from Krakow Center
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
7 hr.
Guided Tour
Transfers Included
More details
Small Group Guided Tour of Auschwitz & Birkenau with Transfers from Krakow
Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
6 hr.
Guided Tour
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Round-Trip Tickets: Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum to/from Krakow Bus Station
Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Flexible Duration
Transfers Included
More details

Frequently asked questions about Auschwitz-Birkenau opening hours

What are the Auschwitz-Birkenau opening hours?

The Auschwitz-Birkenau opening hours vary based on the month. The opening hours are 7:30 AM to 2 PM in December, 7:30 AM to 3 PM in January & November, 7:30 AM to 4 PM in February, 7:30 AM to 5 PM in March & October, 7:30 AM to 6 PM in April, May, & September, and 7:30 AM to 7 PM in June, July, & August.

Is Auschwitz-Birkenau open every day?

Yes, Auschwitz-Birkenau is open seven days a week except for January 1, December 25, and on Easter.

When is Auschwitz-Birkenau closed?

Auschwitz-Birkenau is closed on January 1, December 25, and on Easter.

What is the best time to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau?

The best time to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau is on weekdays as soon as the facility opens at 7:30 AM. This allows you to skip the tourist rush.

Is Auschwitz-Birkenau open on public holidays?

Yes, Auschwitz-Birkenau is open on public holidays except January 1, December 25, and Easter.

Should I visit Auschwitz-Birkenau on a public holiday?

Auschwitz-Birkenau entry is restricted by reservations in advance. You can expect a considerable number of tourists on holidays.

What are the Auschwitz-Birkenau opening hours for public holidays?

Auschwitz-Birkenau opening hours on public holidays remain the same as the regular timings.