Getting From Krakow to Auschwitz: Complete Guide

Krakow is a great starting point for visiting Auschwitz as it’s so culturally rich and close to the memorial. We mostly do tours starting from Warsaw but a Krakow to Auschwitz tour is better for some people.

Auschwitz is a powerful place that reminds us of the horrors of World War II.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to get there, the different options, and what to expect when you visit Auschwitz.

Overview: Getting from Krakow to Auschwitz

First of all let’s go through some basics about the Auschwitz concentration camp, the distance from Krakow and the options to get there.

Distance and Time

Auschwitz is 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Krakow. It’s a day trip destination. The journey from Krakow to Auschwitz takes around 1.5 hours depending on how you get there.

Whether you go by train, bus, car or join a guided tour the trip is short enough to fit into your day.

Transportation Options from Krakow to Auschwitz Birkenau Concentration Camp

Choosing the right way to get from Krakow to Auschwitz is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are the options:

Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour

The best way to visit the extermination camp is to join a guided tour from Krakow to Auschwitz. Many tour companies offer day tours that include transportation, guided tour and sometimes meals.

The tours to Auschwitz from Warsaw include a stop in Krakow which is a nice addition to the concentration camp. But the tours from Krakow to Auschwitz include a stop at Wieliczka Salt Mine and that’s a must do in Poland.

These tours are convenient as they take care of everything for you so you can focus on your visit. The cost of a day tour varies but includes entrance tickets and experienced guides.

An Auschwitz tour is cheap and includes everything you could want. The only downside is they sell out and we recommend booking as soon as possible.

By Train

Taking the train from Krakow to Oswiecim, the nearest station to Auschwitz, is a good option. There are several trains a day with Polish Railways (PKP) from Krakow to Auschwitz Birkenau.

The journey takes around 1.5 hours. Train tickets are cheap and booking in advance will get you a better price.

Of course, unlike Auschwitz tours, entrance tickets and an expert guide aren’t included so keep that in mind.

Trains in Poland are comfortable and a nice way to relax while you travel.

By Bus

Buses are another option to get from Krakow to Auschwitz. Several bus companies offer routes to Oswiecim and Auschwitz, the journey takes around 1.5 hours.

Bus tickets are cheaper than train tickets and booking online in advance will get you the best prices. Buses depart from Krakow’s main bus station so it’s easy to catch one.

By Car

Renting a car in Krakow gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace. The fastest route to Auschwitz is via the A4 highway, which takes about one and a half hours. You can also choose more scenic routes if you want to enjoy the countryside along the way.

When driving in Poland, keep an eye on road conditions and be prepared for tolls on major highways. Make sure you have a valid driver’s license and understand local traffic rules before you start your road trip.

Auschwitz Tour Options

When you visit Auschwitz you have several options. And in case you’re wondering, yes, visiting Auschwitz is very much worth it.

Guided or Self-guided Tours

Guided tours are more structured so you can understand the site better. Available in many languages including English so you get the most out of your visit.

Self-guided tours give you flexibility so you can wander at your own pace. You can use the audio guides or the maps to get around the extermination site yourself.

Guided tours are for those who want a full and informative visit. Self guided tours are for those who want more time for reflection. A guided group tour will give you a deeper understanding with an experienced guide and an overall better visit.

Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau

A full tour includes both Auschwitz I, the main camp, and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, the extermination camp. In Auschwitz I, you will see the main entrance, administrative buildings, and the gas chambers. Auschwitz II-Birkenau is much bigger with fields, barracks, and more gas chambers.

You will spend more time in Birkenau, walking the grounds and memorial sites. You will walk through the places where unimaginable things happened and get a deeper understanding of the history and the people who died.

Booking Tickets for Auschwitz

Booking your entrance tickets in advance is essential, especially during peak season. You can get your tickets online through the official Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial website or through authorized tour companies.

It’s worth noting that tickets are included when you book a guided tour, so you do not need to purchase them.

Tickets are available for individuals, guided tours and educational group visits. Booking early will ensure you get a spot and can skip the queues at the entrance. Also check the cancellation policy in case your plans change.

Entrance tickets may include skip the line option which will save you time during busy periods. There are different types of tickets available to suit your needs, whether you want a private tour or a group guided tour.

What to Expect at Auschwitz Birkenau State Museum

When you arrive at Auschwitz you will go through security checks before entering the site. There is a visitor centre where you can buy maps and audio guides if you haven’t booked a guided tour. There is parking if you are driving but it fills up quickly so get there early.

There are on-site restrooms, a visitor centre, and cafes where you can take a break. Remember that the atmosphere is serious and respectful as Auschwitz is a heavy place to visit.

Be prepared emotionally and mentally for the visit as this can be very moving.

Best Time to Visit

Visiting at the right time can make a big difference. Summer and holidays are peak season when the weather is nice but the site is busy. Visiting in the off-season (spring or autumn) is quieter with fewer crowds.

Winter is cold and snowy but the atmosphere is more powerful. Consider the weather and crowds when planning your visit so you make the most of your time. Each season offers a different perspective on the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial so you can choose the best time for you.

What to Bring and Wear

Dress comfortably for your visit as you will be walking a lot. Comfortable shoes are a must and wear weather-appropriate clothing as most of the tour is outside. Bring essentials like snacks and water but be aware of the site’s restrictions on certain items.

You can take photos in some areas but are restricted in memorial zones. Please remain respectful when visiting. Don’t bring big bags or items that are not allowed to ensure a respectful visit.

Also, check if there are any specific rules on what you can bring to the concentration camp. Bring only what you need to maintain the seriousness of the site.

Conclusion

Visiting Auschwitz from Krakow is a heavy journey that will give you a deep understanding of one of the darkest periods in history. By planning your trip well, choosing the right transportation and knowing what to expect you can make the most of your visit.

Auschwitz is a reminder of what happened and of human resilience. Whether you are visiting for educational purposes, personal reflection or to honor the victims, this journey is part of your Poland experience.

Make a detailed trip, join a guided tour from Krakow to Auschwitz, and make your visit an impactful one.