This is How to Get to Auschwitz: Ultimate Guide

Auschwitz is one of the most important historical places in the world. And in order to have a smooth visit, knowing how to get to Auschwitz from Warsaw, Krakow, and other cities in Poland is important.

You see, Auschwitz is a must-see for anyone interested in history and memory. This guide will show you how to get to the former concentration camp from various places in Poland.

Whether you’re coming from Krakow, Warsaw or somewhere else we’ll cover transport and practical info to make your trip easy and focus on your visit.

Overview: How to Get to Auschwitz II Birkenau

• Best option: Join a guided tour from Warsaw or Krakow
• Cheaper option: Take a train from Krakow Railway Station
• Convenient option: Rent a car and drive to Auschwitz concentration camps

Where Is Auschwitz?

Auschwitz is in Oswiecim, a town in southern Poland. It’s about 70 km west of Krakow and 300 km southwest of Warsaw.

Oswiecim is well connected by public transport so it’s easy to get to from major cities. Most people visit Auschwitz from Krakow or Warsaw because these cities have the best transport links.

Krakow being closer is the favourite starting point for most, but we specialise in tours to Auschwitz from Warsaw and we have incredible tours available all year round.

Get to Auschwitz From Krakow

Starting from Krakow is a good idea. Krakow is a great city with plenty to see and it’s well connected to Auschwitz. Here are the best ways to get to Auschwitz from Krakow:

Guided Tours from Krakow

Joining a guided tour from Krakow is the easy way to visit Auschwitz. These tours include transport, a guide, and lunch depending on the option you pick. With a guided tour you don’t have to think about the logistics.

You can relax and learn more from an expert who can answer your questions. Tours run daily and prices vary depending on what’s included. This is the easiest and most informative option without all the hassle.

Krakow to Auschwitz Concentration Camp by Bus

Buses also run often from Krakow to Oswiecim. You can catch a bus from Krakow’s main bus station. Same travel time as the train and a reasonable price. Buses are a good option if you prefer road or the train schedule doesn’t fit your plans.

But buses can be crowded during peak hours so consider your options when choosing this one. Buses go direct and you can buy the ticket at the station or online.

Krakow to Auschwitz by Train

You can also take the train from Krakow Glowny. It takes 1.5 hours and it’s very cheap. Obviously, if you’re on a budget that’s the way to go.

When you arrive at Oswiecim station you can walk to the Auschwitz museum or take a local bus. The train is a good way to get there and to prepare yourself for the visit. Trains run often so you can find a time that suits you.

Krakow to Auschwitz by Car

Renting a car in Krakow gives you the flexibility to go at your own pace. 1.5 hours to Auschwitz. You can choose from several routes so you can see more of the area. Parking at Auschwitz is easy, main car park for visitors.

With a car you can spend as much time as you want at the site without worrying about the transportation schedule. This flexibility can make your visit more private and peaceful. And you can visit Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau at your own pace.

Poland roads are safe but make sure you have insurance with your car rental.

Getting to Auschwitz from Warsaw

If you’re starting from Warsaw you have several options to get to Auschwitz, despite being further away compared to Krakow. Here’s how to get from Warsaw to Auschwitz:

Auschwitz Tour from Warsaw

Just like from Krakow, you can join an organized tour from Warsaw. These tours include transportation, guide and a stop in Krakow. Some tours are day trips, some are overnight.

Joining a tour from Warsaw is a great way to have everything arranged for you so you can just focus on the experience and not worry about the details. Tours from Warsaw include visits to both Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau so you get a full picture of the site’s history.

Bus from Warsaw to Auschwitz II Birkenau

Long distance buses run from Warsaw to Oswiecim or Krakow, from where you can continue to Auschwitz. The bus journey takes around 5 hours depending on traffic.

Apart from that, a bus ticket is cheap and buses are equipped with amenities to make your trip comfortable. If you plan a longer bus journey you will need to bring snacks and water but it’s an affordable way to travel to Auschwitz Birkenau.

Warsaw Train to Auschwitz

You can also travel by train from Warsaw city center to Oswiecim. The journey takes around 4-5 hours. You can book tickets through Polish Railways (PKP) online or at the station. Once in Oswiecim station, you can get to the museum by local bus or a short walk.

Trains are comfortable and scenic, perfect for if you like train trips. You can also move around and stretch during the trip to the nazi concentration camp.

The train station in Oswiecim is right next to the museum entrance so it’s a great option for many visitors.

Warsaw to Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial By Car

Driving from Warsaw to Auschwitz takes around 4-5 hours. Renting a car gives you the freedom to stop along the way, like visiting Krakow.

The drive is easy, roads are clear and signs are good. Parking in Auschwitz is easy and with a car, you can explore the area at your own pace.

Just remember to consider tolls and fuel costs when planning your trip. A road trip can add an extra layer of fun to your visit and you can see more of southern Poland on your way to Auschwitz Birkenau State Museum.

Getting to Auschwitz from Other Cities in Poland

If you’re coming from other parts of Poland here’s how you can get to Auschwitz:

Auschwitz From Wroclaw

Wroclaw is another big city in Poland with a good connection to Auschwitz. You can travel by train, bus or car. The journey by car takes around 2.5 hours, trains and buses a bit longer.

Each option has its pros so choose the one that fits your schedule and comfort. Trains depart from Wroclaw main station and buses from the main bus station.

Renting a car gives you the most flexibility and you can visit both Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau without rushing.

Auschwitz From Katowice

Katowice is very close to Auschwitz so it’s super quick and easy. By car, it takes around 1 hour, by train around 1.5 hours, and buses are also an option and the cheapest. Being so close means you have more flexibility in how you get there, whether you drive or public transport.

This proximity means you can do Auschwitz as a day trip and have plenty of time to see the site and reflect.

Booking Tickets to Auschwitz

Booking in advance is mandatory, especially during peak season. The Auschwitz Birkenau State Museum requires a time slot reservation, so they can manage the flow of visitors and so you can have a meaningful visit.

However, you don’t need to book a slot or buy tickets when you join a guided tour as it’s included.

There are different types of tickets available: self-guided, guided, and educational group visits. Each one is different so choose the one that suits you best.

• Self-Guided Tours: These tickets allow you to wander around the site at your own pace with an audio guide. Perfect for those who like to take their time and absorb the information as they go.
• Guided Tours: These tours have a guide who will explain in detail and answer your questions. Guided tours give you a deeper understanding of the site’s history and meaning.

Booking in advance means you can choose your time slot and avoid the queues at the museum entrance. It also helps you plan your visit better and have a smooth experience. High demand during peak season means tickets sell out fast so book as early as you can.

Best Time to Visit Auschwitz

Visiting at the right time can make a big difference. Here are some factors to consider when visiting the original concentration camp:

Peak vs Off-Peak

Peak season, usually summer, has more visitors. This means the site will be busier, longer queues and more crowded spaces. If you prefer a quieter visit go during weekdays or off-season (spring or autumn).

Visiting during peak season means more lively surroundings and possibly better weather but you need to book your tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Weather

Weather is important when visiting Auschwitz. Summer means warm weather, good for walking around the site and spending time outdoors.

But it also means more tourists and higher temperatures. Winter is cold and snowy, a stark and somber backdrop for the memorial. Spring and autumn are mild and quiet, perfect for a reflective visit.

Weekdays vs Weekends

Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. If you can, plan your visit on a weekday and you’ll have a more personal and uninterrupted experience. Especially when visiting such a serious and historic site you want to be able to reflect without the distraction of big crowds.

Conclusion

Visiting Auschwitz is easy, whether you are coming from Krakow, Warsaw or other cities in Poland. By planning your trip and choosing the right transportation for you, you’ll have a meaningful and respectful visit.

Don’t forget to book your tickets in advance and consider the best time to visit for a more personal experience. Take your time at Auschwitz and reflect on its meaning and the people who suffered here. We hope this guide helps you on your way to Auschwitz, so it will be a part of your travels to remember.