Auschwitz Dress Code: The Official Rules

Visiting Auschwitz is a big deal for many of us to honour history and remember the lives lost in World War II. The Auschwitz dress code is very important and there are rules you need to remember when you visit.

That’s right. What you wear matters when visiting Auschwitz concentration camps. Dressing appropriately shows you get it and honour the victims.

Why Dressing Properly Matters

Auschwitz is a memorial to the millions who suffered and died in the concentration camps. When we visit Auschwitz we’re entering a place where unthinkable things happened. Dressing properly shows we get it and we respect the victims.

We’re not saying it’s just about the rules. It’s about showing respect for the lives lost. Imagine walking through Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial in neon, bright colours or something that draws attention away from the sombre atmosphere. It would feel out of place and disrespectful.

When joining guided tours, dressing properly is a simple way to pay your respects to those who died at both Auschwitz camps.

Official Auschwitz Dress Code Rules

There is no dress code at the concentration camp but there are rules to follow. Dressing properly and modestly is key. Think of it this way: if you wouldn’t wear it to a funeral, don’t wear it on your Auschwitz tour. This means no casual or inappropriate clothing for a sacred place.

No logos, no politics, no swear words. Just what you’d wear to a place like Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial.

Headwear

Wearing hats or other head coverings outside is allowed, but you’ll need to remove them when entering the buildings as a sign of respect for the victims of the Holocaust. This doesn’t apply to religious head coverings like yarmulkes or hijabs.

If you have questions, your tour guide will be happy to answer them.

We appreciate cultural and religious attire as it respects personal and spiritual practices.

What to Avoid on a Guided Tour

No rules but modesty should guide your dress. Avoid tank tops, shorts, miniskirts or ripped clothing as it seems too casual or revealing for such a place. T-shirts, long pants or jeans will allow you to focus on the site rather than stand out.

When I visited Auschwitz Birkenau I saw someone wearing a neon tank top and shorts. It was weird especially since it was such a serious place at Birkenau concentration camps.

Don’t Wear Offending or Flashy Clothing

When you visit Auschwitz don’t wear clothing with offensive language, big logos or flashy graphics. Anything that draws attention isn’t suitable for a memorial site. You’re here to think about the lives lost and your clothes should match that.

Sportswear and Athleisure

Although comfort is key, sportswear and beachwear aren’t suitable for visiting Auschwitz Birkenau.

Leggings, gym clothes, or swimwear are too casual for such a place. We once saw someone wearing semi-transparent leggings as part of a group visiting Auschwitz Memorial who was refused entry.

Beachwear and Summer Casual

Avoid flip-flops, swimsuits, or any clothing more suitable for the beach than a memorial site. Think about the place when you dress. Instead of beachwear opt for more modest and respectful clothing that fits the site.

Dressing for the Weather

We mentioned what to wear in our guide about the best time to visit Auschwitz but let’s go into more detail here.

Summer. Lightweight and breathable clothing is fine but not beachwear or too casual. Shorts should be knee length and tank tops should be replaced with t-shirts or modest sleeveless tops.

You won’t be refused entry if you wear short pants but avoiding them is very much appreciated.

It can get hot in the summer but that doesn’t mean flip-flops or swimsuits are okay. Always carry a hat or sunglasses but be prepared to remove your hat indoors.

Winter in Poland can be harsh with freezing temperatures and snow. You’ll need thick layers, a winter coat, gloves, a scarf and a warm hat. Sturdy shoes with good grip are a must as the paths can be icy. But do wear comfortable footwear.

Comfortable Footwear

A lot of walking is involved especially between Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau (and the Wieliczka Salt Mines if you join a tour from Krakow to Auschwitz). Closed-toe shoes like sneakers, hiking boots or sturdy flats are best. Flip flops or high heels are not practical for the terrain and the amount of walking.

Wearing comfortable shoes will allow you to move around the museum grounds with ease and without pain, especially if you’re joining an organized tour.

Seasonal Tips

Of course, how you dress for the Auschwitz Museum will depend on the season, so let’s discuss some tips you’ll want before going.

Spring/Fall

In spring and fall the temperatures can be unpredictable. A light jacket and layers are your best bet, you can adjust according to the weather.

Comfortable long pants or jeans are fine. Temperatures can change throughout the day so always bring an extra layer.

Summer

Summer is hot but don’t dress too casually. T-shirts, knee-length shorts, or lightweight pants are fine.

Though it’s tempting for the heat, don’t wear shorts that are too revealing. Bring a hat and sunglasses and remember to remove your hat indoors.

Winter

Winter is tough but with the right gear, you’ll be good. Dress in thick layers and a heavy winter coat. Don’t forget gloves and a scarf as you’ll probably need them.

Wear comfortable shoes that are waterproof as the ground may be wet or icy. If you dress right your winter visit can be very reflective and the snow will add a somberness to the site.

Religious and Cultural Considerations

At Auschwitz more than any other site, we understand how freedom of religion and speech is. However, these are some factors you should consider when going.

Wearing Religious Symbols or Attire

Wearing religious attire or symbols like crosses, Stars of David, yarmulkes, or hijabs is fine. Auschwitz has deep cultural and religious meaning for many groups and wearing religious symbols is a way to honour your connection to the site.

Many groups visiting from religious institutions have their own dress code which is common and respectful.

Remember the Memorial

Respect is the key to the Auschwitz dress code. Being comfortable doesn’t mean being indecent. When you visit Auschwitz, remember your clothes set the tone for your visit. Taking selfies or casual photos is also not recommended.

Instead, focus on the reflection and the history of what happened on the site. These are some rules, according to the official Auschwitz website:

• Don’t remove or damage anything at Auschwitz-Birkenau.
• Be serious and respectful and dress accordingly (come on, who would laugh in such as place?).
• The maximum size of bags allowed in is 30 x 20 x 10 cm.
• No food, no alcohol, no cigarettes, no chewing gum, no e-cigarettes.
• No animals (guide dogs are allowed).
• No baby carriages.
• No flags, no posters, no banners, no promotional items.
• No weapons.
• No music.
• No mobile phone calls inside the exhibition buildings.
• No entrance allowed under the influence of alcohol.
• No drone without permission.
• No flash, no tripods inside the buildings.
• No photography or recording of security checkpoints.
• No public speaking that disrespects the memory of Auschwitz victims, negates Nazi crimes, defames the complex, or promotes hate in any form.
• No unattended luggage.
• No offensive, provocative, or political manifestations.
• No signs or symbols of Nazism or other totalitarian regimes.
• No recording of the tour guide (copyright).

These rules help to maintain the seriousness of the Auschwitz memorial, and we can only approve of them.

Conclusion: Dress Respectfully

When visiting Auschwitz it’s not about what you wear, but why you wear it. There is no formal Auschwitz dress code but dressing with respect shows you understand the importance of the Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial.

Whether you visit in summer or winter, dressing modestly and practically will let you focus on the experience and pay your respects to those who suffered. Follow the rules, respect the rules, and approach your visit with the seriousness it deserves.

By dressing properly, you honour the memory of the victims and make your visit to this important memorial meaningful.