Setting out on a somber journey, this guided tour from Krakow to Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp offers a unique opportunity to examine one of history’s most harrowing chapters. Thoughtfully designed to honor the victims, the experience provides invaluable historical insights through the expertise of licensed educators. With the convenience of hotel pickup and flexible cancellation options, the tour allows participants to explore the complexities of this dark period with a sense of reverence and reflection.

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Key Points

Guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp from Krakow, with round-trip transportation and hotel pickup options.
Tour includes visits to Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, led by a licensed professional educator.
Duration of the tour ranges from 7 hours to 1 day, with flexible cancellation policy.
Visitors must bring passport or ID and wear comfortable shoes, while pets, smoking, and large bags are prohibited.
Tour not suitable for wheelchair users; special needs should be communicated in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour is a comprehensive seven-hour to one-day experience that allows visitors to explore the somber history of the notorious Nazi concentration camp.

Priced from €9.30 per person with up to 50% savings, the tour includes round-trip transportation from Krakow, guided visits to both Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, and the services of a licensed professional educator.

Participants can choose optional hotel pickup and have the flexibility to cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour is offered in multiple languages, making it accessible to a diverse audience.

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Itinerary

The tour begins with pickup from a varying location, depending on the option selected.

The tour begins with pickup from a varying location, depending on the option selected.

Transportation is provided by an air-conditioned bus, which takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach Auschwitz I.

Once there, visitors embark on a 2-hour guided tour of the main camp, including the original barracks and the iconic gate.

After a 10-minute break, the tour continues to Auschwitz II-Birkenau for a 1.5-hour guided exploration of the former extermination camp.

Finally, the group is transported back to Krakow, with drop-off available at 7 different locations within the city.

Historical Context

Auschwitz-Birkenau holds immense historical significance, as it was the largest concentration camp established during the Nazi Holocaust. Founded in 1940, the camp complex was the site of the systematic murder of millions, primarily Jews and Poles.

The horrific acts committed there stand as a stark reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust. Visitors enter through the infamous gate with the inscription "Arbeit macht frei" ("Work sets you free").

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum preserves the site as a solemn testament to the victims, honoring their memory and educating the world about this dark chapter in human history.

Included Services

This guided tour includes several key services to enhance the visitor experience.

The transportation is provided by an air-conditioned bus, ensuring a comfortable journey to and from the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. The entry tickets are included, granting visitors direct access to explore the historic site.

The transportation is provided by an air-conditioned bus, and entry tickets are included for direct access to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.

Plus, the tour is led by a licensed professional educator, providing valuable insights and historical context throughout the visit.

These thoughtful inclusions create a seamless and enriching experience for those wishing to learn about and honor the tragic events that occurred at Auschwitz-Birkenau.

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Important Information

Visitors should bring their passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and pack a lunch and drinks for the day.

Pets, smoking, and large bags over 20 x 30 cm aren’t allowed on the tour.

Pickup times may vary, so it’s essential to confirm the details the day before.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and language availability may differ for non-English tours.

Visitors should plan accordingly and communicate any special needs or requirements in advance to ensure a smooth and memorable experience at the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial.

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Hotel Pickup

Although optional, the tour offers pickup service from select locations in Krakow’s city center. This convenient service saves visitors the hassle of arranging their own transportation to the tour’s starting point.

Convenient pickup service from select locations in Krakow’s city center, eliminating the hassle of arranging transportation to the tour’s starting point.

The pickup locations include:

Major hotels in the Old Town
Main train station
Krakow Główny train station
Galeria Krakowska shopping mall
Pawia bus station
Cracovia Sheraton hotel
Krakow Główny bus station

The pickup time may vary, so guests are advised to confirm the details with the tour operator the day before the tour.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Guests can book the Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour online, which offers up to 50% savings compared to the regular price.

The tour can be easily canceled for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This flexible cancellation policy allows guests to plan their trip with confidence.

The tour is priced at €18.60, with the discounted rate of €9.30 per person. Pickup from Krakow city center hotels is optional, providing convenient transportation to and from the memorial sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Photography is generally permitted during the Auschwitz-Birkenau tour, but visitors are advised to be respectful and avoid taking pictures in certain sensitive areas. Some restrictions may apply to protect the dignified nature of the site.

Is There a Dress Code for This Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Modest attire is recommended out of respect for the memorial’s somber history and significance.

How Many People Are Typically in a Tour Group?

Tour group sizes typically range from 20 to 35 people, allowing for an informative and manageable experience. The size may vary depending on the season and demand for the tour.

Is It Possible to Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau on My Own?

Yes, it is possible to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau on one’s own. The memorial site is open to the public, and visitors can explore the grounds and exhibitions independently. However, a guided tour provides more historical context and insight into the site’s significance.

What Are the Restroom Facilities Like at the Memorial Sites?

The memorial sites have toilet facilities that visitors can use, though they require payment in local currency. These basic restrooms are available to accommodate guests’ needs during the extensive guided tours of the Auschwitz-Birkenau complex.

The Sum Up

This guided tour provides an immersive and meaningful experience for visitors to Auschwitz-Birkenau. The combination of round-trip transportation, on-site guided visits, and educational insights allows travelers to engage with this poignant historical site and honor the victims. With flexible booking options and a focus on respectful exploration, the tour offers a valuable opportunity to gain deeper understanding of one of history’s most tragic events.