Exploring the dark history of Auschwitz-Birkenau and the mesmerizing natural wonders of the Wieliczka Salt Mine is a powerful experience that’s not to be missed. This guided tour from Krakow offers an immersive journey, blending emotional insights with remarkable natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a profound day out, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with a deeper understanding of Poland’s complex past.
Key Points
- This guided tour combines visits to Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp and the Wieliczka Salt Mine, covering both historical and natural wonders.
- Tour duration is approximately 11 hours, with 2 hours at Auschwitz I, 1 hour at Auschwitz II-Birkenau, and 1 hour of free time at the salt mine.
- Prices range from $50.53 to $25.27 per person, offering up to 50% savings, and include hotel pickup, transportation, entry tickets, guided tours, and headsets.
- The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to extensive walking, and babies under 1 year old are not permitted.
- Customers have rated the tour highly for guide expertise, communication skills, transportation comfort, and value for money, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5.
Tour Overview and Duration
The tour offered is a guided experience to Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine, lasting a total of 11 hours.
Visitors will spend approximately 2 hours at Auschwitz I, a 10-minute break, and 1 hour at Auschwitz II-Birkenau.
The tour also includes 1 hour of free time at the Wieliczka Salt Mine, with the remaining 4.5 hours dedicated to transportation.
Visitors will have 1 hour of free time to explore the Wieliczka Salt Mine, with 4.5 hours dedicated to transportation.
Highlights include exploring the largest Nazi concentration camp and the salt mine’s unique chambers and sculptures.
The tour is led by English-speaking guides and provides headsets for clear communication.
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Pricing and Booking Options
Priced from $50.53 to $25.27 per person, the Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau and Salt Mine Guided Tour offers substantial savings of up to 50%.
Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, as well as reserve their spot without upfront payment through the "pay later" option.
The tour includes:
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Hotel/meeting point pickup and air-conditioned transportation
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Entry tickets to both Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine
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Guided tours with knowledgeable English-speaking guides
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Headsets for clear communication
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Small group option available
Itinerary and Highlights
This 11-hour guided tour begins at the starting location, depending on the selected option, which may include hotel or meeting point pickup.
For 2 hours, visitors explore Auschwitz I. After a 10-minute break, they spend 1 hour at Auschwitz II-Birkenau.
Then, they enjoy 1 hour of free time at the Wieliczka Salt Mine, which features 2.5 hours of exploration.
In total, the tour includes 4.5 hours of transfer time.
Highlights include visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp and exploring the chambers and sculptures of the Wieliczka Salt Mine.
Knowledgeable guides provide commentary throughout the tour.
Guided Experience and Inclusions
Although the tour is led by English-speaking guides, small group options are available for a more personalized experience. Guests can expect clear communication throughout, as the guides provide headsets to ensure everyone can hear.
The knowledgeable guides lead the tours at both Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine, sharing their expertise:
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Guides have in-depth knowledge of the historical significance and tragic events that occurred at Auschwitz-Birkenau.
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Guides provide insights into the impressive chambers, tunnels, and salt sculptures found within the Wieliczka Salt Mine.
The tour includes transportation by air-conditioned bus and all necessary entry tickets. Certain restrictions apply, including no large bags or luggage allowed.
Pickup times may vary, so guests should be prepared for an early start.
More Great Tours NearbyAccessibility and Restrictions
The Krakow guided tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as it involves extensive walking and navigating uneven terrain. Plus, babies under 1 year old are not permitted on the tour. Guests are advised to bring specific items, including their passport or ID, snacks, a packed lunch, and a student ID if applicable. Large bags and luggage are not allowed. The tour may be canceled due to factors beyond the operator’s control, in which case a full refund will be provided.
| What’s Allowed | What’s Not Allowed |
| — | — |
| Passport or ID | Large bags/luggage |
| Snacks | Babies under 1 year |
| Packed lunch | |
| Student ID | |
| Mobility aids | |
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Customer Feedback and Ratings
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Krakow guided tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on over 7,192 reviews.
Key aspects were highly rated, including:
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Guides (4.7/5): Knowledgeable and friendly
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Transportation (4.7/5): Comfortable and efficient
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Value for money (4.6/5): Excellent experience for the price
Reviewers highlighted the guide’s expertise and communication skills, making the tour informative and engaging.
The tour’s seamless logistics, from hotel pickups to site admissions, also received positive remarks.
Important Information for Participants
Pickup times for the tour may vary, typically between 5:30 AM and 9:00 AM, with the exact time communicated to participants the day before the tour. It’s essential that the name on the booking matches the participant’s ID for entry to Auschwitz-Birkenau. The tour’s pace and duration are determined by the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial visitor service. While the tour operator strives to provide the best experience, the tour may be canceled due to circumstances beyond their control, in which case a full refund will be provided.
| Information | Description |
|————-|————-|
| ID Match | Name on booking must match participant’s ID for Auschwitz-Birkenau entry |
| Timings | Pickup time communicated day before, tour duration set by memorial |
| Cancellation| Tour may be canceled for reasons beyond operator’s control, full refund |
Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau and Salt Mine Guided Tour
Though a somber and historically significant experience, this guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine offers an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Poland’s past.
Over 11 hours, you will:
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Visit Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration camp
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Explore the Wieliczka Salt Mine’s chambers and sculptures carved from salt
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Enjoy free time at the mine and total transfer time of 4.5 hours
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Benefit from English-speaking guides and provided headsets
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Have the option to cancel with a full refund up to 24 hours in advance
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Photography Restrictions at Auschwitz-Birkenau?
Photography is generally allowed at Auschwitz-Birkenau, but certain areas and exhibits may have restrictions. Visitors should follow the instructions of the guides and be respectful when taking photos on the memorial site.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and packed lunch on the tour. However, large bags or luggage are not allowed. Be sure to check the tour’s policies for any other restrictions on what you can bring.
What Should I Wear for the Tour to Be Comfortable?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe walking shoes. Avoid heavy or bulky items that could be inconvenient. Dress in layers, as temperatures may fluctuate between the tour sites. Pack any necessary medications and be prepared for a full-day activity.
How Does the Tour Handle Inclement Weather?
The tour operator makes adjustments for inclement weather, such as providing rain ponchos or umbrellas, modifying tour routes, and offering indoor activities. They monitor conditions and prioritize guest comfort and safety throughout the experience.
Are There Any Age-Specific Discounts or Policies for the Tour?
The tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year, but there aren’t any explicit age-specific discounts or policies. Students can bring their ID to potentially receive a discount, though the primary pricing is a per-person rate.
The Sum Up
The Krakow guided tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine offers an insightful 11-hour experience, blending historical exploration and natural wonders. With affordable pricing, free cancellation, and convenient pickup, this well-rated tour provides knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics, delivering an impactful journey through Poland’s rich history.
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