Krakow: Full-Day Auschwitz-Birkenau & Salt Mine Guided Tour

Krakow’s full-day Auschwitz-Birkenau and Salt Mine guided tour offers a profound and enriching experience. Visitors can explore two UNESCO World Heritage sites, learning about the historical significance of Auschwitz and the stunning natural beauty of the Wieliczka Salt Mine. With professional guides and convenient transportation, this 11-12 hour journey provides a deeper understanding of the region’s history and culture. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or natural wonders, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you…

Key Points

• This full-day guided tour takes visitors to two UNESCO World Heritage sites – Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine – in Krakow, Poland.
• The tour lasts 11-12 hours and is priced from $105.45 per person, with optional pickup from Krakow accommodations.
• At Auschwitz-Birkenau, visitors will learn about the Holocaust and the over 1 million deaths that occurred at the site.
• The Wieliczka Salt Mine tour explores the underground chambers and sculptures, with a temperature around 14-15 degrees Celsius and 800 steps to navigate.
• The tour is not recommended for children under 14 or individuals with mobility issues, and guests are advised to dress modestly and wear comfortable shoes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This full-day guided tour takes visitors to two UNESCO World Heritage sites – the former Nazi concentration camp of Auschwitz-Birkenau and the historic Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Priced from $105.45 per person, the tour lasts 11-12 hours and is conducted in English. Pickup from accommodation in Krakow is optional, with the meeting point varying by booking option.

The tour is non-refundable and not suitable for children under 14 or those with mobility issues. Guests should dress modestly and bring comfortable shoes to navigate the 800 steps in the salt mine, where the temperature hovers around 14-15 degrees Celsius.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour takes visitors to two UNESCO World Heritage sites – the former Nazi concentration camp of Auschwitz-Birkenau and the historic Wieliczka Salt Mine.

At Auschwitz-Birkenau, guests embark on a 3.5-hour guided walking tour to learn about the Holocaust and the over 1 million deaths that occurred there, mainly of European Jews.

At Auschwitz-Birkenau, guests embark on a 3.5-hour guided tour to learn about the Holocaust and the over 1 million deaths there, mainly of European Jews.

The tour then moves to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, where guests explore the underground chambers, sculptures, and salt lakes on a 2.5-hour guided tour.

The bus transportation to and from these sites is included, with various drop-off locations in Krakow.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes the entrance fees for both Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Salt Mine, as well as licensed transportation service.

Participants also have the option to add a lunch for an extra fee. The tour guides are available in English, Spanish, and Italian.

However, the tour excludes:

• Food and drinks (unless the lunch option is selected)

• Private guides

• Alcoholic beverages and large bags aren’t allowed on the tour

• Vegetarian and vegan lunch options are available

The Salt Mine temperature is around 14-15 degrees Celsius, and there are 800 steps to climb.

Important Information

Passport or valid photo ID is required for entry into Auschwitz-Birkenau.

Visitors should dress modestly and wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves extensive walking. Due to the somber nature of the site, the tour isn’t recommended for children under 14 or individuals with mobility issues.

Large bags and alcohol are prohibited. However, vegetarian and vegan lunch options are available.

The temperature in the Salt Mine hovers around 14-15 degrees Celsius, and there are 800 steps to climb, so visitors should prepare accordingly.

More Great Tours Nearby

Customer Feedback

Based on the 938 reviews, customers have provided an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 for this guided tour.

The tour guides received a 4.8/5 rating, with reviewers praising their knowledge and emotional delivery.

Transportation services scored 4.7/5, with some feedback on the need for improved audio clarity.

Customers felt the tour offered great value for money, rating it 4.6/5.

Notable highlights include:

• "An emotional experience at Auschwitz – a vital historical remembrance."

• "The Wieliczka Salt Mine was gorgeous, complementing the impactful visit to Auschwitz."

• "Gained a deeper understanding of this dark chapter in history."

Exploring Auschwitz-Birkenau

Visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau complex is a profoundly impactful experience that allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the horrors of the Holocaust.

The guided tour takes visitors through the former Nazi concentration camp, where they learn about the systematic genocide of over 1 million people, primarily European Jews. Guests walk through the iconic "Arbeit Macht Frei" gate and visit key sites like the gas chambers and crematoriums.

The tour is a sobering reminder of the atrocities committed and the importance of remembering this tragic history. Ultimately, the Auschwitz-Birkenau visit is a harrowing yet necessary part of the overall tour experience.

Discovering the Wieliczka Salt Mine

After the sobering experience at Auschwitz-Birkenau, the tour takes visitors to explore the remarkable Wieliczka Salt Mine.

This UNESCO World Heritage site features:

• Guided tours through intricate underground chambers carved entirely from salt

• Intricate salt sculptures, chandeliers, and even a chapel carved from salt

• Unique microclimate with a constant temperature of 14-15 degrees Celsius

• 800 steps to climb during the 2.5-hour tour through the mine’s labyrinth

• Opportunity to learn about the mine’s history and the impressive engineering feats of its miners.

Preparing for the Tour

Before embarking on the Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine guided tour, there are a few important preparations visitors should keep in mind.

First, ensure you have a valid passport or photo ID, as these are required for entry to Auschwitz. Wear comfortable, modest clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking.

The Salt Mine’s temperature is a cool 14-15°C, so dress accordingly. Large bags and alcohol aren’t permitted.

Those with mobility issues should note the 800 steps in the Salt Mine. Vegetarian and vegan lunch options are available if pre-booked.

With these simple preparations, visitors can focus on the powerful, educational experience ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs During the Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photographs during the Auschwitz-Birkenau tour, but certain areas and exhibits may have restrictions. It’s best to check with the tour guide for specific photography guidelines.

Is There an Audio Guide Available for the Salt Mine Tour?

The tour doesn’t provide an audio guide for the Wieliczka Salt Mine portion. Visitors must rely on the live guided tour to learn about the underground chambers, sculptures, and salt lakes during the 2.5-hour exploration.

What Should I Bring for the Long Bus Journey to the Sites?

For the long bus journey, pack snacks, a water bottle, and entertainment like a book or music. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Bring any necessary medications or personal items. The tour provides transportation, but packing essentials can make the trip more enjoyable.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour?

The tour is not suitable for children under 14 years old. Individuals with mobility impairments may also find the tour challenging due to the extensive walking and stairs involved.

Can I Leave the Group During the Tours to Explore on My Own?

The tours are typically conducted as group activities, so you may not be able to freely explore on your own. Leaving the group could disrupt the guide’s schedule and flow of the tour. It’s best to stay with the group for the full experience.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a profound and unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to explore two UNESCO World Heritage sites – Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine. With expert guides and convenient transportation, the tour provides a deep insight into history and culture, making it a valuable and memorable way to experience the rich heritage of Krakow.

You can check availability for your dates here: