Embarking on this profound journey from Warsaw to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Krakow is no easy feat. Starting at the crack of dawn, travelers will embark on a full-day guided tour that promises to leave a lasting impact. With an in-depth exploration of the Holocaust’s history at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, this tour offers a powerful and immersive experience. As the day winds down, visitors will have the chance to enjoy the vibrant culture and history of Krakow before heading back to Warsaw.
Key Points
- Full-day guided tour from Warsaw to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Krakow, starting at 6:30 a.m. from Warsaw Central Railway Station.
- Tour duration is approximately 15 hours and includes a 2.5-hour train journey to Krakow, a 1.5-hour bus ride to Auschwitz-Birkenau, and 3.5 hours of guided exploration.
- Highlights include an in-depth exploration of Holocaust and World War II history, a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau complex, and free time in the vibrant city of Krakow.
- Tour cost starts from $188.97 per person, and guests can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.
- Transportation, guided tour, and skip-the-line entrance tickets are included, with some restrictions on bag size and language availability.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This full-day guided tour from Warsaw to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Krakow costs from $188.97 per person and takes approximately 15 hours to complete.
The tour departs at 6:30 a.m. from Warsaw Central Railway Station. Guests can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.
Departs 6:30 a.m. from Warsaw Central Railway Station. Guests can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.
The journey includes a 2.5-hour train ride to Krakow, a 1.5-hour bus transfer to Auschwitz-Birkenau, and a guided tour of the memorial sites spanning 3.5 hours.
After visiting Auschwitz, the tour returns to Krakow for 2 hours of free time before the 2.5-hour train ride back to Warsaw.
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Itinerary Details
Starting from the Warsaw Central Railway Station, the tour begins with a 2.5-hour train journey to Krakow.
After a 30-minute break in Krakow, the group boards a bus or coach for the 1.5-hour ride to Auschwitz-Birkenau.
There, a guided tour lasting 3.5 hours takes visitors through the key historical sites, including the barracks, guard towers, and cremation sites.
The tour then returns to Krakow for 2 hours of free time before the 2.5-hour train journey back to Warsaw.
Detailed instructions and train tickets are provided to participants after booking.
Highlights and Activities
The tour provides an in-depth exploration of the Holocaust and World War II history, highlighted by the visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Guests learn about the atrocities that occurred at this notorious concentration camp, exploring key historical sites like the barracks, guard towers, and cremation sites.
Alongside the sobering Auschwitz experience, the tour also incorporates a visit to the vibrant city of Krakow, where participants can freely explore the Old Market, Europe’s largest medieval market square.
Through this comprehensive itinerary, travelers gain profound insights into Poland’s past and present.
Inclusions and Transportation
The tour package includes premium train tickets for both the journey from Warsaw to Krakow and the return trip. Travelers will be picked up from the train platform in Krakow and transported to Auschwitz-Birkenau via car, mini-van, or bus. The tour also provides guided tour and skip-the-line entrance tickets for Auschwitz and Birkenau. Plus, you will have free time in Krakow for self-guided exploration.
| Inclusions | Transportation |
| — | — |
| Premium train tickets | Pickup from Krakow train platform |
| Guided tour & skip-the-line tickets | Car/mini-van/bus to Auschwitz |
| Free time in Krakow | Return to Warsaw by train |
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information and Requirements
Participants must provide their full name and contact details during the booking process.
Participants must provide their full name and contact details during the booking process to ensure a smooth and informative tour experience.
Valid ID documents are also required for train and museum entry.
Bag restrictions are in place, with no bags larger than A4 size allowed inside the museum.
If the selected language is unavailable, the tour will be conducted in English.
The itinerary is subject to change based on guided tour availability at Auschwitz-Birkenau.
After booking, detailed instructions and train tickets will be sent via email.
These requirements ensure a smooth and informative experience for all participants on this comprehensive tour from Warsaw to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Krakow.
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Train Journey to Krakow
After departing Warsaw Central Railway Station, the tour group embarks on a 2.5-hour train journey to the historic city of Krakow.
Seated comfortably aboard the premium train, participants enjoy the picturesque countryside passing by. As the train glides through the landscape, the tour guide provides insights into Poland’s rich history and culture.
Upon arrival in Krakow, the group disembarks and takes a 30-minute break to stretch their legs and prepare for the next leg of the journey – the visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp memorial site.
Guided Tour at Auschwitz-Birkenau
As the group boards the bus for the 1.5-hour drive to Auschwitz-Birkenau, the guide prepares them for the somber experience that lies ahead.
Upon arrival, the group embarks on a 3.5-hour guided tour, beginning at Auschwitz I. They visit the barracks, gas chambers, and crematoriums, learning about the horrors of the Holocaust.
The tour then continues to Auschwitz II-Birkenau, where they witness the scale of the Nazi’s extermination efforts.
Throughout the tour, the guide offers historical context and insights, allowing the group to fully comprehend the gravity of the site’s significance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Transportation to the Meeting Point Provided?
The tour does not provide transportation to the starting point at Warsaw Central Railway Station. Participants are responsible for making their own way to the meeting location to begin the full-day guided tour.
Can I Bring My Own Lunch or Purchase Food on the Tour?
Participants can purchase food and drinks during the tour, as there are stops in Krakow and at Auschwitz-Birkenau where they can buy meals. However, bringing one’s own lunch is not recommended, as the tour schedule is tight.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Families?
The tour is generally suitable for families, but may not be appropriate for young children given the sensitive nature of the Auschwitz-Birkenau site. Discretion is advised, and parents should consider their child’s maturity level before booking.
How Much Free Time Is Available in Krakow?
The tour provides 2 hours of free time in Krakow, allowing participants to explore the city’s Old Market and other sights at their own pace after the guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau.
Is There a Dress Code or Any Special Requirements for the Tour?
The tour has some special requirements. Participants must bring ID documents and can’t bring large bags. The tour is conducted in English if the selected language is unavailable. Visitors should dress appropriately for the museum’s respectful atmosphere.
The Sum Up
Enjoy a somber yet profound journey that provides an in-depth exploration of the Holocaust’s history at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Auschwitz-Birkenau. After this impactful tour, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the vibrant city of Krakow, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich culture and history before returning to Warsaw.
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