How to Plan Your Auschwitz and Birkenau Guided Tour with Private Transport in Krakow
Krakow, one of the most significant cities in Poland, has a rich cultural and historical background that attracts tourists from all over the world. In addition to its beautiful architecture, it is well-known for its poignant history, especially for its links to Auschwitz-Birkenau. Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration and extermination camps are now preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and many visitors choose to go on a guided tour to learn about the Holocaust and pay their respects to the victims. In this article, we will detail how to plan your Auschwitz and Birkenau guided tour with private transport in Krakow, so you can make the most of your experience.
Overview
Travel to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, by private transfer on a full-day tour from Krakow. The tour offers a shared guide to take visitors around the concentration camp, where they can see prison blocks containing exhibits and artifacts, and learn about the history of the Holocaust in Poland. The tour includes pickup and drop-off services for visitors staying in Krakow.
Booking Your Tour
Booking your Auschwitz-Birkenau guided tour with private transport in Krakow is simple – follow this link to viator.com: book the tour here. The tour is available both in the morning and in the afternoon and lasts around 6.5 hours. Before booking, make sure you choose the correct pick-up point as there are several options available. Adult ticket prices start from $68.
What’s Included in the Tour
The guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau is offered in English and includes the rental cost of headphones. A local guide from the museum will take visitors around the concentration camp, and transportation between both camps involved in the tour is also included in the price. Gratuities are also covered, so there won’t be any extra expenses for visitors.
Things to Know Before You Go
Before going on the Auschwitz-Birkenau guided tour with private transport in Krakow, take note of the following things to help you prepare for the experience:
- Remember that visitors must wear appropriate clothing and footwear for walking around the camp. Sunglasses and hats are recommended during sunny weather
- Visitors will need to walk up and down stairs, so it is not recommended for individuals with mobility impairments
- No food or beverages are allowed within the confines of the camp
- Photography is permitted at most locations around the camp, but visitors are advised to be respectful when taking photos and avoid filming in personal spaces or places of remembrance
- Be aware that the subject matter during the tour may be confronting, and visitors should be prepared for an emotional experience
- If you have any questions about the tour or its itinerary, don’t hesitate to reach out to the tour provider for more information
Conclusion
Visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp is a solemn but necessary experience for those who wish to understand the depth of the atrocities that occurred there, and how those events have helped shape modern history. By following the instructions detailed in this article, you will be able to plan your Auschwitz and Birkenau guided tour with private transport in Krakow and make the most of your immersion in this poignant and important history. Don’t forget to book your tour early, wear comfortable clothing, and take the appropriate precautions to ensure a meaningful, respectful visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Krakow
Krakow, the former royal capital of Poland, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. It is a city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant culture. Whether you are planning to visit Krakow for the first time or you are a seasoned traveler, you may have some questions about the city. In this blog post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about Krakow.
1. Where is Krakow located?
Krakow is located in southern Poland, near the border with the Czech Republic and Slovakia. It is about 300 kilometers (186 miles) south of Warsaw, the capital of Poland.
2. What is the best time to visit Krakow?
The best time to visit Krakow is from March to May or from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. Summer is the most popular time to visit Krakow, but it can be crowded and hot. Winter can be cold and snowy, but it is also when you can experience the magical Christmas markets and other winter festivities.
3. What are the must-see attractions in Krakow?
Krakow has an abundance of must-see attractions. Some of the best include:
- The Wawel Castle and Cathedral, which served as the residence of Polish kings for centuries
- The Main Market Square, Europe’s largest medieval square
- The Kazimierz district, a historic Jewish neighborhood with many synagogues and Jewish heritage sites
- The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, a sobering reminder of the Holocaust
- The St. Mary’s Basilica, a stunning Gothic church with a famous altarpiece
4. What is the best way to get around Krakow?
The best way to get around Krakow is on foot or by public transportation. The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, so you can easily walk from one attraction to another. If you prefer public transportation, Krakow has an extensive network of buses and trams that can take you anywhere in the city. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive.
5. What is the currency in Krakow?
The currency in Poland is the Polish zloty (PLN). While some places may accept Euros or US dollars, it is best to exchange your money to zlotys to avoid any confusion.
6. What is the cost of food and drinks in Krakow?
The cost of food and drinks in Krakow varies depending on where you go. In general, Krakow is an affordable city compared to other European destinations. You can find a meal in a mid-range restaurant for around 30-50 PLN (8-13 USD), while a pint of beer can cost around 7-10 PLN (2-3 USD).
7. What are the local customs and etiquette in Krakow?
Polish people are known for their warm hospitality, and Krakow is no exception. When you meet someone, it is customary to shake hands and maintain eye contact. It is also polite to say “please” (proszę) and “thank you” (dziękuję) when ordering food or asking for something. In general, Poles value good manners, respect, and punctuality.
8. Is it safe to travel to Krakow?
Krakow is generally a safe city for travelers. Like any other popular tourist destination, there may be some pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas. It is always advisable to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close to you. If you are out at night, it is best to stick to well-lit and populated areas.
9. What is the nightlife like in Krakow?
Krakow has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Many of the bars and pubs are located in the Kazimierz district, and the city center has a variety of clubs that stay open until the early hours of the morning. A popular Polish custom when drinking is to give a toast and say “Na zdrowie!” (nah zdroh-vyeh), which means “to your health!”
10. What is the weather like in Krakow?
Krakow has a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. The average temperature in January is around -2°C (28°F), while the average temperature in July is around 19°C (66°F). It is always advisable to check the weather forecast before your trip to know what to expect.
Conclusion
Krakow is a beautiful and fascinating city that has something to offer for every type of traveler. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or just want to experience the local customs and cuisine, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Krakow. We hope this guide has answered some of your questions and helps you plan your trip to this amazing city.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Krakow
Krakow is a beautiful city with a rich history and vibrant culture. As a tourist, there are countless things to see and do in this city. However, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary, especially if you have limited time. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step plan to make the most of your time in Krakow.
1. Visit the Main Market Square
The Main Market Square is the heart of Krakow’s Old Town and is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. Here you will find the famous Cloth Hall, the Town Hall Tower and St. Mary’s Basilica. Start by visiting the Cloth Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Cloth Hall is an impressive Renaissance building, which once served as a major international trade center for cloth and other goods. Today, it houses souvenir stalls and local crafts, where you can purchase anything from amber jewelry to traditional Polish pottery.Next, visit the Town Hall Tower, which was once part of the historic Town Hall. From the top of the tower, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Finally, visit St. Mary’s Basilica and admire its gothic architecture and the world-famous wooden altar carved by Veit Stoss.
2. Explore Wawel Castle and the Royal Cathedral
Wawel Castle is one of the most important historical sites in Krakow. The castle was the residence of Polish kings and queens for over 500 years. Today, it is open to visitors and is home to several museums and exhibitions.Start your visit by exploring the State Rooms, where you will see royal apartments which have been beautifully preserved. Next, visit the Crown Treasury and Armory, which houses a collection of Polish royal regalia, including the famous Szczerbiec sword.After visiting the castle, walk to the Royal Cathedral, which is located on the same hill as the castle. The Royal Cathedral is the final resting place of many Polish kings and queens, and it contains beautiful chapels and a stunning bell tower.
3. Learn About the Jewish History of Krakow
Krakow has a rich Jewish history, and there are several sites in the city that relate to this history. Start by visiting Kazimierz, the former Jewish quarter of Krakow. Today, it is a vibrant district with art galleries, bars, and restaurants.While in Kazimierz, visit the Remuh Synagogue and Cemetery. The cemetery is the final resting place of Rabbi Moses Isserles and has been preserved since the 16th century. Next, visit the Oskar Schindler Factory, which is now a museum dedicated to the history of Krakow during World War II. Schindler was a German industrialist who saved the lives of over 1,000 Jewish workers. The museum tells the story of Krakow under Nazi occupation and the heroic actions of those who saved Jewish lives.
4. Taste Polish Cuisine
Polish cuisine is hearty and delicious, and there are several traditional dishes you should try while in Krakow. Start with pierogi, a type of filled dumpling, which comes in savory and sweet varieties. Next, try kielbasa, a type of Polish sausage which is often served grilled or boiled. Golabki, or stuffed cabbage rolls, are another traditional dish you should try. Finally, finish your meal with a slice of delicious Polish cheesecake.
5. Enjoy Krakow’s Nightlife
Once the sun goes down, Krakow comes to life. There are countless bars and clubs in the city, catering to all tastes. Start your night in the atmospheric cellar bars of Kazimierz, where you can enjoy live music and try Polish beers and vodka. Next, visit the trendy bars and clubs of the city center, where you can dance the night away to international and local DJs. If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of the city’s infamous vodka bars, where you can sample different flavors of vodka and enjoy a true Polish experience.
In Conclusion
Krakow is a beautiful city with a rich history and vibrant culture. By following this step-by-step plan, you can experience the city’s most important sites and attractions, learn about its history and culture, taste traditional Polish cuisine, and enjoy its renowned nightlife. Whether you have a few days or several weeks, Krakow is a city that will not disappoint.
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