How to Plan Your Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Day Tour from Krakow

Krakow is a beautiful and historic city in Poland that has a lot to offer to visitors. If you are in Krakow and want to explore more of the city’s historic past, then the Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Day Tour is an excellent option. This tour will take you through two UNESCO World Heritage Sites- Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine, and you’ll get to learn about the tragic history of Poland’s wartime and see unique architecture and art carved from salt.Here is everything you need to know about the Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Day Tour from Krakow.

Overview of the Tour

The Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Day Tour from Krakow is a full-day guided tour that explores two unique and remarkable locations in Poland. The first destination is Auschwitz-Birkenau, which is a former concentration and extermination camp composed of two separate camps, Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau. During the guided tour, you will learn about the tragic history of Poland’s wartime and the impact it had on the country’s people. The second destination is the Wieliczka Salt Mine, which is one of the oldest and largest salt mines in the world. You will go underground to explore the unique architecture and art carved from salt, including chapels, caverns, and statues.This tour includes transportation to and from Krakow, entrance fees, guided tours at each location, and pickup and drop-off at centrally-located Krakow hotels. The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned minivan or minibus with Wi-Fi access.

Tour Itinerary

The Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Day Tour from Krakow follows this itinerary:- Pick up from your centrally-located Krakow hotel

– Transport to Auschwitz-Birkenau

– Guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau, which takes around 2.5 hours

– Lunch break

– Transport to Wieliczka Salt Mine

– Guided tour of Wieliczka Salt Mine, which takes around 2.5 hours

– Drop off at your centrally-located Krakow hotel

What’s Included

The Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Day Tour from Krakow includes the following:- Transportation to Auschwitz and Wieliczka from Krakow and back

– Transport by air-conditioned minivan or minibus

– Wi-Fi access

– Entrance fees to both locations

– Guided tours at Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine

– Pickup and drop-off at central locations in Krakow

Meeting and Pickup

You can head directly to your preferred meeting point or request pickup. The meeting points and pickup points are selectable when booking the tour on the website.

Things to Know Before You Go

– This is a full-day tour that takes around 10-11 hours.

– The tour involves a certain amount of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.

– It is recommended to wear clothing suitable for the weather conditions of the day.

– No large bags or backpacks are allowed in the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum.

– Photography is not permitted in certain areas of Auschwitz-Birkenau.

– The temperature in Wieliczka Salt Mine varies, so it is recommended to bring a jacket or extra layer.

Booking the Tour

You can book the Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Day Tour from Krakow online through the website of the tour operator Viator. The tour is conducted by a third-party company, so it’s crucial to book through a trustworthy website for a secure and high-quality experience. The link to book the tour is: book the tour here.

Conclusion

Exploring the Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine is a fascinating and unique experience that is not to be missed when in Krakow. This guided tour provides visitors with the opportunity to see two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, learn about the tragic history of Poland’s wartime, and explore unique architecture and art carved from salt. Booking this tour is easy through Viator, and it’s essential to book through a trustworthy website to ensure an enjoyable and secure experience.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Krakow

Krakow is a city rich in history and culture that attracts millions of visitors every year. As with any popular travel destination, there are certain questions that people tend to ask over and over again. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Krakow so you can better plan your trip.

1. Where is Krakow?

Krakow is located in southern Poland, near the border with the Czech Republic and Slovakia. It is the second-largest city in Poland and one of the most important cultural centers in the country.

2. What is the best time to visit Krakow?

The best time to visit Krakow is from April to June or from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. July and August are the peak tourist season and the city can be quite crowded.

3. What are some of the must-see attractions in Krakow?

There are many must-see attractions in Krakow, including:- Wawel Castle: This stunning castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Krakow. It contains a museum and art collection as well as the famous Wawel Cathedral.- Main Market Square: This large square is the heart of Krakow and features many cafes, restaurants, and historic buildings.- Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum: This museum is located about an hour outside of Krakow and is a powerful reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust.- Kazimierz: This historic Jewish district is now a trendy neighborhood filled with cafes, bars, and restaurants.- St. Mary’s Basilica: This stunning Gothic church is located in the Main Market Square and is famous for its unique two-tower facade.

4. What is the food like in Krakow?

Polish cuisine is hearty and delicious, and Krakow is no exception. Some of the must-try foods in Krakow include pierogi (dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, or meat), kielbasa (Polish sausage), and golabki (stuffed cabbage rolls). There are also many great cafes and bakeries where you can try traditional Polish desserts and pastries.

5. Is Krakow a safe city?

Yes, Krakow is generally a very safe city. As with any city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding unlit areas at night. However, violent crime is rare in Krakow and it’s generally a safe city for tourists.

6. How do I get around Krakow?

Krakow has an excellent public transportation system, including trams and buses. You can buy tickets at kiosks or use the automated machines located at stops. Taxis are also readily available, but be sure to use a licensed taxi company to avoid scams.

7. What is the currency in Krakow?

The currency in Poland is the Polish zloty (PLN). Many places in Krakow will also accept Euros, but it’s best to have some zloty on hand for smaller purchases.

8. What is the language spoken in Krakow?

The official language in Krakow is Polish, but many people also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

9. Is Krakow expensive to visit?

Compared to other European cities, Krakow is relatively affordable. You can find budget accommodations, inexpensive food options, and plenty of free or cheap things to do. That being said, prices may be higher during peak tourist season, so be sure to budget accordingly.

10. What should I pack for a trip to Krakow?

Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, as Krakow is a very walkable city. You’ll also want to bring layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Finally, don’t forget an adapter if you plan to use any electrical appliances or charge your phone or camera.Overall, Krakow is a fascinating and beautiful city that is well worth a visit. By answering some of these frequently asked questions, we hope we’ve helped you plan your trip and get the most out of your time in this incredible destination.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Krakow

Krakow is one of the most visited cities in Poland, and for good reason! With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Krakow has everything a tourist could want. However, with so many things to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. In this guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in Krakow and how to spend your time as a tourist.

1. Explore the Old Town

Krakow’s Old Town is the heart of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s home to some of the most important landmarks in the city, including the Rynek Glowny, St. Mary’s Basilica, and the Wawel Castle. Take a leisurely walk through the old cobblestone streets and admire the beautiful architecture of the buildings. And don’t forget to stop for a coffee or a meal at one of the many cute cafes and restaurants.

2. Visit Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Krakow. It’s a medieval castle built in the 14th century and was the residence of Polish kings for centuries. The castle is open to visitors, and you can explore the Royal Apartments, the Treasury, and the Armoury. Also, don’t forget to visit the Wawel Cathedral, which is located next to the castle.

3. Take a Tour of the Jewish Quarter

Krakow’s Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz, is a vibrant neighborhood with a rich history. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Jewish culture and history. Take a guided tour and learn about the history of the Jewish people in Krakow, visit the synagogues, the Jewish cemetery, and the Schindler’s Factory Museum.

4. Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

While it’s not an easy or happy experience, visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a must-do for all visitors to Krakow. It’s a somber reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust and a way to pay respect to the victims. The museum is located about an hour’s drive from Krakow, and you can take a guided tour from the city.

5. Explore the Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the oldest salt mines in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mine is located just outside Krakow, and you can take a guided tour to explore the underground chambers, tunnels, and salt lakes. The highlight of the tour is the Chapel of St. Kinga, which is entirely made of salt.

6. Taste Traditional Polish Cuisine

Polish cuisine is one of the most underrated cuisines in Europe, and Krakow is an excellent place to try some traditional dishes. Head to a local restaurant and try dishes like pierogi, bigos, and kielbasa. And don’t forget to drink some Polish vodka or beer.

7. Enjoy the Nightlife

Krakow has a vibrant nightlife scene, and there’s something for everyone. Head to the Kazimierz neighborhood for a drink in one of the many bars or pubs, or dance the night away in one of the clubs or discos. And if you’re feeling adventurous, join a pub crawl and meet some fellow travelers.

8. Take a Day Trip

Krakow is an excellent base for day trips to nearby destinations. Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine, the Tatra Mountains, or the Wadowice, birthplace of Pope John Paul II. You can join an organized tour or rent a car and explore on your own.In conclusion, Krakow is a beautiful city with plenty to offer for tourists. From exploring the Old Town to visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau and tasting traditional Polish cuisine, there’s something for everyone. With this guide, you now have a better idea of how to spend your time as a tourist in Krakow.