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

Krakow is a beautiful city steeped in culture, and it includes some of the most popular tourist attractions in Europe. Visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine is an important and moving experience for many travelers, and booking a tour with Viator will make the entire process hassle-free.Below is a comprehensive guide on how to plan your Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine One Day Tour from Krakow.

Overview

This tour includes a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp and the Wieliczka Salt Mine. These are two of the most significant tourist attractions near Krakow. The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, and the entrance tickets to both Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine are included in the package.

What’s Included

This tour includes the following:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Entrance ticket to Auschwitz I & Auschwitz II (Birkenau)
• Entrance ticket to Wieliczka Salt Mine

Meeting and Pickup

You have two options to join the tour. You can either head directly to the meeting point or request a pickup from your hotel/apartment within the Krakow city center. If you choose the latter, the pickup points can be selected from a drop-down menu while booking the tour. The meeting point is at Wielopole 2, 31-072 Kraków, Poland.

What To Expect

The tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine takes approximately 10 hours. The time is divided equally between both attractions, i.e., six hours for Auschwitz-Birkenau and four hours for Wieliczka Salt Mine. Below is more information about what you can expect at each attraction.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camps

The Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camps are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the Holocaust. This visit is a sobering and moving experience as you learn about the atrocities committed during World War II. You will visit both Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II (Birkenau) and learn about the history, stories, and conditions in the camps.

Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest salt mines in the world. You will have the opportunity to explore the incredible maze of tunnels and chambers carved from salt over 700 years ago. It’s an awe-inspiring experience and an excellent way to end the tour.

Additional Info

Here are some more details to keep in mind:

• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is stroller accessible
• Please bring warm clothing as the temperature underground may range between 14°C and 16°C
• The tour includes 800 steps to climb, of which 350 are at the beginning and take you down into the mine

Conclusion

In conclusion, taking the Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine One Day Tour from Krakow is an incredible way to experience two of the most significant tourist attractions in the city. This guide should have provided you with all the essential pieces of information required to plan your tour. To book the tour, click here.

FAQs About Krakow

Are you planning a trip to Krakow and have some questions about this beautiful city in Poland? Look no further, as we have compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions about Krakow to help you plan your trip.

1. Where is Krakow located?

Krakow is located in southern Poland, about 150 kilometers (93 miles) south of the capital city, Warsaw. The city is situated on the banks of the Vistula River and is surrounded by the picturesque Tatra Mountains.

2. What is the best time to visit Krakow?

The best time to visit Krakow is during the spring and summer months (April to August) when the weather is warm and pleasant. The peak tourist season is from June to August, so if you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit in the shoulder seasons of April-May or September-October. Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, but the Christmas markets and snow-covered streets create a magical atmosphere in the city.

3. How do I get to Krakow?

Krakow has its own airport, John Paul II International Airport Kraków–Balice, which is located about 11 kilometres (7 miles) from the city centre. You can also reach Krakow by train or bus from other parts of Poland or neighbouring countries.

4. What are the must-see attractions in Krakow?

Krakow is a city with a rich history and many interesting places to visit. Some of the must-see attractions include:

Wawel Castle

This impressive castle is one of the most visited attractions in Krakow. It was built in the 16th century and served as the residence of Polish kings for centuries.

Main Market Square

The Main Market Square is the heart of the city and one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. It is home to many historic buildings, including the Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Basilica.

Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter, also known as Kazimierz, is a bohemian neighbourhood with a vibrant nightlife and many historic synagogues.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a sobering reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. It is located about an hour’s drive from Krakow.

5. What is the currency in Krakow?

The currency in Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN). You can exchange currency at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs throughout the city. Many shops and restaurants also accept credit cards.

6. What is the food like in Krakow?

Polish cuisine is hearty and filling, with influences from German, Russian, and Jewish cuisine. Some must-try dishes in Krakow include pierogi (dumplings) filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, bigos (a stew made with sauerkraut and a variety of meats), and kielbasa (sausage). The city also has many bakeries where you can try delicious pastries such as pączki (donuts) and sernik (cheesecake).

7. How safe is Krakow?

Krakow is a relatively safe city, with low levels of violent crime. However, like any city, there is a risk of pickpocketing and theft, especially in crowded tourist areas. It is important to take precautions such as not carrying valuables in your pockets or keeping your bag close to you.

8. What is the nightlife like in Krakow?

Krakow has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars, restaurants, and clubs catering to all tastes. The Jewish Quarter is a popular area for nightlife, with many bars and clubs staying open until the early hours of the morning.

9. Do I need a visa to visit Krakow?

If you are a citizen of the European Union, you do not need a visa to visit Poland. Citizens of many other countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, can visit Poland for up to 90 days without a visa. Check with your embassy or consulate for more information.

10. What language do they speak in Krakow?

The official language of Poland is Polish. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and many people working in the hospitality industry speak other languages such as German and Russian.In conclusion, Krakow is a fascinating city with a rich history and many interesting attractions to explore. By planning your trip in advance and knowing what to expect, you can make the most of your time in this wonderful city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Krakow – A Comprehensive Guide

Krakow, a city in Poland, is one of the most popular cities in Europe. This city is rich in culture, history, and architecture, making it an excellent destination for travelers who want to explore a new city. If you are planning to visit Krakow for the first time, you may feel overwhelmed with the number of attractions and things to do in the city. In this guide, we will help you prioritize and plan your itinerary to make the most of your trip.

1. Explore the Historic Old Town

Krakow’s Old Town (Stare Miasto) is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of Europe’s most beautifully preserved ancient city centers. Here are a few things to do in the Old Town area:

1.1. St. Mary’s Basilica

St. Mary’s Basilica is located in the heart of the Old Town, and its two towers dominate the city’s skyline. Visiting the basilica should be on your to-do list as it is one of Krakow’s most significant landmarks. You can enjoy a 360-degree view of the city from the top of one of the towers.

1.2. Main Market Square

Krakow’s Main Market Square is one of the largest squares in Europe and one of the most lively spots in the city. The square is surrounded by shops, cafes, and bars, and it’s where you’ll find the famous Cloth Hall (Sukiennice). The hall served as Krakow’s main marketplace in the 16th century and today houses various stalls selling souvenirs, jewelry, and Polish handicrafts.

1.3. Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is a historical castle located on a hill overlooking the Vistula River. The castle served as the residence of the Polish kings and queens for centuries. It has been converted into a museum, and visitors can explore the castle’s chambers and admire its stunning architecture.

2. Visit the Jewish Quarter – Kazimierz

Kazimierz is located south of the Old Town and is famous for its Jewish heritage. Here are some must-visit attractions in the Kazimierz neighborhood:

2.1. The Old Synagogue

The Old Synagogue, located on Szeroka Street, is one of the oldest synagogues in Poland. It is now a Jewish Museum showcasing the history of Krakow’s Jewish population.

2.2. Plac Nowy

Plac Nowy is a bustling marketplace located in the heart of Kazimierz. The market is famous for its food stands selling traditional Polish street food, including zapiekanka, a type of open-faced sandwich.

2.3. Jewish Quarter Walking Tour

Taking a walking tour of Kazimierz is an excellent way to explore the Jewish Quarter’s history and culture. Many walking tours are available, ranging from free tours to more in-depth paid tours.

3. Explore Krakow’s Museums

Krakow is home to many museums, ranging from art to history. Here are some museums you shouldn’t miss when visiting Krakow:

3.1. Museum of Polish Aviation

The Museum of Polish Aviation is located near Krakow’s airport and is dedicated to Poland’s aviation history. The museum has a vast collection of aircraft, including jet fighters, helicopters, and gliders.

3.2. National Museum in Krakow

The National Museum in Krakow is Poland’s oldest museum, dating back to the early 19th century. It houses a diverse collection of art, including Polish paintings, sculptures, and decorative pieces.

3.3. Schindler’s Factory

Schindler’s Factory is one of Krakow’s most famous museums, telling the story of Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist who saved over 1,000 Jews during World War II. The museum provides insight into the harsh realities of life under Nazi occupation.

4. Take a Day Trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau

Auschwitz-Birkenau is located about an hour’s drive from Krakow and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about the atrocities of the Holocaust. The site served as a concentration camp during World War II and is now a museum, encouraging visitors to remember and reflect on the events that took place there.

5. Enjoy Polish Cuisine and Drinks

Krakow has plenty of excellent restaurants and bars serving traditional Polish cuisine and drinks. Don’t leave the city without trying some of the local specialties, such as pierogi (Polish dumplings) and kielbasa (Polish sausage). Here are some top recommendations:

5.1. Piwnica Pod Baranami

Piwnica Pod Baranami is a famous restaurant located in the Old Town. The menu features traditional Polish dishes, and you can also enjoy live music performances.

5.2. Wodka Bar

Wodka Bar is a small, cozy bar tucked away in the Kazimierz neighborhood. As the name implies, the bar specializes in vodka and has a vast selection of flavors.

5.3. Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa

Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa is a chain of bars located throughout Krakow. They offer cheap drinks and a lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Conclusion

Krakow has something to offer everyone, from history buffs to foodies. By prioritizing key attractions and following this guide, you can make the most of your trip to the city. Whether you’re exploring the Old Town, visiting museums, or enjoying Polish cuisine, Krakow is a must-visit destination in Europe. Don’t forget to try some of the local specialties and immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and history.