How to Plan Your Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour in Krakow

If you’re planning a trip to Krakow, visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a must. This infamous site is an essential part of world history and must never be forgotten. If you’re interested in experiencing this historical site without having to stress over transport or waiting in long queues, opting for a guided tour is the best way to go. In this blog post, we will discuss how to plan your Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour in Krakow, what’s included, and what to expect.

Booking Your Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour

Booking your tour is very easy. All you need to do is head to the website of the official tour provider at https://www.viator.com/tours/Krakow/AUSCHWITZ-BIRKENAU-Guided-Tour/d529-123331P1?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383. The link will take you directly to the tour page where you can select the date, the number of people in your group, and the pickup location. This tour provides a round-trip door-to-door transfer from your Krakow accommodation to the museum and requires no additional purchases on-site.

What’s included in your Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour

By booking this tour, you will have an air-conditioned vehicle to transport you from your accommodation to the museum, plus included tickets for admission to the Auschwitz-Birkenau camp. With informative commentary from an experienced guide, you will learn historical events dating back to World War II. Headphones are provided to ensure clear guidance throughout the tour, even in loud environments. You will also be provided with a helpful driver who can assist you during the trip to the museum. After the tour, the driver takes you to a local restaurant, where you can enjoy a traditional lunch before heading back to Krakow. A fee for toilet usage is also included in the tour price.

How Long the Tour Takes

The Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour typically lasts around seven hours, with four hours of time spent at the Auschwitz museum complex itself. The drive from Krakow to the Memorial and Museum takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes each way, but this time can vary depending on traffic.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour company provides pick-up services from any location in Krakow, be it a hotel, apartment or hostel. Pick-up times will depend on the location of your accommodation and are detailed on your booking confirmation.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum with a guided tour is an experience you will never forget. With excellent commentary and organized transport, you will have the opportunity to learn about the darkest period in human history without the need to prepare or plan yourself. Ensure you book well in advance to avoid disappointment and arrive on time for your scheduled pick-up. Book your Auschwitz Birkenau Guided Tour here and learn about the events that changed the world forever.

FAQs About Krakow: Everything You Need to Know Before You Visit

Krakow is one of the most beautiful cities in Poland, known for its beautiful medieval architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history. As the former capital of Poland, Krakow has played an essential role in the country’s history and has many attractions that make it a popular tourist destination. If you’re planning to visit Krakow, there might be some questions you have in mind. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Krakow so that you can prepare better for your visit.

1. What is the best time to visit Krakow?

Krakow is beautiful all year round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The summer months (June to August) are the peak tourist season because of pleasant weather, but this also means it can be quite crowded. The winter months (December to February) are an excellent time to visit if you love Christmas markets, ice skating, and skiing. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are relatively mild in terms of temperatures, and you’ll avoid the large crowds.

2. What is the currency used in Krakow?

The currency used in Krakow is the Polish Zloty (PLN). You can easily exchange your currency to PLN at one of the many exchange offices or banks in the city. It’s worth noting that some places accept the Euro, but it’s better to always have Polish currency with you.

3. How can I get around Krakow?

Krakow is a relatively small city, and you can easily walk to the main attractions. However, if you prefer not to walk, there are several public transportation options, including trams, buses, and taxis. The tickets for public transportation can be purchased at most newsagents or ticket machines at bus stops or tram stops.

4. Is Krakow a safe city?

Krakow is a safe city, even at night. However, as with any other city, it’s always advisable to take precautions, such as avoiding dark alleys, not leaving your belongings unattended in cafes or restaurants, and being aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

5. What are the must-see tourist attractions in Krakow?

Krakow is home to many tourist attractions. Some of the top attractions include:

Wawel Castle:

This historic castle is one of the most important landmarks in Krakow, located on top of Wawel Hill, overlooking the Vistula River.

Main Market Square:

The large, bustling Main Market Square is the heart of Krakow, surrounded by stunning townhouses, cafes, and an array of historic buildings, including the Cloth Hall.

Kazimierz:

The Jewish quarter of the city, which has a rich history and is home to many historic synagogues and cemeteries.

St. Mary’s Basilica:

This magnificent Gothic church is an excellent example of the city’s rich religious history and features beautiful artwork and architecture.

Salt Mine Wieliczka:

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see destination, famous for its underground salt mines with stunning sculptures carved out of salt.

6. What is the food like in Krakow?

Krakow has a thriving food scene with many restaurants, cafes, and food markets. Some of the most popular dishes in Krakow include pierogi (dumplings), grilled sausages served with bread, oscypek (smoked cheese), and bigos (a stew made with sauerkraut, meat, and vegetables).

7. Where can I find affordable accommodation in Krakow?

Krakow has a broad range of accommodation options, including hostels, hotels, and apartments. Some of the most affordable accommodation options in Krakow are hostels, with prices ranging from $10 to $30 per night, depending on the level of comfort and location.

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

Krakow experiences cold winters and hot summers, so it’s essential to pack accordingly. If you’re visiting during the winter months, you’ll need warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and a scarf. It’s also worth packing comfortable walking shoes, as the city has many historic sites to see by foot.

Conclusion

Krakow is a fascinating city with a rich history, and there’s plenty to see and do for visitors. From exploring historic landmarks to enjoying the local cuisine, Krakow has something for everyone. By having answers to these commonly asked questions, you’ll be better prepared for your trip to Krakow and be able to make the most of your visit.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Krakow

Krakow is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, rich in culture, history, and art. If you’re planning to visit this charming city, you need to make the most of your time there. In this guide, we’ll show you how to spend your time as a tourist in Krakow, from exploring the Old Town to indulging in Polish cuisine.

1. Explore the Old Town

The Old Town is the heart of Krakow and a must-visit for tourists. It is home to numerous historical landmarks, such as the Main Market Square, Wawel Castle, and St. Mary’s Basilica. Walking through the Old Town’s cobbled streets, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time to the medieval era.

Getting to the Old Town

You can get to the Old Town by public transport, but we recommend walking. It’s a great way to experience the city and soak up its vibrant atmosphere.

What to See in the Old Town

– Main Market Square: This is the largest medieval square in Europe and one of the most iconic landmarks in Krakow. It’s surrounded by historic buildings such as the Cloth Hall, which now houses a market selling traditional souvenirs, jewelry, and other local products.- Wawel Castle: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Krakow. The castle was built in the 14th century and is home to the Crown Jewels and has plenty of art galleries and exhibits to explore.- St. Mary’s Basilica: This Gothic masterpiece is located in the Main Market Square and is famous for its two uneven towers, which are considered one of the most photographed landmarks in Poland.

2. Visit the Jewish Quarter and Schindler’s Factory

Krakow’s Jewish Quarter is a vibrant neighborhood that’s rich in history and culture. It’s home to synagogues, museums, and cafes that give tourists a glimpse into Jewish life before and during the Holocaust. One of the most famous landmarks in the Jewish Quarter is Schindler’s Factory, which is now a museum dedicated to the history of the Holocaust in Krakow.

Getting to the Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter is located in the Kazimierz district, so you can get there by public transport or by walking from the Old Town.

What to See in the Jewish Quarter

– Schindler’s Factory: This museum was once a metalworks factory owned by Oskar Schindler, who saved the lives of more than a thousand Jewish workers during World War II. The museum showcases the history of the Holocaust in Krakow and the stories of the people who lived through it.- Judaica Foundation: This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Krakow’s Jewish community. It’s located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter and has exhibits on Jewish traditions, spirituality, and daily life.- Remuh Synagogue and Cemetery: This is one of the oldest synagogues in Krakow and is still in use today. Visitors can also explore the adjoining cemetery, which contains graves dating back to the 16th century.

3. Eat Traditional Polish Cuisine

Krakow is famous for its hearty and delicious cuisine. From pierogi to fried pork cutlets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Eating traditional Polish food is a must-do activity for any tourist visiting Krakow.

Where to Eat Traditional Polish Cuisine

– Pod Wawelem: This restaurant is located near Wawel Castle and serves traditional Polish dishes like pierogi, beef goulash, and potato pancakes.- Wesele: If you’re looking for an authentic Polish dining experience, Wesele is the place to go. It’s located in the Old Town and serves dishes like stuffed cabbage rolls and roasted duck.- Bar Smak: This budget-friendly eatery is located in the Jewish Quarter and serves traditional Polish street food like zapienkanka (Polish pizza) and oscypek (smoked cheese).

4. Take a Day Trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau

Auschwitz-Birkenau is a former Nazi concentration camp located about an hour’s drive from Krakow. It is now a museum and memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau is a sobering and emotional experience but is an important reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust.

Getting to Auschwitz-Birkenau

You can visit Auschwitz-Birkenau by public transport, but the easiest and most convenient way to get there is by booking a tour or hiring a private driver.

What to See at Auschwitz-Birkenau

– Auschwitz I: This was the primary camp at Auschwitz and now serves as a museum. You can see the gas chambers, crematoria, and exhibits on the history of the camp.- Auschwitz II-Birkenau: This was the largest camp at Auschwitz and is now an open-air museum. Visitors can see the remains of the barracks, the railway tracks used to transport prisoners, and the ruins of the gas chambers.

Conclusion

Krakow is a beautiful and fascinating city with plenty to offer tourists. Whether you’re exploring the Old Town, learning about the history of the Jewish Quarter, indulging in traditional Polish cuisine, or visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Krakow and create lasting memories.