How to Plan Your Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial and Museum Full Guided Tour from Krakow

If you are in Krakow and wish to visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, it is advisable to book a guided tour for a comprehensive understanding of the site’s history. The museum is a place of remembrance, where visitors come to pay their respects to the victims who lost their lives in Nazi-occupied Poland. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial and Museum full guided tour from Krakow.

Overview

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is located approximately 70 km from Krakow city center, and as such, traveling to the site can be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the area. Booking a guided tour is one of the best options for a convenient and hassle-free visit. With this tour, visitors are picked up from their respective hotels in Krakow and travel directly to Auschwitz-Birkenau on a minibus. Admission fees are included in the tour, and visitors get to enjoy the expertise of an English guide as they explore the site’s history.

Booking Your Tour

To book your tour, please visit the following link: book the tour here. You will need to select your preferred tour date, indicate the number of people in your group, and make your payment. Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a confirmation email with details of your tour, including the time and location for your pickup.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation from Krakow, admission fees, and a guided tour of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. The guided tour, conducted in English, provides visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the site’s history, including insight into Poland’s history and the events of World War II.

Pickup Points

To ensure a smooth start to your tour, the tour provides pickup services from various points in Krakow. During the booking process, you will be required to select your preferred pickup point. Please ensure that you arrive at the designated pickup point at least 10 minutes before the indicated pickup time.

Tour Schedule

The tour operates every Monday to Sunday, with the exception of January 15th to 17th, when the museum is closed. The first pickup is at 8:00 am from various pickup points in Krakow. Prospective visitors are advised to confirm the tour schedule with the local operator before booking.

Tour Experience

Upon arrival at the museum, visitors are welcomed by the sight of the iconic Arbeit Macht Frei (Work sets you free) sign. The museum houses various exhibitions and displays, which chronicle the events that took place during the Holocaust. The guided tour provides visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the museum’s history and the atrocities of the Holocaust. Visitors get to explore the gas chambers, crematoriums, and barracks, and learn about the living conditions of the prisoners.

Tips for Planning Your Tour

1. Book your tour in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak season

2. Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved during the tour

3. Ensure that you dress appropriately, as the site is a place of remembrance and respect

4. Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour

5. Bring a personal audio device with you, as there are no audio headsets provided during the tour

Conclusion

Visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a somber and educational experience. To ensure that you get the most out of your visit, book a guided tour from Krakow for a hassle-free and informative tour. By following the tips provided in this guide, you can plan your visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions about Krakow: An Ultimate Guide

Krakow is one of the most beautiful and charming cities in Europe. With its rich history, breathtaking architecture, and colorful culture, Krakow has become a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. If you’re planning a trip to Krakow, you might have some questions. Here we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this amazing city.

1. Where is Krakow located?

Krakow is located in southern Poland, near the border with the Czech Republic and Slovakia. It is the second-largest city in Poland, after Warsaw. Krakow straddles the Vistula River, which runs through the center of the city.

2. What is the best time to visit Krakow?

The best time to visit Krakow is from May to September. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are many outdoor events and festivals. July and August are the peak tourist months, so it’s best to book your accommodation and tours in advance. However, Krakow is also beautiful in winter, especially during the Christmas season, with its famous Christmas markets and ice rinks.

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

Krakow is a treasure trove of attractions and sights, but some of the must-see ones include:- Wawel Castle: a grand castle complex with stunning royal chambers, treasury, and art museum

– Main Market Square: a lively and colorful square in the heart of Krakow, surrounded by historical buildings and cafes

– Kazimierz: a charming Jewish quarter with rich history and culture

– St. Mary’s Basilica: a magnificent Gothic church with unique and beautiful details

– Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum: a sobering and educational site that commemorates the Holocaust

4. How do I get around Krakow?

Krakow has a great public transportation system, including buses and trams. You can buy tickets at ticket machines, newspaper kiosks, or in some trams or buses. Taxis are also available, but make sure you use the licensed ones to avoid scams. Walking or cycling is also a great way to explore the city, especially the Old Town.

5. What are the traditional dishes and drinks of Krakow?

Krakow has a rich culinary tradition, with dishes that reflect its history and culture. Some of the must-try dishes include:- Pierogi: dumplings filled with various ingredients, such as meat, cheese, or vegetables

– Bigos: a hearty stew made of sauerkraut, meat, and spices

– Kielbasa: a delicious and savory sausage

– Oscypek: a smoked cheese made of sheep milk

– Makowiec: a sweet poppy seed cakeKrakow is also famous for its beer and vodka. Some of the popular local beers include Tyskie, Zywiec, and Okocim. For vodka, try the traditional Polish brands such as Zubrowka or Belvedere.

6. How safe is Krakow for tourists?

Krakow is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, like in any other city, it’s important to take basic precautions such as keeping your valuables safe, not leaving your belongings unattended, and avoiding poorly lit or isolated areas at night.

7. What language is spoken in Krakow?

The official language of Poland is Polish, and that includes Krakow. However, many younger Polish people speak English fluently, especially in tourist areas. It’s always polite to learn a few basic phrases in Polish, such as “hello” (cześć), “thank you” (dziękuję), or “excuse me” (przepraszam).

8. What are the customs and etiquette in Krakow?

Like in any culture, it’s important to respect the customs and etiquette in Krakow. Some tips include:- Greeting people with a handshake or a nod

– Removing your shoes when entering someone’s home

– Using formal titles such as “pan” or “pani” when addressing strangers or elders

– Offering to help with the cleaning or cooking when invited for a meal

– Not discussing politics or religion unless you know the person well

Conclusion

Krakow is a beautiful and fascinating city that offers something for every type of traveler. From its rich history and culture to its delicious food and stunning architecture, Krakow is a must-visit destination in Europe. We hope this guide has answered some of your questions and helped you plan your trip to this amazing city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Krakow

Krakow, the former capital of Poland, is an enchanting city filled with history, architecture, and culture. It attracts millions of tourists every year, thanks to its stunning attractions and vibrant events. Whether you want to admire the splendid medieval architecture or explore the trendy neighborhoods filled with boutiques and cafes, Krakow has everything to offer. In this guide, you’ll learn how to spend your time as a tourist in Krakow and make the most out of your trip.

1. Discover the Old Town

Krakow’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s a must-visit for any tourist. The heart of the Old Town is the Main Market Square, a vast open space featuring colorful townhouses, street performers, and historical buildings. You can explore the square, enjoy a cup of coffee in one of the cafes, and admire the Cloth Hall, a Renaissance-style building housing souvenir shops and art galleries.From the Market Square, you can take a stroll along the Royal Route, a historic route that leads to Wawel Hill. Along the way, you’ll see the magnificent Barbican, the Florianska Gate, and the St. Mary’s Basilica, one of the most beautiful churches in Europe. Once you reach Wawel Hill, you can visit the Royal Castle and the Wawel Cathedral, two of the city’s top attractions.

2. Visit the Jewish Quarter

Krakow’s Jewish Quarter, also known as Kazimierz, is a trendy neighborhood filled with cafes, bars, and shops. The district is famous for its Jewish heritage, and you can visit the Old Synagogue and the Remuh Synagogue to learn more about the Jewish history of Krakow.The Jewish Quarter was also the filming location for “Schindler’s List,” and you can visit the former Schindler Factory, now a museum dedicated to the history of Krakow during the World War II occupation. You can also take a guided tour of the Schindler Sites, which takes you through the key locations from the film.

3. Explore the Parks and Gardens

Krakow is a green city, and it boasts several parks and gardens where you can relax and unwind. The largest and most famous park in Krakow is the Planty Park, a green belt surrounding the Old Town. You can take a leisurely walk along the park’s paths, admire the statues and fountains, and enjoy a picnic on the grass.Another popular park is the Jordan Park, located in the fashionable district of the same name. It’s a romantic park featuring waterfalls, ponds, and a charming cafe. You can also visit the Botanical Garden of the Jagiellonian University, which boasts over 5,000 species of plants from around the world.

4. Try the Local Cuisine

Krakow’s cuisine is a mix of Polish, Jewish, and Austro-Hungarian influences, making it a unique culinary destination. One of the most famous dishes in Krakow is the pierogi, a type of dumpling stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables. You can try pierogis in most restaurants in Krakow, but the best ones are found in Pierozki u Vincenta or at Baba Jaga Pierogarnia.Another must-try dish is the obwarzanek krakowski, a type of baked bread similar to a bagel. You can find it sold by street vendors all over the city. Krakow is also famous for its sausages and smoked meats, which you can try at the Stary Kleparz market or at the famous Bar Mleczny.

5. Attend a Cultural Event

Krakow is a city of culture, and it hosts several events throughout the year. One of the most famous events in Krakow is the Wianki Festival, a mid-summer celebration taking place on the banks of the Vistula River. During the festival, you can enjoy concerts, fireworks, and traditional Polish cuisine.Another popular event is the Krakow Film Festival, a week-long event featuring independent films from around the world. The Krakow Fringe Festival and the Jewish Culture Festival are also worth a visit if you’re in Krakow during the summer months.

Conclusion

Krakow is a city of culture, beauty, and history. You can spend your days exploring the city’s grand architecture, relaxing in its parks and gardens, and trying its local cuisine. There are also several cultural events throughout the year, making Krakow a destination worth visiting anytime.By following this guide, you can make the most out of your trip to Krakow and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget to tag your Instagram posts with #visitKrakow to share your adventure with the world.