How to Plan Your Auschwitz Birkenau Tour from Krakow

If you are planning a trip to Krakow, then it is highly recommended that you visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp located about 60 kilometers away from the city. This UNESCO-listed site is a stark reminder of the atrocities that occurred during World War II, and a visit here is moving and essential.Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit.

Booking the Tour

There are many tour operators in Krakow offering trips to Auschwitz Birkenau, but one of the most popular is Viator. You can book this six-hour tour on Viator’s website, and it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a documentary movie, and a standard 3.5-hour group tour of Auschwitz and Birkenau. You can follow this link to book the tour.

Cost of the Tour

The cost of the tour is affordable, and it starts at around €30 per person, which includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Krakow. Aside from the tour, there are no additional costs, but it is advisable to bring some money if you want to purchase souvenirs or snacks.

What to Expect

The Auschwitz Birkenau tour from Krakow usually starts in the morning with pickup from your hotel. From there, you will travel by bus to the concentration camp, which takes around an hour and a half.Upon arrival, you will watch a documentary film that gives an overview of the history of the Nazi concentration camps during World War II. After this, you will then visit Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, which are the two separate camps on site.The tour lasts for around 3.5 hours, and throughout the visit, you’ll have a knowledgeable guide with you. You can expect to see the barracks, gas chambers, and crematoria where prisoners were exterminated, and the exhibits are accompanied by informative commentary.The tour is emotionally challenging, so be sure to bring comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing. There are plenty of opportunities to take a break throughout the tour, and huts offer a chance for rest and reflection.

Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off

Viator includes pickup and drop-off from your Krakow hotel as part of their tour package. If your hotel is not listed, please let them know by leaving a remark on your voucher, and they will pick you up from any accommodation located within Krakow City limits.

Additional Information

It’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included in the tour, so be sure to bring some cash if you want to purchase refreshments. Also, gratuities for the guide are not mandatory but appreciated.

Conclusion

If you are interested in history and want to learn more about the Holocaust, then the Auschwitz Birkenau tour from Krakow is a must-visit destination. With a knowledgeable guide and Viator’s convenient services, this tour is easy to book, and you can expect an emotional day filled with informative exhibits and reflection.Remember to plan ahead and arrive rested and ready for an emotional experience of learning about one of the worst periods in human history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Krakow

Krakow is a city in southern Poland that is rich in history, culture, and attractions. As a popular tourist destination, visitors often have questions about the city before arriving. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most common questions people have about Krakow.

1. What is the best time to visit Krakow?

The best time to visit Krakow is between May and September. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and there are many outdoor events and festivals. The busiest months are July and August, so if you prefer smaller crowds, consider visiting in May, June, or September.

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

Krakow is home to many historical and cultural attractions. Some of the must-see places include:

• The Wawel Castle
• The Main Market Square
• The St. Mary’s Basilica
• The Jewish Quarter
• The Wieliczka Salt Mine

3. How do I get around Krakow?

Krakow has a well-developed public transportation system. The easiest way to get around the city is to use trams and buses, which run frequently and cover most areas of the city. You can purchase tickets at ticket machines or from kiosks. Taxis and bike rentals are also available.

4. What should I eat in Krakow?

Krakow is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are many traditional dishes to try. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Pierogi (dumplings)
• Zapiekanka (Polish-style pizza)
• Kielbasa (Polish sausage)
• Oscypek (smoked cheese)
• Sernik (Polish-style cheesecake)

5. What is the currency in Krakow?

The currency in Krakow is the Polish zloty (PLN). Euros are also widely accepted in tourist areas, but it’s best to have some Polish zloty on hand for smaller purchases.

6. What should I know about the language in Krakow?

The official language of Krakow is Polish, but many locals also speak English, especially in tourist areas. It’s a good idea to learn a few basic Polish phrases, such as “hello” (cześć) and “thank you” (dziękuję), to show respect and make communication easier.

7. Is Krakow safe?

Krakow is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any destination, it’s important to take basic safety precautions. Avoid empty streets and poorly lit areas at night, keep your valuables close, and be aware of your surroundings.

8. What are some off-the-beaten-path attractions in Krakow?

In addition to the popular attractions, Krakow has many hidden gems to discover. Some off-the-beaten-path places to visit include:

• The Nowa Huta district, a fascinating example of Stalinist architecture
• The Ethnographic Museum, which showcases traditional Polish culture
• The Kościuszko Mound, a hill with stunning city views

Conclusion

By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope to have provided useful information for anyone planning a visit to Krakow. Remember to pack for the weather, try the local cuisine, and explore both the popular attractions and lesser-known gems of the city. Safe travels!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Krakow

Krakow is the second-largest city in Poland and a popular tourist destination, thanks to its rich history and cultural landmarks. It’s a city that relentlessly celebrates its heritage through its food, festivals, and architecture. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the best ways you can spend your time in Krakow to make the most out of your trip.

1. Explore the Old Town

Krakow’s Old Town is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval city centers in Europe. Start by exploring Rynek Główny, the huge central square where you can find the Cloth Hall, Church of St. Adalbert, and St. Mary’s Basilica. You can also enjoy horse-drawn carriage tours, souvenir shops, and restaurants. The Wawel Royal Castle is also close by, where you can admire the state rooms and the Polish Crown Jewels.

2. Take a Walk Through Kazimierz

Kazimierz is the historical Jewish district of Krakow and another must-visit neighborhood. Kazimierz is not only a tourist attraction but also a vibrant community with synagogues, restaurants, and shops. Start with Szeroka Street and Plac Nowy, then explore the courtyards, the streets, and the surrounding parks. You can also visit the Jewish Museum and the Galicia Jewish Museum to learn more about Jewish culture and history.

3. Visit Wieliczka Salt Mine

Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the oldest and most famous salt mines in the world, and it’s only a short distance from Krakow. You can take a guided tour of the mine, which includes a descent to the mine using a wooden staircase, and then walk through intricate tunnels and admire the sculptures and salt crystals. The mine also has a restaurant, a souvenir shop, and a museum.

4. Go to Auschwitz-Birkenau

Auschwitz-Birkenau is one of the most significant historical landmarks in the world, and it’s a must-visit site. The museum is an hour’s drive from Krakow, and the guided tour takes around three hours. Learn about the horrors of World War II, the Holocaust, and the lives of those who suffered and died here.

5. Eat Polish Food

No trip to Poland is complete without at least trying Polish cuisine. In Krakow, you can enjoy hearty dishes like pierogi (dumplings), kielbasa (sausages), and bigos (stew). You can also sip a glass of mead and sample Polish vodka. Head to Kazimierz and the Old Town for the best restaurants and cafes.

6. Enjoy Krakow’s Nightlife

Krakow has a lively nightlife, with bars, pubs, and clubs for every taste. Head to the trendy district of Podgórze, which is packed with bars and cafes. Kazimierz is also an excellent place for an evening out, with many bars offering live music, stand-up comedy, and open mic nights.

Conclusion

Krakow offers visitors a mix of extraordinary history, traditional culture, and modern celebrations. This guide offers just a few ideas about how to spend your time in Krakow, but there’s so much more to explore. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or just want to enjoy a beautiful city, Krakow is an excellent destination.