If you're visiting Krakow, an Auschwitz tour is likely to be one of the most important experiences you can include in your trip. It’s not a typical sightseeing attraction, and it can be emotionally difficult, but visiting the site gives you a much deeper understanding of one of the darkest periods in modern history.
Auschwitz-Birkenau is located in the town of Oświęcim, around 70 kilometres from Krakow. Because of its location, many visitors choose to take an organised Auschwitz tour from Krakow rather than arranging everything themselves.
In this guide, we’ll cover what to expect, how to get there, how long the visit takes, and what you should know before booking your Auschwitz tour tickets.
Where Is Auschwitz and How Do You Get There from Krakow?
Auschwitz is around 1.5 hours from Krakow by road, depending on traffic.
You can travel independently by bus or train, but an organised tour is often the easier option, especially if you're only in Krakow for a few days. Most tours include transport from Krakow and a guided visit to both parts of the memorial: Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau.
This means you don't have to worry too much about transport connections or finding your way between the different sites.
What Will You See on an Auschwitz Tour?
The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial is divided into two main areas.
Auschwitz I
Auschwitz I was the original camp and is where you'll find many of the museum exhibitions. Several of the original buildings have been preserved and now contain historical photographs, documents and personal belongings of people who were imprisoned there.
This is also where you'll see the well-known entrance gate with the words “Arbeit Macht Frei”.
Auschwitz II-Birkenau
Birkenau is much larger and feels very different from Auschwitz I. The scale of the site is difficult to take in until you're actually there.
You'll see the railway tracks leading into the camp, rows of barracks, watchtowers and the remains of the crematoria. A visit to Birkenau involves a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are definitely a good idea.
Most guided Auschwitz tours from Krakow include both locations.
How Long Does an Auschwitz Tour from Krakow Take?
You should expect the whole trip to take most of the day.
The exact duration depends on your tour, but you need to allow time for the journey from Krakow, security procedures, the guided visit to Auschwitz I, the transfer to Birkenau and the journey back.
For this reason, it’s usually best not to book another major activity immediately after your visit.
Is a Guided Tour Worth It?
For most people, yes.
You can learn about Auschwitz before visiting, but being at the site is a very different experience. A knowledgeable guide helps explain the history of the camps and gives context to what you're seeing.
Without a guide, it can also be difficult to fully understand the significance of some of the buildings and areas.
If this is your first visit to Auschwitz, a guided tour is generally a good option.
Should You Book Auschwitz Tour Tickets in Advance?
It's a good idea to book ahead, particularly if you're visiting Krakow during the busy tourist season.
Entry is organised around specific visiting times, and popular slots can fill up. Booking your Auschwitz tour in advance also gives you more flexibility when planning the rest of your trip.
When choosing a tour, check exactly what's included. Some options include round-trip transport from Krakow, while others may only cover entry or the guided experience.
What Should You Wear?
There isn't a complicated dress code, but it's worth remembering that this is a memorial site.
Wear something comfortable and respectful, and make sure you have suitable shoes for walking. The weather can also make a big difference, especially at Birkenau, where much of the visit takes place outdoors.
If you're visiting during autumn or winter, bring warm layers. In warmer months, you may want to bring water and protection from the sun.
Is Visiting Auschwitz Difficult Emotionally?
Yes, it can be.
Auschwitz is a place connected to the suffering and deaths of millions of people. The exhibitions and preserved areas can be particularly upsetting.
Everyone reacts differently, but it's worth giving yourself some time after the visit rather than immediately rushing into another activity.
The most important thing is to approach the visit with respect. This is a memorial and a place of remembrance, not simply another tourist attraction.
Planning the Rest of Your Krakow Trip
Krakow has plenty to see, and Auschwitz is often included as part of a wider itinerary.
You might also want to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine, explore Krakow's Old Town, walk around Kazimierz or visit Wawel Castle.
If you're planning to see several attractions during your stay, you can explore available Krakow attractions and passes here:
https://about-town.co/pages/krakow
Final Thoughts
An Auschwitz tour from Krakow is not an easy experience, but it is an important one.
Planning your visit in advance can make the practical side of the trip much easier, especially when it comes to transport and entry times. Whether you choose to travel independently or book an organised tour, give yourself enough time and approach the experience with the respect it deserves.
For many visitors to Krakow, it becomes one of the most memorable and thought-provoking parts of their trip.