Oswiecim , Poland

Auschwitz I and Birkenau Tickets

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About this experience

The Auschwitz and Birkenau tour is a guided visit to the former Nazi concentration and extermination camps, offering a powerful and educational insight into one of the darkest chapters of human history. The tour begins at Auschwitz I, where visitors see original barracks, prison blocks, personal belongings of victims, photographs, and exhibitions that explain how the camp operated and the scale of the crimes committed there.

The visit then continues to Auschwitz II–Birkenau, the vast extermination camp where the majority of victims were murdered. Walking through the remains of gas chambers, watchtowers, railway tracks, and wooden barracks provides a sobering understanding of the industrial nature of the Holocaust. Throughout the tour, a licensed guide explains the historical context, individual stories, and significance of the site, allowing time for reflection and remembrance. It is an emotionally challenging but deeply important experience.

Available options

Auschwitz I and Birkenau Tickets

What's included

Headsets to hear the guide clearly

Licensed local guide

Highly qualified, helpful and friendly customer service

Entry fees (Auschwitz I & Auschwitz II Birkenau), insurance and taxes

Detailed itinerary

Start your tour by walking through the gate of the first camp - Auschwitz I - originally conceived as a concentration camp, DA used as a detention center for the many Polish citizens arrested after the country's annexation to Germany in 1939, with the most recognizable sign Arbeit Macht Frei (Work sets you free). This part usually takes 2 hours and you will use an earphone to hear the Guide clearly. The group according to the Museum regulations has up to 30 people making the visit comfortable and accessible for each participant. Visit the original wooden buildings, fortified walls, barbed wire, gas chambers and crematoria – all leave a shocking impression that allows you to imagine the scale of the Holocaust.

After the 1 camp there is a short break of maximum 15 minutes. You will be taken DA to visit the second part of the tour - Birkenau (Auschwitz II), just 3 minutes away, which is the largest camp built and operated with the specific purpose of making Europe "Judenrein" (free from Jews). The same Guide continues a moving field conference in the village of Brzezinka, which was built in 1941 on orders from Heinrich Himmler (SS commander) and could hold around 90,000 prisoners. You will be told terrible stories of unimaginable living conditions, as well as cruel selection and pseudoscientific medical experiments conducted DA eminent Nazi doctors, including Josef Mengele. A story about the soldiers of the 60th Army of the Ukrainian First Front who opened the gates of Auschwitz on January 27, 1945, which meant the final liberation, concludes your tour with the feeling that this genocide should never have happened and cannot happen again.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Written guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Audio guide

Guide guide

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We meet all passengers at the meeting point at the main entrance to the museum. At the meeting point, you will be met by a Tour Leader. We will send all the details and meeting time the day before the trip.

About Oswiecim

Oswiecim, known internationally as Auschwitz, is a town in southern Poland with a profound historical significance. It is most famous as the location of the Auschwitz concentration camp, a site of the Holocaust during World War II. Despite its dark history, the town itself offers a mix of historical sites, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

This is the most significant and somber attraction in Oswiecim. The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a former Nazi concentration camp that serves as a poignant reminder of the Holocaust. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for understanding the history of World War II.

Historical 2-3 hours for a guided tour Free, but guided tours are recommended and may have a fee

Jewish Museum in Oswiecim

This museum provides a deeper understanding of the Jewish community that once thrived in Oswiecim before the Holocaust. It features exhibits on Jewish history, culture, and the impact of the Holocaust on the local Jewish population.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate fee

Oswiecim Town Hall

The town hall is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture and a symbol of Oswiecim's rich history. It houses a small museum and is a great place to learn about the town's past.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free or small fee

Oswiecim Synagogue

This synagogue is a testament to the once-thriving Jewish community in Oswiecim. It has been restored and now serves as a cultural center and a place of remembrance.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free or small donation

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pierogi

Dumplings filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, potatoes, or fruits. They are a staple of Polish cuisine and come in both savory and sweet varieties.

Main Course Vegetarian options available

Zapiekanka

A popular street food consisting of a half-baguette topped with mushrooms, cheese, and sometimes other ingredients, then toasted.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Bigos

A traditional Polish stew made with sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, and various types of meat, often served with bread.

Main Course Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby forests Biking around the town and surrounding areas Visiting local cafes and parks Enjoying traditional Polish cuisine Exploring historical sites Visiting museums and cultural centers Visiting during the Christmas season for festive markets and decorations Participating in guided tours of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the most popular time to visit due to the pleasant weather and the opportunity to explore outdoor attractions. The town is busiest during this period, especially around major holidays and summer vacations.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Polish
Widely spoken: English, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Polish Zloty (PLN)

Time Zone

CET (UTC +1), CST (UTC +2) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Oswiecim is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or app-based services
• Be cautious when using ATMs

Getting there

By air

John Paul II International Airport Krakow • 60 km

By train

Oswiecim Station

By bus

Oswiecim Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The local bus service is efficient and affordable, making it easy to get around Oswiecim and visit nearby sites like the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Town Center Auschwitz-Birkenau Area

Day trips

Krakow

60 km • Full day

Krakow is one of Poland's most beautiful and historic cities, offering a wealth of cultural attractions, including Wawel Castle, the Main Market Square, and the historic Jewish quarter of Kazimierz.

Katowice

40 km • Half day

Katowice is a vibrant city with a rich industrial history. It offers a mix of modern and historical attractions, including the Silesian Museum and the Cathedral of Christ the King.

Festivals

Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

Book a guided tour of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum in advance to ensure availability
Visit the Jewish Museum in Oswiecim to gain a deeper understanding of the town's history
Try local Polish dishes like pierogi and zapiekanka for an authentic culinary experience
Explore the town center on foot to discover its historical sites and cultural attractions
Consider a day trip to Krakow or Katowice for a mix of historical and urban experiences