A visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum is a powerful and educational experience that leaves a lasting impact. This former concentration and extermination camp, established by Nazi Germany during the Second World War, stands as a stark reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust. Today, the museum serves as both a memorial and an educational centre, where millions of people each year reflect on the past.
The museum consists of two parts: Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau. At Auschwitz I, you can visit the original camp buildings, including barracks, the gate with the inscription "Arbeit macht frei", and exhibitions about the history of the Holocaust. At Birkenau, located a few kilometres away, you’ll see the vast grounds, prisoner barracks, and the remains of the gas chambers, a sobering testament to the mass killings that took place there.
A guided tour with a professional guide helps provide deeper historical context. Thanks to organised tours from Kraków, your visit can be planned easily, with transport included. Whether you choose a group tour or explore on your own, the experience is unforgettable. Both a warning and a tribute.
Helpful Visitor Information
Entry is free, but guided tours (recommended) require a fee.
Reservations are mandatory, even for free entry.
Guided tours are available in several languages, including English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Polish.
Recommended minimum age for visitors: 14 years.
Large bags (larger than 35 x 25 x 15 cm) are not allowed on the grounds.
Photography without flash is allowed, except in marked areas.
Toilets are available at the entrances (paid).
There are no food services on-site; please bring your own water and snacks.
Wear comfortable shoes — the terrain is uneven and walking distances are long.
Expect your visit to take at least 3.5 hours.
Be respectful: Auschwitz is a memorial site, not a tourist attraction.
Opening Hours – Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum
Auschwitz-Birkenau is open daily from 7:30 AM. Final entry depends on the season:
In December: until 2:00 PM
In January and November: until 3:00 PM
In February: until 4:00 PM
In March and October: until 5:00 PM
In April, May, and September: until 6:00 PM
In June, July, and August: until 7:00 PM
Last entry is approximately 90 minutes before closing time. Closed on 1 January, 25 December, and Easter Sunday.
How to Get to Auschwitz from Kraków
Auschwitz-Birkenau is located in Oświęcim, about 70 kilometres west of Kraków. The easiest way to visit is by joining an organised tour with transport included.
Organised Tour (recommended)
Book a tour with return transport from Kraków
Includes a guide in your chosen language and timed entry
Comfortable coach or minibus from a central location or hotel pickup
Duration: approx. 7 hours, including travel time
Train
Depart from Kraków Główny to Oświęcim (approx. 1 hour)
From the station, it’s a 25–30 minute walk to the museum
Bus
Daily buses from Kraków MDA Bus Station to Oświęcim
Travel time: about 1.5 hours
Car
Take the A4 towards Katowice and exit at Oświęcim
Paid parking is available at the official museum car parks
