A visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum is a deeply moving and educational experience that leaves no one unaffected. This former concentration and extermination camp, established by Nazi Germany during World War II, stands as a stark reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust.
Today, the site serves as both a memorial and an educational center, drawing millions of visitors each year to reflect on the past. The museum consists of two parts: Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau.
At Auschwitz I, you’ll explore the original camp buildings, including prisoner barracks, the infamous “Arbeit macht frei” gate, and exhibitions about the Holocaust’s history. A few kilometers away, Birkenau reveals vast grounds, wooden barracks, and the haunting ruins of the gas chambers — a sobering testimony to the mass murder that took place there.
A guided tour with a professional educator helps provide essential historical context. Thanks to organized tours from Kraków, planning a visit is straightforward, with transportation included. Whether you choose a group tour or explore on your own, the experience will leave a lasting impression, both as a tribute and a warning.
Helpful Visitor Information
Admission is free, but guided tours (highly recommended) are paid.
Reservations are required for all visitors, even for free entry.
Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Polish.
Recommended minimum age for visitors: 14 years old.
Large bags (larger than 35 x 25 x 15 cm / approx. 14 x 10 x 6 in) are not allowed inside.
Photography without flash is permitted, except in specifically marked areas.
Restrooms are available near the entrances (paid).
No food services on-site — bring water and light snacks if needed.
Wear comfortable shoes — the terrain is uneven and walking distances are long.
Expect your visit to take at least 3.5 hours.
Please behave respectfully: Auschwitz is a memorial site, not a tourist attraction.
Opening Hours – Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum
The museum opens daily at 7:30 AM. Last entry depends on the season:
December: until 2:00 PM
January & November: until 3:00 PM
February: until 4:00 PM
March & October: until 5:00 PM
April, May & September: until 6:00 PM
June, July & August: until 7:00 PM Last entry is about 90 minutes before closing time. Closed on January 1st, December 25th, and Easter Sunday.
How to get to Auschwitz from Krakow Auschwitz-Birkenau is located in Oświęcim, about 70 kilometers (43 miles) west of Kraków. The easiest way to visit is with an organized tour that includes transportation.
Organised Tour (Recommended)
Round-trip transport from Kraków
Guided tour in your preferred language
Entry with a reserved time slot
Comfortable bus or minivan pickup from a central location or your hotel
Duration: approx. 7 hours (including travel time)
By Train
Depart from Kraków Główny to Oświęcim (about 1 hour)
From the station, it’s a 25–30 minute walk to the museum
By Bus
Daily buses depart from Kraków MDA Bus Station to Oświęcim
Journey time: about 1.5 hours
By Car
Take the A4 motorway toward Katowice, exit at Oświęcim
Paid parking is available at official museum lots
