How do you combine a trip to Auschwitz, some relaxation by Zakrzówek and a few good food stops if you use a wheelchair? It can be done — you just need to plan your timing, transport and check the accessibility of places. Below you will find step-by-step practical tips, accessibility notes and a suggestion for an easier culinary route around Krakow.
This article is aimed at people traveling alone or with companions, as well as families and carers. We gathered the most important information about reservations, architectural access, resting spots and dining suggestions. Everything is written in a friendly tone to make planning your day easier.
Later sections include: a practical day plan with estimated times, specific accessibility notes for the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and Zakrzówek, transport tips and a list of general rules and FAQs to reduce stress before your trip.
Suggested order of the day: depart Krakow in the morning for Oświęcim, visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial, return to Krakow for an afternoon of relaxation at Zakrzówek or a visit to Kazimierz with a culinary route. The one-way journey usually takes around 1–1.5 hours by car or private transfer, so the whole trip will take most of the day.
Time spent at Auschwitz depends on the chosen format — an educator-led visit typically lasts 2–3 hours. Self-guided visits may be shorter or longer depending on pace. Allow extra time for transfers, rest and meals — the full outing from departure to return will usually be 7–10 hours.
Key practical points before you set off: 1) book entry tickets to the Museum online well in advance, 2) arrange transport suitable for a wheelchair (van with a ramp, wheelchair-accessible taxi), 3) inform the places you plan to visit (Auschwitz, Zakrzówek, restaurants) about any accessibility needs.
The State Museum Auschwitz-Birkenau works to increase accessibility and offers materials and solutions for visitors with different needs. The Visitor Service Centre has been designed with accessibility in mind and some spaces are adapted for visitors using wheelchairs.
Practical tips before your visit: 1) reserve entry tickets online — the system publishes time slots in advance and limits admissions; 2) bring an identity document — it is required when entering; 3) contact the staff responsible for accessibility before your visit to arrange details and request assistance if needed.
If you require extra support or information about touring with limited mobility, the museum has an accessibility coordinator you can contact. Notifying the museum in advance about special needs helps organise assistance and ensures a calmer visit.
On-site practical notes: 1) the Visitor Service Centre has accessible approaches and some adapted rooms; 2) the grounds of Auschwitz I and Birkenau are uneven and partly unpaved — plan your pace and rest breaks; 3) some exhibitions and buildings have limited space — discuss the route with museum staff beforehand.
Zakrzówek is a picturesque spot by a former quarry, popular for walks and relaxation. The site now has regulated beach and park infrastructure and information about accessibility for people with disabilities.
On the Zakrzówek grounds there are designated parking spaces for people with disabilities and special solutions to facilitate access, including stair-climbing platforms (stair lifts) operated by staff. Use of these platforms is available in specified seasonal hours and usually requires notifying staff in advance; information and contact numbers are posted on the entrance information boards.
Important practical information: 1) there is an accessible toilet for wheelchair users located in the café building; 2) platforms are operated by the site staff — check operating hours or call the number on the info board before you arrive; 3) the park has sections with different terrain — the partially paved paths are the most comfortable for wheelchairs.
Principles for building a culinary route for wheelchair users: choose short distances between stops, opt for venues with step-free entrances or ramps, reserve a table in advance and confirm the availability of an accessible toilet.
A recommended area: start at the Vistula boulevards (smooth surfaces, easy access), head to Kazimierz — here you will find a variety of cuisines within short distances and many main streets and squares are relatively flat. Finish with a short move to the Main Market Square where there are ground-floor cafés.
Places and initiatives to watch for: Krakow runs city projects supporting restaurant accessibility. Always check a specific venue before your visit — confirm step-free access, door width and toilet access. When booking, ask for a table near the entrance to make service and movement easier.
Practical example stops (types of cuisine and atmosphere): 1) a café by the Vistula for a short rest en route; 2) a restaurant in Kazimierz offering Polish or international dishes; 3) a small ground-floor pizzeria or bistro for a quick meal before continuing. Always confirm accessibility directly with the venue.
Best transport options from Krakow to Oświęcim: 1) a private van with a ramp or lift — the most independent and comfortable choice; 2) a wheelchair-accessible taxi — book in advance; 3) public transport (coaches, trains) — check for low-floor vehicles and accessible stations. The drive usually takes about 1–1.5 hours.
Parking in Krakow: people with disabilities can use designated parking bays. Check the city parking map and information about paid parking zones. In the centre and in Kazimierz spots may be occupied — plan your parking in advance.
Public transport: many trams and buses in Krakow are low-floor and have spaces for wheelchairs, but not all stops and vehicles are perfect. Use city apps and the guide “Krakow for visitors with disabilities” to find specific connections and venues with accessibility information.
Before you go, use official information: 1) book Auschwitz-Birkenau entry tickets online and check available time slots; 2) municipal guides and accessibility apps for Krakow list venues and their facilities; 3) Zakrzówek’s information boards include details about platforms and accessible toilets.
Good practices before departure: 1) call the venue to confirm the current accessibility status; 2) ask for confirmation of a parking space or drop-off spot; 3) plan breaks for rest and for charging your wheelchair battery.
If you need supporting documents, bring an ID, a parking card (if you have one), phone numbers of the places you plan to visit and spare water and snacks in case of delays.
Can people in wheelchairs visit Auschwitz? - Yes, the museum works to increase accessibility and provides recommendations and contact options for support. It is strongly recommended to inform the museum about your needs before the visit.
Is there a ramp or platform for wheelchairs at Zakrzówek? - The bathing area operates stair-climbing platforms and has designated parking spaces for people with disabilities. Use of the platforms requires notification and coordination with staff.
How do I organise a safe culinary route? - Choose short distances between stops, reserve and confirm step-free entrances and accessible toilets. Use municipal accessibility guides to check venues before you go.
Is public transport to Oświęcim a good option? - It is possible, but the most comfortable solution is to arrange wheelchair-adapted transport or a private transfer. If you plan to use public transport, check for low-floor vehicles and station accessibility.
1) Book in advance and confirm all amenities by phone on the day of travel, 2) plan the day’s pace with breaks in mind — changing surroundings and resting help during a long day, 3) carry a powerbank or a charging plan if you use an electric wheelchair.
Remember that Krakow offers many tools and materials designed for tourists with disabilities — use municipal guides and inform venues you plan to visit in advance. With a bit of preparation, your day combining Auschwitz, a moment at Zakrzówek and a tasty finish in Krakow can be calm and comfortable.
If you like, I can create a detailed step-by-step itinerary for a chosen day — including suggested times, parking spots, phone numbers to confirm accessibility and restaurant recommendations matched to your preferences.
