Yes — it is possible to see Kraków’s main highlights and visit the Auschwitz‑Birkenau Museum in Oświęcim in a single, busy day, but success depends on good planning: booking your museum entry in advance, choosing the right place to park in Kraków, and selecting the best way to travel to Oświęcim.
The most convenient option for people who want to leave the car “near the Old Town” is one of the large multi‑storey or underground car parks close to the Market Square and the main station — for example the Galeria Krakowska car park at the Main Railway Station. It offers a short walk to the Market Square and easy connections by train and regional buses to other destinations.
Alternatives include the underground car park at Wawel or public municipal car parks. If you want to save time and avoid stress, consider leaving the car in one of the large station car parks and continuing the trip by train or coach to Oświęcim.
Suggested plan (adapt to your preferences): depart Kraków around 6:30–7:30, arrive at the station or station car park and quickly catch a morning train or coach to Oświęcim; visit the Museum from about 9:00–13:00 (the visit with the grounds and displays usually takes at least 3–3.5 hours); return to Kraków in the afternoon and take a short walk around the Market Square or have dinner near Wawel in the evening.
This schedule works best when: - you have a confirmed entry pass to the Museum (online reservation), - you park in a location with good access to the station (Galeria Krakowska, Wawel car park or P+R areas), - you account for time needed for security checks, walking and possible traffic.
In practice: if you travel by car, allow about 1–1.5 hours each way without major stops (or less if you catch a fast train). Always check the exact connections before you set off.
Train: there are direct train connections from Kraków to Oświęcim. Travel time varies by service — some regional trains are slower, while faster connections may shorten the trip. Oświęcim station is roughly 1.5–2 km from the Museum Visitor Services Center (COO). It’s a good idea to align your train times with your Museum entry time.
Bus: long‑distance and regional coaches run between Kraków and Oświęcim; travel usually takes about 1 hour 20–90 minutes depending on the service. Buses can be comfortable, but the stop may not always be right next to the Visitor Services Center.
Car: the main advantage is flexibility — you can drive directly to the Museum Visitor Services Center and park at the Museum car park. Keep in mind there is a parking fee, and during high season queues and road traffic can affect travel time. Whether by car or public transport, make sure your Museum entry is booked in advance.
Galeria Krakowska (car park at the station) - Pros: very large number of spaces, extremely close to the Main Market Square and the Main Railway Station, ideal if you plan to continue by train or coach. Cons: hourly and daily fees apply; weekends and holidays can be busy. Check opening hours and prices before you go.
Underground car park under Wawel - Pros: superb location for a short walk to Wawel Castle and the Old Town. Cons: can be more expensive than some municipal car parks; it’s worth comparing options before arrival.
P+R and municipal car parks (for example Mydlniki, Czerwone Maki, Nowy Bieżanów) - Pros: cheaper parking and convenient tram connections to the center. Cons: require transferring to public transport and increase the total travel time into the city.
Admission to the Memorial grounds is free, but entry with a personalized pass must be reserved online through the Museum’s booking system; the number of passes is limited and reservations should be made in advance (for individual visitors reservations are typically available from 90 to 7 days before the visit). On‑site guided tickets are available in limited numbers, but don’t rely on them in peak season. Arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of your booked time because of security checks.
The Museum recommends allowing about 3.5 hours for a calm and thoughtful visit to the grounds and exhibitions — plan enough time, because a quick ‘tick‑box’ visit may not allow proper attention to the place.
Practical note: the official booking service is the only reliable source of entry passes — avoid intermediaries who charge extra fees and may not have confirmed bookings.
Book your entry pass in advance on the Museum’s official booking site (usually possible between 90 and 7 days before the planned visit).
Leave your car in a large, easy‑access car park by the station (Galeria Krakowska) or, if you prefer a cheaper option, in a P+R and take the tram to the center or station.
Pack only a small bag (the Museum’s maximum dimensions for backpacks/handbags are typically limited — larger bags should remain in your car or in left‑luggage). Arrive 30 minutes before your booked start time for security checks.
Bring water and a light snack for the journey, but remember to behave respectfully during the visit. Plan extra time for the return trip and possible traffic delays.
After you return, reserve time for a relaxed walk around the Main Market Square and dinner at one of the restaurants near the Old Town. A few tried and tested places for local flavors: Wierzynek for traditional atmosphere, Pod Wawelem for hearty regional portions, Szara or Café Camelot for coffee and dessert. Choose based on your energy and mood after a full day.
If you still have the energy: a short visit to Wawel Castle, a walk along the Vistula Boulevards (Bulwary Wiślane) or a quick stop at the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) and St. Mary’s Basilica are nice ways to end the day.
Not booking an entry pass in time — result: no access or last‑minute changes to plans. Solution: reserve in advance via the Museum’s official booking system.
Parking “wildly” near the Old Town without checking the paid parking zone — result: a ticket or towing. Solution: check parking zones, use parking meters or apps (such as mKrakow) and consider multi‑storey car parks.
Underestimating the time needed to visit — Auschwitz requires calm and reflection; do not treat the visit as a quick item on a checklist.
Do I need to book a pass if I go by car? - Yes, booking an entry pass is required regardless of how you arrive. Driving gives easy access to the Museum car park, but entry still requires an online reservation.
How much time should I allow for the Museum? - Minimum 3–3.5 hours; more time is recommended if you want to read displays and fully absorb the exhibitions.
Is it better to go by train or bus? - Both options are fine: the train often offers a stable and comfortable ride from the station; coaches can be a quick alternative. Check current schedules before travel.
Many visitors don’t realize that during the season a local shuttle line runs between Oświęcim station and the main Museum entrance — it’s a quick and inexpensive way to cover the last stretch.
To save time in the morning, some car parks (for example Galeria Krakowska) use automatic license plate recognition to speed up exit formalities. This small convenience can help you get on the road faster.
If you want lower parking costs and don’t mind transferring: a P+R outside the center plus tram is often the most economical option.
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If you’d like to explore Kraków and the surroundings with a friendly, personalized guide, consider booking a private tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Details and contact information are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com — a private guided tour lets you tailor the pace and topics exactly to your needs.
Good luck with your planning — a day that includes Kraków and Oświęcim is possible when it’s organized with respect for the site and a sensible timetable.
Dress respectfully for the visit to the Memorial — it is a place of remembrance. Avoid loud clothing or costumes that may be inappropriate.
Bring an ID and any necessary travel documents you might need for ticket collection or when using automated services in car parks or train stations.
If you travel in winter, check opening hours and road conditions; in summer, expect more visitors and book well in advance.
Small bag (within allowed dimensions)
Comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ground
Water bottle and light snack
Charged phone and a printed or digital copy of your Museum reservation
