Yes — it’s possible if you organise the logistics and priorities well. The Kraków–Oświęcim route is about 65–75 km depending on your starting point, and by car it usually takes around 1–1.5 hours. At the Auschwitz‑Birkenau Memorial it’s best to allow at least 3.5 hours for the guided walk with an educator (this is the standard tour length). For a small, organised group of 2–6 people the most comfortable option is a private transfer or hiring a car with a driver — this gives flexibility in the schedule and saves energy after an intense visit.
Important: booking entry passes to the Auschwitz‑Birkenau Museum must be done through the official reservation system — the Museum releases personalized entry passes within a specific reservation window, so don’t leave this to the last minute. Participant data (first and last names) are often required during booking and may be checked at the entrance, so carry identity documents.
Combining both places in one day means a busy schedule: visit Oświęcim in the morning and take a short but meaningful walk around Kraków upon return. If you prefer a calmer, longer stay in Kraków, consider splitting the trip across two days.
07:00 - pick‑up from your accommodation in Kraków (or meet at an agreed point). Drive to Oświęcim; travel time approx. 1–1.5 h.
08:30–09:30 - arrival at the Museum Visitor Service Centre, check‑in and brief introduction. Guided visit of Auschwitz I and Birkenau with an educator: about 3.5 hours.
13:30 - return to Kraków; break for lunch at one of the recommended restaurants (see recommendations below).
15:00–17:00 - a quick walk through the Old Town: Wawel (outside or a short visit to the Cathedral), Main Market Square, Cloth Hall; alternatively, a stroll through Kazimierz for those who prefer a more intimate atmosphere.
Evening - dinner at a recommended restaurant and overnight in your chosen hotel/apartment. For visitors who need downtime after an emotional day, I suggest a quieter evening programme and a comfortable place to stay.
Private transfer (car or minivan) - the most comfortable option: pick‑up and drop‑off without coordinating timetables, flexible departure and rest times; for small groups it is often cost‑effective when costs are shared.
Train and public transport - a cheaper option: trains from Kraków to Oświęcim usually take about 1 h 15 min to 1 h 40 min depending on the connection. Oświęcim station is roughly 1.5–2 km from the Museum, and in season there is special transport between the station and the entrance. Check timetables before choosing this option as they may not fit your planned visiting time.
Private car - gives independence, but note limited parking space near the Museum and the Museum’s luggage rules (there is luggage storage at the Visitor Service Centre). If you drive, leave large suitcases at your Kraków hotel and take a small backpack to the Museum (there are limits on bag sizes).
Entry to the Museum requires a personalized entry pass reserved through the official system. The Museum asks visitors to book in advance — availability is limited and many time slots sell out quickly.
Organised groups and bookings with a guide-educator have specific rules: you provide participant details when booking; entry passes are personalized and identity documents may be checked at entry. The Museum is not responsible for reservations made outside the official system — beware of intermediaries offering “guaranteed” tickets if they cannot present confirmation from the official service.
Baggage restrictions: maximum dimensions for bags/backpacks brought into the Museum are usually around 35x25x15 cm — larger luggage must be left in the car or stored in the Visitor Service Centre.
Best neighbourhoods for small groups: Old Town (central) — if you want to be close to attractions and take short walks; Kazimierz — more intimate, with excellent dining and cafés; Stradom / Kleparz — a compromise: near the centre but less crowded; Podgórze — an interesting, quieter part of the city with local character.
Types of accommodation for groups of 2–6: apartments/aparthotels (many offer 3–4‑person units or options up to 6) — best when you want shared space; boutique hotels — comfort and service; small hotels and guesthouses — good value for money.
Examples of well‑rated places (different price ranges): PURO Kraków Kazimierz — comfortable and modern, great location near Kazimierz; K4 Aparthotel — apartments suitable for groups (up to 6 people), practical and often well reviewed by groups; Hotel Stary and Hotel Copernicus — higher end, central locations and comfortable service; Cracowdays/apartments near Kleparz — good for short stays and groups seeking independence.
For traditional Polish cuisine in a refined setting: Pod Aniołami (old cellars, classic dishes), Pod Różą or Szara Gęś on the Market Square — solid menus and good reviews.
For a more relaxed atmosphere and the Kazimierz vibe: Starka (tradition, homey flavours), Zazie (French bistro) or local bistro Filip 18. If you’re after a fine‑dining experience, Kraków has Michelin‑listed and highly recommended restaurants.
Practical tip: after visiting Oświęcim it’s a good idea to start with something light (soup, salad) and save a bigger dinner for the evening. Book a table in advance, especially on weekends or in restaurants on the Market Square or in Kazimierz.
Not booking the Museum entry pass in advance — this can mean long waits or no access. Book through the official system well ahead of your visit.
Travelling to the Museum with large suitcases — baggage restrictions can prevent entry; leave bigger bags at the hotel or in the car.
Trying to cram too many attractions into one day — remember that Oświęcim is a demanding, emotional experience. Plan time for reflection and rest rather than racing through ‘to‑do’ items.
Trusting unverified intermediaries offering last‑minute tickets — this can lead to stress and extra costs. Use official reservation channels or trusted transport services.
Admission to the Memorial site is formally free, but access to the exhibitions requires a generated entry pass — so “free” does not mean “no reservation needed”.
The Museum provides transport between Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II‑Birkenau for tour participants — this helps when moving between the physically separated parts of the site.
In the high season (April–October) special bus connections and local transport operate between Oświęcim train station and the Museum entrance, which makes it easier if you travel by train.
Can children go to Auschwitz? - Yes, but the decision should be considered carefully. Visiting the Memorial is a powerful historical and emotional experience; prepare younger visitors for what they will see.
Do I have to have a guide? - Touring with an educator‑guide greatly deepens understanding. The Museum provides official guided services; if guides in your language are unavailable, you can join a guided group in another language when offered. Keep in mind guide reservations may be limited.
What if entry passes are sold out? - Check the official reservation system for other hours or dates; if possible, move your visit to another day. Avoid expensive last‑minute offers from unverified sellers.
Pack a light backpack for the visit, bring identity documents for each participant, wear comfortable shoes and dress respectfully for the Memorial. Plan breaks for rest and drinks — it’s an intense day.
If you’d like, I can prepare a personalised plan for your group (pickup time, transport, Museum reservations and restaurant recommendations). Please feel free to ask — I’m happy to help tailor the day to your group’s needs and sensitivity.
If you’d like to use the private guiding services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz, I invite you to contact the zwiedzaniekrakowa.com site for details and booking. I will prepare a route adapted to your expectations and the emotional nature of the visit.
