Auschwitz-Birkenau is one of the most important places of remembrance of the 20th century — visitors quickly realize that this is not an “attraction” in the usual sense: it requires preparation, time and the right attitude. The drive from Krakow to Oświęcim is relatively short, so many groups of friends choose this as a one-day trip. A well-planned visit allows you to combine touring with a moment of reflection and then — a relaxing walk in Krakow or a meal and conversation about what you have seen.
This article contains practical tips: how to get there, how much time to allow, what to remember when booking tickets, and how to avoid common mistakes made by group tours. At the end you’ll find a sample day plan and some recommended places to eat in Krakow after you return. For those who want to visit with more comfort, there’s also a short note about the possibility of a private guided visit with Małgorzata Kasprowicz.
Admission to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is free of charge, but a named entry card reservation is required — the number of slots is limited. The Museum offers different forms of visiting: self-guided entry (with a reserved card), group tours with a museum educator, as well as study or online options.
To calmly see the exhibitions and the site, plan at least 3–3.5 hours — the Museum recommends this as a minimum. The Museum is open almost all year, with some exceptions (including January 1, December 25 and Easter Sunday).
When planning, remember the rules of respectful behavior at the Memorial, appropriate clothing and restrictions on luggage size — typically bags and backpacks up to about 35 x 25 x 15 cm are allowed; larger luggage must be left in a car or in group transport.
By car - the road distance between Krakow and Oświęcim is about 65–70 km; depending on route and traffic the drive usually takes around 1–1.5 hours. This is the most convenient option for groups who value flexibility (ability to leave things in the trunk, depart on your own schedule).
By train - there are direct train connections from Krakow to Oświęcim; travel time depends on the specific service and any transfers, often around 1.5–1.8 hours. Oświęcim railway station lies at a reasonable distance from the Memorial — it’s a walk of some minutes or a short local bus/taxi ride.
By bus / long-distance connections - there are also buses and minibuses, and in season you can find direct services from Krakow to Oświęcim. Check timetables and buy tickets in advance — on weekends and in high season seats fill up fast.
Book your entry ahead of time — even though admission is free, the number of entry cards is limited and you must have them printed or available on a mobile device. If you’re going with a group of friends and want to stay together, consider booking a visit with a museum educator — this gives structure to the visit and ensures the group sees key places. Organized groups are required to use a museum guide-educator.
When booking check the available tour types (shorter and longer routes, study options). The Museum often asks visitors to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time due to security checks and entry procedures.
Remember the luggage restrictions and that some buildings may be temporarily closed for conservation or official visits. If in doubt, check the Museum’s current rules before you travel.
Agree on the tone of the trip beforehand — a visit to the Memorial requires silence and respect; it’s worth talking within the group about expectations before entering so no one lacks sensitivity toward the site or other visitors.
Share tasks: one person can handle bookings and tickets, another the travel logistics, a third can take care of emergency contacts and maps. This lets the rest of the group focus on the visit and the conversations that follow.
Avoid making mocking photos or inappropriate shots on site — in memorial places selfies can be seen as disrespectful. Documentary photos are allowed in many areas, but think before photographing whether it’s the right moment.
6:30–8:00 - Depart from Krakow (by car) or get to the station/bus terminal early to catch a morning connection. Leaving early helps you have more time on site and avoid the largest crowds.
9:30–13:30 - Visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial (reserve about 2.5–3.5 hours, including the walk between Auschwitz I and Birkenau). After exiting, take a moment of silence and, if you want, walk calmly to central Oświęcim for something to eat.
14:30–16:30 - Return to Krakow. In the evening: a light meal at one of the recommended restaurants and a conversation about what you saw.
After a day of intense impressions it’s good to pick a place with a pleasant atmosphere and reliable food. In central Krakow well-regarded options include restaurants serving Polish and European cuisine — think of traditional places offering regional dishes and cozy cafés where you can sit and talk. Historic and highly rated venues around the Main Market Square and in Kazimierz are solid choices.
Examples to consider: Wierzynek (historic fine-dining near the Main Market), Pod Aniołami (traditional Polish dishes in atmospheric cellars), Starka (homemade-style Polish food in Kazimierz), Cafe Camelot (cozy café in the Old Town) and Charlotte (bakery-style bistro ideal for relaxed conversations). Check opening hours and consider a reservation for dinner, especially for larger groups.
Not everyone knows that the Memorial site is under constant conservation and occasionally individual objects are closed to visitors — this is normal and part of caring for the heritage, not a problem per se.
Plan a short moment after the visit to reach the nearest café or park — talking and calming down after the visit helps process the experience. For some people that pause is as important as the visit itself.
If you plan to visit on a hot day, remember that parts of the exhibition and walks (especially Birkenau) are outdoors — bring water, a hat and comfortable shoes.
Not reserving an entry card in advance — this is the most common problem. Even free cards disappear quickly for popular dates; reserve early.
Underestimating time — the visit often takes longer than people expect. Plan at least half a day for travel, visiting and return.
Loud behaviour or lack of sensitivity when taking photos — before taking a photo think whether it’s an appropriate moment. Make sure you do not disturb the peace of the site or other visitors.
Do you have to pay to enter? Admission to the Memorial is free, but a named entry card reservation is required.
Is it worth going with a guide? Visiting with a museum educator provides structure and context — many groups find that it helps them understand the exhibitions and the history better. Organized groups must use a guide.
How much time should I allow for the visit? Minimum 3–3.5 hours if you want to see both parts of the camp (Auschwitz I and Birkenau).
Can I bring a large backpack? Larger luggage is not allowed in the exhibition area — check the size limits and prepare a smaller bag.
A trip to Oświęcim from Krakow is demanding, often moving, but very important. Plan time and logistics in advance, talk with your group about expectations and support each other during and after the visit. After touring, find a quiet place to talk and share a meal — this helps put the experience into context.
If you prefer greater comfort and a carefully prepared visit, guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz offers private tours tailored to the pace and needs of the group. If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or on social media — it will help others plan their trip better.
