Should you join an organized departure from Krakow or visit independently? When should you reserve entry passes? How long does the visit take? What to bring for a hot day? This article answers those and other practical questions, step by step, so you can calmly prepare for a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial.
I regularly guide visitors around Krakow and help plan trips to nearby attractions, so I gathered clear tips and a sample day plan here, especially for summer when interest is highest.
A small technical note: below you will find a concrete schedule, practical tips and rules worth remembering during your visit. The article is friendly and practical, and the language is simple — no unnecessary complication.
Admission to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial grounds is free, but an entry pass must be reserved. In practice this means you should check availability and book ahead, because in summer slots fill up quickly.
Groups are required to visit with an educator from the Museum. Individual visitors may reserve self-guided entry passes or join groups led by a museum educator. Due to high visitor numbers and security checks, arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled start time.
Plan a minimum of about 3.5 hours to calmly see the exhibitions and grounds of both parts of the Memorial (Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau). That is the absolute minimum — if you want to pause at exhibits and reflect, allocate more time.
In the summer season the Museum allows visits over a wider range of hours than off-season, but the last entry times still end in the evening. When planning your return to Krakow, allow extra time for travel and possible traffic.
Although entry to the Memorial is free, the personalized entry pass must be reserved online in advance. After an entry pass is issued you usually cannot change the personal data, so check the names entered before you finalize the reservation.
If you travel with a group, remember groups must use the services of a Museum educator. Individual visitors can join educator-led groups or reserve self-guided entry passes if they are available.
Security checks take place at the entrance, so arriving at least 30 minutes early is a good precaution against a stressful start to the visit.
Bring an identity document. Staff may ask to see it because passes are issued in the visitor’s name.
Keep in mind restrictions on backpack and bag sizes - larger luggage is better left at the hotel or on the bus.
Driving or taking a bus from Krakow to Oświęcim typically takes about 1.5–2 hours one way depending on traffic. For a day trip, an early morning departure is the best choice to avoid busy return times.
Sample comfortable day plan (departure from Krakow):
- 06:30 - depart your accommodation in Krakow, short break on the way if needed;
- 08:00 - arrival at the Museum, arrival formalities and security check; arriving 30 minutes earlier gives you time to find the entrance and relax;
- 08:30 - start of the Auschwitz I visit with a museum educator (approx. 2–2.5 hours);
- 11:00 - walk or short transfer to Auschwitz II-Birkenau and visit the camp grounds (approx. 1–1.5 hours);
- 12:30 - end of the visit, time to exit calmly, take a short break and possibly buy books at the museum shop;
- 13:30 - depart back to Krakow; return around 15:30–16:30 depending on road conditions.
If you want to combine Auschwitz with another attraction (for example the Wieliczka Salt Mine), remember it will be a very long day and you should consider staying overnight or splitting it into two days.
Light, comfortable clothing and good walking shoes are essential. Birkenau is very open and often windy, so even on a hot day a thin jacket or light fleece can be useful.
Bring water and small snacks, but remember the Memorial’s rules — eating directly next to the exhibitions is not appropriate. Plan meal breaks away from the exhibition areas or after you finish the visit.
Take an ID, your reservation confirmation (printed or electronic) and a small backpack that fits within the Museum’s size limits.
Use sunscreen and bring a hat on hot days, because time outdoors in Birkenau can be longer than you expect.
The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial is a site of exceptional character. Visitors are asked to act with solemnity and respect. Avoid loud conversations, running, jokes near exhibition objects and memorials.
Photography is allowed in many places, but be sensitive and respectful. Do not play music, stage entertainment-style photo shoots or use props.
Because of the nature of the site I do not recommend bringing very young children who cannot understand the historical context. If you come with teenagers, talk with them beforehand about what to expect.
On hot days remember to stay hydrated, but do not eat next to the exhibitions and memorial spots.
The Museum strives to provide accessibility for visitors with limited mobility. Some routes and buildings are adapted, but Birkenau’s natural surfaces can be more difficult to traverse. If you need special assistance, report it when you make your reservation.
There are toilets and an information point on site. In high season queues for entry and for the museum shop can be longer, so include extra time in your daily plan.
1. Book in advance - this is the most important rule. In summer passes disappear quickly and are not always available at the last minute.
2. Arrive earlier - 30 minutes before the start gives you a buffer for security checks and a calm entry to the Museum.
3. Plan breaks - the visit is emotionally demanding, allow time to reflect and rest after leaving the exhibitions.
4. Check baggage limits and dress rules. Leave large bags at the hotel or on your bus.
5. If you are short on time, choose a guided visit in a shortened format and consult the organizer in advance, but remember some parts of the exhibitions require time.
6. After the visit - if you want, talk briefly with your guide or read additional materials that will help organize your knowledge and emotions.
A summer trip to Auschwitz‑Birkenau from Krakow is within easy reach, but requires good organization. Reserve entry passes in advance, plan an early departure and set aside at least 3.5–4 hours for the Memorial itself, and a full day for travel to and from Krakow.
This is an extraordinary place that should be visited thoughtfully and respectfully. If you’d like, I can help refine your day plan or advise on logistics from Krakow — tell me where you’re staying and whether you prefer private transport, bus or train, and I will tailor the plan to your needs.
I wish you a safe and reflective journey.
With warm regards,
Małgorzata Kasprowicz
