A visit to the Auschwitz‑Birkenau Memorial is for many visitors an essential and important part of their stay in Krakow. It is an intense, emotional historical experience — so a well‑planned day helps you give it the attention it deserves and ensures comfort when you return to the city.
In this text you will find practical information about timing and logistics of the trip, the rules that apply on the museum grounds and friendly, concrete food recommendations around the Planty — ideal places for a meal after a difficult, reflective morning.
Note: this article is written for visitors to Krakow — it is meant as a guide to help you plan a meaningful visit and a calm return to everyday city life after your time at the memorial.
An organized trip from Krakow to Auschwitz usually takes most of the morning and part of the afternoon — roughly 6–7 hours in total. In practice: the one‑way drive is about 1–1.5 hours, visiting the museum area (Auschwitz I) takes about 2 hours, and Birkenau usually takes around 1–1.5 hours.
There is often a short break between the two parts (Auschwitz I and Birkenau) — typically 15–20 minutes — during which you can rest briefly, use the restroom or eat a prepared snack (eating inside the exhibition areas is prohibited).
The whole day allows time for reflection and a return to Krakow in the early afternoon, which still leaves time for a stroll through the Old Town or a calm lunch by the Planty.
Travel from central Krakow to Oświęcim takes about 60–90 minutes depending on traffic. If you go independently by train or bus, check schedules in advance; many visitors also choose transfers or private transport with hotel pickup, which saves time and simplifies logistics.
Many organized trips include pickup in the city center and return to a specified address — this is a convenient solution, especially if you want to reduce the number of transfers on the day of your visit.
Keep in mind that movement through the museum is regulated and groups have set visiting schedules. If you plan to travel independently, check entrance availability and any ticket reservation requirements ahead of time.
Auschwitz‑Birkenau is a place of remembrance — maintaining solemnity and respect is required. During the visit you should not eat or engage in loud behaviour.
Photography is allowed only for private use, but in selected areas photographing is forbidden — staff or your guide will inform you about restrictions.
There are limits on luggage size on museum grounds — small bags are accepted, while larger items may need to be left in storage or in your vehicle. Keep this in mind when planning your day.
Wear comfortable shoes — visiting involves walking and standing. Weather can be changeable, so bring a light jacket or raincoat, especially if you plan to visit Birkenau, where much of the visit is outdoors.
Bring water — you can drink during breaks, but remember that food and drinks are not allowed within the exhibition areas. Pocket tissues and a small personal first aid kit can be useful.
Clothing does not need to be formal, but avoid overly flashy outfits — this is a day for reflection. If you have mobility limitations, check accessibility information and possible assistance in advance.
The Planty are a green park belt surrounding the Old Town — after returning from Oświęcim a walk along the Planty can help you unwind and take a breath before a meal. Along and near the Planty you will find a wide choice of places: from cosy cafés and bakeries to restaurants serving international and local dishes.
If you want a quick, light bite or coffee: the city centre has many cafés and bakeries offering fresh pastries, toasts and soups. This is a good option when you have limited time or want to rest first.
For plant‑based eaters, Krakow has a strong vegetarian and vegan scene — there are venues right by the Planty with satisfying plant‑based options, perfect after an emotionally heavy morning.
If you prefer something more traditional or family‑style — nearby restaurants serve hearty Polish lunches and there are spots with outdoor seating that are pleasant on warmer days.
Popular nearby choices include well‑known cafés and bakeries such as Café Camelot, Café Noworolski (in the Cloth Hall area) and Charlotte (a French‑style bakery on Plac Szczepański). For vegetarian and vegan options look for local names like Głodnojad or other Old Town plant‑based bistros. For a traditional feel, some restaurants around the Main Market and along Kanonicza Street offer classic Polish dishes.
Cafés to start calmly after your return - if you want to sit and collect your thoughts first, choose a café with comfortable seating and quick service. Fresh coffee, a slice of cake or a light lunch will work well.
Vegetarian and vegan places - Krakow’s plant‑based offerings are well developed; venues near the Planty offer hearty, healthy dishes that will restore energy after an intense morning.
Restaurants with outdoor seating - in spring and summer a meal in a garden or terrace is a pleasant end to the day. Reserve a table at weekends or in the afternoon if securing a spot matters to you.
Budget options - milk bars, small bistros and food stalls around the Main Market are a way to get a cheap and quick lunch. They are useful if you prefer not to spend a long time dining.
For families - if you travel with children, pick places with child‑friendly menus and more space.
Quick lunch before more sightseeing: choose a café by the Planty for the soup of the day and a sandwich. It’s the simplest way to avoid overloading yourself after an emotional morning.
A relaxed dinner with friends: book a table at a restaurant with a garden or a cosy dining room — order local dishes or international options and give yourself time for conversation.
Vegetarian/vegan option: pick a place with a wide plant‑based menu — a healthy, light choice after a day of strong impressions.
Dessert and coffee to finish: if you want to end on a sweet note, look for pâtisseries or cafés offering artisan cakes and good coffee.
The Planty encircle the Old Town — they are an excellent route for a stroll after your return. Walking the paths will help you cool down and gradually return to the city rhythm.
Near the Planty you will find many attractions: Wawel Castle, the Main Market Square and numerous atmospheric side streets with cafés. If you feel like more culture, consider a short stop at the Botanical Garden or a quick visit to a nearby exhibition.
If you are tired — choose a quiet place for lunch and skip intensive afternoon plans. Sometimes the best plan after such a day is rest and reflection.
How long does a trip to Auschwitz from Krakow take? - Usually a half to full day: around 6–7 hours including travel, visiting and a short rest break.
Can you eat on museum grounds? - No, eating inside the exhibition areas is prohibited; snacks are normally eaten during breaks between parts of the route.
Do I need to reserve tickets in advance? - During the high season and for group entries reservation is recommended. If you go independently, check entrance availability ahead of time.
Are places near the Planty expensive? - Around the Planty you can find both budget options and pricier restaurants. Choice depends on preference; reserve a table if you have a specific place in mind.
What if I need help organizing the trip? - I can help plan the route and logistics — feel free to ask questions and I will advise on the best option tailored to your needs.
A visit to Auschwitz is an important and demanding experience; with good planning you can devote it the proper attention and ensure a comfortable return to Krakow. A walk along the Planty and a carefully chosen meal are a great way to close such a day.
If you wish, I can help you plan the route and recommend places tailored to your preferences — from a quick lunch to a relaxed dinner in a cosy venue. I wish you a peaceful journey and a meaningful time at the memorial and in Krakow.
Best regards,
Małgorzata Kasprowicz - tour guide
