The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial is not an ordinary tourist attraction. It is a place of memory, hundreds of thousands of human stories and a space that requires respect. When we say "without crowds," we mean not merely photographic quiet but the possibility to concentrate, reflect and view the exhibits without pushing through groups.
A well-planned visit gives you the chance for a calm walk, to stop at places that matter to you and — if you do it sensitively — to take photos that capture the mood of the place rather than sensationalize cruelty. In practice this means reserving an entry pass, choosing the right time of day and following the rules in force on the museum grounds.
Entrance: because of the large number of visitors, entry passes for self-guided visitors must be reserved online in advance. Without a reserved pass you may have problems entering, especially in high season.
Hours: the museum has seasonally varying opening hours. Some months have very early first entry times, other months have the last entry in the late afternoon. After the last allowed start time you may remain on site for a limited period (usually about 90 minutes), so if you plan to be here for the golden hour, check the exact hours for your visit date.
Baggage and security: there are limits on the size of bags and luggage. Larger items can be left in storage if needed. Silence and restrained behaviour are required on the grounds.
Photography: private photography is permitted in most outdoor and publicly open areas, but without flash and without tripods. Some interiors are off-limits for photography (for example the victims' hair room and certain basements). Photograph respectfully — avoid posing and selfies at exhibits connected to victims.
Drones and commercial shoots: require special permissions from the Museum Director.
Early mornings: the first entries of the day are usually the least crowded. If quiet and reflection are important to you, consider the earliest available slot. This is also a good time for photos without many people in the frame.
Late afternoons and the golden hour: if you want sunset photos, plan your visit so your entry allows you to remain on the site until sunset. In summer months the museum often allows visitors to stay after the last permitted start time, but check the exact hours for your chosen date. Remember that in peak season even late entries can be busy during long daylight hours.
Weekdays and season: visit on weekdays, outside public holidays and dates connected to commemorations at the camp. Outside the high season (late autumn, winter, early spring) visitor numbers are generally lower.
Avoid dates of anniversaries and official ceremonies, when parts of the site may be closed or used for events.
Birkenau (Auschwitz II) has wide fields, tracks and the silhouettes of barracks — these are places where the setting light often draws strong outlines and creates a melancholic mood. Wide open spaces allow landscape-style compositions with few people in the frame, especially if you visit shortly before closing.
Views of the railway track and the ramp can provide powerful, symbolic images. Take care that your photos are not sensational — aim for subtle, calm compositions that invite reflection.
The architecture of the main camp (Auschwitz I) in soft late-afternoon light can also be moving. Be cautious in indoor exhibition areas — photography is often forbidden there or simply inappropriate.
Avoid photographing human remains or personal items of victims in a dramatic or exploitative way. Do not pose for photos with exhibits related to victims. If you plan to publish images, consider whether the image needs context and whether it might hurt the memory of those who suffered.
Morning departure: leave Krakow early (approx. 1–1.5 hours by car, depending on traffic). Arrive for the first or second visiting slot — it will be quieter and you can return to Krakow in the evening.
Alternative – late afternoon and sunset: if you want the golden hour in Birkenau, choose a slot with a late start and confirm that opening hours allow you to stay until sunset. Check the sunset time for your chosen date and compare it with the museum's hours.
Visiting time: allow at least 3–4 hours for the whole complex, including walks between the sites and time for silence/reflection. Don't rush — this visit requires focus.
Booking: download a free entry pass online well in advance. If you plan organised transport or special forms of visiting, book those ahead too.
Clothing and kit: dress modestly and comfortably. Bring water, but remember the museum rules — keep a respectful silence.
Ask yourself: does this photo serve memory and education, or does it only shock? Photograph with empathy.
Do not take selfies with symbols of suffering and do not pose in front of exhibits related to victims. Such photos are hurtful and widely disapproved.
Do not disturb other visitors: setting up a tripod or conducting long sessions on paths can interfere with people who have come to pray or remember.
If you want to photograph people, ask for their permission. Avoid publishing images of identifiable people without consent, especially in emotional contexts.
Commercial shoots, drone use or professional sessions require the Director's permission. This is a formal process — plan well ahead.
For educational materials and publications, check rules for the use of archival photos and museum images — restrictions and attribution requirements often apply.
If your photo will be part of a larger historical project, consider contacting the museum to consult and obtain necessary permits.
Before you leave:
- Reserve your entry pass online.
- Check opening hours for your chosen day and compare them with sunset time.
- Plan transport (car, train, bus) and allow extra travel time.
During the visit:
- Keep silence and show respect.
- Photograph sparingly, without flash or tripod, and avoid posing at exhibits.
- Do not enter restricted areas and follow staff instructions.
- If the visit becomes emotionally overwhelming, give yourself a break — you don't have to see everything at once.
Come with the intention to understand, not just to "get a photo." The Memorial asks for reflection, not the collecting of dramatic images.
If photography matters to you, combine it with genuine time for contemplation — the best images often come when a look is calm and considered.
If you'd like advice about planning a trip from Krakow or want suggestions for timing and transport, I'm happy to help. Remember to leave the place as you found it: with respect.
Q: How far is Auschwitz from Krakow? A: It's about 1–1.5 hours by car depending on traffic; trains and buses are also available. Plan extra time for arrival and security checks.
Q: Do I need to pay to enter? A: Admission to the memorial grounds is free, but you must reserve an entry pass online. Guided tours and some special services have fees.
Q: Can I visit both Auschwitz I and Birkenau on the same day? A: Yes — most visitors see both parts in a single visit; allow several hours to move between sites and reflect.
Q: Is there food on site? A: There are basic facilities near the Visitor Centre; consider eating in Krakow before or after your visit if you want a wider choice of cafes or restaurants.
Extra tip: arrive at least 30 minutes before your booked start to allow time for security checks and to compose yourself before entering the historic area.
