Yes — it is possible to combine Wawel and Oświęcim (the Auschwitz‑Birkenau Memorial) in one day, but it requires a good plan, advance reservations and comfortable transport. For VIP and business guests the priorities are: punctuality, quiet and respect for the character of both places, and minimizing stress related to logistics. This article explains how to do it calmly, with dignity and without rushing.
Short version: plan Wawel in the morning (2–3 hours), then transfer to Oświęcim (about 1–1.5 hours by car), a guided visit to Auschwitz (typically 3.5 hours for a fuller experience), a lunch break and return to Krakow. This is a framework to adapt depending on opening hours and group preferences. The next sections contain a detailed timetable, logistical tips and practical advice.
06:45–07:30 - Pickup from the hotel in a comfortable car or small minivan. I recommend an early start to avoid Krakow rush hour and to allow buffer time for unforeseen events.
08:00–10:30 - Wawel visit: around 2–2.5 hours allows a relaxed viewing of the main exhibitions and the cathedral. For VIPs it's worth booking tickets in advance and considering a short introduction by the guide in the courtyard before entering the interiors.
10:30–12:00 - Transfer to Oświęcim. The route is usually about 60–75 km and takes roughly 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic. A comfortable transfer gives time for a brief conversation and rest before the part of the visit that requires reflection.
12:00–12:30 - Arrival at the Museum Service Centre, check‑in, collecting stickers and preparing the group. The museum asks visitors to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled tour due to security checks.
12:30–16:00 - Visit to the Auschwitz‑Birkenau Memorial with a certified educator/guide: the standard route takes about 3.5 hours (Auschwitz I + Birkenau). The duration can be adjusted — there are also shorter and longer study programmes.
16:00–17:00 - Quiet lunch break or light refreshment (options adapted to the nature of the place — generally calm, without loud toasts).
17:00–18:30 - Return to Krakow; optionally a short scenic stop or a discreet on‑the‑spot summary of the day.
Note: This is a comfortable proposal. For very time‑pressed guests you may shorten the Wawel visit (1.5–2 hours) or change the order of visits (e.g., Oświęcim first, then Wawel), but any change requires careful coordination of opening hours and reservations.
Travel: the distance Krakow–Oświęcim is roughly 66–70 km depending on the route; by car the trip usually takes from 1 hour to 1.5 hours. Add a time buffer for traffic and short stops, especially for business transfers.
Wawel visit time: plan 2–3 hours to see the representative chambers, the cathedral and the main exhibitions without rushing.
Auschwitz visit time: a complete guided tour of both parts (Auschwitz I and Birkenau) typically lasts about 3.5 hours. The Museum also offers shorter and longer programs; groups usually require a guide reservation.
Reservations: at Auschwitz you must reserve entry times and the type of visit (3.5h, 2.5h or special study programs) in advance. Wawel also has limited entries and varying opening hours, so buy tickets or reserve in advance to avoid queues and daily limits.
Parking and luggage: Auschwitz has restrictions on the size of baggage allowed on site; larger bags are better left in the vehicle. For VIPs a transfer with a driver who handles luggage and parking is recommended.
Auschwitz: very important — the date and the type of visit should be reserved well in advance. Groups usually require a certified educator/guide. For VIP planning, arrange these formalities several days or even weeks ahead to secure availability.
Wawel: due to entry limits and varying exhibition hours, buy tickets ahead of time and decide the route (which exhibitions, cathedral, crypts, etc.). For business guests I can help tailor the route to see the most important sites within the optimal time.
Transfer and vehicle: book a comfortable car (limousine or minivan) with a driver familiar with the route. This saves time and allows for short stops for coffee or restroom breaks without risking delays. For groups of several people a minibus is more convenient.
Insurance and permits: if you plan non‑standard hours (early entry, visits outside normal times) check availability and whether special permits are required — this applies particularly to VIP visits outside regular tours.
Practical note: confirm all reservations 7–3 days before arrival; this leaves room for adjustments and route corrections if needed.
The Auschwitz‑Birkenau Memorial is a site of special historical and symbolic significance. A visit should take place in an atmosphere of respect and solemnity — this is the basic rule to remind guests before entering.
Some practical rules: observe silence; dress appropriately for the nature of the place; avoid loud conversations, jokes or toasts on museum grounds; follow the guide's instructions; comply with the museum rules regarding photography and luggage storage.
For VIPs a short, polite introduction before entry (a few words about the purpose of the visit and a request for a moment of reflection) is a good idea — it helps set the tone and unifies the group in a respectful attitude.
Wawel is also a historic and representative site — it is appropriate there to behave moderately (for example, avoid loud conversations in the cathedral or interior rooms).
Keep in mind that courtesy and elegance in behaviour are as important as comfortable transport or good food.
Documents and tickets: carry name reservations, an identity document and the participant list. Auschwitz may require identity checks on entry.
Clothing: neat, comfortable and suitable for the place. At Auschwitz avoid loud or flashy shirts; footwear should be comfortable — the route includes outdoor walking and historic terrain. At Wawel dress smartly but comfortably, especially if you plan photos in the courtyard.
Baggage: keep bags small — Auschwitz enforces size limits. Large bags are best left in the car. For a single‑day trip a small bag with documents, water and light snacks is sufficient.
Electronics: phone for contact and a powerbank. Show respect — limit phone use in parts of the Auschwitz exhibition. If you plan brief recordings or photos, make sure they do not disturb the visit.
Also bring small items like tissues, basic painkillers and comfortable sunglasses for outdoor sections.
Private transfer with an experienced driver — the key to punctuality and comfort. A discreet driver can handle luggage, parking and swift movement between points.
Private certified educator/guide at Auschwitz — the museum requires a guide for groups, so book a certified educator who will lead the visit respectfully and knowledgeably.
Personalized schedule and light catering — for business guests a modest lunch box or a quiet private closing of the day works well (avoid large celebrations).
Additional services: interpreter if the group doesn't speak Polish; a short briefing note with key points of the visit for guests; temporary storage for conference materials or suitcases if needed.
In short: VIP service is not only a comfortable car — it is attention to pace, privacy and the intimacy of the experience.
1. Reserve the visit time at the Auschwitz‑Birkenau Memorial and book a certified educator/guide.
2. Buy or reserve Wawel tickets and define the route (which exhibitions, cathedral, crypts).
3. Book comfortable transfer from Krakow to Oświęcim and back (car or minivan, driver familiar with the route).
4. Confirm the number of participants and any special requirements (diet, accessibility, mobility restrictions).
5. Inform guests about Auschwitz etiquette (appropriate dress, silence, arrival 30 minutes early).
6. Prepare small supplies of water and elegant, discreet snacks for the break after the visit.
7. Confirm all reservations 7–3 days before the planned date.
If you wish, I can help check availability and prepare a detailed plan tailored to your arrival times and meetings — contact me via the zwiedzaniekrakowa.com website.
This is a special and demanding day: it combines the beauty and history of Wawel with the memory and solemnity of Auschwitz. For VIP and business guests the most important thing is that everything runs smoothly, with respect and without surprises. With proper organization this day will leave lasting, valuable impressions — both intellectual and emotional.
If you wish, I will help plan the route step by step, reserve the appropriate types of visits and manage logistics so that you and your guests can focus on what matters most. I invite you to contact me — I offer experience and a calm approach to every stage of the visit. Warm regards, Małgorzata Kasprowicz (Margaret Kasprowicz).
I wish you a peaceful journey and a rewarding day full of meaningful experiences. The itinerary I propose balances comfort and respect — an ideal combination for a VIP visit to Krakow and Oświęcim.
How long should I allow for the whole day? Expect the full program (Wawel + transfer + Auschwitz + lunch + return) to take a full day (roughly 8–12 hours depending on schedule and travel times).
Are there places to eat nearby? For a quiet business lunch in Krakow consider historic options like Wierzynek or Pod Aniołami; for lighter, tranquil cafés try Café Camelot or Mleczarnia in Kazimierz. Near the Auschwitz Memorial there are modest catering options and designated quiet areas — plan a subdued meal out of respect for the site.
Is the visit suitable for people with reduced mobility? Some parts of both sites have limited accessibility. Inform me or the venues in advance about mobility needs so we can arrange a suitable route, transport and assistance.
Can we take photos? Photography rules vary: inside some parts of the museums photography is restricted or forbidden. At Auschwitz, follow the museum regulations and the guide's instructions — avoid filming that would disturb others. At Wawel some exhibitions allow photography while others do not.
What about language? If your group does not speak Polish, book a guide or interpreter in the required language. I can arrange or recommend language support tailored to your group.
What should I tell guests beforehand? Advise them on respectful dress and behaviour, to bring ID and tickets, and to expect a reflective atmosphere at Auschwitz. Recommend comfortable shoes for walking and a small powerbank for phones.
If you want help building a bespoke plan for your group's arrival times and meeting schedule, I can prepare a detailed timetable and handle bookings — write via zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
