Quick answer: Book on the official site, visit.auschwitz.org, up to 3 months ahead; tickets are sold online only. A guided tour with a Memorial educator costs about 150 PLN in English and lasts about 3.5 hours. Free unguided entry is limited to certain time slots. From Kraków, it’s about 1.5 hours by bus or car.
The Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum preserves the largest Nazi German concentration and extermination camp, where more than a million people, most of them Jews, were murdered. A visit is deeply moving and is best approached with time and care.
Ticket options
| Option | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Guided tour (educator) | ~150 PLN (English) | About 3.5 hours; recommended |
| Individual entry | Free entry card | Limited slots, often early or late; sell out |
| Tour from Kraków | Varies | Includes transport and the official guided tour |
Book at visit.auschwitz.org. Bring the passport or ID used for booking.
Find tours & tickets in KrakowGetting there from Kraków
- Bus: from the bus station next to Kraków Główny, about 1h30–1h45, roughly 15 PLN each way.
- Train: to Oświęcim, then a short bus or 20-minute walk.
- Car: about 1h15; paid parking on site.
- Organised tour: the easiest option, with hotel pickup.
What to expect
- The visit covers Auschwitz I (exhibitions in the brick blocks) and Auschwitz II-Birkenau (3 km away, linked by a free shuttle).
- Large bags aren’t allowed; there’s a size limit of about 30 × 20 × 10 cm.
- Dress respectfully and for the weather: much of Birkenau is outdoors.
- Photography is allowed in most areas but not in a few marked rooms.
FAQ: visiting Auschwitz
How far in advance should I book Auschwitz?
As early as possible, ideally several weeks ahead, especially in summer.
Is Auschwitz suitable for children?
The Memorial does not recommend visits for children under 14.
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