Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Visit with AT Cracow in Poland
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical demands; mostly walking on flat, paved surfaces
Overview
Step into history with AT Cracow’s guided Auschwitz-Birkenau visit. This ticketed tour in Oświęcim reveals stark realities of the past while honoring those who endured the atrocities of the largest WWII concentration camp.
Auschwitz-Birkenau Italian Guide (Ticket Only)
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About This Adventure
Experience a profound journey through history at the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial complex. This 3.5-hour guided tour offers a chance to pay respects to the victims of Nazi atrocities while exploring the largest concentration camp in Europe. Discover poignant stories, photographs, and relics that emphasize the importance of humanity and remembrance.
Visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial complex
Duration
3.5 hours
Highlights
• Chance to pay respect to the victims of Nazi crimes • Informative 3h tour in the Auschwitz & Birkenau • Travel by comfortable air-conditioned vehicle • Professional licensed museum guide
About
The Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial complex holds a special place in Poland’s history. Marked by the Nazi regime, which spread terror throughout Europe, this sombre site invokes the need to preserve humanity in the world. Visitors of the site can go through photographs, letters, and documents, and even learn stories about the victims who lived in the Auschwitz-Birkenau site, which was the largest concentration camp in Europe.
Housed in the complex are a museum, three concentration camps, and several other relics from the World War period. It is believed that nearly 1.3 million prisoners were held captive in this camp, out of which 1.1 million people lost their lives in the camp. Some fell prey to sickness while others ended up becoming lab rats for clinical tests and research and many others were gassed to death. To visit the place is not just to learn about the terrifying past of the site, but also to remember the importance of humanity, the extent of horrors faced by the people in the camp and to pay your respects to the victims who could not survive the camp.
Tour with a professional guide: The guide will provide you with information about the different parts of the complex along with the history and stories of the place.
Important information
• Please note that the maximum size of bags and backpacks allowed on the museum grounds is 30 x 20 x 10 centimeters (roughly 12 x 8 x 4 inches). You can always leave your belongings inside the vehicle, or in the luggage store in Auschwitz. • A discount ticket is only with a valid student ID or for children 3-12 years old on the day of the tour. Please ensure to take a student ID card with you, otherwise, you will need to pay an extra fee for an adult ticket • Operates in all weather conditions, but remember that it is a memorial site, please dress appropriate.
Adventure Tips
Respectful Attire Required
Dress modestly and comfortably; proper attire is essential to honor the solemnity of the site.
Allow Enough Time
Schedule at least 3.5 hours for the guided tour to fully engage with the exhibits and grounds.
No Food or Drinks on Site
Consuming food or beverages within the memorial grounds is prohibited to maintain respect.
Photography Restrictions
Be mindful of signage; some areas restrict photography to preserve dignity and security.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Birds such as common buzzards circling overhead
- Occasional sightings of roe deer in surrounding fields
History
Auschwitz-Birkenau was operational from 1940 to 1945 and stands as a critical site of Holocaust remembrance in Europe.
Conservation
Efforts focus on preserving both the physical integrity of the camp and fostering education to prevent future atrocities.
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Adventure Hotspots in Kraków
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
The tour involves several hours on foot across paved and gravel areas.
Weather-appropriate layered clothing
Weather can shift throughout the day; layers ensure comfort during the tour.
spring|fall|winter specific
Water bottle
Hydration is important, especially during warmer months when water is not available inside the site.
summer specific
Notebook and pen
Useful for jotting down reflections or details during the emotionally powerful visit.