Auschwitz concentration camp
What are the most recommended things to do in Auschwitz concentration camp?
- Visit Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau museums and memorials
- Explore the preserved barracks, gas chambers, and watchtowers
- Reflect at the monuments and plaques honoring victims
- Learn history through exhibitions, photos, and personal stories
- Join guided tours for deeper context and historical insight
Introducing Auschwitz
Auschwitz-Birkenau (Polish: Obóz Koncentracyjny Auschwitz-Birkenau, German: Konzentrationslager Auschwitz, also known as Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration and Extermination Camp, also known as Auschwitz Concentration Camp, or Auschwitz Concentration Camp) was a labor and extermination camp established by Nazi Germany. Known as the "Death Factory," its ruins are located in the small town of Oświęcim in southern Poland, over 300 kilometers from the Polish capital, Warsaw, and 60 kilometers southwest of Kraków, Poland's second-largest city. Approximately 1.1 million people were murdered in the camp, the vast majority of them Jews.
On January 27, 1945, the Soviet Red Army liberated Poland. On July 2, 1947, the Polish Parliament passed legislation designating the site of the Auschwitz concentration camp as a memorial to its victims. In 1979, UNESCO inscribed it on the World Heritage List as a reminder to the world to "push for peace, not war." On January 24, 2005, the 59th UN General Assembly held a special session to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration camp in Auschwitz, Poland. In 2007, UNESCO designated the camp "Auschwitz-Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp (1940-1945)." In the 1960s, the Frankfurt Trials exposed the Nazi Holocaust crimes committed at Auschwitz during World War II. In November 2017, the archives of the Frankfurt Trials were inscribed on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register. On January 27, 2019, the Polish government commemorated the 74th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration camp in the southern town of Oświęcim.
Climate and best time to travel
Poland's climate lies somewhere between the continental climate of Eastern Europe and the maritime climate of Western Europe. The country's climate is primarily temperate, with broadleaf forests transitioning from maritime to continental. Generally, Poland enjoys a mild climate year-round, with neither severe winters nor extreme summers.
By region, eastern and southern Poland mostly have a continental climate with cold winters and hot, dry summers.
In Poland, the first green leaves of spring—the first buds and leaves—usually appear in early April. May to September is Poland's most beautiful season, characterized by warm and sunny weather. September is known as the beginning of "Polish Golden Autumn." By October and November, the leaves turn yellow, gold, and red before falling. Poland has an average of 300 cloudy days a year. Therefore, if broken down by weather conditions (such as temperature), Poland has six seasons: in addition to the four typical European seasons of spring, summer, autumn, and winter, there are also two seasons: "early spring" and "early winter."
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Chemical laboratories, gas chambers, crematoriums, etc.
Tickets
free
Attraction opening hours
All day
Most Popular FAQs for Auschwitz concentration camp
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Auschwitz was the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp during World War II. It serves as a memorial and museum documenting the Holocaust and honoring its victims.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
Located near Oświęcim, southern Poland. Accessible by car, bus, or train from Kraków; walking is required within the museum grounds.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
The museum is open daily, typically 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Early morning or weekdays are less crowded.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
Entrance is free, but guided tours require booking. Tickets for tours can be reserved online or at the ticket office.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking a few weeks ahead is ideal.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
At least 3–4 hours for Auschwitz I and 2–3 hours for Birkenau; a full day is recommended for comprehensive visits.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Auschwitz I: Block 4 (exhibits), Block 11 (prison cells)
- Birkenau: Gate, railway tracks, barracks, gas chambers ruins
- Memorials and monuments across both sites
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in English, Polish, German, and other major languages; audio guides are also offered.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
Photography is allowed in most areas, especially the Birkenau railway tracks, watchtowers, and memorial sites.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
Start at Auschwitz I for exhibitions, then proceed to Birkenau to view the camp remains and memorials.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
No night visits or light shows; special thematic tours are sometimes available during holidays.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Peak crowds are midday and summer; weekdays and early mornings are quieter.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Restrooms and drinking water points
- Small café and souvenir shop at the museum
- Visitor information desks
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Main pathways are wheelchair-accessible; some uneven outdoor areas may be challenging.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cards and mobile payments accepted at the museum shop and café; entrance is free.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
Café at the museum and local restaurants in Oświęcim town.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Limited vegetarian options available; halal options are rare locally.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
Hotels and guesthouses in Oświęcim and nearby towns.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Oświęcim Jewish heritage sites
- Plaszow Memorial near Kraków
- Wadowice (Pope John Paul II birthplace)
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
Souvenir shop offers books, postcards, and memorial items related to the Holocaust.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
Car, regional bus, or train to Kraków and surrounding towns.