How to book and get to Auschwitz

Booking tickets

Many social media posts seem to be highlighting that pre-booked trips to Auschwitz are being cancelled at the last minute leaving visitors extremely disappointed. It is however very easy to book and arrange your own visit to both camps prior to your holiday to avoid being in this position.

Firstly, be aware that the Polish name for Auschwitz is Oświęcim. Also, if you are arranging your own visit, you must 100% make sure you do this well in advance, as tickets for the tours for individuals in English book out very quickly. The museum releases these tickets 90 days (3 months) in advance. Your tour must be booked online using this link to the museum. You will be given a calendar, choice of time slots and languages. Pick what suits and pay online. Please note, you cannot show up at the museum and get a ticket on the gate.

There are also slots for visitors to enter the Auschwitz/Birkenau sites for free and without a guide. Be aware that in busy months this is only after 5pm, and in winter months in the late afternoon. You will be permitted 90 minutes to visit the camps as part of these free slots. They show up on the booking site without a language and a vertical bar as shown below.

Getting there

Next, you need to arrange your transport. You can choose to travel either by train, bus or minibus. If going by train, it is best to choose the express one. Be aware, from the train station you will need to then transfer yourself by bus, taxi or walk to the museum itself. If travelling by coach, most of the minibuses/buses will drop you off right at the museum entrance.

To arrange and prepay your public transport - use this link. You can also download Jakojade Krakow app to your phone. Alternatively, this link - Rail & bus tickets, Timetables » e-podroznik.pl - it is invaluable in helping you plan and pay for public transport by bus or train. This can also be downloaded as an app.