Some places stay with you not because of the photos or souvenirs but because of the silence, the stories, and the weight of history. Auschwitz is one of those places.
This isn’t just a spot on a travel list. It’s not a place to check off. It’s a space that asks you to slow down, pay attention, and really see what happened.
Visiting for the first time can be powerful—but also emotional and overwhelming. So, if you’re preparing to go, here are some simple, thoughtful things to know before you do.
Do You Need a Guided Tour?
You can visit Auschwitz without a guide. But should you? Guided tours offer much more than just facts. They help you understand the timeline, the layout, and the human stories behind what you see. Without one, it’s easy to miss key details—or to walk through with more questions than answers.
That’s why most people choose to book Auschwitz tickets that come with a professional guide and round-trip transport. Some tours start from Kraków or other nearby cities and handle all the planning. This not only makes things easier, but it also allows you to focus on the experience, not the logistics.
And a guide doesn’t just share dates and numbers—it gives you the context to connect what you’re seeing with what really happened there. And that context matters.
When to Go: Timing Your Visit Wisely
There’s no “perfect” time to visit Auschwitz. But some seasons feel more fitting than others, depending on what kind of experience you’re hoping for.
Spring is peaceful. The trees begin to bloom, and the weather is just right for walking. Autumn offers crisp air, fewer crowds, and a calm, quiet that suits the mood of the place. Both seasons are comfortable and reflective.
Summer? It’s the most crowded. Tour buses roll in early, and entry times fill up fast. But if it’s the only time you can go, don’t let that stop you. Just book your spot well ahead and prepare for warmer weather.
Then there’s winter. Cold, still, and sometimes snowy. For many, the cold becomes part of the experience. The air is heavy, and so is the silence. It’s not the easiest time to walk through an outdoor museum—but it might be the most honest.
No matter the season, booking early is important. Entry passes are limited each day. Waiting until the last minute often means missing out.
What to Expect Emotionally and Practically
Emotionally, expect to feel something. Maybe sadness, shock, or stillness. Some visitors cry, and others go quiet. It’s different for everyone, and there’s no right way to react. The camp doesn’t try to ease the pain of what happened—it shows it plainly. That’s what makes the visit real.
Practically speaking, be ready for a long day. Most visits include both Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau. These are two separate sites connected by a short drive. Each has its own story and atmosphere.
You’ll do a lot of walking, often on gravel or uneven paths. There’s little shade or cover, so check the weather and dress for it. If rain is forecasted, pack a light poncho or umbrella. If it’s sunny, bring a hat and water.
Families with children should take extra care. While kids are allowed, parts of the site are deeply upsetting. Photos, videos, and personal items on display make the horrors of the past feel very real. Parents know best what their children can handle—so consider carefully before deciding.
Getting There: Transportation Options from Krakow (and Beyond)
The camp is in a small Polish town called Oświęcim, about 70 kilometers from Kraków. It’s not far, but getting there does take some planning.
Buses from Kraków run regularly. They’re affordable and take about 90 minutes each way. But during busy seasons, they fill up quickly, and return times can be hard to match with your tour.
Trains are another option. They stop in Oświęcim, but not directly at the museum. You’ll need a taxi or a 25-minute walk from the station. It’s manageable but not ideal for everyone—especially in bad weather.
That’s why many travelers choose full-service tours. These include everything—transport, timed entry, and a guide. You don’t have to figure out public transit or worry about missing your slot. It’s all taken care of, which makes the experience less stressful and more focused on what matters.
How to Prepare (What to Wear, What to Bring)
Dress for the day. That might sound obvious, but many visitors underestimate how long they’ll be outside. Wear good shoes. You’ll walk through gravel paths, dirt roads, and uneven ground. Flip-flops or dress shoes won’t work here.
Check the weather before you go and plan layers. In colder months, gloves and a scarf are a must. In the summer, breathable fabrics help keep you cool. Always carry a water bottle, and maybe a small snack to eat outside the camp area after your visit.
Large bags aren’t allowed, so bring only essentials. Tissues, a small notebook, or a light poncho can all come in handy. Photography is allowed in most places, but not everywhere—look for signs and always be respectful about when and where you take pictures.
Bringing Children: Yes or No?
This is one of the most asked—and most personal—questions. Children are permitted, but not all parts of the site are child-friendly. The emotional weight of the exhibits, especially those showing photos or rooms with personal items, can be too much for younger kids.
Teens who have studied this part of history may understand it better and benefit from the visit. For younger ones, the images and stories may be confusing or even frightening.
If you decide to bring your child, talk to them before the visit. Explain where you’re going and why it matters. Keep communication open during and after. Plus, if at any point it becomes too much, don’t hesitate to step out.
Closing Thoughts
Auschwitz is not a typical destination. It’s not light, or easy, or fun. But it matters. It teaches, warns, and reminds people how far things can go when hate is left unchecked. And it calls on each person to carry that memory forward—to share it, to learn from it, to do better.
So, if you’re planning your first visit, go prepared—not just with comfortable shoes, but with an open heart. It’s not a trip you’ll forget. And maybe it’s not one you should.