Warsaw: Auschwitz-Birkenau and Krakow Tour by Car

Warsaw: Auschwitz-Birkenau and Krakow Tour by Car
Location: Silesian Voivodeship, Poland
Country: Poland
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 based on 70 reviews
Price: $267 per person
Duration: Approximately 17 hours, with flexible start times
Supplier: AB Everest Travel

Many travelers seeking a profound understanding of Poland’s past and culture find this private day trip to be an excellent option. It covers two major sites—Auschwitz-Birkenau and Krakow—in one long, but rewarding, 17-hour journey. Starting early from Warsaw, you’ll spend the day learning about the horrors of the Holocaust and then wandering through one of Europe’s most beautiful medieval cities.

What we love most about this experience is how well-organized it is—your driver takes care of logistics, so you can focus on absorbing history and enjoying your time in Krakow’s historic core. The guides at Auschwitz-Birkenau are knowledgeable, and the personalized transport means you avoid the hassle of public transportation or group buses. Plus, the three hours of free time in Krakow gives you a taste of its vibrant atmosphere—perfect for a quick exploration or a relaxed meal.

One thing to keep in mind: it’s a long day, and the itinerary involves considerable driving and walking, which might be tiring for some. Also, since the tour involves visiting sensitive sites, it’s best suited for travelers prepared for a sobering, educational experience. If you’re interested in history, especially WWII, and enjoy combining guided tours with free time, this trip will suit you well.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines Auschwitz-Birkenau and Krakow in one day, ideal for time-limited travelers.
• Expert Guides & Drivers: Knowledgeable guides at Auschwitz and friendly, helpful drivers enhance the experience.
• Flexible Schedule: Pick-up from your accommodation and a full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Value for Money: All essential logistics, entrance fees, and guided tours are included at a reasonable price.
• Authentic & Respectful: Focused on education, remembrance, and understanding the significance of each site.
• Ideal for History Enthusiasts: Offers a meaningful, respectful look at Poland’s WWII history combined with cultural exploration in Krakow.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Pickup and Transportation

From the moment your driver arrives at your hotel in Warsaw, the experience begins with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and smooth, private transportation. We appreciated how the driver, often with excellent English, took care of the timing and made the long trip feel more like a shared journey rather than a tedious drive. The pickup times depend on your ticket reservation for Auschwitz, so flexibility is key. Expect a drive of around 4 hours to Auschwitz, with occasional stops for coffee, snacks, or bathroom breaks, as some reviews highlight.

Auschwitz-Birkenau: A Heavy but Important Visit

The tour starts with a guided 3.5-hour group tour led by an English-speaking guide. We found the guides’ expertise crucial to understanding the significance of the site. Visiting Auschwitz, the most notorious Nazi concentration camp, is a sobering experience. The tour begins with the original Auschwitz camp, where you will see the barracks, gas chambers, and extermination areas, which are meticulously preserved and presented for educational purposes.

Next, you’ll proceed to Birkenau (Auschwitz II), the vast expanse where nearly 1.5 million people perished. The scale of Birkenau is staggering, with its long train tracks and remnants of barracks that still evoke a powerful sense of history. The UNESCO designation as a World Heritage Site underscores its importance as a memorial and educational site.

Many reviews emphasize how well-organized the tour is and how the guides carefully balance facts with the emotional weight of the site. As one reviewer put it, “We felt well cared for throughout the entire tour,” and another noted, “the guides’ knowledge made the experience more meaningful.”

Transition to Krakow

After the sobering visit, you depart Auschwitz-Birkenau for a 1.5-hour transfer to Krakow. During the drive, your driver might share local insights, historical tidbits, or suggestions for your free time in Krakow, which many travelers find helpful.

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Free Time in Krakow’s Old Town

Once in Krakow, you’ll enjoy three hours of free time in the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Here, the atmosphere shifts from somber reflection to lively exploration. You can stroll through the Main Market Square, one of Europe’s largest medieval squares, bustling with street performers, historic cafes, and vendors.

Key sites include Wawel Hill, home to the Royal Castle and Cathedral, a must-see for history lovers and architecture buffs. The St. Mary’s Basilica, with its stunning altarpiece, is another highlight. The Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) offers a glimpse into the city’s mercantile past, with market stalls and artisan shops.

Many reviewers highlight the friendly and knowledgeable local guides and the opportunity to enjoy regional food, drinks, or simply soak in the vibrant ambiance of Krakow’s streets.

Lunch and Return Journey

You’ll have time to eat at a local restaurant. While the tour doesn’t include lunch, this break offers a chance to sample Polish cuisine—pierogi, zapiekanka, or hearty stews—before heading back to Warsaw.

Your driver will then pick you up after your free time, and the return trip follows the same comfortable route back to Warsaw, arriving in the evening.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

At $267, this tour packs in a full day of meaningful, well-guided sightseeing. The all-inclusive price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance tickets, guided tours, and water, making it a transparent and hassle-free experience. Having a private car means you avoid the crowds and rigid schedules common with group buses, and the driver’s friendly assistance makes the long day feel more personal.

Many travelers, like Paul and Silvia, appreciated the professionalism and helpfulness of their guides and drivers. One review even mentions, “Our driver Kris was really nice and knowledgeable,” highlighting how personal attention can elevate the experience.

Considerations for Travelers

• The long hours mean this tour is best suited for explorers who don’t mind a full day of activity.
• It’s important to come prepared with comfortable shoes and an understanding of the emotional weight of Auschwitz.
• The non-refundable tickets and limited bag size restrictions reflect the need for careful planning.
• Be aware that the timing of pickups depends on your Auschwitz ticket, so flexibility is key.

Who Will Benefit Most from This Tour?

This trip is perfect for history buffs and those interested in WWII. If you want an impactful, respectful visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau and enjoy some free time to soak in Krakow’s charm, this is a reliable choice. It’s also good for travelers who prefer private transport and guided commentary rather than navigating public transport or large group tours.

The reviews showcase a consistent theme: well-informed guides, safe driving, and meaningful visits. It’s particularly suited for those who value authentic, educational experiences and are comfortable with a long, emotionally intense day to gain a deep understanding of Poland’s past.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How early will I be picked up?
  Pickup times depend on your Auschwitz ticket reservation but generally start early morning, around 6:30-7:00 am.

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  While not explicitly stated, the heavy subject matter suggests it’s more suited to older children or teenagers who can handle sensitive topics.

• Are entrance tickets included in the price?
  Yes, all entrance fees are covered, so you avoid long lines and extra costs.

• How long is the drive from Warsaw to Auschwitz?
  Approximately 4 hours each way, with stops included for comfort.

• Can I customize the itinerary?
  This is a guided group tour with a fixed schedule, but the free time in Krakow is yours to enjoy at your own pace.

• Is lunch included?
  No, but there are opportunities to eat at local restaurants during your free time in Krakow.

• Are the sites accessible for travelers with limited mobility?
  The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm with the provider for specific needs.

• What should I bring?
  Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and any personal items in a small bag within the size limit.

• What if I need to cancel?
  You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
  Absolutely. Many reviews highlight that solo travelers feel well cared for and get a personal experience.

In all, this Warsaw to Auschwitz and Krakow tour by car offers a respectful, well-organized way to explore Poland’s haunting history and charming city life in a single day. It combines the emotional weight of Auschwitz with the lively ambiance of Krakow, making it ideal for travelers who seek a deep, comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re ready for a long but meaningful day, this tour delivers on both education and authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here: