How to Get to Auschwitz from Krakow

Planning to visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial while staying in Krakow? You’re not alone. Each year, millions of travellers choose to make this important and emotional journey. Here’s how to get there – with or without a guided tour – and what to expect on the way.

Option 2 – By Bus

Local buses depart regularly from Krakow MDA bus station and arrive at the museum’s main car park. Journey time is around 1h 45m. Tickets can be bought at the station or online. Make sure to arrive early, especially in peak season.

Option 3 – By Train

You can also take a train from Krakow Główny to Oświęcim. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. From the station, it’s a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride to the museum entrance.

Option 4 – Private Transport with Driver

For more comfort and flexibility, consider booking a private transfer with a driver. It’s a convenient solution if you want hotel pickup, a flexible return time, and no stress about schedules or parking. Travel time is around 1h 15m.

This is also a good choice if you prefer to book your own tickets directly or want to reserve free individual entry slots without a guide. You’ll have full control over your visit time, and the driver will wait for you or bring you back at your chosen hour.

Option 5 – By Car

If you’re renting a car or driving your own, the journey from Krakow takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A4 motorway and national roads. Be sure to plan ahead – especially in high season.

There are paid car parks near both Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, but they tend to fill up quickly during the day. It’s recommended to arrive early enough to already be parked at least 30 minutes before your scheduled entry time – not just arriving in the area, but with your car safely parked and ready to go in.

A free shuttle bus runs every 15–30 minutes between the two sites, so you can leave your car in one location and still visit both parts of the memorial.

Which option is best?

If you’re looking for comfort, guaranteed entry, and expert guidance – a guided tour is the best choice. If you’re on a tighter budget and want to explore on your own, public transport works well with some planning. For privacy and convenience, private transfer is ideal, and you can learn more about all Auschwitz tour options here.

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Tips before you go

• Plan your transport to arrive at least 30 minutes before your entry time – you should already be parked and ready to enter
• Parking near both Auschwitz I and Birkenau is paid and limited – spaces fill up quickly, especially in high season
• A free shuttle bus runs between Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau every 15–30 minutes
• If you’re using public transport, check return times in advance – especially for the last bus or train back to Krakow
• Private transfers give you more control over timing – helpful if you booked free entry tickets or want to visit at your own pace
• Large bags (over 30x20x10 cm) are not allowed inside – you can leave them at the luggage storage near the entrance to Auschwitz I (for a small fee)
• Plan for at least 3.5 hours on site – more if visiting both camps in detail or booking a guided tour

Final thoughts

Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau is not a typical day trip. It’s a powerful and sobering experience that stays with you. Whether you go with a guide or on your own, take your time to understand the history and pay your respects.