Auschwitz tour options vary significantly, and choosing the right one can deeply affect how you experience this historical site. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for a second time, it’s worth understanding the difference between free individual entry and a guided tour – especially when tickets sell out quickly. Before you decide, it helps to know how to get from Krakow to Auschwitz – by bus, train, taxi or independently by car.
Free entry – what’s included?
Yes, visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial is possible for free – but only if you choose to enter without a guide. You’ll receive a timed entry slot to walk through the site on your own, with no commentary or interpretation. This option includes access to both Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, connected by a free shuttle bus.
Keep in mind that free entry tickets can only be reserved up to 7 days in advance – and in high season they often disappear within hours. If you’re planning your trip earlier than that, free entry may not be available for your dates.
Guided tours – what’s the difference?
Guided tours offer more than access. A licensed educator leads you through key places, explains the historical context and helps read the site respectfully. Tours are available in many languages and usually last about 3.5 hours split between Auschwitz I and Birkenau.
Auschwitz tour options with guides are strongly recommended for first-time visitors: understanding the layout, terminology and testimonies is difficult without interpretation.
Why do tickets sell out so fast?
Both formats require advance booking. Guided tours can be booked weeks or months ahead; free entry releases only a few days before the visit. In peak months, both options often sell out well in advance.
Who should choose which option?
If you’ve visited before and want to move at your own pace, free entry may suit you. For most first-time visitors a guided visit provides structure and context that make the experience more understandable and respectful.
Tickets & booking (official website)
It’s best to check ticket availability and entry types on the official website and book directly via the museum’s system: visit.auschwitz.org. There you’ll find current entry formats (guided with museum educator / unguided individual entry), languages and time slots.
Comparison table – Auschwitz tour options
| Feature | Free entry | Guided tour |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Paid |
| Requires advance booking | Yes – max ~7 days before, limited slots | Yes – book weeks/months ahead |
| Includes guide | No | Yes, licensed educator |
| Visit duration | Flexible within opening hours for individual entry (varies by season) | ~3.5 hours, fixed schedule |
| Best for | Returning visitors | First-time visitors |
| Understanding & context | Limited | Structured, in-depth |
Tip: Whatever you choose, book as early as possible. In spring and summer, both free and guided slots disappear quickly.
Getting there
Not driving? See our guide: how to get to Auschwitz from Krakow (bus, train, private driver, car). Plan extra time to arrive before your entry slot and remember there’s a free shuttle between Auschwitz I and Birkenau.
Before you go
Read the Auschwitz rules for respectful conduct and practical limits (bag size, photography zones). For orientation at the site, see our overview of Auschwitz Birkenau.