Is Auschwitz close to Krakow? Is it to Warsaw?

Auschwitz, the infamous Nazi concentration and extermination camp, is one of the most significant historical sites in the world. Located in southern Poland, it serves as a somber reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II. For those planning to visit Auschwitz, understanding its proximity to major Polish cities like Krakow and Warsaw is essential. This article explores the distance between Auschwitz and these two cities. Is Auschwitz close to Warsaw? Is Auschwitz close to Krakow?

Where is Auschwitz Located?

Auschwitz is situated in the town of Oświęcim in the Lesser Poland (Małopolska) region of southern Poland. The museum complex consists of two main parts: Auschwitz I (the original camp) located in Oświęcim and Auschwitz II-Birkenau (the larger extermination camp) in the village called Brzezinka right next to Oświęcim.

The museum is approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) west of Krakow and about 300 kilometers (186 miles) south of Warsaw.

Is Auschwitz Close to Krakow?

Yes, Auschwitz is really close to Krakow. The distance between Krakow and Auschwitz is approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles), making it an easy day trip for visitors staying in Krakow. The journey typically takes about 1.5 hours by car or bus, depending on traffic and road conditions. The best way to get to Auschwitz from Krakow is direct Lajkonik bus from the centre of Krakow directly to the museum, it costs 22 PLN (approximately 5 EUR, 4.30 GBP, or 5.50 USD) each way.

Regular buses run from Krakow’s main bus station (Dworzec MDA) to Oświęcim. The journey takes around 1.5 hours. Trains depart from Krakow’s main railway station in the city centre to Oświęcim railway station located about 15 minutes walk from the museum. Train ticket costs 16.5 PLN. In the tourist season there is a shuttle bus from the station directly to the museum for 5 PLN.

Here you can see full Auschwitz price list.

Why Visit Auschwitz from Krakow?

Krakow is the most convenient base for visiting Auschwitz due to its proximity and because it is easier for tourists to reach Auschwitz from Krakow than from Katowice. Although Katowice is a city located closer to the museum at the former camp, it is significantly less visited and far less attractive than Krakow.

Krakow Airport is close to Auschwitz and more convinient than Katowice Airport. In Krakow, you can also visit other attractions dedicated to the times of World War II, such as Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory, a museum that tells the story of the occupation in Krakow, the former Gestapo prison (Pomorska Street Museum), and The Eagle Pharmacy Museum (Apteka pod Orłem). You can also explore the grounds of the former Płaszów camp for free.

Is Auschwitz close to Warsaw?

No, Auschwitz is not close to Warsaw. The distance between Warsaw and Auschwitz is approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles), which translates to a travel time of around 4 to 5 hours by car or train. While it is possible to visit Auschwitz from Warsaw, it requires a longer journey. If you don’t have a car the easest way to get to Auschwitz from Warsaw is to fly to Krakow or get a train to Krakow first. Direct buses from Warsaw to Oświęcim are less common, so most travelers opt for car rental, train or plane.

While Warsaw is much farther from Auschwitz, it is still a viable option for those who want to explore Poland’s historical sites. Warsaw itself has a rich history, including the Warsaw Ghetto and Warsaw Rising Museum (Muzeum Powstania Warszawskiego). Visitors traveling from Warsaw often combine their trip to Auschwitz with a visit to Krakow.

Which city is better for visiting Auschwitz?

Krakow is undoubtedly the better base for visiting Auschwitz due to its proximity and the availability of transportation options. The shorter travel time allows visitors to spend more time at the Auschwitz Memorial and return to Krakow the same day and even see both Auschwitz and the Salt Mines on the same day.

Visitors from Warsaw should plan for a longer journey or consider an overnight stay in Krakow to make the trip more manageable. A trip to Auschwitz from Warsaw will take an entire day, unlike a trip from Krakow.

Conclusion

Auschwitz is much closer to Krakow than to Warsaw, making Krakow the more convenient base for visiting the museum.

The 70-kilometer journey from Krakow is relatively short and straightforward, while the 300-kilometer trip from Warsaw requires more time and planning.

The best way to get to the museum in Oświęcim from Krakow is by taking a direct bus or train. Tickets are best booked without additional fees or intermediaries on the museum’s official website. Book well in advance!

Read detailed guide on easiest and cheapest ways to get to Auschwitz from Krakow city center.