The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a significant historical site located just outside the town of Oświęcim in Poland. Understanding its location and the best ways to get there is crucial for visitors planning to pay their respects and learn about this important piece of history. This guide provides detailed information on how to reach the Auschwitz Museum, ensuring a smooth and respectful visit.
Location of Auschwitz
Auschwitz is located near Oświęcim, Poland, specifically on provincial road No. 933. The primary site for tours, Auschwitz I, is situated at Więźniów Oświęcimia 55 Street. This area is easily accessible and well-signposted, making it relatively straightforward to find. Oświęcim itself is positioned geographically advantageous, being within reasonable distance of major Polish cities and international airports.
Getting to Auschwitz Museum (Auschwitz I)
Reaching the Auschwitz I site, where the Visitor Services Center is located, can be done through various transportation methods:
By Car
For visitors driving, navigate to Więźniów Oświęcimia 55 Street, Oświęcim. It’s advisable to approach via Legionów Street (DW 933). Ample parking is available near the Visitor Services Center, and you can also find amenities like luggage lockers and a restaurant offering kosher snacks in this area. Paid car parks are available near the entrance of Auschwitz I.
By Train
The Auschwitz Museum is approximately 1.5 kilometers from the Oświęcim railway station. This makes train travel a convenient option, especially from cities like Krakow. Near the railway station, a multi-story Park & Ride parking facility is available for those combining train and car travel.
By Bus
Several bus options are available. The Lajkonik bus company offers direct services from Kraków to the Auschwitz Museum car park. You can find their timetables online for routes to the Museum and back to Kraków. Additionally, bus and minibus stops near the Museum serve routes from major cities like Kraków and Katowice, providing further accessibility.
Special “M” Line (Seasonal)
Between April and October, a special “M” line bus connects the Oświęcim railway station and the Park & Ride facility directly to the main entrance of the Museum. This service operates daily from 9 am to 4 pm, with rides taking approximately five minutes. Tickets are available for purchase at ticket machines.
From Airports
For international visitors, two major airports are located within 50 kilometers of Oświęcim: Kraków-Balice Airport and Katowice-Pyrzowice Airport. From either airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or utilize public transportation to reach Oświęcim.
Traveling Between Auschwitz I and Birkenau (Auschwitz II)
Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau are located about 3.5 kilometers apart. Moving between the two sites is an integral part of the visit, and several options are available:
Museum Bus
The most convenient option is the free museum shuttle bus, which runs between Auschwitz I and Birkenau. From April to October, buses depart from Auschwitz I every 10 minutes, and from November to March, every 20 minutes. No separate fare is required for this service. The bus stop is located near the exit of Auschwitz I, clearly marked for Birkenau.
Taxi
Taxi services are readily available. HALO TAXI is a recognized company operating in the area. You can find taxis at the taxi rank in front of the Museum entrance at Auschwitz I, or you can call them directly at +48 32 19 194. Taxis offer a quick and direct way to travel between the sites.
By Foot
For those who prefer walking and wish to reflect on the somber history while traveling between the camps, it is possible to walk the 3-kilometer distance. The route goes through Więźniów Oświęcimia, Jaracza, Leszczyńskiej, and Męczeństwa Narodów streets. This path passes by former by-camp areas that housed German industrial plants and prisoner workshops, offering a poignant journey. Along the way, you can see remnants of railway sidings and the Alte Judenrampe, where deportation trains arrived.
Conclusion
Planning your transportation to and around Auschwitz is an essential part of preparing for your visit. Whether you choose to drive, take the train, bus, or utilize local transport, understanding the location and available options will help ensure a respectful and informative experience at this profoundly important historical site. For further tourist information in Oświęcim, you can visit www.it.oswiecim.pl.
