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Auschwitz Tours and Auschwitz Museum

Apr 28, 2023

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If you're planning a visit to Auschwitz, one of the most important places in modern European history, you're in for a powerful and emotionally charged experience. Auschwitz was the largest concentration camp during World War II, and its very name is synonymous with the Holocaust. In this article, we will discuss Auschwitz tours and the Auschwitz Museum, providing you with everything you need to know before visiting this somber and significant place.

Auschwitz was a network of concentration camps and extermination camps established by Nazi Germany in occupied Poland during World War II. The complex consisted of three main camps: Auschwitz I, Auschwitz II-Birkenau, and Auschwitz III-Monowitz. Between 1940 and 1945, over 1.1 million people, mostly Jews, were killed in Auschwitz. The Nazis also murdered Poles, Romani people, Soviet prisoners of war, disabled individuals, and others in Auschwitz.

After the war, the Soviet army liberated Auschwitz in January 1945. The Polish government turned the site into a museum in 1947, and in 1979, the museum was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Today, the Auschwitz Museum is an important site of remembrance and education.

Visiting Auschwitz

Best Time to Visit Auschwitz

The Auschwitz Museum is open all year round, except for January 1, December 25, and Easter Sunday. However, the busiest time to visit is between June and August, so if you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) or in winter.

What to Expect on an Auschwitz Tour

Auschwitz tours typically start at Auschwitz I, the administrative center of the complex. The tour will take you through various parts of the camp, including the barracks, the gas chambers and crematoria, and the Wall of Death. You will also see exhibitions documenting the horrors of Auschwitz and the lives of the prisoners. The tour will then take you to Auschwitz II-Birkenau, where you will see the remains of the gas chambers and crematoria, as well as the ruins of the barracks where prisoners were held. Finally, you will visit Auschwitz III-Monowitz, a labor camp located several kilometers away from the main camp.

How to Book an Auschwitz Tour

To visit Auschwitz, you must book a tour in advance. You can book a tour online or through a travel agency. The official Auschwitz Museum website offers guided tours in multiple languages, including English, German, French, and Spanish. You can also book a private tour with a licensed guide.

Guided Tours vs. Self-Guided Tours

While it's possible to visit Auschwitz on your own, most visitors opt for a guided tour. A guided tour provides more context and information, and ensures that you see all of the most important parts of the camp. Additionally, a guided tour can help you navigate the emotional and psychological challenges of visiting a place like Auschwitz.

What to See at Auschwitz

Auschwitz I was the first camp established at Auschwitz, and it served as the administrative center of the complex. Today, visitors can see several important parts of Auschwitz I, including the Block 11 punishment cells, the Death Wall where prisoners were executed by firing squad, and the central square where roll calls were held. You can also see the infamous "Arbeit macht frei" sign, which greeted prisoners as they entered the camp.

Auschwitz II-Birkenau

Auschwitz II-Birkenau was the largest camp in the Auschwitz complex, and it was where most of the mass murder took place. Today, visitors can see the ruins of the gas chambers and crematoria, as well as the barracks where prisoners were held. The scale of the camp is overwhelming, and it's impossible not to be affected by the sheer size of the place.

Auschwitz III-Monowitz

Auschwitz III-Monowitz was a labor camp located several kilometers away from the main camp. It was established to provide forced labor for the IG Farben chemical company, and it was the site of several sub-camps. Today, visitors can see the remains of the camp, including the factory buildings and the housing for the prisoners.

Other Attractions Near Auschwitz

If you have time, there are several other attractions near Auschwitz that are worth visiting. The Wieliczka Salt Mine, located about an hour's drive from Auschwitz, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features stunning underground chambers and sculptures made entirely of salt. The city of Krakow, located about 90 minutes from Auschwitz, is a beautiful and historic city that's well worth a visit.

Tips for Visiting Auschwitz

What to Wear at Auschwitz

When visiting Auschwitz, it's important to dress appropriately. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking a lot, and dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable. It's also important to dress modestly out of respect for the victims of the Holocaust.

What to Bring to Auschwitz

When visiting Auschwitz, it's a good idea to bring a water bottle, snacks, and a camera. However, be aware that there are certain items that are not allowed in the museum, including large bags, backpacks, and tripods.

What Not to Do at Auschwitz

When visiting Auschwitz, it's important to be respectful of the victims and the history of the place. Do not take selfies or other inappropriate photos, and do not touch any of the exhibits or artifacts. It's also important to be quiet and respectful while in the museum.

Conclusion

Auschwitz is a place of immense historical significance, and visiting the museum can be a powerful and emotional experience. By following the tips and information provided in this article, you can ensure that your visit is respectful and informative.