Background

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum: A Journey Through History

Explore the profound history at Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, a UNESCO site dedicated to Holocaust remembrance and education.

4.8

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, located in Oświęcim, Poland, serves as a powerful reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust. It offers a profound experience for visitors, immersing them in the history of the concentration camp, its survivors, and the events of World War II. This UNESCO World Heritage site is essential for understanding the impact of this dark period in human history, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking to reflect on the past.

A brief summary to Memorial and Museum Auschwitz-Birkenau

  • Monday 7:30 am-2 pm
  • Tuesday 7:30 am-2 pm
  • Thursday 7:30 am-2 pm
  • Friday 7:30 am-2 pm
  • Saturday 7:30 am-2 pm
  • Sunday 7:30 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
  • Plan for a half-day visit to fully absorb the exhibits and memorials.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking extensively on uneven surfaces.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the site's history.
  • Respect the solemn nature of the site; maintain silence and refrain from taking selfies in sensitive areas.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Bus

    From Gliwice, head to the Gliwice Main Train Station (Dworzec Główny). Once there, take bus number 23 towards Oświęcim. The journey will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance, as buses may not run frequently. Get off at the 'Oświęcim Więźniów Oświęcimia' stop, which is the closest stop to the Memorial and Museum Auschwitz-Birkenau. From the bus stop, walk approximately 10 minutes to reach the entrance located at Więźniów Oświęcimia 55.

  • Train

    From Gliwice, make your way to the Gliwice Main Train Station (Dworzec Główny). Board a train heading towards Oświęcim. The train journey typically takes about 1 hour. Once you arrive at Oświęcim Train Station, exit the station and take bus number 23 towards Oświęcim Więźniów Oświęcimia. Alight at the 'Oświęcim Więźniów Oświęcimia' bus stop, and from there, it is a 10-minute walk to the Memorial and Museum Auschwitz-Birkenau at Więźniów Oświęcimia 55.

  • Walking

    If you find yourself in the town of Oświęcim after taking either the bus or train, you can walk to the Memorial and Museum Auschwitz-Birkenau. From the Oświęcim Więźniów Oświęcimia bus stop, head east on Więźniów Oświęcimia Street. Continue straight for about 800 meters, and you will see the entrance to the Memorial and Museum on your right at Więźniów Oświęcimia 55.

Unlock the Best of Memorial and Museum Auschwitz-Birkenau

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Memorial and Museum Auschwitz-Birkenau

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum stands as a solemn reminder of the Holocaust, located in the town of Oświęcim, Poland. This UNESCO World Heritage site is dedicated to educating visitors about the horrors of the concentration camp where over a million lives were lost during World War II. From the moment you arrive, the atmosphere is filled with a sense of reverence and reflection, as visitors walk through the gates that once bore the infamous motto, 'Arbeit Macht Frei.' Guided tours allow for a deeper understanding of the historical significance of the site, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories of resilience and survival amidst unimaginable suffering. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and testimonies that provide insight into the lives of those who were imprisoned here. The exhibitions meticulously document the timeline of events leading up to the establishment of the camp, the daily lives of prisoners, and the liberation of the camp in 1945. Visitors can explore both the Auschwitz I site, which includes the original prison blocks, and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, where the majority of the exterminations took place. The stark contrast between the preserved buildings and the haunting memories they hold creates a powerful experience that lingers long after your visit. For tourists, this site is not just a historical landmark; it is a place of education, reflection, and remembrance. It serves as a crucial part of understanding human rights and the importance of preventing such atrocities from happening again. To fully appreciate the depth of this memorial, consider taking part in a guided tour, allowing the stories and history to resonate as you walk through the grounds. Plan your visit thoughtfully, as the museum has specific opening hours, and be prepared for a deeply moving experience that highlights the resilience of the human spirit against tyranny.

Popular Experiences near Memorial and Museum Auschwitz-Birkenau

Popular Hotels near Memorial and Museum Auschwitz-Birkenau

Select Currency