Set out on a poignant journey through Poland’s past with the Krakow and Auschwitz Small-Group Tour from Lodz. This comprehensive day-trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the profound historical sites and uncover the rich cultural heritage that defines this remarkable region. From the chilling remnants of Auschwitz to the stunning architectural wonders of Krakow, this expertly curated experience promises an immersive and enlightening exploration that will leave a lasting impression. With meticulous attention to detail and seamless logistics, this tour invites you to step beyond the surface and explore the heart of Poland’s captivating narrative.
Key Points
- A one-day small-group tour from Lodz to Auschwitz and Krakow for $222.34 per person, with transportation, guided visits, and lunch included.
- The tour covers the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, a symbol of the Holocaust, followed by a guided exploration of key attractions in the historic city of Krakow.
- The Auschwitz experience includes visits to the museum, original historical sites, and an overview of the horrors that occurred at the extermination camp.
- The Krakow tour highlights captivating landmarks such as the Town Hall Tower, St. Mary’s Basilica, and Wawel Hill, providing insights into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
- The tour is wheelchair-friendly and conducted in English by knowledgeable guides, with non-refundable tickets requiring careful booking consideration.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This small-group tour from Lodz provides a comprehensive exploration of Krakow and the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camps for $222.34 per person.
Lasting one day, the tour’s group size is limited to 8 participants and is conducted in English by knowledgeable guides. Accessibility is ensured as the tour is wheelchair-friendly.
However, the tickets are non-refundable, so travelers must book carefully.
The itinerary includes transportation by car or minibus, guided tours of both Auschwitz and Krakow, and a lunch stop.
Participants will have the opportunity to visit the poignant Auschwitz Museum and its extensive collection of artifacts, as well as discover the historical highlights of the beautiful city of Krakow.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with pickup from the Marszałkowska 98-100 location, where you will board a car or minibus for the journey.
The first stop is Auschwitz, which is approximately a 4.5-hour drive from the pickup point. Upon arrival, the group will embark on a guided tour of the Auschwitz I concentration camp, lasting another 4.5 hours.
After the Auschwitz visit, the group will enjoy a 1-hour lunch at a local restaurant.
The next stop is Krakow, a 3-hour drive from Auschwitz. Once in Krakow, the group will receive a 3-hour guided tour of the city’s key sites, including:
- Town Hall Tower
- St. Mary’s Basilica
- Wawel Hill and Cathedral
The tour concludes with the return to the Marszałkowska 98-100 location, approximately 4.5 hours after leaving Krakow.
Auschwitz and Birkenau Experience
Auschwitz stands as a somber symbol of the Holocaust, a network of concentration and extermination camps operated by the Third Reich during World War II.
The museum’s collection features original documents, suitcases, shoes, and other personal belongings of the murdered prisoners, serving as a haunting testament to their tragic fates.
Visitors can explore the original fences, wooden watchtowers, and railway ramps that were once the backdrop to unimaginable atrocities.
At nearby Birkenau, the extermination camp where over 90% of prisoners, mostly Jews, were killed, the largely destroyed structures now stand as a memorial to the horrors of the past, a powerful reminder of the need to prevent such tragedies from recurring.
Krakow Highlights
After exploring the somber history of Auschwitz, the tour guides take visitors through Krakow, showcasing the city’s captivating attractions and rich cultural heritage.
The highlights of the Krakow tour include:
- Visiting the iconic Town Hall Tower, a medieval landmark that provides stunning panoramic views of the historic Old Town.
- Marveling at the intricate Gothic architecture of St. Mary’s Basilica, one of the most impressive churches in Poland.
- Strolling through the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), a Renaissance-era market building that now houses a vibrant shopping district and art galleries.
Throughout the tour, the expert guides provide insightful commentary, bringing the city’s storied past to life and offering a deeper understanding of Krakow’s enduring significance.
Inclusions and Amenities
To ensure a comfortable and well-equipped tour experience, the package includes transportation by car or minibus, with pickup from the hotel.
Knowledgeable, English-speaking guides lead the tours at both Auschwitz-Birkenau and Krakow, providing in-depth historical context and insights.
Entrance fees to the Auschwitz-Birkenau museums and camps are covered, and a basic lunch menu, including a soup, main course, and water, is provided.
For added convenience, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the tour.
Participants must bring a valid passport or ID card, as booking details must match identification for entry to Auschwitz-Birkenau.
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, the refund policy is non-refundable, so travelers should consider their booking carefully.
Important Information
Travelers must bring a valid passport or ID card, as booking details must match identification for entry to Auschwitz-Birkenau.
Refunds aren’t available for this tour, so prospective participants should consider their booking decision carefully.
The tour operator requires the following information at the time of booking: full name and contact details. This is to ensure smooth entry and participation in the Auschwitz-Birkenau experience.
Plus, it’s important to note:
- All bookings are non-refundable.
- Participants must adhere to the tour schedule and itinerary.
- Special dietary requests for lunch may incur additional charges.
Providing the necessary documentation and understanding the tour’s policies will help ensure a seamless and meaningful experience on this Krakow and Auschwitz small-group tour.
Transportation and Pickup
The tour includes pickup from the designated location at Marszałkowska 98-100, where you will be transported by car or minibus to the first destination, Auschwitz. The journey takes approximately 4.5 hours each way.
Once at Auschwitz, visitors will receive a guided tour of the museum and memorial site, exploring the original fences, wooden watchtowers, and railway ramps that remain as powerful reminders of the atrocities that occurred there.
After the Auschwitz visit, the group will enjoy a local lunch before continuing on to Krakow, where a guided tour will showcase the city’s top attractions, including Wawel Hill and the Krakow Barbicane.
The return trip to the pickup location at Marszałkowska 98-100 is around 4.5 hours.
Guided Tours and Entrance Fees
The tour includes guided visits at both Auschwitz and Krakow, allowing visitors to explore the historical sites with the expertise of knowledgeable local guides.
At Auschwitz, the guided tour covers the museum’s collection of original documents, suitcases, shoes, and other belongings of the murdered prisoners, providing a poignant and powerful experience.
In Krakow, the guide showcases the city’s key attractions, including:
- The iconic Town Hall Tower and St. Mary’s Basilica
- The Krakow Barbicane and the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice)
- The historic Wawel Hill, with its cathedral and royal castle
These guided tours, combined with the included entrance fees, ensure a comprehensive and enriching experience for visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?
You can book a private tour for your group. The tour operator offers flexible options and can accommodate small or large groups with customized itineraries and schedules. Private tours provide a more personalized experience compared to joining a larger group.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour operator may offer discounted rates for seniors and students, though specific details aren’t provided. Customers should inquire directly about any available discounts when booking to receive the best price. Discounts are subject to the tour operator’s policies.
What Should I Wear for the Tour?
The guide recommends comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe walking shoes. Layers are advised as the tour includes both indoor and outdoor components. Visitors should dress respectfully when visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial site.
Can I Take Photographs at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Site?
Visitors are generally permitted to take photographs at the Auschwitz-Birkenau site, but out of respect for the somber history, flash photography and selfies are prohibited. Certain areas may also restrict photography to preserve the site’s dignity.
Does the Tour Provide Transportation Back to Lodz After Krakow?
The tour does provide transportation back to Lodz after the visit to Krakow. The itinerary states that the tour will return participants to the original pickup location at Marszałkowska 98-100, a total duration of 4.5 hours from Krakow.
Recap
The Krakow and Auschwitz Small-Group Tour from Lodz offers an immersive and poignant exploration of Poland’s history.
Visitors will explore the somber past of Auschwitz, then discover the stunning architecture and vibrant culture of Krakow.
With professional guides, seamless transportation, and a local lunch, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to connect with the rich heritage of this remarkable region.
