The Auschwitz-Birkenau and Schindler’s Factory Tour from Krakow offers a profound exploration of one of the darkest chapters in human history. Visitors embark on an 8.5-hour journey, guided by knowledgeable experts, to confront the somber realities of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp where millions perished. However, the tour also delves into the inspiring story of Oskar Schindler, whose factory provided sanctuary for those he sought to protect. Through this comprehensive experience, participants are invited to reflect on the past, honor the memories of those lost, and consider the enduring importance of education and remembrance.
Key Points
• Comprehensive 8.5-hour tour covering Auschwitz-Birkenau and Schindler’s Factory, providing in-depth historical context from an English-speaking guide.
• Visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, site of the systematic murder of 1-1.5 million people, and explore Schindler’s Factory, showcasing efforts to save over 1,000 Jews.
• Tour includes transportation, documentary film, and entrance fees, with pickup and drop-off from Krakow accommodations.
• Recommended items include passport, comfortable shoes, and lunch, as the tour duration is approximately 9 hours.
• Highly rated tour with positive feedback on organization, transportation, and service, though some noted pacing issues with the tour guide.
Tour Overview
Touring Auschwitz-Birkenau and Oscar Schindler’s Factory provides visitors with an immersive and poignant experience, delving into the harrowing history of the Holocaust and the inspiring story of one man’s efforts to save lives.
This 8.5-hour tour takes guests through the iconic symbols of the Nazi regime, offering a glimpse into the tragic realities faced by millions.
With a live English-speaking guide, visitors will explore the Auschwitz and Birkenau concentration camps, learning about their dark past, before visiting Schindler’s Factory and discovering how one industrialist used his resources to rescue over 1,000 Jews.
Priced from CZK 1,956 per person, this tour is likely to sell out, so early booking is recommended.
Historical Context
Auschwitz-Birkenau served as a notorious concentration and extermination camp during World War II, where the Nazis systematically murdered an estimated 1-1.5 million people, primarily Jewish prisoners and other persecuted groups.
Built by prisoners, the camp housed approximately 125,000 individuals by October 1941, and its horrific legacy stands as a powerful symbol of the Holocaust’s devastating impact.
Despite the partial destruction of the camp by the Nazis in 1945, the site has been meticulously restored as a memorial to the victims, serving as a solemn reminder of the atrocities committed and the profound human tragedy that unfolded within its walls.
In contrast, Schindler’s Factory, featured in Spielberg’s acclaimed film Schindler’s List, highlights the courageous efforts of those who risked their lives to save others from the horrors of the Holocaust.
Tour Inclusions
The tour package includes a comprehensive lineup of services and experiences to enhance visitors’ understanding of this profound historical journey. Pickup and drop-off from Krakow accommodations are available, and a documentary film is shown during transit to set the stage for the immersive visit ahead. Guided tours of both Auschwitz and Birkenau camps span 3.5 hours, providing an in-depth exploration of the sites and their harrowing history.
| Service | Duration |
|---|---|
| Guided Tour of Auschwitz | 3.5 hours |
| Guided Tour of Birkenau | 3.5 hours |
| Entrance to Schindler’s Factory Museum | 1.5 hours |
| Transportation via Mercedes Minibus | Included |
| Insurance | Included |
The tour also includes entrance to the Schindler’s Factory Museum, with an interactive exhibition highlighting the remarkable story of Oskar Schindler and his efforts to save Jewish lives during the Holocaust.
Visitor Guidelines
Visitors to the Auschwitz-Birkenau and Schindler’s Factory tour are advised to bring along their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a camera, and water.
Oversized luggage, alcohol, and drugs aren’t permitted on the tour. Hand baggage mustn’t exceed 30cm x 20cm x 10cm in size. Plus, it’s recommended that visitors pack a lunch, as the tour duration is approximately 9 hours.
Given the somber and reflective nature of the sites visited, visitors should be prepared to enjoy the historical significance and weight of the subject matter.
Maintaining respectful behavior and adhering to the guidelines helps ensure a meaningful and impactful experience for all.
Customer Feedback
Reviewers have overall praised the organization, transportation, and service provided on the Auschwitz-Birkenau and Schindler’s Factory tour, awarding it an impressive 4.6/5 rating based on 143 reviews.
While the tour guide’s pacing received some critique, the content and significance of visiting these historical sites were highlighted as notable strengths.
Customers appreciated:
- The tour’s efficiency in covering both Auschwitz-Birkenau and Schindler’s Factory within a single day
- The documentary film shown during transit, providing historical context
- The comfortable and modern Mercedes minibus with WiFi
- The guided tour of Auschwitz and Birkenau, delivering a powerful and somber experience
- The interactive exhibition at Schindler’s Factory Museum, offering deeper insight into this remarkable story
Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour
Comprised of the Auschwitz I main camp and the Auschwitz II-Birkenau extermination camp, this guided tour provides a profound and somber exploration of one of history’s most notorious sites of the Holocaust.
Led by a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the atrocities that occurred at Auschwitz-Birkenau.
The tour includes a visit to the gas chambers, crematoria, and other preserved structures that serve as haunting reminders of the systematic murder of over 1 million people, primarily Jews.
Through this immersive experience, guests will come away with a heightened appreciation for the importance of remembering and honoring the victims of the Holocaust, and reflecting on the need to prevent such horrors from ever happening again.
Schindler’s Factory Museum
Touring Schindler’s Factory Museum provides an immersive look into the inspiring story of Oskar Schindler, the German industrialist who saved over 1,000 Jewish lives during the Holocaust by employing them in his enamelware factory.
The interactive exhibition at the museum includes:
- Schindler’s office, faithfully recreated to showcase his work
- Exhibits detailing the Nazi occupation of Krakow and the hotel of the ghetto
- Testimonials and personal belongings of Schindler’s Jewish workers
- Multimedia displays highlighting Schindler’s transformation from war profiteer to humanitarian
- The original enamelware factory floor, where visitors can imagine the daily lives of Schindler’s employees
This thought-provoking tour offers a powerful reminder of the capacity for both good and evil during history’s darkest hours.
Pickup and Transportation
The tour package includes convenient pickup from your accommodation in Krakow, ensuring a seamless start to your historic journey.
You’ll be transported in a modern, comfortable Mercedes minibus with complimentary WiFi, allowing you to relax and prepare for the emotional experience ahead.
The air-conditioned vehicle will take you directly to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, where you’ll meet your knowledgeable, English-speaking guide.
After exploring the somber sites of the former concentration camps, the bus will then transfer you to the Schindler’s Factory Museum, providing an interactive and informative look into this pivotal figure’s efforts to save lives during the Holocaust.
With transportation and logistics taken care of, you can focus on the profound significance of these important historical sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Take a Break During the Tour?
Yes, the tour allows for breaks. Visitors can take short pauses throughout the day to rest, use restrooms, and have snacks. The tour guides are aware of the emotional nature of the sites and accommodate the needs of participants.
Do We Need to Pack Our Own Lunch?
Yes, it’s recommended to pack a lunch for the tour, as it lasts around 9 hours. The tour itinerary doesn’t include a lunch break, so bringing a packed meal ensures you’ll have nourishment throughout the day’s extensive activities.
Can We Take Photos Inside the Museums?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the museums, but they should be respectful and avoid using flash. Some areas may have restrictions to preserve the exhibits and experience for all visitors.
Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?
The tour may not be suitable for young children, as it explores the deeply harrowing history of the Holocaust. Parents should consider their child’s maturity and sensitivity before booking. Discretion is advised, as the content can be emotionally challenging for younger visitors.
Are There Any Restrictions on Personal Items?
Visitors are not allowed to bring oversized luggage, alcohol, or drugs. Hand baggage must not exceed 30cm x 20cm x 10cm. Bringing a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, camera, and water is recommended for this historical tour.
Recap
This profound tour offers an immersive exploration of history, guiding visitors through the somber reality of Auschwitz-Birkenau and the inspiring story of Oskar Schindler.
With knowledgeable English-speaking guides, documentary films, and ample time for reflection, the experience honors the memories of the past and underscores the importance of remembrance and education.
Convenient transportation ensures a seamless journey through this impactful and deeply meaningful exploration of one of history’s darkest chapters.
