Full-Day Tour From Warsaw to Auschwitz (guided) and Krakow by car

This full-day tour from Warsaw offers an impactful journey combining visits to Auschwitz-Birkenau and the historic Krakow Old Town. Priced at $272.74 per person, the experience spans approximately 16 to 18 hours, making it ideal for those interested in deepening their understanding of Poland’s complex history and culture. The tour features group sizes limited to 30 people, ensuring a more intimate and manageable experience. It starts early at 6:00 am, with pickup included, and includes guides who speak English with headsets to ensure clear narration. Review scores have been consistently high, with a 5.0 out of 5 rating from 22 reviews, highlighting its popularity and quality.

While this is a long day, the expert guides, well-organized itinerary, and personalized service make it a standout option. It’s most suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness who want a thorough, emotional, and educational day trip that covers some of the most significant historical sites in Poland.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip covering Auschwitz-Birkenau and Krakow Old Town in one long, carefully managed itinerary.
• Prices at $272.74 per person, with group discounts available.
• Starts at 6:00 am with pickup included, lasting about 16-18 hours.
• Guided tours at Auschwitz with English-speaking guides and headsets for clear narration.
• Limited group size of max 30 travelers enhances the experience’s intimacy.
• Highly praised guides and drivers ensure a safe, informative, and respectful journey.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour and Its Impact

The tour begins early with a drive to Auschwitz-Birkenau, where a 3.5-hour guided group tour provides a detailed account of the camp’s history. The guide explains how the camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, with Auschwitz II Birkenau opening in 1941. Visitors learn about the scale of the atrocities, as approximately 1.5 million people lived and perished there during 1942-1945.

The guided experience is enhanced by headsets, allowing everyone to hear the guide’s explanations clearly. Notably, some reviews mention that the timing for the Auschwitz visit depends on the day, as the entry time is assigned one day in advance and can vary, so travelers should be prepared for a flexible schedule. The emotional weight of seeing the site is palpable, with many noting how moving and impactful the experience is.

The Birkenau site is part of the tour, allowing visitors to see the vast barbed wire fences, train tracks, and remaining extermination facilities. The guided narration helps contextualize the site’s significance and the horrors that unfolded there.

Touring Krakow’s Old Town and Wawel Hill

After returning from Auschwitz, the day continues with a three-hour visit to Krakow’s Main Market Square. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest Medieval old town square in Europe, packed with historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and lively regional restaurants.

Key sights include Wawel Hill, where the Cathedral and Royal Castle stand tall, offering visitors a glimpse into Poland’s royal history. The Town Hall Tower, St. Mary’s Basilica, Krakow Barbican, and Sukiennice (Cloth Hall) are also accessible during this period. The square is bustling with thousands of cafes, bars, and horse-drawn carriages, providing a charming yet vibrant atmosphere. Many reviews highlight how well the balance of free time and guided commentary is maintained, allowing visitors to explore or relax at their own pace.

Despite the rich sightseeing, the limited time in Krakow means visitors should prioritize their interests, especially if they want to visit specific landmarks like Wawel Castle or the Cloth Hall.

Practicalities: Transport, Guides, and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to facilitate the long drive between locations. The group size of no more than 30 travelers helps keep the experience intimate, avoiding the chaos often associated with larger tours.

Drivers and guides receive high praise for their professionalism, safety, and knowledge. Several reviews mention drivers like Maciej, Matheusz, and Magic, who go beyond driving to provide insights about Poland’s history and culture, creating a more personal and engaging journey. The guides are noted for their clarity, sensitivity, and storytelling skills, especially when discussing Auschwitz.

The meeting point is flexible, with pickup included, and the start time at 6:00 am is designed to maximize daylight hours for sightseeing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers the guided tour of Auschwitz, admission tickets, and transport. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the long hours on the road.

Extras like coffee or tea are not included, so travelers should prepare accordingly. The tour’s cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for planning.

The Long Day: Pacing and Physical Demands

This tour’s 16 to 18 hours make it a long but rewarding experience. Most reviews indicate that walking at Auschwitz and Krakow can be demanding, especially in the camp’s uneven terrain. It’s recommended for those with moderate physical fitness.

Travelers should be ready for early mornings and a full schedule, with many praising the organization and pacing as well-balanced for such a comprehensive day.

Highlights of the Guides and Drivers

Many reviews underline the exceptional professionalism and friendliness of the drivers and guides. Names like Magic, Maciej, Matheusz, and Chris stand out for their helpfulness, insights, and safety, making the long trip more manageable and engaging.

Several reviewers mention how guides share personal stories or cultural context, enriching the experience beyond just site visits. The sensitive handling of the Auschwitz visit, in particular, earns praise.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This full-day experience suits those with a keen interest in history, especially the Holocaust and Polish royal heritage. It’s best for adults with moderate physical fitness comfortable with long travel hours and walking.

Given its intensity and emotional depth, it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility challenges. The long duration makes it a good choice for travelers eager to maximize their visit in a single day.

The Sum Up: A Deeply Moving and Well-Organized Journey

This guided tour from Warsaw to Auschwitz and Krakow provides a comprehensive, respectful, and informative overview of Poland’s historic landmarks. The expert guides and professional drivers ensure a safe and engaging experience, while the group size maintains intimacy and comfort.

The emotional weight of Auschwitz, combined with the beauty of Krakow’s Old Town, creates a day that is both educational and profound. It’s a long journey, but the careful organization and personal touches make it worthwhile. Ideal for those who want a full cultural and historical immersion in one day, with the benefit of small-group service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transport in an air-conditioned vehicle from Warsaw to Auschwitz and Krakow, with pickup included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 16 to 18 hours, starting early at 6:00 am.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Guides primarily speak English, but other languages are available upon request if possible.

What should I bring for the day?
Travelers should wear moderate physical fitness-appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, and bring any personal necessities. Food and drink are not included, so carry snacks if desired.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

Who is the tour provider?
The tour is operated by AB Everest Travel, with a contact number of +48722261731 and email [email protected].

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour maintains a maximum of 30 travelers for a more personalized experience.