Krakow/Auschwitz
- asmith584
- Sep 27
- 2 min read
A Powerful Two-Day Journey Through Krakow & Auschwitz
This one’s a heavy topic, but in my opinion, it’s one of the most important experiences you can have when traveling through Europe. Start your time in Krakow by exploring its deep history and vibrant culture. Wander the city’s historic streets and learn about the 1655 Siege of Krakow, when defenders unsuccessfully fought against King Charles XII of Sweden. Make a quick stop at a local Polish bakery for a warm pączki donut (trust me, it’s worth it), and then finish the day with a cold Tyskie and a hearty Polish dinner — the perfect way to end an afternoon packed with history.
On Day 2, prepare yourself for a deeply emotional and unforgettable experience: visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau. I booked my tour through Viator for about $35, which included round-trip transport from my hotel and a licensed local guide. The drive from Krakow takes roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes, so bring some snacks and water — though there’s also a small refreshment stand on site.
The tour is heavy and emotional, but it’s something everyone should witness at least once. You’ll walk the same streets and pass through the same gates as the victims did, moving from barracks to extermination buildings — even the gas chambers. For me, the hardest part was seeing the massive collections of shoes, suitcases, and human hair. The tiny shoes hit me hardest. I closed my eyes, said a quiet prayer, and just stood there.
After Auschwitz, the tour continues at Birkenau, where you’ll see more of the camp and learn even more about the unimaginable horrors that occurred there. It’s not unusual for visitors to cry — I teared up a tad — and afterward, I sat quietly over a Polish beer and meal, trying to process everything I had just seen. It’s a dark chapter of history, but one we must all confront to ensure it never happens again. It reminded me somewhat of my combat tour in Iraq walking into the torture chambers of Abu Ghraib during the invasion of 2003.
🕰️ Trip Details
Day 1 (Krakow City Tour): ~4–6 hours — mostly self-guided, cost varies ($10–$20 for food/drinks)
Day 2 (Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour): ~7–8 hours total (including transport) — approx. $35
Round Trip Travel Time: ~1 hr 45 min each way
