If you’re thinking about visiting Berlin and want to see Auschwitz, there is a good chance you’re wondering how you will get between the two. Auschwitz, now in Poland, is a historical site of great importance to which camp center Nazis put thousands of people during World War II and killed them. This visit should be taken with care and respect, as I should treat it. Here are some options for traveling from Berlin to Auschwitz:
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By Train
Travel from Berlin to Auschwitz with train is by far the most convenient and popular. It takes normally 5-6 hours to travel by train, but can take longer depending on which train and route. It is understood that you should book your ticket beforehand in order to be sure to get a seat and also to get the most affordable price.
Here are the steps you can follow:
The city’s main railway station is Berlin Hauptbahnhof, meaning start there.
There are no direct trains from Berlin to Auschwitz so you’ll have to take a train to Krakow. This route has multiple trains running it during the day, fast and slow.
If you are in Kraków, you can get a local train or bus and make the trek to Auschwitz. It takes between 1.5 and 2 hours to reach Auschwitz from Kraków.
I should also add that the train ticket from Berlin to Kraków is not the same as the ticket for the local train, bus or whatever from Kraków to Auschwitz. Make sure you have a separate ticket for each leg of the journey.
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By Bus
There is also the possibility of traveling from Berlin to Auschwitz by bus. Even though that train only takes this long, it’s more expensive than this journey is long. Some buses leave from the Berlin ZOB (Central Bus Station) and turn up at the Auschwitz Bus Station.
Here are the steps you can follow:
Go to the Berlin ZOB very close to the Messe Nord/ICC S-Bahn station.
Choose a reputable bus with which to travel from Berlin to Auschwitz.
There’s about a 8–10 hour journey ahead, depending on much traffic and rest stops.
It may be longer, but it is actually a time to see some of the scenery and relax on the bus. If you’re traveling, and in the midst of a long journey, it might be a good idea to have a good entertainment with you.
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By Car
You can also drive yourself from Berlin to Auschwitz if you’d rather the freedom and convenience that driving provides. The two locations are almost 487 kilometers apart, and the trip usually lasts for 6-7 hours (enough time if there’s no traffic)!
Here are a few points to consider:
And also ensure you have good navigation tools, or at least use a GPS device, if you’re going to have to rely on them.
Book your car hire in advance with a reliable company.
Tolls, parking fees, and traffic in Germany and Poland will be your eyes.
It can drive you to the flexibility to follow other places along the way or stop where you want to. Nevertheless, please visit Auschwitz always with required solemnity and allow sufficient time for a visit.
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Guided Tours
If you are a stickler for an orderly and, let’s be frank, a little more informative, you might choose to join a guided tour from Berlin to Auschwitz. Guided day trips can be arranged with a number of tour operators who will transport you, offer you a knowledgeable guide and even allow you into the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.
Here is what you can expect from a guided tour:
Look for information on what ratings do last travel guides give tour operators and research and choose a reputable tour operator based on the recommendations or reviews of others.
Try to pre book your tour (based dates and included amenities).
Get to the meeting points and departure times as instructed by the operator.
During a guided visit to Auschwitz the guide will add historical context and insight into the place.
This only increases if you take one of the guided tours. They organize a visit well and also have the opportunity to learn from experienced guides.
Final Tips
Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, here are a few essential tips to consider when traveling from Berlin to Auschwitz:
Because the site can become crowded, plan ahead for your visit to Auschwitz.
Do respect the site’s rules and guidelines and then behave somberly and reflect the site.
On top of that, it is possible to explore Auschwitz well and needs enough time, because Auschwitz is a large complex with several exhibitions and memorials.
You may want to consider packing walkable attire — bland shoes and weather appropriate clothing — in the case that you need to get out for a walk.
If you’re travelling by train or bus, pack some snacks and water.
Know well the current entry requirements, like reservations particularly during COVID 19.
Going to visit Auschwitz from Berlin can be a powerful and interesting thing. With the right mode of transportation and some preparation for your visit, this might be one you don’t want to pass up.
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