Introduction
To travel from Berlin to Auschwitz is a historical journey, an opportunity to experience one of darkest chapters in human history through history. Oswiecim (Auschwitz) was the Nazi concentration and extermination camp in World War II the largest. In this blog post, I am going to let you know all you need to know about the train trip and all the information you would need to know such as train times duration tips for making the most out of this experience.
Train Times from Berlin to Auschwitz
To make the journey from Berlin to Auschwitz, you have several train options available. The most convenient route is to take a train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof, the central train station in Berlin, to Oswiecim, the town nearest to Auschwitz. The train route is straightforward, and there are several daily departures that you can choose from.
The train journey from Berlin to Oswiecim takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, depending on the specific train you take. It’s important to note that there are no direct trains from Berlin to Oswiecim, so you will need to make a transfer at least once during your journey.
Transferring at Wroclaw
Wroclaw, Positioned just west of Poland, its a popular transfer point for persons traveling from Berlin to Oswiecim. An IC (InterCity) train to Wroclaw Glowny, the city’s central train station leaves from Berlin Hauptbahnhof. The trip between Berlin and Wroclow is around 4 hours.
From Wroclaw Glowny you will have to change trains to continue to Oswiecim. Wroclaw — Oswiecim trains provide convenience, as the trains are frequent, and the trip lasts around 2–3 hours. People are recommended to check the train schedules in advance and avoid too tight timing of transfers.
Other Transfer Options
Other than Wroclaw there are other transfer points that you consider if Berlin and Oswiecim are your transfer points. The train connections from two prominent cities in Poland, Poznan and Krakow to Oswiecim are present.
You may opt to transfer to Poznan and can then take IC train from Berlin to Poznan Glowny, the main train station for Poznan. Between Berlin and Poznan, it’s a 2.5 to 3.5 hour journey. There are trains from Poznan to Oswiecim – around 3.5 hours.
Another alternative transfer is through Krakow. An EC (EuroCity) to or an IC in to Krakow Glowny, the main station in Krakow, from Berlin Hauptbahnhof. There is a 7 to 8 hour journey from Berlin to Krakow. In Krakow you’d take a direct train to Oswiecim, which takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.
Tips for the Journey
Auschwitz is a visit to be emotionally and historically significant. To guarantee a visitful and respectful visit, it is therefore important to plan in advance. Here are some tips to consider for your journey:
-
Book Train Tickets in Advance
It’s advisable to buy your train tickets in advance to secure best train fares and get the availability. If you do not buy it online from one of the official railway websites or through one of trusted third party ticketing platform, you risk being defrauded.
-
Find Yourself an Opening to Make it Outside
Auschwitz-Birkenau is enormous, and it is a lot to see and learn. Take the day and spend it visiting the museum, exhibitions and memorial sites in their entirety.
-
Dress Appropriately
Out of respect to the victims and the solemn nature of the place it is important to dress appropriately. Dress in comfy clothing and maybe cover your shoulders and knees.
4. Bring Necessary Supplies
Essentials to have when you are visiting Auschwitz include water, snacks, sunscreen. And you’d recommend taking a little bag, so you might have a little personal belonging on hand.
5. Engage in Guided Tours or Audio Guides
To enhance your understanding of the history and significance of Auschwitz, consider joining a guided tour or using audio guides, which are available in several languages. These resources provide valuable insights and help navigate the vast complex.
6. Show Respect and Reflect
Auschwitz is a place of remembrance and reflection. Show respect by maintaining a solemn demeanor, refraining from taking selfies or engaging in loud conversations. Allow yourself time to absorb the gravity of the history that unfolded within these walls.
Conclusion
Traveling from Berlin to Auschwitz by train offers an opportunity to connect with history on a deeply profound level. Plan your journey, book your train tickets in advance, and prepare for a meaningful experience. Remember to approach your visit with respect and empathy. Auschwitz stands as a testament to the horrors of the past, serving as a reminder to prevent such atrocities in the future.
Table of Contents