Understanding the Distance
What is even more crucial when it comes to a trip to Auschwitz is the proximity of the camp to Berlin. Auschwitz is a small palace located in Poland which is 642 kilometers (399 miles) from Berlin in Germany. The trip between these two places can be done through various methods of transport and through which one gets a unique experience.
Traveling by Car
If you do not like buses you choose a car because it provides you freedom of not only moving but also sightseeing during your journey. When in traffic congestion or any unfavorable situation on the road, it will take around 6-7 hours to get through the distance. It is usually done along the A15 and A4 motorways, which passing through picturesque villages and the countryside that offers an opportunity to observe the sights. Nevertheless, it is necessary to consider the route and to designate the stops for rest and refueling, so, the trip won’t be deleterious.
Trains and Buses
For those who do not have private means of transportation there are trains and buses heading to Auschwitz from Berlin. One can take a train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof directly to Krakow, a big city near the camp. The journey can take anything between 6 and 7 hours depending on the train and connections that have to be made. One is by road through a bus, and the other is through hiring a guided tour; the trip to Auschwitz from Krakow takes one hour. You are advised to purchase your tickets in advance so that you can actually get your preferred time of traveling and there shall be no problems encountered in the process.
Trains
Trains are If one considers that transport is a comfort then trains are truly one of the best ways. They include overstuffed sofas, chairs, lavatories and, in some cases concessions such as food and beverages. Trains also offer a great opportunity to also have some time and look around and just enjoy the beautiful sceneries around the country. Different types of trains are also available such as superfast, express and mail/Express trains including train types such as AC and non-AC trains, including High Speed trains, Regional trains, and sleeper trains. Please have a look at the convenient timings and then plan your tickets. Check out the time which may be wasted while transferring from one train to another if such operation is needed.
Buses
There are also buses which people use to get to Auschwitz, especially when they come from Berlin. These are usually cheaper than many of their alternatives, and the trip usually lasts about 8-9 hours, excluding stops for traffic congestion and breaks. Buses also have conveniences such as reclining seats, air conditioning, and rest room on the bus itself. Some bus operators offer free Wi-Fi on board so that you can remain connected the entire period that the journey takes. Choose a bus service provider who has good ratings on bus service providing website and make the bookings online.
Flying to Auschwitz
If you have no patience for such a long journey, then the best way is to fly from Berlin to Krakow. Berlin has two airports, Tegel and Schönefeld, although Schönefeldairport is the closest for reaching John Paul II International Airport Kraków–Balice. Flight time takes approximately 1.5 hours. When triping to Auschwitz you can take a bus to the site or organize a personal transport from Krakow.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
However, there are few important things that you ought to arrange before you proceed to the Auschwitz Tour. Here are a few tips:
Booking Tickets
Auschwitz is one of the most visited sites in Poland, so it will be good to have booked tickets prior to intending to visit the places. A booking of your tickets can be done through the website of the Auschwitz Birkenau Memorial and Museum. Advance booking allows for one to get the right time of the visit that one feels is appropriate for visiting the memorial.
Tour Guides
It might be very helpful to try to get a tour guide in order to have the most gratifying visit to Auschwitz. In this camp, guides offer profound information with regard to progress through out the particular site in addition to information relating to holocaust averting one from the despicable acts that happened there. They can also help to decide on the place for a memorial and will be helpful in guiding through the site.
Respectful Attire
It is very relevant to dress properly when visiting Auschwitz is concerned. That is why the site is a memorial dedicated to the holocaust victims and the visitors are dressing appropriately. It reaches up to 30% of the total time of the tour, so it is recommended that good shoes and clean and comfortable clothing be worn.
Emotional Preparedness
Eyewitnessing can be very intense at Auschwitz – The Film brings home Tuoni and Anka’s dilemma. One cannot afford to be psychologically prepared before visiting the elderly relative. Make sure to read the meaning of this place and your subject to be a part of it. Get ready for a discussion of the Genocide as well as the viewing of footage of the Holocaust.
Conclusion
It is approximately 399 miles or 642 kilometers from Berlin to Auschwitz. When it comes to travelling, there are different means that one can use which include; Car, Train, Bus and Air; and all the means are equally interesting. To get the most out of your trip, it advisable to plan your trip in advance, purchase your tickets and enlist the services of a tour guide. DO NOT forget it is mandatory to pay respect especially when visiting Auschwitz Camp and it is important to be knowledgeable of its importance. Thus you thus can further your knowledge about the Holocaust and show respect to the victims of it.
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