Visiting Auschwitz, the infamous World War II concentration and extermination camp, is an important and somber experience for many people. If you are planning a trip from Berlin to Auschwitz, you may be wondering about the cheapest way to get there. In this article, we’ll explore several options that will help you save money while making the journey to this historically significant site.
Option 1: Train and Bus Combination
Our advice for those wanting to travel from Berlin to Auschwitz without spending a fortune is to combine a train and bus journey. You take a train from Berlin to Krakow (which is the biggest city near Auschwitz). The journey from one place to the other takes approximately 6-7 hours, trains usually operate daily.
When you get to Krakow, take to the Krakow Główny bus station, just next to the train station. You can easily take a bus here from which you can commute for 1.5 hours to Auschwitz. A convenient, inexpensive way to get there is to catch buses frequently running between Krakow and Auschwitz.
Option 2: Guided Tour
If you want to have less hassle while going, booking on guided tours may be your best bet. The Auschwitz tours out of Berlin — transportation included, guide included (sometimes meals included as well) — are even available through many tour operators.
Guided tours at first seem more expensive than independent travel, however they usually represent great value for money. In this case the tour operators do know history and significance of Auschwitz so they put up quite an experience. Furthermore, the overall cost of transportation, entrance fees and guidance is generally bundled together, meaning taking all at once is cheaper than booking individually.
Guided Tour Tips
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when selecting a guided tour:
Research different tour operators, read reviews and find a good, reputable, trustworthy company.
You do check what you get with the tour package to make sure you are getting the best value for your money.
Consider the group size. In a smaller group, one has a better guide to visitor ratio and may be more intimate as well.
Try to find out about other prices and services being provided by different operators so you can make the informed choice.
Research different tour operators, read reviews (and be sceptical) to ensure you find a reputable and trustworthy company.
Make sure to check what is part of the package of the tour so that you can have the best enjoy from it.
Consider the group size. For smaller groups, it may be a more intimate experience and a smaller guide to visitor ratio.
Check prices and services of other operators, in order to make an informed choice.
Option 3: Self-Drive
For the round and the pulse of freedom that driving gives, renting a car to drive yourself to Auschwitz, is one option. With this option you can choose your own schedule and have the time to visit the surrounding area on your own terms.
It is approximately 630 kilometers (about 6-7 hours’) on the road from Berlin to Auschwitz. When calculating the total expenses remember to consider fuel costs and tolls. Remember, too, that some car rental companies may also charge extra fees to cross international borders, so make sure it’s all covered.
How to get tips for self driving to Auschwitz
To ensure a smooth and successful self-drive adventure, here are a few tips:
Plan out your route before hand and then use a dependable GPS or navigation app to help guide you as you go.
See if there would be time delays, or check the traffic conditions before heading out.
Look for research close parking options near Auschwitz to be ready for any last minute inconvenience.
To stay alert, concentrate and feel refreshed during the whole road, stop regularly.
If you knew your route ahead of time, plan it and use a reliable GPS or navigation app to assure you don’t get lost.
Look up traffic and take a look at weather should there be any road hazards or delays.
Look for research on parking next to Auschwitz to avoid any inconveniences should you occur at the last minute.
During the long drive take regular breaks to stay refreshed and focused.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Auschwitz is a deeply moving experience that explores the darkest chapters of history. While everyone’s priorities and budgets differ, the options discussed in this article provide affordable ways to travel from Berlin to Auschwitz.
Whether you choose the train and bus combination, a guided tour, or decide to embark on a self-drive adventure, remember to plan your trip well in advance. Take into account opening hours, entrance fees, and any additional requirements for visiting the camp.
Regardless of the method you choose, remember to approach your journey to Auschwitz with respect and mindfulness. It is a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust and an opportunity to learn, reflect, and pay homage to the victims.
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