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Worth to stay in Auschwitz overnight if doing 2 day study tour?

If I plan to do a 2-day study tour in Auschwitz, is it worth to book a hotel near Auschwitz for overnight? Or it is better to stay in Krakow and take trains 2-day in row? Asking because I read another thread that it nis not really worth to stay in Auschwitz. I booked B&M Guesthouse but can be cancelled. I have not booked accommodation in Krakow yet.

Thanks advance for your reply

Posted by
9757 posts

I think I said that, because Oswiecim is not that interesting (compared to Krakow) other than the camp. But you have a different reason for going than most tourists.

Posted by
1926 posts

It is close to 90 minutes each way between Krakow and Auschwitz. Is it worth three hours of your valuable time for the privilege of sleeping in a slightly more charming location? I think not. Stick with the Guesthouse and take the opportunity to observe everyday Polish life, as opposed to the very touristy experience in Krakow. Assuming your trip includes time in Krakow before or after, that should be enough. Look at the Wawel Hotel, which I thoroughly enjoyed.

Posted by
6 posts

Thanks for all your input.

Due to time constraints, I decided it is more feasible to do a 6-hour study tour in one day, instead of splitting 2 days. I will be staying in Krakow.

Since my father does not understand English, is there a place he can sit and wait if he decides to break from the tour? (I will be paying for 2 person 6-hour tour.) Thanks in advance for your reply.

Posted by
706 posts

I will also be doing the 6-hour study guide tour. From what I understand, you move along with the group through different sections and not necessarily return to same spot to retrieve someone. The tour stops by the entrance for a 30 minute break between Auschwitz I and Birkenau after about 3 hours, I think. Then the group takes a shuttle bus to Birkenau.

Does your dad have mobility issues? I wouldn't recommend the 6 hour tour if so. And both tours involve a lot of walking/covering a wide area. If your concern is just the language, I know there are apps on the web that I looked at when I was considering going with unguided option (but then realized my time would be shorter). As long as he is with the group, he could listen to his own guide in his native language.

Is there an option for the shorter tour (3.5 hour) for his native language? Do you speak it so you could then join a different tour? Or would the shorter tour, even English, be a better option if he has to wait for you? All tours stop by the entrance/cafeteria between camps. This is from what I read and researched online - I'll be there in September.