Auschwitz Subcamps from Krakow

If you’re planning a trip to Krakow and want to go beyond the standard visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau, a tour of the Auschwitz subcamps might just be the experience you’re looking for. This guided excursion promises to reveal parts of the complex that aren’t included in the main museum, offering a chance to understand the broader scope of this dark chapter in history.

While it’s not a perfect package and has some limitations, it can be a meaningful journey—especially for those who already have some familiarity with Auschwitz or are seeking a more detailed look at the lesser-known sites. We love the fact that this experience offers insight into the subcamps’ strategic and industrial roles, which often get overlooked. The professional guidance, plus the inclusion of transportation, makes it accessible.

However, one consideration is the relatively high price for what you get, especially since some reviewers felt the tour could be rushed or missing the main Auschwitz sites like Auschwitz I or II. Still, if you’re interested in less touristy, more specific parts of the camp system, this tour could be worthwhile. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a day-long, emotionally intensive trip and want to deepen their understanding of Auschwitz’s wider network.

Good To Know

• Focus on Unseen Sites: Visit parts of Auschwitz that are normally off-limits in typical tours.
• Guided Insight: Learn about the history of the subcamps through a professional live guide.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Includes Juden Rampe, SS Canteen, Auschwitz III Monowitz, and more.
• Transportation Included: Comfortable private bus transfer from Krakow makes logistics easy.
• Limited Main Site Access: Does not include Auschwitz I or II, which might disappoint some.
• Cost-Value Balance: Slightly pricier for a tour that covers only certain parts of the complex.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Straszewskiego 14, at the K+R Bus Bay near Hotel Maltaski. This location is central and easy to find, especially if you’re staying in Krakow’s Old Town. Arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to settle in and get a briefing from your guide, who will be leading the group in English. The entire day lasts around 7-8 hours, with the guided portion roughly 3.5 hours, plus bus transfers and breaks.

The transportation is in a comfortable private bus, which is appreciated considering the distance between sites. The journey takes about 75 minutes to reach the first stop, offering a relaxed start rather than a rushed sprint. The return trip is a lengthy 105-minute transfer back to the starting point, giving you some time to reflect on what you’ve seen.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Initial Meeting

The experience kicks off at Floriana Straszewskiego 14, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. This initial phase sets the tone for the day, giving you a chance to ask questions and understand what’s ahead.

Stop 2: Bus Transfer to Auschwitz-Birkenau

The first major site is Auschwitz-Birkenau, where you’ll get a quick 30-minute guided tour of the Juden Rampe. This is the platform where prisoners were unloaded and processed, and it’s one of the most symbolic areas of the camp.

Real insight: Several reviewers note that, while brief, this stop helps contextualize the subsequent visits. One reviewer, Beccie, mentioned that guides really try to show everything, but the experience can feel rushed at times.

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Stop 3: Subcamps Exploration

Next, about an hour is spent visiting various subcamps and specific sites like the Potatoes and Cabbage Warehouse, Auschwitz III Monowitz, and the Women’s Subcamp Bor-Budy. These locations are often overlooked in standard tours but are crucial to understanding how Auschwitz functioned as an industrial and strategic hub.

This part of the trip is described as a chance to see the parts of the system the main museum doesn’t cover. The guides share detailed stories about prisoners’ conditions and the purpose of each site, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

Authentic review insight: As one reviewer pointed out, “The tour guides did their best to show us everything,” but some felt the pace could be a bit hurried, especially given the emotional weight.

Stop 4: Auschwitz III Monowitz and Memorials

The visit to Auschwitz III Monowitz is particularly significant. This camp was primarily an industrial labor camp serving the Buna Werke factories. Here, the guide discusses its role in the larger Nazi economy and the suffering endured by prisoners.

A trip to Memoriale Auschwitz III offers a somber reflection point, with explanations about the prisoner conditions and the importance of remembrance.

Final Transfer and Return

After this, a lengthy bus ride brings you back to Krakow, giving you time to process the day. The entire experience is designed to give a well-rounded, though selective, view of Auschwitz’s vast system.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers all entrance tickets and guidance, making logistics one less thing to worry about. You’ll also be picked up and dropped off at a convenient central location.

However, it does not include entrance to Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum itself, which means you’re focusing solely on the subcamps and surrounding sites. Also, lunch and personal expenses are not covered, so plan accordingly.

One reviewer emphasized that for €86, the experience felt a little rushed and missing the main Auschwitz sites, suggesting the value could be better at a slightly lower price point.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes: Expect a fair amount of walking and standing.
• Dress weather-appropriate: The tour runs rain or shine, so pack accordingly.
• Arrive early: Punctuality ensures you don’t miss the briefing.
• Bring a valid ID: Essential for entering the sites.
• Prepare emotionally: The locations are powerful and can be emotionally taxing.

This tour works best for history enthusiasts looking for a more detailed understanding of the Nazi camp system. It’s suited for travelers who already know the basics of Auschwitz and want to explore the parts that are not accessible in the standard museum visits. It’s also a good choice if you prefer guided commentary over wandering alone, and value organized transportation.

However, if your main goal is to see Auschwitz I and II, or if you’re limited on time or budget, this tour might not meet your expectations.

This tour offers a different perspective on Auschwitz—highlighting the lesser-known subcamps that played a crucial role in Nazi operations. Its biggest strength is the guided narrative that unveils stories often left out of traditional visits, making it a meaningful experience for those seeking to understand the full scope of the camp system.

On the downside, the cost may seem high considering it doesn’t include the main Auschwitz sites, which many visitors consider essential. The rushed feel of certain parts and the lack of time at the primary museum locations mean it’s not for everyone.

If you’re open to a more specialized, focused look at Auschwitz’s industrial and subcamp network, and you value the convenience of guided transportation, this tour can be a worthwhile addition to your Krakow itinerary. Just keep your expectations aligned with the tour’s scope and pace.

Does this tour include Auschwitz I and II?
No, it focuses solely on the Auschwitz subcamps and surrounding locations, not the main Auschwitz I or II sites.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7-8 hours, including bus transfers, guided visits, and breaks.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a private, comfortable bus takes you from Krakow to the sites and back, easing logistical worries.

What sites will I visit?
You’ll visit Juden Rampe, the SS Canteen, Auschwitz III Monowitz, the women’s subcamp Bor-Budy, and other areas related to the subcamps.

Is the guide English-speaking?
Yes, the tour features a live English-speaking guide throughout the day.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as you’ll be walking and standing for extended periods.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Unaccompanied minors are not allowed; adult travelers should consider emotional readiness for this intense history.

Does the tour include entrance to Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum?
No, entrance to the main museum is not included and must be purchased separately if desired.

Is this experience value for money?
Many reviewers feel it is somewhat expensive for what is covered, especially considering the absence of Auschwitz I and II. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a focused exploration of the subcamps.

To sum it up, this Auschwitz subcamps tour offers an insightful look into parts of the camp system that many visitors never see. It’s ideal for those with a good understanding of Auschwitz and an interest in its industrial and strategic roles. While it’s not a full Auschwitz experience, for its price, it provides a meaningful, guided exploration of unseen history. Just be sure to set your expectations accordingly and prepare for an emotionally impactful day.

You can check if your dates are available here: