Essential Guide: A Weekend Trip to Krakow and Auschwitz from London

A weekend journey from London to Krakow and Auschwitz stands out as one of the most impactful short trips available. This itinerary blends cultural immersion with profound historical reflection, offering an affordable and accessible escape from the UK.

Getting to Krakow from London

Direct flights from London to Krakow are operated by several airlines, including Ryanair from Stansted, Wizz Air from Luton, and LOT Polish Airlines from Heathrow. Flight durations typically range from 2 hours 30 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes. For an optimal weekend experience, consider flying out on Friday evening and returning on Monday morning or late Sunday night. Booking flights at least 6–8 weeks in advance is advisable to secure fares starting around £40–£80 return, though prices increase closer to departure.

Post-Brexit, UK citizens can visit Poland visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period under Schengen rules, requiring only a valid passport. The best times to visit are April to June and September to October, when mild weather, manageable crowds, and lower accommodation costs prevail. Summer months are busier and hotter, while winter offers atmospheric charm but shorter daylight hours.

Where to Stay in Krakow

Accommodation in Krakow is generally affordable, with options to suit various budgets. The Old Town (Stare Miasto) provides central convenience, within walking distance of Wawel Castle, the Main Market Square, and bus connections to Auschwitz, though prices are higher. Kazimierz, the Jewish Quarter, offers a slightly cheaper alternative rich in character, with excellent dining and a 20-minute walk or short tram ride to the Old Town.

Hostels in the Old Town start from £15–£25 per night, while boutique hotels in central locations range from £50–£90 per night. Advance booking is essential, especially during peak seasons like spring and autumn.

Exploring Krakow: What to See and Do

Krakow's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is compact and best explored on foot. Key highlights include:

Wawel Castle: Perched above the Vistula River, this iconic landmark and adjacent cathedral, the coronation site of Polish kings, require 2–3 hours. Book timed entry tickets online in advance due to high demand.
Main Market Square: One of Europe's largest medieval squares, featuring St. Mary's Basilica with its Gothic interior and famous altarpiece. The hourly trumpet melody from the basilica tower is a memorable moment.
Kazimierz: The historic Jewish centre, now a neighbourhood of synagogues, museums, street art, and restaurants. It gained international fame from the filming of Schindler's List.

For longer distances, Krakow's reliable tram network offers single tickets around 4–5 PLN, while taxis and ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Uber are inexpensive by UK standards. Polish cuisine is hearty and affordable, with dishes like pierogi, żurek, and bigos costing £6–£12 per person at local restaurants. A daily budget for meals, transport, and entry fees typically falls between £30–£50.

Planning the Auschwitz-Birkenau Visit

Auschwitz-Birkenau, located near Oświęcim about 70 km west of Krakow, requires careful planning. Options include:

Organised tours: Recommended for efficiency, these include transport, a guide, and entry, often with pickup from accommodation or central points in Krakow.
Independent travel: Buses from Krakow's main station take about 1 hour 30 minutes, while trains may require changes. This option is cheaper but demands more time and planning.

The memorial comprises two sites: Auschwitz I, the original camp with exhibitions, and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, the larger extermination camp. As of 2026, pre-booked guided tours are mandatory; book directly through the official museum website well in advance. Allow 4–5 hours for a thorough visit.

Practical tips include wearing comfortable clothing for walking on uneven ground, bringing water and snacks, and dressing modestly. Photography is permitted in most areas but prohibited in sensitive spots like gas chambers. Emotionally, prepare by reading about the Holocaust beforehand to deepen understanding.

Tips for Maximising a Short Trip

Book all elements—flights, accommodation, Wawel Castle entry, and Auschwitz tours—before traveling to avoid last-minute issues. Avoid over-scheduling; Krakow rewards a slower pace with unexpected discoveries. Steer clear of tourist traps like expensive horse-drawn carriages. Consider services like KrakowDirect for reliable airport transfers and organised tours to streamline your itinerary.

This weekend trip offers a blend of Krakow's beauty, history, and affordability with the solemn importance of Auschwitz-Birkenau. It is an act of respect and remembrance that leaves a lasting impact. Plan ahead, leave room for spontaneity, and embrace the surprises Krakow has to offer.