Travelling from Krakow to Auschwitz by train is a convenient option for visitors who want to organise their trip independently. The train takes you from Kraków Główny to Oświęcim, but the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is not located directly at the railway station.
Looking for an overview of all ways to travel from Krakow to Auschwitz? See our complete guide to how to visit Auschwitz from Krakow.
Table of Contents
- Quick answer: Krakow to Auschwitz by train
- Where do you catch the train in Krakow?
- Where should you get off?
- How far is Auschwitz Visitor Services Center from Oświęcim train station?
- Allow enough time for your Museum entry
- Is the train the best way to get to Auschwitz?
- Before travelling by train
- Prefer an organised Auschwitz tour?
- FAQ
Quick answer: Krakow to Auschwitz by train
- Departure: Kraków Główny
- Destination: Oświęcim
- Travel time: approx. 70-90 minutes; depending on the type of train
- Distance from the station to the Museum: approximately 1.5 km
- Travel type: independent
The official Auschwitz Memorial confirms that the Museum is approximately 1,500 metres from the Oświęcim railway station. Local transport is available between the station and the Museum.
Where do you catch the train in Krakow?
For most visitors, the most convenient departure point is Kraków Główny, Krakow’s main railway station.
Check the current timetable before travelling because train schedules can change depending on the date and season. Check the current Koleje Małopolskie timetable.
Where should you get off?
Your destination is Oświęcim.
Remember that Oświęcim railway station is not the same location as the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial. After arriving at the station, you still need to reach the Museum.
How far is Auschwitz Visitor Services Center from Oświęcim train station?
The railway station is approximately 1.5 km from the Museum entrance. You can continue by local transport or walk if your schedule and luggage allow it.
Allow enough time for your Museum entry
Do not plan your train journey too tightly if you have a reserved entry time. Allow additional time for possible delays and for travelling from the station to the Museum.
The Museum recommends arriving at least 30 minutes before the start of a guided tour because of security procedures. See the official visitor information.
Is the train the best way to get to Auschwitz?
The train is a good option if you prefer independent travel. However, you need to organise the train, the journey from Oświęcim station to the Museum and your Museum entry separately.
If you prefer a simpler journey, compare it with travelling from Krakow to Auschwitz by bus or an organised Auschwitz tour from Krakow.
Before travelling by train
- Check the current train timetable.
- Check your Museum entry time.
- Allow extra time after arriving in Oświęcim.
- Remember that the railway station is not the Museum entrance.
- Reserve your Museum entry online in advance.
Since March 2026, entry cards for individual visitors are available exclusively through the Museum’s official online booking system. Reserve your entry at the official Auschwitz booking system.
Prefer an organised Auschwitz tour?
If you prefer not to organise trains and local transport yourself, an organised Auschwitz tour from Krakow can combine transportation, Museum arrangements and guiding.
FAQ
Is there a train from Krakow to Auschwitz?
Yes. Trains connect Kraków Główny with Oświęcim. From Oświęcim railway station, you need to continue to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial.
How far is Auschwitz Museum from the train station?
The Museum is approximately 1,500 metres from Oświęcim railway station.
Is the train cheaper than an Auschwitz tour?
Independent train travel can reduce transportation costs, but you need to arrange your Museum entry and the journey from the station yourself.
