A place of memory and reflection on the site of the former German Nazi concentration and extermination camp.
Book a Guided TourThe Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum preserves the authentic site of the largest of the German Nazi concentration and extermination camps. A visit is a powerful act of remembrance and education. While entry is free, all visits must be booked online in advance due to overwhelming demand. A guided tour is highly recommended for understanding the complex history of the site. For planning, see our visitors guide and the latest opening hours.
All visits for both individuals and groups must be booked in advance on the official reservation website.
Understanding the significance of the Memorial
A licensed Museum educator provides crucial historical context that is not apparent from the physical remains alone. They explain the functions of buildings and the stories of the victims.
The Memorial covers two vast sites, Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau. A guide ensures you see the most significant locations in a logical and respectful manner within the 3.5-hour timeframe.
Free individual entry slots are extremely limited and book out weeks or months in advance. Booking a guided tour is the most reliable way to secure your visit.
Official guided tours are offered in many languages, including English, Polish, German, French, Italian, Spanish, and more, making the history accessible to international visitors.
The sign over the main gate to Auschwitz I reads "Arbeit Macht Frei" ("Work Sets You Free"). This cynical slogan was placed at the entrances of several Nazi concentration camps. The sign at Auschwitz is particularly infamous. It was made by Polish political prisoners, who reportedly placed the "B" in "Arbeit" upside down as a subtle act of defiance.
This gate was the entry point for countless prisoners into a system of forced labor, starvation, and extermination. Today, it stands as one of the most powerful and haunting symbols of the Holocaust, a stark reminder of the false promises and brutal reality that awaited the victims who passed beneath it.
All visits must be reserved online in advance
Decide between a free individual entry (limited availability) or a paid guided tour. We highly recommend a guided tour for essential historical context.
Go to the official booking website, visit.auschwitz.org. Select your date, time, and tour language. Book several weeks or months in advance, especially for peak season.
You will receive an entry pass via email. On the day of your visit, bring your pass (digital or printed) and a valid photo ID that exactly matches the name on the reservation. Arrive at least 30 minutes early for security checks.
Essential information for your visit