A visit to the former Nazi concentration and extermination camp of Auschwitz is an important and moving experience. It is convenient and cost effective if you plan to go from Berlin to Auschwitz by train. In this article, we will cover the process of taking the train from Berlin to Auschwitz without a hitch so you can have a safe and hassle free trip.
Step 1: Planning Your Journey
In order to plan your journey well in advance before embarking on your trip, it is always a good practice. Now are some important points to think about:
Train Routes and Connections
You have several routes to travel from Berlin to Auschwitz. The most popular way is from Berlin Hauptbahnhof (the main station) to Oświęcim, the first train station on the approach to Auschwitz. The journey usually requires a change of trains in Katowice or Kraków. Before travelling, you would recommend checking the train schedules and tracks online on fields like Deutch Bahn or Rail Europe.
Ticket Options
You also have several options when you are purchasing your tickets. We recommend you to buy your ticket in advance so you can have a guarantee of availability. The price for a regular one way ticket to Oświęcim from Berlin will cost around 50 euro to 70 euro, depending on the class that you travel and also on when you book. If you are going to stay overnight and come back to Berlin on another date, it is better to take a round trip ticket.
Step 2: Departing from Berlin Hauptbahnhof
You have already planned your journey and bought the tickets, now you should board the Berlin Hauptbahnhof train. For instance:
Arriving Early
If you arrive at the train station at the very least 30 minutes before you are supposed to leave, you can use the time to find the platform that your train will be on, as well as get comfortable. As a huge station in Berlin Hauptbahnhof, it is always better to arrive on time and skipping any potential stress.
Platform and Train Information
You can check the information boards or approach the customer service desk for your train’s platform number. When you find your platform look for the train carriage and seat as indicated on your ticket. Check whether your seat has been reserved or if it is an open seat train.
Step 3: On the Train
Now, while you are sitting down for your trip, please consider the next tips:
Comfort and Luggage
Beware of long train journeys and bring comfortable clothes, items for entertainment if you’re going on the haul long hours. You may also like to take advantage of optional amenities such as snacks, books, heads or headphones. Also ensure that the luggage will pass security without causing a foul breeze. Overhead compartments and storage bags inside the train near the doors are found for smaller bags.
Train Etiquette
Use your space, but keep your noise down and conversations with your phone to a minimum so as to respect other passengers. Also, keep in mind that there should be special rules and regulations allowing you to stay on the train and observe the local customs.
Step 4: Arriving at Oświęcim
You are a short distance from Auschwitz when you arrive on Oświęcim. Here’s what you need to know:
Transportation to Auschwitz
There are public transportation to reach Auschwitz from the Oświęcim train station. There are buses and taxis easily for the station. Auschwitz is also 40 minutes walk from the station and there is a well signposted route. But the trip by foot or train takes approximately one hour and is relatively long.
Visiting Auschwitz
Before visiting Auschwitz, tickets must be booked in advance online. The number of visitors is controlled through regulation of entry to the memorial. When inside, you can choose to take a guided tour for historical context, or a meaningless tour to prevent meaninglessness.
Wrapping Up
Visitors to Auschwitz have the option to travel from Berlin to the death camp by train. Having prepared yourself with a plan, purchasing tickets ahead of time, and following these steps, you ought to be able to make it to this important historical site without difficulty. When visiting, remember to do so with respect, sensitivity, as well as an open mind to learning.
Table of Contents