How Do You Get From Auschwitz to Prague?

By Alice Nichols

Are you planning a trip to Europe and considering visiting some of the most significant historical sites? If so, you may be wondering how to get from Auschwitz to Prague. This journey can be emotional and challenging, but it’s also an essential part of understanding the history of Central Europe.

What is Auschwitz?

Auschwitz was a network of concentration and extermination camps built by Nazi Germany during World War II. Over 1.1 million people, mostly Jews, but also Poles, Roma, Soviet prisoners of war, and others were murdered at Auschwitz between 1940 and 1945. Today, the site serves as a museum and memorial to those who lost their lives there.

How to get from Auschwitz to Prague?

The distance between Auschwitz and Prague is around 500 kilometers or 310 miles. The most common ways to travel between the two cities are by train or car.

If you’re traveling by train, you’ll need to take a direct train from Oswiecim station (the town located near the Auschwitz camp) to Prague. The journey takes around eight hours, with several departures per day. You can check schedules and buy tickets online or at the station.

If you prefer driving, renting a car is an option as well. It’s essential to note that driving in Poland can be challenging due to narrow roads and heavy traffic in some areas. However, once you reach the Czech Republic border, the roads become more comfortable to navigate.

Visiting other places near Auschwitz

If you have time during your visit to Auschwitz, consider exploring other nearby attractions such as:

  • Birkenau (Auschwitz II) Concentration Camp: This was the largest camp in the complex and held up to 90 thousand prisoners at once.
  • Oswiecim: This small town has a rich history and is worth exploring. You can visit the Jewish Museum and Synagogue, which showcases Jewish life in Oswiecim before the war.
  • Wieliczka Salt Mine: Located around an hour’s drive from Auschwitz, this UNESCO World Heritage site is an underground mine with chapels, chambers, and salt sculptures.

Conclusion

Visiting Auschwitz can be a challenging experience, but it’s essential to understand the history of Central Europe. If you’re planning a trip to Prague and want to visit Auschwitz, you have several options for getting there. Consider visiting other nearby attractions as well to gain a fuller understanding of the region’s history.