3 day itinerary for Auswitch

Itinerary

A three-day itinerary in and around Auschwitz can be a profound and moving experience. Here’s a suggested plan that balances visits to the memorial sites with some time for reflection and exploration of the surrounding area.

## Day 1: Arrival and Auschwitz I

Morning:

• Arrival in Oświęcim: Settle into your accommodation. There are several hotels and guesthouses in the area, so pick one that suits your style!
• Breakfast: Grab a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try some traditional Polish pastries!

Midday:

• Visit Auschwitz I: Start your journey at the Auschwitz I camp. It’s the main camp and serves as the museum. Make sure to book a guided tour in advance to get the most out of your visit. The exhibits are powerful and provide a deep insight into the history of the Holocaust.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: After your tour, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant. You might want to try some pierogi (Polish dumplings) – they’re delicious!

Evening:

• Reflection: Spend some time reflecting on what you’ve seen. You might want to take a quiet walk around the area or visit the nearby memorials.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local eatery. Polish cuisine is hearty and comforting, perfect for a reflective day.

## Day 2: Auschwitz II-Birkenau and Local Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a good breakfast at your accommodation or a local café.
• Visit Auschwitz II-Birkenau: Head to the larger Birkenau camp. This site is vast and can be overwhelming, so take your time. The guided tours are again highly recommended, as they provide context to the haunting remains.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: After your visit, have lunch at a nearby café. You might want to try some local soups, like żurek (sour rye soup).
• Explore Oświęcim: Spend the afternoon exploring the town of Oświęcim. Visit the Jewish Museum and the local shops. It’s a chance to see the town beyond the memorials.

Evening:

• Cultural Experience: If you’re interested, check if there are any local events or performances happening in the evening. Sometimes, there are concerts or cultural exhibitions that can provide a deeper understanding of the area’s history.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that offers a mix of traditional and modern Polish cuisine.

## Day 3: Nature and Reflection

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Maybe try some local cheeses or smoked meats!
• Visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum: If you want to delve deeper, you can revisit the museum for any exhibits you may have missed or take part in a workshop or educational program if available.

Afternoon:

• Nature Walk: Spend the afternoon in the nearby Oświęcim Landscape Park. It’s a beautiful area for a walk or bike ride, allowing you to reflect on your experiences in a serene environment.
• Lunch: Pack a picnic or grab a light lunch at a café in the park.

Evening:

• Final Reflections: Spend your last evening reflecting on your trip. You might want to write in a journal or simply sit in a quiet spot and think about the history you’ve learned.
• Farewell Dinner: Treat yourself to a nice farewell dinner at a restaurant that offers a cozy atmosphere. Perhaps try some local wine or vodka to toast to your journey.

Tips:

• Respectful Attire: Dress respectfully when visiting the memorial sites.
• Book in Advance: Make sure to book your guided tours ahead of time, especially during peak seasons.
• Stay Hydrated: Walking around the camps can be emotionally and physically draining, so keep water handy!

This itinerary balances the solemnity of the sites with opportunities to explore the local culture and nature. It’s a journey of remembrance, reflection, and understanding. Safe travels!