If, for instance, you were thinking of taking a trip to Berlin, Germany and also to the museum of one of the world’s most dreaded places; the Auschwitz Concentration camp in Poland you may be curious to find out the distance between these two.
Distance between Berlin and Auschwitz is neither too small nor too large; it is moderate enough to ensure that Berlin has not inherited Auschwitz, yet large enough to ensure that Berlin has not been fully purged of Auschwitz either.
The road distance between Berlin and Auschwitz is about 380 miles or 610 kilometers. However, please bear in mind that for the actual travel distance there may be different depending on its direction and other parameters. One has to look at the current road conditions and the most ideal means of transport to use.
Transportation Options
1. By Car
If you decide to drive to the camp, the distance between Berlin and Auschwitz is 6-7 hours by car depending on the traffic and the chosen route. In this case, one is advised to check their GPS or download a good map application that guides you on the right path. Of course, time should also be left for breaks at service stations and convenience store of choice en route.
2. By Train
Train transport is also advisable for one who does not wish, or is uncomfortable, to drive for long distances or one who would rather use a mode of transport other than personal car. You can avail a train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof which is the main train station to Oświęcim the town nearest to the Auschwitz camp. The travelling takes about 6-7 hours, it is best if one books their tickets beforehand. When you get to Oświęcim, it is easy to take a taxi or local bus to the Auschwitz Memorial and Museum.
3. By Bus
Another cheap way of getting to Auschwitz is to take a bus from Berlin. This is served by many companies, and the time can take up to 6-8 hours, but for sure it can be more depending on the traffic or state of the roads. As when you are going by train, you will have to get a taxi or any other transport from the bus station to the Memorial and Museum of Auschwitz.
Visiting Auschwitz
Auschwitz-Birkenau or Auschwitz is the common name for a system of concentration and extermination camps in Nazi Germany, built during the Second World War. Today, it is serving as a memorial for the Holocaust and other heinous acts committed there. If you plan to visit Auschwitz, it is essential to keep a few things in mind:
1. Guided Tours
Self guided tours are also possible during the opening hours but visitors are advised to attend the guided tour in order to understand the history, importance and the true stories associated with the camp if interested in visiting Auschwitz then it should be done on a guided tour. The guides are informative and sensitive to pedagogically teach people what had happened at that place.
2. Entry Restrictions
Because of its history and the tragic circumstances, there are crowds restrictions intended to preserve the atmosphere and not to offend the memory of victims. This means that planning for your tickets in advance is important more so when traveling during the holiday season.
3. Respectful Behavior
When in the concentration camp, it important to conduct yourself appropriately as the place is filled with historical significance of incredible tragedy. This includes; not arguing loudly, not taking photographs where prohibited, and wearing decent clothing because of the place’s history.
In Conclusion
It is, however, possible to visit Auschwitz coming from Berlin, the method though requires some planning and preparations. Regardless of your decision to drive, take a train or to take a bus, make sure you have proper transport means before hand. Upon there, joining the guided tour will be more productive in terms of the meaningful tour experience. To avoid missing your tickets consider booking them in advance and ensure you respect the place. The major purpose of the construction of auschwitz is important to remind people the cruelties of the past, and the significance of knowing more about history.
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