Things To Do
in Oświęcim

Dumplings filled with potato and cheese, meat, mushrooms or seasonal fruits; widely available at restaurants and cafés in town.

Must-Try!

Silesian potato dumplings paired with rolled beef in gravy — a regional specialty commonly found at family-run restaurants.

Hunter’s stew of sauerkraut and meat, slow-cooked and popular especially in colder months; served in traditional eateries.

Polish smoked sausage available grilled or in sandwiches from local delis and market stalls.

A weekday market area where local farmers and vendors sell produce, baked goods and sausages — good for trying seasonal fruits, cheeses and quick snacks.

Occasional street stands near the square sell coffee, pastries and fast snacks like zapiekanka (Polish open-faced baguette pizza) during busier days and events.

Maintain quiet, dress modestly and follow all rules at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial — photography restrictions and behavioral guidelines are enforced to preserve dignity.

Use formal greetings (Dzień dobry) and titles with older people; a firm handshake is common when meeting someone new.

Remove hats in churches, speak softly and avoid loud phone use during services; some churches expect modest dress.

Punctuality is valued for appointments and tours; be on time for booked museum tours and transport connections.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; in restaurants 10% for good service is common, or round up the bill. For taxis, round up or add a small tip; for guides, consider 10–20 PLN depending on service and group size.

Poland uses the złoty (PLN). Cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, though small vendors and markets may prefer cash. ATMs are common; notify your bank if traveling from abroad.

Mild temperatures and blooming greenery make it pleasant for walking and early hikes; some rain is possible, so pack a rain jacket. Tourist numbers increase gradually, and daylight hours lengthen for sightseeing.

Warm to hot weather with long days — ideal for outdoor activities, lake time and evening walks; memorial sites can be busiest, so book guided tours early. Expect occasional thunderstorms.

Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage in nearby hills create scenic hiking conditions; cultural events and quieter streets make for reflective visits. Bring layers for variable weather.

Cold, often below freezing with snow possible; the memorial and town have a different, quieter atmosphere but dress warmly and be cautious on icy paths. Some outdoor attractions and smaller venues may have reduced hours.

Major international airport about 60–75 km east of Oświęcim (approximately 1–1.5 hours by car or shuttle). Regular trains and buses connect Kraków to Oświęcim; many visitors fly into Kraków for onward travel.

International airport serving the Silesian region, roughly 60–80 km west of Oświęcim (about 1–1.5 hours by car). Ground transport options include buses and regional trains via Katowice city connections.

Oświęcim has a strong local ice hockey tradition with a well-supported club; matches draw local fans and are a lively community activity in winter.

Like much of Poland, football is widely played and followed at amateur and youth levels; local clubs and pitches are common.

Vegetarian options are available but fewer than in larger cities; pierogi with cheese or mushrooms, salads and some vegetable soups are common. Ask staff for meat-free broths (many soups use meat stock) and look for cafés that offer vegetarian sandwiches or omelettes.

Vegan choices can be limited; bring snacks or use cafés that explicitly offer vegan dishes. Larger nearby cities (Kraków) have more vegan-friendly options if needed.

Gluten-free bread and pasta are not guaranteed at every place; communicate your restriction clearly ('bez glutenu') and consider supermarkets for packaged options.

Polish staff are generally helpful; learning key phrases about allergies and carrying translation cards is recommended. Cross-contamination can occur in traditional kitchens.