Things To Do
in Birkenau
Birkenau is a small municipality in Hesse, Germany, tucked into the Odenwald foothills. Surrounded by forests and rolling vineyards, it offers a tranquil rural escape within easy reach of larger towns. The area serves as a gateway to scenic hikes and the Bergstraße wine route, showcasing traditional Hessian charm and hospitality.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxed pace, local cuisine, and nature on day trips to nearby Heppenheim and Bensheim.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, which is located just a short drive from Birkenau. As you explore the grounds, take time to reflect on the historical significance of the site and the stories of those who suffered. Join a guided tour in English to gain deeper insights into the harrowing history and to honor the memory of the victims.
After the morning's emotional experience, enjoy a quiet lunch at a local café in Oswiecim, sampling traditional Polish dishes such as pierogi or bigos. Spend the afternoon visiting the various exhibitions at the museum, including the poignant displays of personal belongings and photographs that tell the stories of the past. Allow yourself time to absorb the significance of what you are witnessing, perhaps sitting in the memorial gardens to contemplate.
Return to Birkenau and unwind at your accommodation, taking a moment to process the day's experiences. Consider dining at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy regional cuisine paired with Polish wines. End your evening with a peaceful walk around the village, appreciating the calm atmosphere and the beautiful evening sky.
Begin your day with a visit to the Birkenau local market, where you can mingle with residents and experience the vibrant community atmosphere. Browse through stalls filled with handmade crafts, local produce, and freshly baked goods, allowing yourself to sample some treats. Engage with local artisans to learn about their crafts, from pottery to textiles, and perhaps purchase a unique souvenir to take home.
After the market, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Birkenau, stopping at small galleries and workshops that showcase the work of local artists. Spend time at the Museum of Local History, where you can delve into the region's rich culture and heritage. Enjoy a light lunch at a cozy café, chatting with locals about their crafts and traditions.
As dusk falls, attend a local cultural event or workshop if available, where you can participate in traditional crafts or cooking classes. Savor a homemade meal that you’ve learned to prepare, connecting with others in a communal setting. Conclude your evening by enjoying a local folk music performance, immersing yourself in the region's artistic expressions.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥖Bakery item | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $5-9 |
| 🧀Local cheese/food item | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil, scenic setting on the Bergstraße and Odenwald
- Wine culture and regional cuisine are highlights
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Smaller town amenities may require trips to nearby towns
- "Guten Tag" - Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern …" - I would like ...
- "Könnten Sie mir helfen?" - Could you help me?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
- "Die Rechnung, bitte" - The check, please
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Prost!" - Cheers!
Places to Visit in Birkenau
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic town square with half-timbered facades and the town hall; ideal for daylight and golden-hour shots.
Sunlit rows of vines and rolling hills; spectacular at dawn or sunset.
Shaded paths with dappled light, offering tranquil nature photography opportunities.
Classic German ecclesiastical architecture framed by greenery for architectural and detail shots.
Food in Birkenau
Birkenau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Herb sauce served with potatoes and meat or schnitzel; a regional favorite in the Bergstraße and Frankfurt areas.
Must-Try!
A sour-milk cheese with onions, typically eaten with rye bread and vinegar.
Cold sausage salad with pickles and onions, a common deli offering.
Apple wine, a regional beverage served in traditional glasses; great with hearty dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh regional produce, breads, cheeses, and sausages; seasonal snacks and bites available.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Guten Abend'; use 'Sie' in formal settings and switch to 'du' only with friends or family.
Be punctual for appointments; maintain personal space and a calm, courteous demeanor in public.
Safety
Tipping in Birkenau
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% as a tip is customary when service is satisfactory.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; many places also accept EC/Giro cards, contactless payments, and some mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming orchards, and pleasant hiking conditions; trails start to come alive with color.
Warm days with opportunities for outdoor dining and vineyard visits; occasional thunderstorms in the afternoons.
Harvest season in vineyards; golden light enhances scenery and wine-tasting events multiply.
Cool to cold with possible snow; cozy cafes and nearby Christmas markets provide festive ambiance.
Birkenau at Night
Hiking in Birkenau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep climb with panoramic views over the Rhine valley and Bergstraße region.
Shaded forest routes with streams, wildlife, and peaceful scenery.
Gentle trails through vineyards with seasonal grape harvest scenery.
Airports
How to reach Birkenau by plane.
Major international hub about 60-75 minutes by rail or car from Birkenau; excellent connections to Germany and beyond.
Smaller regional airport about 40-60 minutes away by road; limited international flights but good for regional travel.
Smaller airport in Rhineland-Palatinate, further away, commonly used by low-cost carriers; alternative access to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily German families and retirees; a mix of long-standing residents with some commuters.
Hikers, wine enthusiasts, and day-trippers from nearby cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; watch local amateur clubs or join a pickup game.
Valuable cycling country with extensive routes through vineyards and forests.
Common recreational sport with courts in local clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Birkenau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available. Seek dishes with seasonal vegetables, potatoes, and regional cheeses; politely request no meat or broth if needed.