DACHAU CONCENTRATION CAMP VISITING TIPS 2026

Dachau Concentration Camp was established in 1933 as the first Nazi camp, originally created for political prisoners. Over time, it also became a place of imprisonment for Jews, Roma, clergy, and others targeted by the Nazi regime. More than 200,000 people were held there, and at least 41,500 died due to abuse, starvation, forced labor, medical experiments, and executions. The camp was liberated by American forces in 1945 and today serves as a powerful memorial and place of remembrance. Unlike extermination camps such as Auschwitz-Birkenau, Dachau was not used for mass killings by gas chambers. Although a gas chamber was built, it was never used for large-scale executions.

Dachau was primarily a concentration camp, focused on imprisonment, forced labor, and punishment. However, conditions were so harsh that thousands died from starvation and malnutrition, forced labor under brutal conditions, widespread disease, torture, unethical medical experiments, and executions. In the final days of the war, many also perished during death marches.

Visiting the Dachau Memorial Site is simple and convenient, especially by public transport. Dachau is located just 16 km northwest of Munich, making it a short drive. If you’re coming by car, there’s a parking lot right next to the memorial. Public transport is also very easy to use. Take the S2 train from Munich toward Dachau. The ride takes about 25 minutes. After arriving at Dachau station, exit and go to the Bus 726 stop. Take Bus 726 toward Saubachsiedlung, and get off at the Memorial Site stop. From there, simply cross the road and follow the path up to the entrance. The Visitor Center will be on your left, offering restrooms, information, and maps.

Just beyond the memorial site, the Path of Remembrance traces the 3-kilometer route that prisoners once walked from the Dachau train station to the camp. This walk offers powerful context before or after your visit. Along the way, you’ll find informational plaques and markers at key sites – including former SS offices, factories where prisoners were forced to work, and other locations connected to the camp’s operation. It’s a chance to reflect on how deeply the Nazi system affected not just the camp, but the entire surrounding area.

DO prepare yourself mentally

The visit can be emotionally intense, especially in areas like the crematorium and gas chambers. Allow yourself time for reflection. If you’re visiting with children, have a conversation beforehand to explain the significance and set expectations.

DON’T take selfies or pose disrespectfully

Photos are allowed, but this is not the place for casual snapshots or social media trends.

DO respect other visitors

Many people visit for personal or family reasons. Give space, avoid loud conversations, and respect others’ moments of reflection. Avoid laughing, even in outdoor areas. This is a place of mourning.

DON’T miss the documentary film

If you’re visiting for the first time, we highly recommend watching the documentary film shown in the cinema room inside the Visitor Center. The film offers a powerful introduction to the camp’s history and helps visitors better understand what they’re about to see.

DO visit the bookshop

The bookshop at the Visitor Center offers a broad selection of books in various languages. While it primarily focuses on the history of the Dachau concentration camp, it also features titles on Jewish culture, literature, and related historical topics.