History: From Camp to Memorial

The Dachau Concentration Camp was opened in March 1933, only weeks after Adolf Hitler came to power. Initially intended to imprison political opponents, the camp soon expanded to include Jews, Roma, clergy, homosexuals, and prisoners from across occupied Europe.

Over its twelve years of operation, more than 200,000 people were imprisoned at Dachau and its subcamps. Tens of thousands died from starvation, disease, forced labour, medical experiments, execution, and abuse.

When American forces liberated the camp on 29 April 1945, they uncovered overwhelming evidence of systematic cruelty and mass death. In the decades that followed, survivors played a crucial role in ensuring the site was preserved, leading to the establishment of the memorial in 1965.

Today, original buildings, reconstructed barracks, exhibitions, and religious memorials stand on the grounds — not to shock, but to document, explain, and remember.

Getting There

The memorial site is easily accessible from Munich, making it a common half-day visit.

By Car

• From Munich city centre: approx. 30 minutes

• Follow signs toward Dachau and then to the memorial site

• Free parking is available near the entrance

Driving is convenient, especially for early visits or combined day trips.

By Train

• Take the S2 S-Bahn from Munich to Dachau station

• Travel time: approx. 20 minutes

• From Dachau station, continue by bus (see below)

Trains run frequently throughout the day.

By Bus

• From Dachau station, take Bus 726 toward Saubachsiedlung

• Exit at “KZ-Gedenkstätte” (Memorial Site)

• Bus ride: approx. 10 minutes

Buses are timed to connect with arriving trains.

Tickets & Prices

• Memorial site entry: Free of charge

• Permanent exhibitions: Free

• Audio guides: Small fee

• Guided tours: Available for a fee; advance booking recommended

The free admission reflects the site’s mission of education and remembrance.

Helpful Tips for Visitors

• Allow enough time: Plan at least 2–3 hours for a meaningful visit

• Dress respectfully: This is a place of remembrance, not a tourist attraction

• Silence & behaviour: Photography is allowed, but loud conversation is discouraged

• Audio guides: Highly recommended for context and deeper understanding

A Place That Must Be Remembered

The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site is not about sightseeing — it is about bearing witness. Visiting Dachau is an act of remembrance and responsibility, ensuring that the victims are not forgotten and that the lessons of history remain present, visible, and impossible to ignore.

It is one of the most important historical sites in Bavaria — and one that leaves a lasting impact on all who walk its grounds.