Collegium Maius is one of Krakow's most visited attractions, but its hours can be confusing for visitors - especially during holidays and long weekends. In general the museum follows a regular schedule on weekdays and Saturdays, while on Sundays and public holidays the interiors may be closed or available for limited hours. For that reason it’s wise to check the museum’s current information or call ahead before a long-weekend trip to avoid disappointment.
In practice there is no universal "yes, it will be open" rule for every long weekend - decisions about hours and any closures are made individually by the museum, sometimes because of university ceremonies, renovations or national holidays. Plan flexibly and have a plan B in case the museum is closed.
A typical annual visiting schedule is roughly: the museum is open mainly on weekdays and Saturdays; on Sundays and some holidays the permanent displays may be closed. In the spring–summer season (April–October) some days sometimes have extended hours (last admission later than in the low season).
Last admission to the exhibition is set at a specific time - it’s a good idea to arrive before that time, because visits are organized in groups and entrances are closed once capacity is reached. Exact hours change seasonally and around long weekends - so always check the up-to-date information before you travel.
Standard tickets include full-price and reduced tickets; very young children often enter free. The museum also runs a separate interactive exhibition with its own ticket and occasionally announces special free-admission times or days (for example selected afternoons).
If you plan to visit during a long weekend, keep in mind that free-admission periods can attract larger crowds and group entries are limited. Larger school or organized groups usually must reserve in advance.
Visits to Collegium Maius are usually conducted in groups, with a guide or as guided-entry sessions; the frequency of admissions and maximum group size are limited to protect exhibits and visitor comfort. A typical walk through the permanent exhibition takes from about 30 minutes up to an hour, depending on the format and visitors’ interest.
During long weekends there may be extra admission slots or special presentations, but you can also expect heavier attendance and queues. If you prefer a quieter visit, come for the first available admission of the day or plan your visit outside peak times (early morning or right after opening).
Check holiday dates ahead of time - especially May 1, May 3, November 1 and Easter Sunday/Monday, because many cultural institutions change hours or close on those days. The safest option is to call the museum or check the official site shortly before you travel.
Be prepared for queues and limited entries. On a long weekend arrive earlier than the published last admission time - rooms may be closed when groups are full. If you come with a larger family or a school group, reserve your slot in advance.
Consider weather and season - the Collegium Maius courtyard and arcades are lovely for photos, but the interiors are historic and don’t always have much room for strollers or large luggage. If you travel with children or people with limited mobility, ask in advance about accessibility and facilities.
Collegium Maius is in the heart of Krakow, very close to the Main Market Square, so it’s easiest to reach on foot from most central points. Public transport and taxis will bring you close, but during long weekends traffic and parking restrictions in the center can be heavier.
If you plan to come by car, look for parking further from the Old Town and plan a short walk - this is often faster and less stressful than trying to find a space directly by the monument. The courtyard is usually accessible until dusk - plan your interior visit according to scheduled entry times.
After your visit stop at one of the many recommended cafés or restaurants near the Main Market Square. The area offers a range of well-rated spots perfect for a coffee break or lunch - choose places with short waiting times during long weekends.
Nearby favourites include longstanding cafés and bistros around the Old Town that are ideal for resting after sightseeing and trying local dishes or a good coffee. Reserving a table in popular restaurants for a long weekend can be a smart idea.
Assuming the museum will be open on every public holiday - this is a frequent error. Always check current hours and announcements before you go.
Arriving without a plan B - during long weekends you may encounter long queues or closed entries. Have an alternative plan (for example another nearby museum, a walk around the courtyard, or a café) so you don’t lose an entire day.
Not booking group entries in advance - if you travel with a larger family or an organized group, booking ahead is the best way to ensure everyone gets in together without delays.
Is Collegium Maius open on May 1 and May 3? There’s no single rule - some museums close or shorten hours on those dates. Always check current announcements before your trip.
Do I need to reserve tickets for a long weekend? For individual visitors reservation is usually not required, but during long weekends and busy periods it’s wise to arrive early or check group-reservation options.
Can I take photos inside? In many rooms photography without flash is allowed, but rules vary due to the historic nature of the exhibits and limited space - ask staff on site if this matters to you.
Collegium Maius is the oldest preserved university building in Poland, with collections that include scientific instruments, old prints and portraits of professors. The interiors and courtyard have a special atmosphere that transports visitors to Krakow’s academic past.
The museum also displays objects connected to historical figures linked to the university - it’s a place where science and history meet in an engaging way for visitors of all ages.
When planning a visit to Collegium Maius during a long weekend: 1) check current opening hours on the museum’s official page or by phone shortly before you travel; 2) arrive earlier than the last admission time; 3) consider booking if you travel in a group; 4) prepare a plan B in case of closure or long queues.
If you’d like a more comfortable visit tailored to your interests, consider a guided tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz from zwiedzaniekrakowa.com - contact details and offers are available on that site. At the end of your day we encourage you to share your impressions with friends or on social media if you found this guide helpful.
