Collegium Novum and Wawel are two must-see stops in central Kraków, though each offers a different experience. Collegium Novum is an impressive neo‑Gothic building of the Jagiellonian University standing right by the Planty — it’s worth seeing for its façade, the main hall and the history of the university. Wawel is the heart of Poland’s royal history: the Castle, the Cathedral, royal tombs and terraces with views over the Vistula. If planned sensibly, both places can be visited in one day — ideally starting early at Wawel and spending the afternoon walking through the university quarter and the Market Square.
Collegium Novum was built in the 19th century as the representative seat of the Jagiellonian University; it was designed by Feliks Księżarski and its interior and façade reference Gothic forms and Kraków’s academic traditions. In the main hall hangs a famous painting by Jan Matejko depicting Copernicus, and on the upper floor there is Room 56 — a space that recalls the dramatic events of 1939, when Kraków professors were arrested. Today the building houses administrative functions (rectorate, dean’s offices), so access to interiors can be limited and depends on university events, concerts or public lectures.
Fun fact: parts of Collegium Novum have appeared in films and recordings — the building often serves as a photogenic backdrop against the Planty.
Visiting makes most sense from the outside and from the perspective of the main hall: a walk along Gołębia Street and the Planty gives the best photo opportunities. If you want to enter the hall or see historic rooms, check the Jagiellonian University events calendar or look for public lectures, concerts and open days — that’s when interiors are sometimes available. For organized groups it’s often possible to contact the university in advance to arrange entry, but interior access is not a permanent tourist offering.
If you’d like to hear more about the university’s history and the secrets of the academic quarter, plan a short themed walk that includes Collegium Maius, the Planty, the Copernicus monument and the area around Gołębia Street.
Wawel is a large complex: the Royal Castle and the Cathedral are two separate institutions and often have separate tickets. Some castle exhibitions and entrances to the royal apartments are ticketed separately, and the cathedral and cathedral museum may charge their own fees. Opening times can change seasonally, so it’s worth checking current information before you go.
Buying tickets online simplifies planning — booking in advance reduces the risk of long queues, which is important during the high season. For discounted tickets you’ll need an ID that proves your entitlement. In the cathedral there are rules of conduct: quiet, no photography in most areas, appropriate dress and possible restrictions during certain services. Some entrances require leaving larger backpacks at a deposit point.
Remember that on certain days some sites may be closed to visitors (for example on 1 November or on major holidays) or have altered opening hours — check dates before your trip.
The safest option is to book tickets through official sales channels or authorized online systems, especially if you care about a specific entry time. If you plan to visit several castle exhibitions, check whether it’s better to buy separate entries or a combined pass that covers the exhibitions you prefer. When visitor numbers are high the best times are early morning right after opening or late afternoon; at midday queues are longest.
People with mobility limitations should check accessibility of particular routes in advance — not all rooms are adapted, and guided-tour entrances may offer extra aids.
When buying online pay attention to refund rules and ticket validity — some tickets are for a specific time and day, others allow flexible entry.
Plan at least 2–3 hours to see Wawel’s main highlights (the cathedral, the courtyard, and the royal chambers/exhibitions). If you add the Cathedral Museum and a longer walk on the terraces, reserve half a day. Collegium Novum is a short walk from the Market Square and Wawel, so after visiting the hill you can comfortably cross the Market and stop at Gołębia Street. This schedule allows time for lunch or coffee between attractions and helps avoid rushing.
If you’re looking for well‑reputed places near the Market and Wawel, consider restaurants with a long tradition and high ratings. A few tried-and-true options include the historic banquet hall Wierzynek (for those who want to feel the atmosphere of old Kraków), Szara Gęś at the House of Jan Matejko for an elegant meal, or the atmospheric Cafe Camelot for a relaxing coffee after a walk. Around Wawel and on the Planty you’ll also find pleasant bars and places serving regional dishes.
If you need a quick snack, the area around St. Mary’s Square and the Market has many places offering local treats and good coffee. Reserve a table in advance for weekend afternoon meals — popular venues can get busy.
Not checking opening hours and ticket availability right before leaving — always confirm current hours and possible maintenance closures.
Trying to enter Collegium Novum on a whim without checking events — remember it primarily houses university administration and full access isn’t guaranteed.
Bringing large backpacks and expecting to carry them everywhere — many sites require deposits for bigger bags.
Planning very short visits and not accounting for queues — it’s better to allow more time and buy tickets online, especially in peak season.
The main hall of Collegium Novum contains portraits and decorations that reference the university’s history, and Matejko’s painting of Copernicus is one of the hall’s iconic features. Room 56 is a reminder of the brutal events of World War II and the fate of Kraków’s academic community.
On the Planty near Collegium Novum cultural events and concerts sometimes take place, giving the area an academic atmosphere outside university hours.
Can I enter Collegium Novum without a reservation? - There is usually no permanent tourist visiting offer; interiors are opened during university events — check the Jagiellonian University calendar or cultural listings.
How do Wawel tickets work? - Time‑specific tickets often apply to selected exhibitions; the cathedral and castle can have separate fees. Buying online saves time.
Are there discounts? - Yes, discounts are available for students, school youth, seniors and holders of certain cards; bring ID to prove eligibility.
Can I take photos? - Photography is prohibited in many parts of the cathedral and in some exhibitions; please respect the rules and the site’s atmosphere.
Check opening hours and buy tickets in advance, wear comfortable shoes and leave large bags at your hotel or in a deposit. When planning your route allow time for coffee and a rest — Kraków is best enjoyed slowly. If you’d like a personalized route with stories and local curiosities, you can use the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — her contact and offer are available through Zwiedzanie Krakowa. If you found this text helpful, share it with friends or on social media so others can plan a stress‑free visit to Kraków!
