Collegium Maius is the oldest building of the Jagiellonian University — a place where the history of science meets beautiful Gothic architecture. Children usually react with curiosity: there are "old" astronomical instruments, globes, costumes and everyday objects from centuries ago, all presented in a way that leaves room for questions and imaginative play.
It’s a great spot to combine a walk from the Main Market Square with a short, inspiring lesson about Copernicus, medieval studies, and what science used to look like. A visit can be interesting both for preschoolers and for teens — just adjust the pace and the way you tell the stories.
- The courtyard with arcades and a well – a perfect place for a short break and photos; children enjoy looking at the arcades and imagining how students lived long ago.
- The clock with moving figures – the clock comes to life several times a day, catching the attention of the youngest visitors. It’s a good idea to plan your visit around a show.
- Astronomical instruments and globes – exhibits such as astrolabes and historic globes can be shown as the "first tools of space explorers." For children this is often a fascinating world of small "instruments" and maps.
- Professorial rooms and study interiors – furniture, engravings and ornate details help tell the story of university life centuries ago; these rooms are also a great starting point for children’s questions.
- Interactive displays (when available) – the museum sometimes organises exhibitions and educational zones with interactive elements designed for younger visitors.
Create a “mini-mission”: before you enter, challenge the children to find three items — e.g. a globe, an astronomical instrument and a symbol of learning (a coat of arms, a book). The reward could be ice cream at a nearby café.
Tell a short, simple story about Copernicus or a student from 500 years ago and ask the child to imagine what their day looked like — this sparks imagination and makes the exhibits come alive.
Do a mini-quiz after the visit — three questions to check what stuck in memory. It’s a great way to reinforce the visit and encourage careful looking.
Collegium Maius operates as a museum — admission is paid; there are full-price, reduced and family tickets and sometimes promotions (for example, days with free entry). Prices and ticketing rules can change, so it’s worth checking the current price list before you go.
In high season and with larger groups it pays to come for the earliest entry or to reserve in advance — this way you’ll avoid queues and tired kids.
When planning your visit keep in mind that museums sometimes change opening hours (holidays, conservation work or special events). The safest option is to check the organiser’s information before you leave.
Collegium Maius is located very close to the Main Market Square — most families arrive on foot as part of a stroll through the Old Town. For those using public transport, nearby tram and bus stops make for a convenient walk.
Strollers — some indoor museum rooms can be partially restricted because of stairs and representative entrances; if full accessibility matters to you, ask museum staff in advance about the easiest routes and available assistance.
Toilets and places to rest: near the Market Square there are many cafés and spots where you can quickly sit down and grab a bite — important when visiting with small children, so plan short breaks.
Around the Market Square and its immediate surroundings you’ll find plenty of family-friendly cafés and restaurants. Popular places that are easy with children include cafés by the square such as Camelot, Noworolski and Charlotte, where you can get cake, hot chocolate or light lunches.
If you prefer something more substantial, the area also offers restaurants with Polish and European cuisine and children’s menus — choose a place with space to move around and quick access to restrooms.
Mistake: arriving without checking and being surprised that the museum has shorter hours or closed rooms that day. How to avoid it: check official information before you go.
Mistake: planning too much for the same day. How to avoid it: plan a short visit to Collegium Maius (30–60 minutes depending on children’s ages) and leave time for a break, ice cream or playing on the square.
Mistake: not preparing for the weather — while parts of the visit are indoors, the courtyard and walks around the area can be intensive. How to avoid it: bring water, hats and a light extra layer for the kids.
Nicolaus Copernicus studied at Collegium Maius — a great hook: tell your child that someone from this building changed the way we think about the whole Solar System.
There is a decorative clock in the courtyard with moving figures and music — some of the tunes played have a very long history and draw the attention of passers-by.
The interiors hide objects once used for observing the sky and navigation — for young explorers it’s almost like a "treasure chest of science."
Do children enter for free? — The museum offers different ticket types (reduced, family, etc.). Rules and possible concessions depend on museum policy, so check current information before your visit.
How much time is needed to visit with children? — Approximately 30–60 minutes for the exhibition plus possible breaks in the courtyard and time for photos.
Can I buy tickets online? — Often yes — it’s a convenient option, especially for larger groups.
Start: at the Main Market Square — a brief story about the role of the Jagiellonian University and an invitation for the children to "search for treasures."
Courtyard: 10–15 minutes to see the arcades, the well and the clock (if you catch a figure show, it’s worth waiting).
Interiors: 30–45 minutes — visit rooms with globes, astronomical instruments and professors’ studies; add short tasks for the children (e.g. find the largest globe).
After the visit: coffee and a snack in one of the cafés by the Market Square or a quick family lunch in a nearby restaurant.
If you enjoyed this short trip through time, share the article with friends or on social media — it might encourage other families to visit!
If you’d like to explore Collegium Maius and the surrounding area with someone who tells stories in a way that’s friendly to both children and adults, I invite you to use the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz. A guided visit is a comfortable way to personalise the experience and hear more tales tailored to your interests.
