Collegium Novum is one of the most recognizable buildings of the Jagiellonian University — a neo-Gothic façade, an impressive assembly hall and the atmosphere of an old university make an impression already from the outside. The building stands on Gołębia Street and was created in the second half of the 19th century as the university's new seat; the interiors and the assembly hall (Aula) are a good place to tell a child a short, vivid story about studying and old universities. Even if the little one won't stay for a long lecture, a short stop, a look at the soaring windows and a walk into the courtyard can be an interesting part of a family stroll through the Old Town.
Collegium Novum serves administrative functions for the university, so not all rooms are always available to visitors — it's best to treat the visit as a short, photo-friendly stop on your day plan.
From my experience the best rule is: short, intense stops instead of long routes. Plan 1–2 “main” places (e.g. Collegium Novum + the Market Square or Collegium Novum + Jordan Park) and a few short stops — a playground, ice cream, a quick feeding break. Children cope much better with a walk if every 30–45 minutes they have an activity just for them.
Before you go check opening hours and any events at the university — sometimes ceremonies are held and access to the aula or corridors is limited. Bring a light snack, a bottle of water and a rain poncho just in case — the weather can surprise you.
If you use a stroller, choose routes along the Planty or paved but wide streets; the narrow passages in some parts of the Market Square and Kazimierz will be the most difficult.
The Main Market Square, the Planty and Wawel are classics, but with a preschooler it’s worth adding places that allow them to burn off energy: Jordan Park with playgrounds, the Zoo in Lasek Wolski and the Aquarius Water Park on Dobrego Pasterza Street — each of these gives children space to play after the “cultural” part of the day.
The Barbican and fragments of the old city walls make for a short, fun adventure full of narrow passages and towers — little explorers often love it. If the weather’s nice, a short cruise on the Vistula can be a pleasant change and a great attraction for small children.
Also remember a few less obvious spots: the friendly, green alleys of the Planty and small museums with educational offers for children that organize short, themed activities for preschoolers.
When choosing a restaurant with a child, look for places with play corners, a good children's menu and a changing table in the restroom. In Krakow there are several venues often recommended by families: PINO Garden (large garden and playground, great for eating outdoors), Szalone Widelce (spacious interior and a child-friendly menu), La Forchetta and Viale Verde (Italian places where kids can often watch pizza being made).
In practice most family restaurants offer children's dishes priced roughly 15–25 PLN per meal and facilities such as high chairs and plastic cutlery. On weekends it's worth reserving a table in advance — popular places can be booked several days ahead.
A few tips when choosing a place: book a table near the play area or by the entrance (easier access with a stroller), inform the staff about the need for a changing table or heating up food, and check reviews — pick places with high ratings and up-to-date comments from families.
Facilities: most family-friendly restaurants have high chairs and changing tables; many venues in the centre are adapted for strollers, but it's best to call ahead if railings or steps could be a problem. Transport: trams and buses in the centre are convenient, but when travelling with a stroller choose stops with low-curb ramps. Parking in the centre can be difficult — plan extra time to park or use parking lots outside the strict center.
Health and safety: if your child has food allergies, inform the staff before ordering — more and more places mark allergens on the menu. In the tourist season avoid the busiest hours (11:00–14:00 and 17:00–19:00), especially at the Market Square and near Wawel.
Trying to do “everything in one day” — attempting too many attractions leads to tiredness and tears. It's better to plan one main goal and a few small activities suited to the child’s rhythm.
Not reserving a table — family-friendly local restaurants are often full on weekends; a reservation saves nerves and time. Not checking current opening hours of museums and exhibition halls — many institutions have days with limited access or special events that change visiting rules.
Ignoring play breaks — children cope better with sightseeing when they have opportunities for free play or movement from time to time.
Is Collegium Novum open to visitors? Not always — the building serves university and administrative functions; brief stops at the façade and courtyard are usually no problem, while access to selected interiors depends on events and university rules.
Do children enjoy visiting Krakow's monuments? Yes, if the program is short, varied and interspersed with activities. I recommend combining “cultural” points with playgrounds, ice cream or a short Vistula cruise.
How long should I plan a visit with a preschooler? For a relaxed visit to Collegium Novum and the Market Square area plan 1.5–3 hours with breaks; if you add the Zoo or Water Park, count on a full day.
Although Collegium Novum looks “old,” much of it is the result of 19th-century rebuilding — it's an interesting example of how old and newer elements of the city work together. For kids prepare a small “mission” — e.g. find a gargoyle, point out the largest window or count steps — simple tasks like these increase engagement.
If you want the family outing to run smoothly: plan meal times in advance, have a plan B for rain (a museum, a café with a children's corner) and don't be afraid to ask staff for help — staff at family-friendly restaurants are usually happy to assist.
Finally: if you find this guide helpful, share it with friends or on social media. If you dream of a personalized family walk around Krakow with guidance and tips tailored to your family, consider booking a private guided walk with Małgorzata Kasprowicz from zwiedzaniekrakowa.com — contact and details are available on the guide's website.
