LUMEN 2026 – Practical Information for Participants
About the Event
LUMEN 2026 – International Conference & THE Ranking Gala (CEE Spotlight) will take place on 17–18 November 2026 at the Auditorium Maximum of the Jagiellonian University in Cracow, Poland.
As one of the leading higher education conferences in Central and Eastern Europe, LUMEN brings together rectors, vice-rectors, chancellors, university leaders, policymakers, researchers, and industry experts to discuss the future of higher education, digital transformation, research excellence, university management, artificial intelligence, and international rankings.
The conference offers a unique opportunity to exchange experiences, discover innovative solutions, and build valuable professional relationships within the academic community.
About the Jagiellonian University
Founded in 1364, the Jagiellonian University is the oldest university in Poland and one of the oldest universities in Europe.
For more than six centuries, the university has played a significant role in shaping science, culture, and education in Central Europe. Today, it is recognized internationally for its research achievements, academic excellence, and global partnerships.
LUMEN 2026 will be hosted at the Auditorium Maximum, the university’s premier conference and event venue, located close to Kraków’s historic city centre.
How to Get to Cracow
By Air
The most convenient airport is John Paul II International Airport Kraków–Balice (KRK), located approximately 15 km from the city centre.
The airport offers direct connections to major European cities, including London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Zurich, Vienna, Rome, Copenhagen, and Stockholm.
Travel time from the airport to the city centre is approximately:
- 20 minutes by train
- 25–30 minutes by taxi
- 30–40 minutes by public transport
By Train
Kraków is one of Poland’s main railway hubs and offers convenient domestic and international rail connections.
Direct train services connect Kraków with cities such as:
- Warsaw
- Prague
- Vienna
- Berlin
- Budapest
The main railway station, Cracow Główny, is located in the city centre and provides easy access to the conference venue.
By Car
Kraków can be reached via Poland’s modern motorway and expressway network, including:
- A4 Motorway
- S7 Expressway
Participants travelling by car should note that parking availability in the city centre may be limited, especially during weekdays.
Getting Around Cracow
Kraków offers a reliable and easy-to-use public transportation system operated by MPK Kraków.
Public Transport Options
Participants can travel throughout the city using:
- Trams
- Buses
- Regional rail services
The public transport network provides convenient access to hotels, tourist attractions, and the conference venue.
Ticket Options
Tickets are valid across buses and trams and can be purchased from:
- Ticket machines
- Newsstands and kiosks
- Mobile ticket applications
Popular ticket options include:
- 20-minute ticket
- 60-minute ticket
- 24-hour ticket
- 72-hour ticket
From the City Centre to Auditorium Maximum
The Auditorium Maximum is located near Kraków’s historic centre and is easily accessible by public transport, taxi, or on foot from many centrally located hotels.
Approximate travel times:
- 5–10 minutes by taxi from the Main Market Square
- 10–15 minutes by tram or bus
- 15–25 minutes on foot from most city-centre hotels
The venue is situated close to major landmarks, including the Old Town and the Vistula River.
Visa Information for Poland
Poland is part of the Schengen Area, which allows free travel between most European countries.
Participants from EU / EEA
Citizens of European Union and European Economic Area countries may enter Poland using:
- A valid passport, or
- A national identity card
No visa is required for participation in the conference.
Participants from Non-EU Countries
Participants from countries outside the European Union may require a Schengen Visa (Type C) depending on their nationality.
Applicants should contact the nearest Polish Embassy or Consulate for detailed information regarding visa requirements.
Supporting documents may include:
- Passport
- Conference invitation letter
- Proof of accommodation
- Travel insurance
- Proof of sufficient financial resources
Participants are encouraged to begin the visa application process at least 6–8 weeks before travel.
Accommodation in Cracow
Kraków offers a wide range of accommodation options suitable for every budget, from luxury hotels to affordable city-centre properties.
We recommend booking accommodation near the Auditorium Maximum or within Kraków’s city centre for the most convenient access to the conference venue.
Recommended Hotels Near Auditorium Maximum
Premium Hotels
- Radisson Blu Hotel Krakow
- Hotel Stary
- Hotel Copernicus
- Bachleda Luxury Hotel Kraków MGallery
Business & Mid-Range Hotels
- Novotel Kraków Centrum
- Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto
- Golden Tulip Krakow City Center
- Hilton Garden Inn Kraków
Budget-Friendly Hotels
- Ibis Krakow Centrum
- B&B Hotel Kraków Centrum
- Campanile Kraków Old Town
Most recommended hotels are located within a 5–20 minute walk or a short tram ride from the conference venue.
Explore Cracow
Cracow is one of Europe’s most beautiful historic cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During your stay, we encourage you to visit:
- Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)
- Wawel Royal Castle
- St. Mary’s Basilica
- Kazimierz District
- Cloth Hall (Sukiennice)
- Vistula Boulevards
- Jagiellonian University Historic Campus
The city is also renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, museums, cultural events, and welcoming atmosphere.
Weather in Cracow in November
November in Kraków is typically cool and autumnal.
Average temperatures:
- Daytime: 5–10°C
- Evening: 0–5°C
Participants are advised to bring:
- Warm jacket or coat
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Umbrella or rain protection
All conference facilities are fully heated and designed for year-round events.
Currency and Payments in Poland
The official currency in Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN).
Payment Methods
Warsaw is a highly modern and cashless-friendly city. Most places accept:
credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
debit cards
mobile payments such as Apple Pay and Google Pay
Contactless payments are widely used in:
restaurants
hotels
taxis
public transportation
shops and cafés
Cash
Although card payments are the norm, it may still be useful to carry a small amount of cash for smaller vendors or markets.
ATMs are widely available throughout the city, especially in the city centre and near the university campus.
Emergency Contacts & Health Information
Warsaw offers a high standard of medical services and emergency assistance.
Emergency Numbers in Poland
The main emergency number is:
112 – universal emergency number (police, ambulance, fire brigade)
Additional numbers include:
999 – ambulance
998 – fire brigade
997 – police
Medical Assistance
Hospitals and clinics in Warsaw provide professional medical care, and many doctors speak English. Several international clinics operate in the city centre.
Participants are strongly advised to travel with:
valid health insurance
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for EU citizens, if applicable
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (“Apteka”) are widely available across the city. Some operate 24 hours a day.