Bunkier Sztuki is one of Poland’s most important contemporary art galleries — a place where exhibitions change perspective and often start conversations about what’s happening here and now in art. Visit not only because the works on display are intriguing, but because the gallery is alive: it hosts meetings with artists, workshops and educational projects that let you experience an exhibition more intensely than just “walk through and look.”
If you enjoy experiments, want to hear local voices in a national and international art context, or would like to understand what contemporary art is about — a visit to Bunkier can be a real discovery. The gallery’s distinctive modernist building and long traditions make it an important cultural landmark in Krakow.
Location: the gallery’s historic address is Plac Szczepański 3a, though exhibitions are sometimes moved temporarily to other venues; check the gallery’s official information before you go.
Opening hours: exhibitions are usually open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday; a typical range is from late morning to early evening (last admission is often about 30 minutes before closing). The gallery may be closed on Mondays.
Tickets: depending on the exhibition, admission is often symbolic or low-cost; full and reduced tickets are commonly available. There are also occasional promotional or free-entry days — check the current price list before your visit.
Accessibility and rules: Bunkier’s shows are usually temporary exhibitions; children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Standard safety and behaviour rules apply in exhibition spaces, so take a moment to read the gallery regulations on arrival.
Bunkier focuses on temporary exhibitions — you’ll find solo and group shows that connect local talent with national and international artists. Recent seasons have included exhibitions devoted to phenomena in Polish comics and displays showcasing important contemporary art collections and donations.
On every visit, look out for curator-led tours and accompanying events: artist talks, themed tours, workshops and discussions greatly deepen the exhibition experience and help you understand the ideas behind the works.
At Bunkier you will often see works by classic figures of the Polish avant-garde alongside younger creators — a great way to observe how different generations of artists talk to each other through the medium of the exhibition.
Many texts about the gallery mention Bunkier Cafe — a pleasant spot overlooking the Planty with a garden available in warmer days. It’s an ideal place for a break after the exhibition: coffee, cake and a moment to process your impressions.
Nearby you’ll find several well-regarded cafés and restaurants if you want to extend your cultural day: local cafés with tradition and places serving tasty regional and international dishes. If you need a quick bite or an elegant dinner after the gallery, the Market Square area offers a wide selection.
Not checking the current exhibition location — the gallery is sometimes temporarily relocated, so confirm where the exhibition is taking place before you go.
Assuming an exhibition is permanent — most shows are temporary projects; if you want to see specific works, make sure they are on display at the time of your visit.
Arriving at the busiest times — weekend afternoons can be crowded. If you prefer a quieter visit, choose early opening hours on weekdays.
Ignoring accompanying events — tours and artist meetings significantly enrich the experience; check the events calendar and reserve a spot if something interests you.
Can I take photos at Bunkier? It depends on the exhibition — some displays allow photography without flash, others prohibit it; always follow the information posted at the entrance.
Is the gallery accessible for people with disabilities? Many locations and exhibitions are adapted, but accessibility standards can vary with temporary venues; if accessibility is important to you, contact the gallery in advance.
Are there discounts or free days? The gallery offers full and reduced tickets; from time to time there are promotions or special free-entry days. Check the price list and events calendar before visiting.
Can I come with a child? Yes — children may visit, but young children up to 13 years must be accompanied by an adult. The gallery also runs family workshops and educational activities on occasion.
Bunkier has a long history and over decades became a meeting place where the local scene meets artistic avant-garde — it is more than a gallery; it’s an institution with a mission to document contemporary culture.
The gallery regularly creates special projects and campaigns related to its collection, sometimes resulting in unusual initiatives — for example, art projects inspired by the history of the place or educational actions aimed at different audiences.
You won’t usually find a fixed permanent collection on display — instead, Bunkier invests in an exhibition programme, which means each visit can be a completely different experience.
When planning your visit, combine it with time for a chat over coffee — a moment of reflection after an exhibition can enrich your impressions. If you want a deeper understanding of a show, check whether there’s a curator’s tour or an artist talk.
If you found this article useful, share it with friends or on social media — the more people who discover how vibrant and interesting the contemporary art scene in Krakow is, the better.
If you’d like a guided, personalised tour of Krakow focused on art and culture, you can use the services of the private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact details and tour options are available on the site. Tours can be tailored to your interests.
