Bunkier Sztuki is one of the city’s most important contemporary art galleries — a place that for decades has shown both international trends and artists connected to Kraków. After recent renovations it returned to its role as a lively exhibition and education centre. For families with children it’s a great chance to combine a walk through the Old Town with an encounter with contemporary art.
The gallery is centrally located at pl. Szczepański 3a, so it’s easy to plan a visit together with the Main Market Square and nearby attractions. Exhibitions are usually temporary and often accompanied by talks, guided tours and educational materials — check the programme before you go.
Many visitors also enjoy the adjacent Bunkier Café — a friendly spot to relax after viewing the exhibitions, often with a garden in warm months. It’s a convenient place for coffee, cake or a light meal after the gallery.
Bunkier mainly presents contemporary, multimedia and conceptual shows. Kids are often most engaged by interactive installations, video projections or exhibits that include tactile or sound elements — it all depends on the current exhibition. Before you go, read the exhibition description and see whether there are family workshops or guided tours.
With small children it’s better to plan shorter visits and include breaks. Bring small distractions (colouring sheets, a small toy) and, if you have a stroller, make sure you have a comfortable route — some galleries have narrow passages or exhibitions spread across levels.
If an exhibition includes visually intense or loud elements, consider visiting at a quieter time (for example weekday mornings) or ask gallery staff for advice — they can point out the parts of the show that are more child-friendly.
Check opening hours and days when the gallery is open — cultural institutions sometimes close on Mondays or change hours for special events. Tickets or reservations are not always required, but for major openings or workshops it’s a good idea to book ahead.
Remember small legs: plan a route that allows stops at a square, a café or nearby Planty park. There are many rest spots near pl. Szczepański and the Market Square, which makes it easy to combine sightseeing with playtime.
Ask at the ticket desk about facilities: cloakroom availability, stroller access and whether there are educational materials for younger visitors. Many city galleries offer family brochures or educational kits.
Kraków has a wide choice of family-friendly places — from pizzerias with large gardens to restaurants with play corners. Here are a few spots locals and families often recommend after a gallery visit:
Magillo (Podgórze) — a pizzeria with a spacious garden and a playground; a good option when you want kids to run around outdoors. Cuisine: pizza and family favourites.
Oranżeria (Łagiewniki) — an elegant venue with a glass roof and a small children’s corner. Often praised for atmosphere and a family-friendly menu; good for a slightly more special meal.
Szalone Widelce — a place offering homestyle daily dishes and small conveniences for children (high chairs, a play corner). A solid choice for breakfast or a relaxed family brunch.
La Forchetta (area around ul. Lubicz) — Italian cuisine that usually appeals to both kids and adults; many families appreciate its simple, reliable dishes and friendly service.
Cafe Manggha — the café at the Manggha Museum, with pleasant views of the Vistula and a calm atmosphere; nice for dessert or an afternoon coffee with a child. The museum often runs family activities as well.
Note: restaurants near the Market Square can be compact — if you come with a large group or a stroller, reserve a table in advance.
Bunkier Sztuki has a rich history and, over the decades, has become an important point on Kraków’s cultural map. Recent renovations refreshed the building and programming, so exhibitions are diverse in theme and format.
If you’re planning museum marathons with kids, split days by theme — for example a “art & creativity” day with Bunkier and a short workshop, and a “history & legends” day for Wawel or the Czartoryski Museum. This feels easier and more enjoyable than packing everything into one long day.
During the high tourist season remember typical lunch hours and weekends can be busy — booking ahead and being flexible with times will make your day more comfortable.
Not checking opening hours before you leave — some galleries and museums have closed days or shorter hours on Mondays and holidays. Always confirm hours on the day you plan to go.
Failing to reserve in popular restaurants — if you want to dine at a well-rated place, book a table in advance, especially on weekends.
Trying to do too much in one day — families often over-schedule. Plan shorter, pleasant stages and leave time for a rest in a park or a café.
Is Bunkier Sztuki suitable for small children? It depends on the exhibition — many shows are accessible and engaging, while some are more conceptual and might not hold a toddler’s attention. Check the exhibition description and look for family workshops.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance? For regular exhibitions usually not, but for special events, workshops or openings it’s wise to reserve a spot.
Where is best to park or how to get there? Kraków city centre is well served by trams and buses; if you come by car, plan parking in advance — public spaces in the centre are limited.
When you plan a family day in Kraków, pairing a short gallery visit with a meal at a family-friendly spot makes the outing enjoyable for everyone. Let the children choose one main activity for the day and leave room for spontaneity — a café stop or a play on the Planty can save the plan.
If you found this guide useful, share it with friends or on social media so others can benefit from practical tips. If you need help planning a Kraków trip or would like a private guided visit, I offer personalised tours — details and contact information are available on my guide page. Enjoy your trip and bon appétit in Kraków!
