Bunkier Sztuki doesn’t look like a typical Kraków townhouse — and that’s worth pointing out right at the entrance. The pavilion, designed in the 1960s by Krystyna Różyska‑Tołłoczko, is one of the few examples of modernism and brutalism within the Old Town. Its characteristic concrete façade with impressions of wooden formwork draws the eye and is a great conversational hook to say more than “we went to a gallery.” The building’s architecture can be the first element that surprises your companions.
Start with a small game: who can first find the place where earlier buildings used to stand? Short, curious historical stories about how the pavilion fits into the historic context work better than long explanations and make the visit feel like a narrative. People remember stories much more easily than a list of artworks.
If you want a “wow” effect, show a fragment of the façade at the beginning and say that for many years the building was the only example of modern architecture inside the Old Town — a context most tourists wouldn’t expect.
Bunkier Sztuki is primarily a venue for temporary exhibitions — the program changes regularly, so every visit can be different. The gallery shows Polish and international artists, often prioritizing experimentation and dialogue with Kraków’s context. For that reason it’s worth checking which exhibitions are on before your visit so you can pick what best suits your group.
Beyond exhibitions, pay attention to the building’s usable spaces: there’s a bookshop and a small shop with publications and art-related items, and for families there is Stacja Kreacja — an educational zone for children with drawing materials and activities. It’s a great option when you’re visiting with younger participants and want them to feel taken care of.
Don’t forget about accompanying events: artist talks, curator tours and special events (for example Night of Museums). These often reveal the exhibition’s context and let you hear the story “from the source” — the presence of an artist or curator can truly surprise your group.
You don’t need to be an art historian to lead an engaging tour. Plan a 45–60 minute route and choose 3–5 stops where you’ll pause. Each stop can follow a simple formula: 1) one sentence of context, 2) one curiosity, 3) a question for the group. This structure engages people and keeps the pace lively.
Example stop: point out a piece of the building’s architecture, tell a short curiosity about the façade’s designers, and ask: “What do you think — is this concrete raw, or an intentional artistic effect?” — a simple question will spark discussion, and discussion helps people remember more than a monologue.
Add small “taste” elements: examine a tiny detail in a painting, read a short catalogue excerpt, try to guess the artist’s intention. These micro-experiences turn the visit from a guided monologue into a shared discovery.
Talk about the architecture and the building’s materiality — most visitors expect Gothic and Renaissance in Kraków; showing a modernist “rebel” in the heart of the Old Town will surprise many. Explain where the name “Bunkier” comes from and that it has both historical and artistic connotations, not just a military meaning.
Recommend a break at Bunkier Café — the café has a garden in the Planty and on the menu you’ll find not only coffee but also local specialties and tank beer. A short stop for coffee and a conversation about impressions is a great way to “digest” the art and consolidate the group’s experience.
If you really want to shine, check in advance whether there’s a meeting with a curator or artist during your visit. Even a short note like “today at 6:00 pm the curator leads a tour” can intrigue the group and make the visit special.
The gallery sits right by the Planty, at pl. Szczepański 3a — just steps from the Main Market Square, so walking is usually the fastest and most pleasant way to get there. The building is well signed and easy to find during a stroll through the Old Town.
Hours and prices can change depending on the season and program; exhibitions are typically open in the afternoon — check current information on the gallery’s website before you come. Remember that exhibitions are often closed on Mondays, and attendance at curator tours or special events may require advance reservation.
There are special and family tickets available — for larger groups it’s best to notify the gallery in advance to avoid waiting. The gallery also runs educational programs for children and youth, which are worth using when planning a family visit.
If someone in your group has limited mobility, ask ahead about accessibility — city institutions increasingly provide access, but a quick check removes uncertainty.
Assuming the exhibition is a “permanent museum” — Bunkier is a gallery of temporary shows. It’s better to check what is on display at the time than to be surprised. Otherwise you might miss something truly interesting or expect a different type of exhibition.
Not planning a coffee break — a gallery visit should include a moment for conversation and reflection. Bunkier Café is an ideal place to discuss impressions and make a short summary of the visit.
Touching exhibits or taking photos where prohibited. Following the gallery rules is fundamental; if you’re unsure, ask the staff. Many exhibitions restrict photography due to copyright or the sensitivity of the works.
Do I need to book tickets in advance? - Not necessarily for a regular visit, but special tours and events often require reservations. Always check the current program before you come.
How much time do I need to visit? - A standard visit takes 45–90 minutes, depending on interest and participation in accompanying events.
Is there a café at Bunkier? - Yes, Bunkier Café next to the gallery has a garden on the Planty — a great spot for a break and a conversation after the exhibition.
Pay attention to the façade details — this is one of the places in Kraków where the industrial, concrete character of a building contrasts with the historic surroundings. That perspective often opens a discussion about how different eras coexist in the urban space.
If you plan a longer walk, combine the visit to Bunkier with a stroll through the Planty and a short stop at the Market Square — it’s an easy, natural route for visitors that links art, architecture and the local café atmosphere.
Finally — invite your companions to share their impressions: a short question like “what surprised you most today?” can spark a great conversation and make the visit continue beyond the gallery doors.
If you liked this guide, share it with friends or post it on social media — recommending interesting places is the best way to help others plan a great day in Kraków.
If you’d prefer someone to lead a personalized tour of Bunkier Sztuki (or combine it with other central attractions), I invite you to use the private guiding services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. I’ll gladly help plan a route perfectly tailored to your group. Best regards and see you on the Planty!
