Museum Fotoatelier Seidel
Step into a living photograph at the restored 19th-century home and studio of the Seidel family photographers.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Museum Fotoatelier Seidel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a living photograph at the restored 19th-century home and studio of the Seidel family photographers.
"Fascinating insight into the daily life of a local photographer; the museum is his actual old residence."
Bring $1 Coins for Fotoautomat
The vintage photo booth needs $1 coins. The museum no longer provides change, so come prepared! :coin:
Book a Period Photoshoot
Experience history firsthand by dressing in 1910s clothing and getting your portrait taken. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Original Studio & Darkroom
Ground floor
Step into a working 19th-century photo studio and darkroom, frozen in time. See antique equipment and original prints.

Period Costume Photoshoot
Photo studio area
Dress in authentic early 20th-century attire and have your portrait taken, just like clients did over a century ago.

Seidel Family's Living Quarters
Upper floors
Explore the beautifully preserved home of the Seidel family, offering a glimpse into their daily life and the era.

Vintage Fotoautomat
Near entrance
Capture a fun, retro souvenir with a photo from the authentic vintage photo booth. Bring your own coins!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Photo Session
Coin Up for the Fotoautomat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring $1 Coins for Fotoautomat
The vintage photo booth needs $1 coins. The museum no longer provides change, so come prepared!
:coin:Book a Period Photoshoot
Experience history firsthand by dressing in 1910s clothing and getting your portrait taken.
:camerawithflash:Utilize the Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with an audio guide for fascinating stories about the Seidel family and their work.
Relax in the Garden
Enjoy the charming garden for a moment of peace and to soak in the atmosphere. Feels like home!
:seedling:Tips
from all over the internet
Bring $1 Coins for Fotoautomat
The vintage photo booth needs $1 coins. The museum no longer provides change, so come prepared!
:coin:Book a Period Photoshoot
Experience history firsthand by dressing in 1910s clothing and getting your portrait taken.
:camerawithflash:Utilize the Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with an audio guide for fascinating stories about the Seidel family and their work.
Relax in the Garden
Enjoy the charming garden for a moment of peace and to soak in the atmosphere. Feels like home!
:seedling:Check CK Tourist Card
If you have the CK Tourist Card, this museum might be included for free access.
:ticket:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Museum Fotoatelier Seidel for its authentic preservation and immersive experience. The opportunity to see a photographer's home and studio as it was over a century ago, complete with original furnishings and equipment, is a major draw. Many highlight the unique chance to dress in period costumes and have their photos taken, as well as the charming vintage photo booth. Some minor points of feedback include the need to bring specific coins for the photo booth and the desire for more interactive elements beyond the costume sessions.
"I really enjoyed this museum. The house, the furniture and the objects on display are mostly original. Even the placements of the objects follows the original. The restoration is nicely done and it allowed me to have a glimpse into life as it was during the period. It is also an interesting story of the photographer and his son."
Debbie Li
"Fascinating insight into the daily life of a local photographer. The museum is his actual old residence, portrait studio and developing room. You can book to get dressed up and have your picture taken, as if you were a client of Josef Siedel. Visited as part of the CK Tourist Card which gives you free access to 5 museums/ galleries, so can't remember how much it cost. Audio guide included. German and English speaking at the cash desk. Ask for the key to use the toilets in a separate out building, which were very clean!"
Christina Lam
"Highly recommend if you are at all interested in photography. It was amazing seeing an old photo studio just as it was 100 years ago. Fascinating information, lots of antique photographic equipment, and of course, amazing photography to view."
Nadeem
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Český Krumlov. It's easily accessible on foot within the historic town center. Many visitors arrive in Český Krumlov by bus or train from larger cities like Prague or Linz.
Parking in Český Krumlov's historic center is restricted. It's best to use one of the designated public parking lots outside the core area and walk to the museum.
Yes, it's a popular stop for day-trippers visiting Český Krumlov. You can easily combine it with other attractions in the town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's always a good idea to check the official museum website or their social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Admission fees are reasonable, and the museum is often included in the Český Krumlov Tourist Card, offering great value if you plan to visit multiple sites.
For general entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you wish to book a special period costume photoshoot, it's highly recommended to reserve your spot in advance.
Yes, an audio guide is available and is included with admission. It provides detailed insights into the Seidel family's life and work.
The Český Krumlov Tourist Card often includes free entry to this museum, making it a cost-effective option for exploring multiple attractions.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most areas, but always check for any specific restrictions. The museum itself is a photographer's dream!
The museum showcases the original studio and darkroom of Josef Seidel, featuring antique equipment and his extensive collection of photographs documenting the Šumava region.
Yes, there's a vintage 'fotoautomat' where you can take fun, retro photos. Remember to bring your own $1 coins as they are no longer exchanged on-site.
Absolutely! You can book a session to dress up in early 20th-century clothing and have your portrait taken in the historic studio.
You'll find a fascinating array of cameras, developing equipment, and other tools used by Josef Seidel and his family throughout their careers.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
It's a beautifully restored 19th-century home and studio, meticulously preserved with original furnishings and Seidel's vast photographic archive. It feels like stepping back in time.
You'll see the photographer's living quarters, his portrait studio, a darkroom, and an incredible collection of historical photographs.
The museum offers interactive elements, most notably the opportunity to dress in period costumes and have your photo taken, making the experience very engaging.
Yes, there's a lovely garden where you can relax and enjoy the atmosphere, adding to the feeling of being at home.
Josef Seidel was a prominent photographer who documented the people and landscapes of the Šumava region from 1886 onwards, capturing a significant period of history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a restaurant or cafe. However, Český Krumlov offers numerous dining options just a short walk away.
Český Krumlov has a wide range of restaurants serving traditional Czech cuisine, as well as international options. You can find cozy pubs and more upscale dining experiences.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best practice to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or outside the museum to preserve the historic exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the original living quarters of the Seidel family can also spark curiosity about how people lived in the past. The vintage photo booth is another interactive element that kids will love, though remember to bring those $1 coins! The garden provides a nice space for a brief break.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Seeing Josef Seidel's work firsthand, which documented the Šumava region for decades, offers incredible insight into historical photographic techniques and artistry. The opportunity to potentially book a session in the studio adds another layer of appreciation for the craft.
🏛️ History Buffs
The meticulously restored home and studio, along with Josef Seidel's vast photographic archive, offer authentic historical context. The audio guide further enriches the experience with detailed narratives about the era and the Seidel family's role within it.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Josef Seidel
His son, František Seidel, continued the family's photographic legacy, expanding the archive and maintaining the studio's operations. The museum meticulously preserves their home and studio, allowing visitors to step directly into their world. The restoration is so thorough that it feels like the family has just stepped out for a moment.
Visiting the Museum Fotoatelier Seidel is more than just seeing old photos; it's an immersion into the life and times of a family of artists who shaped how we see a crucial period of Bohemian history. The sheer volume and quality of the preserved work are astounding.
Experiencing History Through Photography
This hands-on experience allows you to understand the photographic process of the era and connect with the past on a personal level. Imagine posing for a portrait just as clients did over a hundred years ago, then seeing the results developed. It’s a truly memorable way to engage with history.
Beyond the costume sessions, the museum's collection itself is a testament to the power of photography as a historical document. From candid snapshots of daily life to formal portraits and scenic views, the images provide a vivid window into a bygone era.
The Charm of the Vintage Fotoautomat
It's important to note that this classic machine operates on specific currency. As mentioned by visitors, you'll need to bring your own $1 coins, as the museum no longer provides change for the fotoautomat. This small preparation ensures you can capture this fun, retro souvenir.
Taking a photo in the booth is a quick and enjoyable way to cap off your visit, offering a tangible, fun reminder of your time exploring the historical photographic world of the Seidel family.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit