Did you know that the Museum of Photography in Kraków (MuFo) is the only institution in Poland dedicated entirely to photography? Here you will find exhibitions on the history and techniques of photography as well as contemporary art projects. A private visit lets you see exhibitions and the museum’s behind-the-scenes spaces in peace, ask questions, linger at selected objects and tailor the visit to your interests.
MuFo operates three important sites: the main headquarters and permanent exhibition in the former barracks on Rakowicka Street, the Strzelnica branch with the permanent "Portrait" exhibition, and the intimate MuFo Józefitów at Józefitów 16. Józefitów is often used for special guided tours and events, and because of its historic and storage functions it offers an interesting backstage glimpse into the museum’s work.
A private visit is also a great opportunity for a so-called premium experience: short workshops, a meeting with a curator or viewing items not normally on display. It’s worth agreeing the scope of such a visit with the organiser in advance — the museum offers different forms of guided tours and events, and some require a reservation.
The Museum of Photography in Kraków was established in the 1980s and since then has collected, conserved and presented photographs and photographic equipment. Today MuFo includes several locations: MuFo Rakowicka (in a renovated historic building), MuFo Strzelnica (with the permanent "Portrait" exhibition) and MuFo Józefitów (Józefitów 16) — a place often used for behind-the-scenes tours, workshops and educational events.
The Józefitów branch has been modernised and allows visitors to see storage areas, conservation studios and selected collections that don’t always make it onto permanent displays. It’s an excellent place for people who want to learn about the "museum workshop" and how items over a hundred years old are cared for.
MuFo regularly runs workshops, thematic tours and family events — check the events calendar and book in advance, especially for special guided tours and curator-led meetings.
The easiest way to buy tickets is online through the museum’s official ticketing system. Many events and guided tours require prior registration and sometimes places are limited, so booking ahead is a good habit.
MuFo offers different ticket prices: from general admission to special rates for workshops and events. In some cases reduced-price tickets are available for selected groups — for example discounted rates for children, pupils, students or holders of certain city family cards. Remember that to claim a discount you usually need to show a document proving your eligibility.
Contact details for reservations and ticket information are available via the museum’s central phone number and email addresses dedicated to sales and education. If you plan a private tour or want to arrange a premium visit (for example with a curator), write or call ahead — dates fill up and some types of tours must be confirmed several days in advance.
Start by deciding what you want to see: the main exhibition, archival collections, conservation studios or a photography workshop. When booking, give your preferred date, approximate duration and number of participants.
Contact the museum via the official reservation line or the email address listed on the site. Ask about the possibility of tours in your language and additional options: meeting a curator, seeing storage areas or a short workshop. Clearly agree the price and cancellation terms.
On the day of the visit, arrive early, especially if you plan to visit the Józefitów branch — it’s intimate and tours often start punctually. Bring documents for any discounts and wear comfortable shoes. If you want to take photos inside, ask about the rules — different displays have different restrictions.
Begin your visit at MuFo Józefitów — an intimate guided tour will let you see "what’s behind the doors" of storage and studios, learn about the protection and conservation of photographs and admire historic lenses and techniques. Duration: 60–90 minutes, depending on the agreement.
After the museum, take a short walk towards nearby cafés and green spaces — it’s a pleasant way to round off the experience. If you wish, combine the visit with a short mobile photography workshop or a coffee tasting at a recommended café, tailoring the program to your preferences.
This combination — museum plus a curated local experience — is a classic premium offering: smaller group, more time with the guide and the option to customise the program to participants’ interests.
If you’re looking for trusted places near the Old Town and Kazimierz, consider restaurants and cafés with strong reputations. Safe picks include Wierzynek (the historic restaurant at the Market Square), Szara (at the Main Square), Pod Aniołami (traditional Polish cuisine) and several cosy cafés where you can rest after sightseeing.
For accommodation in the centre consider hotels known for high standards and great locations: Hotel Stary, Hotel Copernicus and international chain hotels close to the Main Market Square. When booking, pay attention to reviews mentioning quiet rooms and breakfast availability if you plan early departures for sightseeing.
Always check current reviews and table availability — especially on weekends and in the tourist season central restaurants can be busy. If you want a special evening, reserve a table in advance.
Not booking in advance. This is the most frequent mistake — particularly for special tours, workshops or meetings with curators. Book early to avoid disappointment.
Not checking which museum branch you’re visiting. MuFo operates in several locations — make sure you pick the correct address (for example MuFo Józefitów, Józefitów 16).
Assuming all tickets are sold on site. Many events and guided tours require online purchase or email registration. Check the ticketing system in advance.
Not carrying documents for discounts. If you expect a reduced price as a student, pupil or cardholder, have the relevant proof with you.
How do I buy a ticket? The fastest way is through the museum’s official ticketing system; some events also allow purchase at a ticket machine in the branch.
Are there discounts? Yes — the museum provides discounts for children, pupils, students and other eligible groups; the best conditions usually require showing an appropriate document.
Can I order a private guided tour? Yes — the museum organises tours and events on request; if you want a premium experience (for example a meeting with a curator), contact the reservations or education department to arrange details and check availability.
Can I take photos? Photography rules depend on the exhibition and individual objects. Always ask the guide or a museum staff member about photographing without flash.
The museum does more than show pictures — it cares for archives: conservation work, digitisation and storage are as important as exhibitions. That’s why at the Józefitów branch you can sometimes peek behind the scenes of museum work.
Not all collections go straight to exhibitions. Large parts of the collection are stored and only shown occasionally — a private visit can give you a chance to see rare and unique items.
A visit can be educational for the whole family — the museum offers workshops and tours tailored to children, teenagers and adults, so ask about family programmes.
If you want to turn sightseeing in Kraków into a calm, well-polished experience, consider a private tour with a guide. I recommend using the services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz — a private guide specialising in intimate routes around Kraków, including programs that combine MuFo and the surrounding area. You can find contact details on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com; she will gladly help plan the program, set the pace and arrange a premium experience including help with tickets and discounts.
If you found this article helpful, share it with friends or on social media — someone else may appreciate the idea of a special private tour of Kraków. When you plan your visit, remember to book in advance and confirm terms — that way your private MuFo visit will be exactly as you imagined. Greetings and see you in Kraków!
Check opening hours and specific guided-tour times for the branch you plan to visit — places like MuFo Józefitów often run tours at fixed times and may require advance booking.
If you need an English-language tour, indicate this when booking — many guided options are available in English on request.
When combining a museum visit with nearby cafés, consider places a short walk from Józefitów or Rakowicka; a relaxed coffee break helps turn the visit into a full premium experience.
If you travel with children, ask the museum about family workshops or child-friendly tours to make the visit engaging for younger participants.
Confirm the exact address and branch you will visit (e.g. Józefitów 16 for the storage and conservation tour).
Ask whether photography is permitted in the areas you will see and whether flash is allowed.
Verify the total price for your private tour, what’s included (guide, entrance, workshop), and the cancellation policy.
Bring ID if you plan to use any reduced-price tickets.
