Museum of Illusions Brussels
Interactive museum with more than 60 optical illusions in the former Théâtre de la Gaîté, near place De Brouckère and place de la Monnaie.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The Museum of Illusions Brussels opened its doors in summer 2022 in the former Théâtre de la Gaîté, rue du Fossé aux Loups, between place de la Monnaie and place De Brouckère, close to the Grand-Place. It is part of the worldwide Museum of Illusions network, founded in Zagreb in 2015; the Brussels museum was its 37th.
Covering around 700 m², the museum brings together more than 60 optical and perception illusions to experience for yourself: the infinity room, the gravity room, a vortex tunnel and other installations you will not find elsewhere in Brussels. Puzzles complete the visit for those who want to go further.
The aim is to show, in a playful way, how the brain interprets what the eyes see. Each illusion comes with an explanation in French, Dutch, English and German, and the team helps visitors understand the effects and take good photos. The museum is for all ages and also welcomes school groups, birthday parties and events.
Highlights
- More than 60 interactive illusions
- Infinity room, gravity room and vortex tunnel
- Puzzles to solve
- Housed in the former Théâtre de la Gaîté
- Explanations in French, Dutch, English and German
Permanent exhibition
- Plus de 60 illusions d'optique – Interactive installations (infinity room, gravity room, vortex tunnel) and puzzles on the theme of perception.
- Founded
- 2022
Admission & discounts
| Adults | €17.50 |
|---|---|
| Reduced | €14.50Children aged 5 to 18, seniors from 65, students |
| Children & teens | €14.50free up to age 4 · Children aged 5 to 18; free from 0 to 4 years |
| Seniors | €14.50From 65 years |
| Students & apprentices | €14.50 |
| Groups | –Group and school rates (from 15 pupils) on request by email |
| Families | €54.50 |
| Teacher card | €8.75 |
Tickets online (recommended during school holidays) or at reception; payment by card only, no cash. €2 discount with the Brussels Card and with the museumPASS, valid only for tickets bought at reception. Article 27 tickets give access to the museum for €1.25 per person.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible
- Elevator
- Accessible restroom
- Accessible parking: no information
- Service dogs welcome: no information
- Tactile models & exhibits: no information
- Sign language tours: no information
- Easy-to-read materials: no information
- Audio description: no information
With the exception of a few illusions, all of the more than 60 installations are wheelchair-accessible. Lift and accessible toilets. Only small dogs that fit in a carry bag are admitted.
Kids & families
Great for kids & families
| Time needed | approx. 60 min |
|---|---|
| Kids’ admission | free up to age 4 |
| Family ticket | €54.50 |
- Hands-on stations
- Kids’ birthday parties
The museum presents itself as an outing for all ages, combining play, curiosity and learning; packages for birthdays and school visits. Family ticket €54.50.
Getting there & parking
By public transit
De Brouckère · 1-min walk
De Brouckère stop (STIB network): metro 1 and 5, tram 3 and 4, buses 29, 46, 71, 88 and 89; Brussels-Central station about 8 minutes’ walk away
By car
No on-site parking at the museum.
No car park at the museum; paid car parks Interparking La Monnaie and Interparking Écuyer nearby.
The museum is between place de la Monnaie and place De Brouckère, next to rue Neuve.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
Food and drink are not allowed inside, except for one bottle of water.
Events & venue rental
- Spaces for rent
- Private parties
- Corporate events
Room hire, private groups, birthdays and team building; enquire via the form on the website.
Inquiries & detailsPlan your visit
| School programs | yes |
|---|---|
| Photography | Photography is encouraged: the team helps visitors take good pictures in front of each illusion. |
| Good to know | Allow at least one hour; the puzzles add 30 minutes to one hour. Self-guided visit with explanations in French, Dutch, English and German; staff speak French, Dutch and English. Groups: request by email at least 15 days before the visit. |
