Musée de l'Illusion
Interactive optical illusion museum housed in the Grand Hôtel-Dieu in Lyon, with more than 70 illusions explained scientifically.
No sound? Check your device’s silent switch.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The Musée de l'Illusion in Lyon opened in July 2021 in the Grand Hôtel-Dieu, in the heart of the Presqu'île. It is part of a network of illusion museums present in France in Paris, Marseille, Bordeaux and Lille, which belongs to an international group.
Covering around 700 m², the route brings together more than 70 optical and perceptual illusions. These include the Tunnel Vortex, a three-dimensional tunnel that appears flat and stable; the Salle de l'infini; a collection of holograms; illusions to observe up close; and spaces for photos that defy gravity.
Each installation is accompanied by a scientific explanation of how sight, perception and the brain work. The museum presents itself as a visit for all ages, whether with family, friends or colleagues, and also hosts private and corporate events.
Highlights
- More than 70 optical illusions across around 700 m²
- Tunnel Vortex
- Salle de l'infini
- Collection of holograms
- Photo spaces to defy gravity
Permanent exhibition
- Parcours des illusions – More than 70 optical illusions, including the Tunnel Vortex, the Salle de l'infini and a collection of holograms, each with a scientific explanation.
- Founded
- 2021
Admission & discounts
| Adults | €19 |
|---|---|
| Reduced | €16Students, job seekers and people with reduced mobility (€16); seniors (€17) |
| Children & teens | €13free up to age 3 · Children aged 4 to 15; free for children under 4 |
| Seniors | €17 |
| Visitors with disabilities | €16People with reduced mobility |
| Students & apprentices | €16 |
| Groups (10+ people) | –Groups of at least 10 people; free entry for the group leader |
| Families | €492 adults and 2 children |
| Job seekers | €16 |
The museum recommends buying tickets online. On-site purchase is possible as long as the museum is not full. Children under 4 do not need a ticket.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible
- Elevator: no information
- Accessible restroom: no information
- 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
The museum describes itself as open and accessible to all, including seniors, visitors with pushchairs and people with disabilities. The museums in the network are wheelchair-accessible.
Kids & families
Great for kids & families
| Kids’ admission | free up to age 3 |
|---|---|
| Family ticket | €49 · 2 adults and 2 children |
- Stroller-friendly
- Kids’ birthday parties
The museum is presented as suitable for all ages, with a children's rate from age 4 and a family ticket. Pushchairs are welcome.
Getting there & parking
By public transit
Bellecour
Metro lines A and D, Bellecour station. Bus: Cordeliers stop (line 3), about a 7-minute walk from the museum; stops Bellecour Le Viste and Pont Guillotière.
By car
No on-site parking at the museum.
No dedicated car park; the museum recommends the LPA Antonin Poncet car park.
The museum is located in the city centre and is easy to reach on foot.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
Food and drink are not allowed in the museum.
Events & venue rental
- Spaces for rent
- Private parties
- Corporate events
Press conferences, after-work events, team building, seminars, birthdays, themed parties, brand launches, photo shoots, film shoots and private hire of the museum; request via the contact form.
Inquiries & detailsPlan your visit
| Good to know | The experience generally lasts between 45 and 90 minutes. Animals are not admitted. Groups of at least ten people book at least 14 days in advance; group quotes are available via a form or by email. |
|---|
