Museum of Illusions Sofia
Knyagina Maria Luisa Blvd 16, Sofia, Bulgaria, 1000
Both interactive and educational, the Museum of Illusions Sofia explores how physics and optical tricks can create unbelievable results. At this family-friendly museum, the illusions aren’t contained to art hanging on the walls, with installations such as light painting, shadow making, and upside-down rooms, which you can not only engage with, but learn about on a deeper level.
The basics
Folding the museum into a visit to Sofia is quite easy, as it can provide a nice break from sightseeing, bad weather, or leading young children around the city. You can also take lots of unique, illusion-fueled photos while you’re there. Plan to spend 1–2 hours at the museum, which is close to many other Sofia landmarks.
Things to know before you go
The entrance to the building is not easily wheelchair accessible.
Staff can be found around the exhibit areas to provide information and explanations.
Amenities include a coat check, restrooms, and a gift shop.
How to get there
With its location in the center of Sofia, the Museum of Illusions is easy to reach. Trams stop at Tsentralni Hali just outside the building and around the corner, while the ever-useful Serdika metro station on the M1, M2, and M4 lines is 1 block away. The museum is a short walk from other central attractions, such as the Banya Bashi Mosque, Central Sofia Market Hall, and Central Synagogue of Sofia.
When to get there
The museum is open daily from mid-morning to evening. Lines to get in are generally longest on weekends and public holidays, and the museum is usually quietest first thing after opening and in the evening. You can save time and guarantee admission by purchasing tickets online, which have set entry times.
Family-friendly spots in Sofia
Exploring the history and culture of Bulgaria’s capital may have limited appeal for families visiting the city with children. If you’re looking for space for little ones to roam around, head to the sprawling grounds of Borisova Gradina Park; with older kids, consider the hike that leads to Boyana Waterfall. For more indoor educational fun, visit the Muzeiko, a children’s museum and science center in Sofia’s southeast.
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