You’ll play with gravity in wild photo rooms, walk through a dizzying Vortex tunnel, and test your brain with quirky puzzles at Ljubljana’s House of Illusions. Expect laughter (and maybe confusion), clever exhibits for all ages, and plenty of chances to snap those “wait—how?” photos before heading back out into the city.
Trying to balance on the Vortex tunnel, I nearly grabbed my friend’s arm — which is funny because it’s not actually spinning, but my brain swore otherwise. The House of Illusions in Ljubljana really messes with you like that. We’d just wandered in from Congress Square, not expecting much more than a few optical tricks, but the place is packed with these weird, clever rooms. One moment you’re a giant next to your partner (Ames room — I still laugh thinking about our photo), the next you’re pretending to serve someone’s head on a plate. The staff at the entrance just grinned when we asked if people ever get dizzy in there. “All the time,” she said.
I probably took too many photos in the upside-down room — it’s hard not to, honestly. There’s something about seeing your friend standing on the ceiling that makes you want to send proof to everyone back home. Kids were running around everywhere, squealing at mirrors and puzzles, but it didn’t feel too chaotic. Maybe that’s just Ljubljana — even when it’s busy, there’s this relaxed energy. At one point I tried a mind game puzzle near the exit and got absolutely nowhere; a local dad leaned over and whispered his trick for solving it (I still couldn’t do it). The whole place smells faintly of wood and new paint — clean but not sterile.
If you’re looking for something different while you’re in Ljubljana city center, this is worth an hour or two. It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or dragging along family; everyone ends up laughing at themselves at least once. And yeah, bring your camera — some of these illusions are way better remembered with a photo than an explanation.
The House of Illusions is in the center of Ljubljana on Congress Square 13.
There are more than 70 exhibits inside the House of Illusions Ljubljana.
Yes, kids love it and infants or small children can ride in a pram or stroller.
The Vortex tunnel, Ames room, upside-down room, and head-on-a-plate exhibit are popular highlights.
Yes, public transportation options are available near the museum.
Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels.
Yes, bringing your camera or smartphone is encouraged for great photos.
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult during their visit.
Your entry ticket gives you access to over 70 interactive exhibits including gravity-defying rooms and quirky puzzles. You can visit any time between 9AM and 10PM—just show up when it suits you best and enjoy exploring at your own pace right in central Ljubljana.
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