Paradox Museum Barcelona
Placa d’Urquinaona 3, L’Eixample, Barcelona, Catalonia, 08010
A whirlwind of weird and wonderful optical illusions, Paradox Museum Barcelona blends science and creativity to stimulate minds of all ages. From upside-down rooms and space-age halls of mirrors to surreal card tricks and “decapitating” tables, more than 70 interactive exhibits will fill up your brain—and your social media account.
The basics
While your photos are guaranteed to create a social buzz, Paradox Museum is a bit more of a cerebral experience than the typical trick photo or social media museum. Most of the exhibits come with explanations, making it a particularly good choice for families with children. You can buy tickets in person at the museum, but it’s better to prebook online in advance: Entries are timed at 20-minute intervals, and you may need to wait during peak periods.
Things to know before you go
Paradox Museum Barcelona is a great choice for social media mavens, families, and anyone with an interest in optical illusions.
Allow 75 minutes to explore the museum—that’s how long your ticket is valid.
Wear comfortable shoes that make it easy to throw photogenic shapes.
The Paradox Museum is generally wheelchair accessible. However, staff ask parents to use baby carriers rather than strollers during their visit.
How to get there
Paradox Museum Barcelona sits in the heart of the city, just a 5-minute walk from Catalunya Square (Plaça de Catalunya). Urquinaona metro station (Line 1 and Line 4) is also a quick walk away.
When to get there
The museum is usually from 11am–8:30pm Monday through Friday and 10am–8:30pm on weekends. For a quieter experience, plan your visit for before 3pm Monday through Wednesday.
Barcelona’s best museums for social media shots
If Paradox Museum Barcelona has whetted your appetite for great photos, Barcelona has plenty of museums that will enhance your grid. IKONO Barcelona Immersive and Interactive Experience offers backdrops from cyberpunk rooms to a technicolor ball pit; the Museum of Illusions features 60 3D-painted artworks. Or shift into the art world with a visit to Moco Museum Barcelona, which often shows digital immersive art; or Museo Banksy, devoted to the work of the elusive street artist.
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