Maison de la Magie, Blois

Museum in Blois

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Pingelig

The Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin is one of the top attractions in Blois, offering an enchanting blend of museum displays, live performances, and interactive illusions right in front of the Royal Château de Blois. Dedicated to Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin — the famed 19th-century illusionist, inventor, and native of Blois — this unique space brings the world of magic vividly to life. Part museum, part performance venue, it is the only public institution in Europe that unites both permanent magic exhibitions and ongoing shows under one roof.

Facing the château in the heart of Blois, the museum is a great place to visit on a walking tour of Blois, especially for families, curious travellers, and anyone who appreciates a touch of theatrical mystery. From its famous six-headed dragon automaton that emerges every half-hour to its kaleidoscopes, automatons, optical illusions, and magic shows, the building feels like a playground of wonder.

History and Significance of Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin
Things to See and Do in Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin
Where to Stay close to Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin
Is Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin
Nearby Attractions to Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin

History and Significance of Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin

The museum was inaugurated in 1998, but its origins trace to 1981, when the descendants of Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin gifted the building and its contents to the city of Blois on the condition that it be opened to the public. Today, the museum preserves 170 original objects linked to Robert-Houdin's life and work — a man celebrated not only as an illusionist but also as an inventor, clockmaker, and early pioneer in automatons.

Maison de la Magie holds the official title of Musée de France, acknowledging its cultural and historical importance. As the only European museum entirely devoted to both magic collections and permanent performing arts, it continues Robert-Houdin's legacy by blending scientific ingenuity with theatrical showmanship. Recurring events, conferences, seasonal magic demonstrations, and guided-tours led by real illusionists contribute to its vibrant atmosphere.

Things to See and Do in Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin

A highlight is the six-headed dragon automaton created by Michel and Jean-Pierre Hartmann, which dramatically appears from the museum’s façade every 30 minutes. Inside, the rotunda presents the evolution of magic, illusion, art, and performance, while exhibition spaces explore subjects like medieval juggling, Pinetti’s early physics demonstrations, and Buatier de Kolta’s groundbreaking inventions.

The museum is full of interactive elements, including a walk-in kaleidoscope, an optical illusion chessboard, and displays from Robert-Houdin’s workshop featuring watchmaking tools, scientific research in optics and electricity, and the famous “mysterious clock.”

Further inside, the “hallucinoscope” — created by illusionist Gérard Majax — immerses visitors in the underwater world of Jules Verne’s Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Seas. The Georges Méliès space honours the legendary magician and film pioneer known for innovative cinematic special effects.

Daily live magic shows, performed by trained illusionists, make every visit feel dynamic and immersive.

How to Get There

Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin is located directly opposite the Château Royal de Blois in central Blois. Visitors can reach Blois-Chambord station by train and walk to the museum in around 10 minutes. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place. Those arriving by car will find several public car parks around the old town within easy walking distance. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin

Best time to visit Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin: Late morning or afternoon to catch multiple dragon appearances and scheduled shows.
Entrance fee in Euros: €14.50
Opening hours: Open daily during the main tourist season; limited hours outside peak months.
Official website: maison-magie.fr
How long to spend: 1.5–2 hours.
Accessibility: Some exhibits involve stairs; check accessibility options in advance.
Facilities: Restrooms, small shop, and seating areas inside.
Photography tip: Capture the dragon automaton from the square as it emerges from the windows.
Guided-tours: Led by professional illusionists; available at select times.
Nearby food options: Numerous cafés and restaurants in the streets surrounding the château.

Where to Stay close to Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin

Staying in central Blois gives excellent access to both the museum and the château. For a comfortable stay near the old town, try Hôtel Anne de Bretagne. Visitors seeking boutique charm may enjoy La Maison du Carroir, while those wanting river views and modern amenities can opt for Hôtel Mercure Blois Centre.

Is Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin Worth Visiting?

Yes — it is one of the Loire Valley’s most unique cultural attractions. Whether you’re interested in magic, history, or simply want a fun, interactive experience, the museum offers an engaging blend of storytelling, illusion, and spectacle that appeals to all ages.

FAQs for Visiting Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin

Does the dragon automaton appear all day?
It emerges every 30 minutes during opening hours.

Are the magic shows included in the ticket?
Yes, daily shows are part of the standard admission.

Is the museum suitable for young children?
Absolutely — many exhibits are interactive and family-friendly.

Can you take photos inside?
Photography is usually permitted except during performances.

Is it easy to combine with Château de Blois?
Yes — the museum is directly opposite the château.

Nearby Attractions to Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin

Château Royal de Blois: A major Loire Valley landmark showcasing four centuries of architecture.
Château de Chambord: The region's grandest Renaissance château.
Maison de la BD: A museum dedicated to comic art and illustration.
Jardin des Lices: A peaceful garden overlooking the city.
Loire riverside walk: A scenic stroll along Blois’ historic waterfront.

The Maison de la Magie appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Blois!

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