Marseille History Museum (Musee d'Histoire)
2 Rue Henri Barbusse, Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, 13001
The Marseille History Museum presents the story of Europe and beyond through the ages. It takes visitors back in time through the multimedia displays and well-preserved artifacts that make up its permanent collection. The museum usually has several temporary exhibits running concurrently, most themed around an era or historical subject.
The basics
The Marseille History Museum is among the largest history museums in Europe, so it’s a good idea to pace yourself as you explore its many galleries and displays. Artifacts of note include an extensive collection of surprisingly intact pottery from medieval times and a Roman cargo boat dating to the 3rd century. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to visit the Jardin des Vestiges, an open-air garden displaying archaeological finds.
Things to know before you go
Although admission to the museum is free, some temporary exhibits cost extra to view.
The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps at the main entry and an elevator inside.
Water bottles are not allowed in the museum or the coat check.
How to get there
The museum is on rue Henri Barbusse, right by the Old Port. Although public parking is available in the nearby Bourse Parking Centre, it's easiest to get here by public transportation. Line 1 of the Marseille Métro stops nearby at the Vieux-Port station, while tramway lines 2 and 3 will drop you off at Belsunce station. Bus numbers 21, 33, 34, 35, 41, 49A, 57, and 61 also stop nearby.
When to get there
The Marseille History Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays, except for Easter Monday and Whit Monday. It closes on Christmas and New Year's Days, May 1, and Nov. 1 and 11. Come on a weekday right when it opens to avoid crowds or plan your visit for a few hours before closing. Note that the ticket office closes half an hour before the museum does.
Exploring the Old Port of Marseille (Vieux Port)
Step outside the Marseille History Museum, and you'll find yourself in the historic Old Port area. This area is full of attractions, including the historic Fort Saint-Jean and Fort Saint-Nicolas and the comparably newer Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM), another great spot to learn about the region's history. This area also has a great food scene—sit at one of the many waterfront cafes for a bowl of bouillabaisse.
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