Travel Through Time with a Must-See Visit to the Marseille History Museum

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Emilie

Published on 03/11/2025

At the heart of the Phocean City stands a place steeped in history and memory: the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille. A veritable journey through time in France’s oldest city, this exceptional museum traces more than 26 centuries of urban development, from the Greek foundation of Massalia to the present day. Located in the Centre Bourse, just a stone’s throw from the Old Port, it offers a fascinating insight into the Mediterranean past through its unique collections of ancient shipwrecks, archaeological remains and everyday objects. Whether you’re an archaeology enthusiast, a history buff or simply curious, the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille promises an enriching cultural experience at the heart of the archaeological site of the Ancient Port.

What is the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille?

The Musée d’Histoire de Marseille is much more than just a museum: it’s a veritable time machine. Founded in 1983, it is now one of the biggest urban history museums in Europe. What makes it special? It is built around the archaeological site of the Ancient Port, discovered during excavations carried out in the 1960s during the construction of the Centre Bourse. This unique configuration gives visitors a direct view of the authentic remains of the ancient city of Massalia, founded around 600 BC.

Renovated in 2013, the year in which Marseille was European Capital of Culture, the museum now boasts 3,500 m² of exhibition space, with almost 4,000 items in its collection. Its permanent tour, organised into 13 chronological sequences, offers a captivating immersion in the city’s evolution, from Greek and Roman antiquity to the present day. The modern screen-printed glass façade offers an exceptional view over the Garden of the Vestiges, creating a permanent dialogue between past and present.

Access to the permanent collections of the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille is totally free all year round, a strong cultural policy of the city that allows everyone to discover this exceptional heritage. The museum also houses a 200-seat auditorium, areas dedicated to temporary exhibitions and educational workshops for young visitors.

See also the Marseille guide :

1. The Garden of Vestiges and the archaeological site of the Ancient Port

The Port Antique archaeological site, directly accessible from the museum, is the historic heart of Marseille. Discovered in 1967 during urban development work, this exceptional site bears witness to the original Greek settlement and reveals the foundations of the ancient port of Massalia. Now laid out as a landscaped garden by architect Joël-Louis Martin, the Jardin des Vestiges offers a unique walk through the layers of Marseille’s history.

Here you will discover the impressive Greek and Hellenistic ramparts dating from the 3rd century BC, a true testament to the defensive power of the ancient city. These massive fortifications give an idea of the scale of the walls that protected Massalia from invasion. The site also reveals the remains of an ancient paved Roman road, the foundations of port buildings and the remains of an early Christian necropolis, all of which attest to the continuity of the site’s occupation.

The landscaping respects the archaeological integrity of the site while allowing visitors to move around freely. Explanatory panels mark out the route and help visitors to understand the urban organisation of ancient Massalia. A visit to the Jardin des Vestiges is included with free admission to the museum, making it a must for all archaeology enthusiasts. This listed site is one of the most precious testimonies to the founding of Marseille and its development in ancient times.

2. Shipwrecks: treasures of maritime archaeology

The Musée d’Histoire de Marseille houses one of the largest collections of ancient shipwrecks in the Mediterranean. The centrepiece is undoubtedly the Roman wreck of the Bourse, discovered in 1974 during the last excavations on the site. This trading ship, dating from the 3rd century AD, is around 23 metres long and is the largest ancient ship currently on display in a museum in France. Its remarkably well-preserved hull allows us to study Roman shipbuilding techniques and imagine the intense commercial activity in the port of Marseille at that time.

Alongside this major wreck, the museum also exhibits a number of Greek boats discovered in the Place Jules-Verne. These boats, dating from the 6th to 4th centuries BC, provide unique evidence of navigation at the time of the founding of Massalia. Their presentation allows us to compare technical developments between the Greek and Roman periods, revealing the progress made in Mediterranean naval architecture over the centuries.

Around these wrecks, a rich collection of maritime archaeological objects completes the discovery: transport amphorae, stone and lead anchors, navigation equipment, ceramics and various cargoes. These items illustrate the strategic importance of Marseille as a commercial crossroads between East and West. Interactive models and 3D reconstructions give visitors a better understanding of how the ancient port functioned, and of the trade routes that made the Phocaean city prosper.

3. The permanent collections and the chronological tour

The permanent exhibition at the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille follows a chronological logic, tracing the development of the city through the ages. Organised into 13 themed sections, the exhibition features nearly 4,000 objects that tell the story of Marseille from prehistoric times to the 20th century. Each section has a modern, immersive scenography, combining authentic objects, reconstructions, multimedia displays and projections.

The Greek and Roman periods naturally feature prominently in the exhibition. Here you’ll discover Attic ceramics, funerary stelae, mosaics, sculptures and everyday objects that bear witness to life in Massalia and later Massilia. The medieval section presents the development of the city in the Middle Ages, with architectural elements from buildings that have disappeared, religious objects and traces of medieval port activity.

The modern and contemporary periods are not left out. The museum traces Marseille’s commercial boom in the 17th and 18th centuries, its colonial expansion, the industrialisation of the 19th century and the urban transformations of the 20th century. Archival documents, old photographs, advertising posters and industrial artefacts all help to illustrate the profound changes that Marseille has undergone. The exhibition concludes with a look at contemporary Marseilles, focusing on the urban and social challenges of today, and celebrating the city’s cultural vitality.

4. Models and reconstructions of the city

One of the major attractions of the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille is its spectacular scale models, which illustrate the city’s urban development over the centuries. These meticulous reconstructions, based on archaeological data and historical sources, give a concrete picture of the transformations in Marseille’s urban fabric since Antiquity. The model of Massalia in Greek times shows the original settlement of the Phocaean colony, with its fortifications, primitive port and urban layout typical of Greek cities.

Other models represent Marseille at different key periods: the Roman era, with the expansion of the port and its integration into the Empire; the Middle Ages, with the development of the districts around the Old Port; the Renaissance, with the expansion of the city under Louis XIV; and finally the great Haussmann works of the 19th century, which profoundly reconfigured the city centre. The models are accompanied by digital projections and animations, making it even easier to understand the city’s evolution.

These tools are particularly popular with visitors, as they help to put the archaeological remains and objects on display into context. By comparing the models with the city as it stands today, visible through the museum’s large windows, visitors can fully appreciate the historical depth of Marseille and the urban continuity that links ancient Massalia to the contemporary Mediterranean metropolis.

5. Opening times and days

The Musée d’Histoire de Marseille welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 6pm. The museum is closed on Mondays, with the exception of Easter and Whitsun Mondays, when it remains exceptionally open. The ticket office closes 30 minutes before the museum closes at 5.30pm. We therefore recommend that you arrive early enough to take full advantage of the richness of the collections.

The museum is also closed on the following public holidays: 1 January, 1 May and 25 December. Apart from these dates, the museum is open all year round, including during school holidays, giving you plenty of flexibility when planning your visit. Timetables may be subject to change in the event of special events or works, so it is advisable to consult the museum’s official website before your visit.

For the best visit, allow around 2 to 3 hours to explore the permanent collections and the Jardin des Vestiges. If you also wish to visit a temporary exhibition or take part in a guided tour, it is best to devote a full half-day to exploring the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille.

6. Rates and free admission

One of the outstanding features of the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille is that access to its permanent collections is completely free. This cultural policy, put in place by the City of Marseille, allows everyone to discover the exceptional historical heritage of the city without financial barriers. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, adult or child, entry to the permanent collections and the Jardin des Vestiges is free all year round.

A charge may be made for temporary exhibitions. Prices vary depending on the exhibition, but admission is generally free on the first Sunday of each month and on the first day of the exhibition. For paying exhibitions, reduced rates are available for students, jobseekers and recipients of minimum social benefits on presentation of proof.

The museum also offers themed guided tours for groups and individuals. There is a charge for these guided tours, which last from 1 to 1? hours. The adult rate is generally 3 euros, while the reduced rate for 12-18 year-olds is 1.50 euros. Children under 12 are free. These guided tours allow visitors to explore certain aspects of the collections in greater depth, and to benefit from the expertise of the museum’s cultural mediators.

7. How do I get to the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille?

The Musée d’Histoire de Marseille is ideally located in the heart of the city, in the Centre Bourse, just a few minutes’ walk from the Old Port (2 Rue Henri Barbusse, 13001 Marseille, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of over 1,700 reviews). This central location makes it easily accessible by all means of transport, whether you are coming from the city centre or the outlying districts of Marseille.

Download the audio tour to discover Marseille on foot and on your own

For a complete and immersive discovery of the city, let yourself be guided in Visiter Marseille thanks to the Navaway audioguide tour. This 7.3km itinerary takes you to 24 of the city’s major landmarks, including the Port Antique archaeological site, the Panier district, the Old Port and many other Marseilles treasures. Available on smartphone, this self-guided tour of around 3 hours lets you explore Marseille at your own pace, with enriching historical commentary and captivating anecdotes about each point of interest. Perfect for complementing your visit to the museum with a stroll through the city’s historic streets!

By metro

The metro is the most convenient way to reach the museum. Vieux-Port – Hôtel de Ville station (line M1) is around 300 metres away, a 5-minute walk. When leaving the station, simply follow the signs for the Centre Bourse. You can also get off at Colbert station (line M1), which is about the same distance away. Both stations provide excellent access to the historic centre and a fast connection to all parts of Marseille.

By tram

Tram lines T2 and T3 stop at Belsunce Alcazar, just a few minutes’ walk from the museum. From there, walk up towards the Centre Bourse, following the tourist signs. The tram is particularly convenient if you’re coming from Marseille’s northern districts or from Gare Saint-Charles.

By bus

Several bus routes serve the Centre Bourse and the Old Port. Lines 49, 55, 60, 82 and 82S stop right next to the museum. The Belsunce Alcazar stop or the Vieux-Port stop are your best options, depending on your point of departure. Consult the RTM network map to identify the most suitable line for your journey.

By car

If you’re coming by car, the Centre Bourse underground car park, located right next to the museum, offers plenty of parking spaces. Entrance is via rue Henri Barbusse. Other public car parks are also available in the vicinity of the Vieux-Port, notably the Vieux-Port Hôtel de Ville car park. Please note, however, that surface parking in the city centre is regulated and chargeable, with different charge zones (yellow, orange, red) depending on the maximum authorised duration.

From Saint-Charles station

From Marseille Saint-Charles SNCF station, take metro line M1 towards La Fourragère and get off at Vieux-Port – Hôtel de Ville (4 stations, approximately 7-minute journey). You can also take the 82S bus, which will drop you off at the Centre Bourse in around fifteen minutes. On foot, allow around 20 to 25 minutes to walk down the Canebière, which will allow you to discover Marseille’s main thoroughfare.

By bike

Several self-service bicycle stations (Le Vélo) are located in the immediate vicinity of the museum, including the Belsunce station. Marseille is actively developing its network of cycle paths, making access to the city centre increasingly pleasant by bike. Bicycle parking is available in the vicinity of the Centre Bourse.

8. Guided tours and events

The Musée d’Histoire de Marseille offers a rich programme of guided tours and cultural events to enhance the visitor experience. Guided tours of the permanent collections are organised regularly for individual visitors, usually at weekends. Lasting around 1? hours, these tours enable visitors to explore certain themes in greater depth, such as ancient navigation, town planning through the ages and daily life in Massalia. Our cultural mediators, who have a real passion for history and archaeology, share their knowledge and anecdotes to make the visit lively and accessible to all.

Tailor-made tours for groups (associations, works councils, school groups) can be organised by prior arrangement. These tours can be tailored to the level and interests of the group, with specific themes developed according to demand. The museum’s visitors’ service also offers educational workshops for schoolchildren, enabling them to discover history in a fun and interactive way, particularly through archaeology and ancient ceramics workshops.

The museum regularly organises lectures, screenings of documentaries and meetings with archaeologists and historians. These events, which are often free of charge, provide an opportunity to delve deeper into certain aspects of Marseille’s history, or to discover the results of the latest archaeological digs carried out in the region. The programme of events is available on the museum’s website and on its social networks. Don’t forget to check the cultural calendar before your visit to make sure you don’t miss out on any events!

9. Temporary exhibitions

In addition to its permanent exhibitions, the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year that explore certain aspects of Marseille’s or the Mediterranean’s history. These exhibitions, which generally last 3 to 6 months, highlight little-known collections, present the results of recent archaeological digs, or explore cross-disciplinary themes linked to the urban, maritime or social history of Marseille.

The spaces dedicated to temporary exhibitions feature modern, immersive scenography, adapted to each theme presented. These exhibitions are often accompanied by loans of works from other French or European museums, giving visitors the opportunity to discover exceptional pieces that are usually kept elsewhere. Partnerships are regularly established with universities, archaeological research centres and other museums to enhance the scientific content of these presentations.

As mentioned above, admission to temporary exhibitions may be subject to a charge, but is free on the first Sunday of the month and on the opening day. These exhibitions are usually accompanied by a programme of events, including themed guided tours, workshops on the theme being presented, documentary film screenings and meetings with the exhibition curators. To find out what’s on at the time of your visit, visit the museum’s official website or contact the visitor services department directly.

10. Practical tips for your visit

To make the most of your visit to the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille, here are a few practical tips to help you organise your visit. First of all, allow plenty of time: allow at least 2 hours to explore the permanent collections and the Jardin des Vestiges without rushing. If you’re interested in a temporary exhibition or are taking part in a guided tour, allow 3 hours or even a full half-day.

The museum is fully accessible to people with reduced mobility. Lifts provide access to all levels, and the exhibition areas are designed to facilitate wheelchair access. If you’re coming with children, free game books are available at reception to make the visit more fun and interactive for young visitors. The museum also has a free left-luggage facility for bulky personal items.

To round off your cultural day in Marseille, don’t hesitate to combine a visit to the museum with one to other historic sites in the city centre. The Quartier du Panier, Marseille’s oldest district, is just a 10-minute walk away. You can also easily reach the nearby Cathédrale de la Major, the Centre de la Vieille Charité and the MuCEM. Numerous restaurants and cafés line the Old Port and the Centre Bourse, giving you the chance to take a gourmet break between two cultural visits. Let the Navaway itinerary be your guide as you explore the city, taking in all the must-see sights.

Finally, if you plan to visit several of Marseille’s museums during your stay, find out more about the Pass Musées or City Pass Marseille, which offer group access to many of the city’s cultural sites at special rates. These packages are particularly interesting if you’re staying several days in Marseille and want to explore the city’s cultural heritage in depth.

In conclusion, the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille is much more than just a tourist stopover: it’s a real gateway to understanding France’s oldest city. By browsing through its exceptional collections of ancient shipwrecks, wandering through the Jardin des Vestiges amidst the Greek ramparts, and discovering the 26 centuries of urban development retraced in the exhibition halls, you’ll get a real feel for the very essence of Marseille’s identity. Free access to the permanent collections reflects the city’s desire to share this exceptional heritage with as many people as possible. Whether you’re an archaeology enthusiast, a lover of Mediterranean history or simply curious, the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille has some fascinating discoveries in store for you, which will enrich your view of the Cité Phocéenne. Don’t wait any longer to immerse yourself in Marseille’s thousand-year-old history, and let the Navaway audio tour guide you through the narrow streets of the city, extending your journey through time to the heart of France’s oldest city.

FAQ

Is the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille free?

Yes, access to the permanent collections of the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille is completely free all year round for all visitors. Only certain temporary exhibitions may be subject to a charge, but they remain free on the first Sunday of each month and on the day of the opening. This free admission policy is part of the City of Marseille’s commitment to making its exceptional cultural heritage accessible to all.

How long will it take to visit the museum?

For a complete tour of the permanent collections and the Jardin des Vestiges, allow around 2 to 3 hours. If you would also like to discover a temporary exhibition or take part in a guided tour, it is best to devote half a day to exploring the museum. Those with a passion for archaeology and history will easily be able to spend more time here, as the collections are so rich and varied.

Can the Jardin des Vestiges be visited separately?

The Jardin des Vestiges is an integral part of the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille. Access is via the museum, and the visit is included in the discovery tour. Admission is free, and you can visit the archaeological site of the Ancient Port freely during the museum’s opening hours, Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 6pm. This exceptional site, listed as a Historic Monument, is well worth a visit in its own right.

Is the museum accessible to people with reduced mobility?

Yes, the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille is fully accessible to people with reduced mobility. Lifts provide access to all levels of the museum, and the exhibition areas are designed to facilitate wheelchair access. The Jardin des Vestiges also has facilities to enable visitors with disabilities to make the most of their visit. The museum has also been awarded the Tourisme & Handicap label.

Are there any guided tours available?

Yes, the museum regularly offers guided tours of its permanent collections, usually at weekends. There is a charge for these tours, which last around 1? hours (€3 for adults, €1.50 concessions for 12-18 year-olds, free for under-12s). Theme-based tours can also be organised for groups by prior arrangement. Visit the museum’s official website or contact the visitor services department to find out about the programme and book your guided tour.

Where can I park to visit the museum?

The Centre Bourse underground car park, located right next to the museum with an entrance on rue Henri Barbusse, is the most convenient option. Other public car parks are available in the vicinity of the Vieux-Port, including the Vieux-Port Hôtel de Ville car park. Surface parking in the city centre is regulated and chargeable, with different tariff zones. To avoid parking constraints, you should use public transport if possible, as the museum has excellent metro, tram and bus links.

What are the highlights not to be missed?

Among the museum’s treasures, don’t miss the Roman wreck of the Bourse, the largest ancient ship on display in France; the Greek wrecks in the Place Jules-Verne, bearing witness to the early days of Massalia; the impressive Greek ramparts from the 3rd century BC, visible in the Jardin des Vestiges; the spectacular models illustrating the city’s urban development; and the rich collection of ceramics, amphorae and everyday objects that give an insight into life in Marseille through the ages.

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