Musée Regards de Provence - Traditional house "une Toulousaine"
1 / 10

Musée Regards de Provence

4.3
·1k reviews·Marseille, France

Art museum in a historic quarantine station, showcasing Provençal culture with stunning Old Port views from its terrace.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Musée Regards de Provence - Traditional house "une Toulousaine"

Musée Regards de Provence

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Art museum in a historic quarantine station, showcasing Provençal culture with stunning Old Port views from its terrace.

4.3
(1k reviews)

"The stunning panoramic views of the port from the terrace are worth the visit alone."

Vertical photo
TIP

☕ Terrace Views & Bites

Enjoy the harbor views with a coffee or snack at the museum's tea room. :coffee:

⏳ Quick Visit Possible

Can be explored in about 30 minutes if you're short on time. :stopwatch:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Harbor Terrace

Panoramic Harbor Terrace

Terrace

Breathtaking views of the Old Port and MuCEM, perfect for a coffee or snack.

Provence & Mediterranean Art

Provence & Mediterranean Art

Exhibition Halls

Discover art celebrating the region's rich history and culture, both classic and modern.

Historic Maritime Health Station

Historic Maritime Health Station

Building Architecture

Explore the unique adaptive reuse of a former quarantine station, blending history with modern design.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Views

The terrace offers stunning harbor views, especially beautiful during golden hour. Arrive early or late to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photos. Consider visiting on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.

Marseille CityPass Value

If you plan to visit multiple attractions, the Marseille CityPass might offer good value, as it includes admission to Regards de Provence. Check current inclusions before purchasing.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Tips on things to do in Marseille?

☕ Terrace Views & Bites

Enjoy the harbor views with a coffee or snack at the museum's tea room. :coffee:

⏳ Quick Visit Possible

Can be explored in about 30 minutes if you're short on time. :stopwatch:

🎟️ CityPass Inclusion

Check if your Marseille CityPass covers admission for potential savings. :ticket:

🏛️ Historic Building

Appreciate the unique architecture of the former quarantine station. :building_construction:

Tips

from all over the internet

☕ Terrace Views & Bites

Enjoy the harbor views with a coffee or snack at the museum's tea room. :coffee:

⏳ Quick Visit Possible

Can be explored in about 30 minutes if you're short on time. :stopwatch:

🎟️ CityPass Inclusion

Check if your Marseille CityPass covers admission for potential savings. :ticket:

🏛️ Historic Building

Appreciate the unique architecture of the former quarantine station. :building_construction:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Musée Regards de Provence for its stunning terrace views of the Old Port and its thoughtful curation of art celebrating Provence and the Mediterranean. The unique architecture of the former quarantine station is also a highlight. However, some find the admission price a bit high for the museum's size, and a few felt the exhibits could be more engaging.

"It's a beautifully designed museum with great art, focusing on the history and culture of Provence and the Mediterranean. The stunning panoramic views of the port from the terrace are worth the visit alone, making it a perfect spot to enjoy art."

Víctor Segura

"Opened in 2013 to mark Marseille-Provence’s designation as European Capital of Culture, the museum showcases artworks and cultural heritage from the Provence region and the wider Mediterranean world. The museum is housed in the former Maritime Health Station, built in 1948, which once served as a quarantine facility for arrivals by sea. It now stands as a notable example of adaptive reuse architecture, where traces of its original structure are thoughtfully integrated into a minimalist, contemporary setting.
※ Included in the Marseille CityPass"

Seokjin Ham

"Small musuem with some art about history of marseilles through the ages. Can finish in 30 minutes or so. Not really worth it but I visited because of the Marseilles card."

Anthony Chan

What People Like

Spectacular harbor views
Unique historic building
Regional art focus

What People Dislike

Perceived high ticket price
Small exhibition size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is conveniently located in the Old Port of Marseille. You can easily reach it by public transport, including buses and the metro (closest station is Vieux Port). Walking from the port area is also a pleasant option. Reddit

Yes, it's very close to the MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations) and other key sites in the Old Port, making it easy to combine visits. Reddit

Marseille has a good public transport network. Buses and the metro are efficient for getting around the city center. Walking is also highly recommended for exploring the Old Port area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary, but reviews suggest around 8.50€. It's always best to check the official website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Yes, the museum is often included in the Marseille CityPass, which can be a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple attractions. Reddit

Opening hours can change seasonally. It's recommended to check the museum's official website for the most up-to-date information on daily opening times and any potential closures. Reddit

While not always explicitly mentioned, purchasing tickets online in advance is often a good strategy for popular attractions to save time. Check the museum's website for online booking options. Reddit

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children. The Marseille CityPass also offers a bundled discount. Inquire at the ticket counter or check the website for details. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The museum features art related to the history and culture of Provence and the Mediterranean region, encompassing both classic and modern works. Reddit

Many visitors find they can explore the museum in about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on their interest level in the exhibits. Reddit

The museum is housed in the former Maritime Health Station, a historic quarantine facility, which has been beautifully adapted into a contemporary exhibition space. Reddit

Absolutely! The terrace offers stunning panoramic views of the Old Port and MuCEM, making it a prime spot for photography. Reddit

Some visitors note that the museum can be relatively uncrowded, even on weekends, which can contribute to a more relaxed visit. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the museum has a tea room on its terrace where you can enjoy a snack or a more formal lunch with scenic harbor views. Reddit

The tea room offers light snacks, coffee, and potentially lunch options, providing a pleasant break with a view. Reddit

The museum is located in the bustling Old Port area, which is filled with numerous restaurants, cafes, and brasseries offering a wide variety of cuisines. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The terrace is the standout location for photography, offering sweeping views of the Marseille Old Port and the iconic MuCEM. Reddit

Photography rules can vary for temporary exhibitions. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in permanent collection areas, but it's best to check signage or ask staff. Reddit

Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for capturing the harbor views. Morning light can also be lovely and less crowded. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While not a large children's museum, Regards de Provence can be a pleasant stop for families, especially if combined with a visit to the nearby MuCEM. The terrace offers a great spot for kids to stretch their legs and enjoy the view of the boats in the Old Port. The art exhibits might appeal to older children interested in regional culture and history. Consider it a shorter, more relaxed cultural stop within a day of exploring Marseille. Reddit

Tip: Pack some snacks and drinks for the kids, as the museum's tea room might be a bit formal or pricey for younger appetites. Focus on the visual aspects of the art and the exciting harbor views to keep them engaged. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Musée Regards de Provence might be a point of consideration. While some find the 8.50€ admission a bit steep for the size of the museum, it can become a great value if you have the Marseille CityPass. Reddit The real 'bang for your buck' often comes from the incredible terrace views, which can be enjoyed with a relatively inexpensive coffee or snack, offering a memorable experience without a full ticket purchase if you're extremely tight on funds (though this is not the intended way to experience the museum). Reddit

Tip: Prioritize visiting if you already have the CityPass. Otherwise, weigh the cost against other Marseille attractions. The terrace view is a significant draw, so if you're looking for a scenic spot without a huge expense, it's worth considering, but be aware that the primary experience is the art inside. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Art Lovers

This museum offers a charming and intimate experience perfect for couples. The focus on Provençal art provides a romantic backdrop, and the beautiful terrace is an ideal spot for a leisurely coffee or a glass of wine while overlooking the picturesque Old Port. It’s a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, allowing for quiet conversation and shared appreciation of art and scenery. Reddit

Tip: Plan your visit for late afternoon to catch the sunset over the harbor. The combination of art, history, and stunning views makes for a memorable and romantic outing in Marseille. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art and Culture of Provence

Musée Regards de Provence is dedicated to showcasing the artistic and cultural heritage of the Provence region and the broader Mediterranean. Its permanent collection often features works that capture the unique light, landscapes, and lifestyle of southern France. Temporary exhibitions delve into specific themes or artists, offering a dynamic exploration of regional identity through art. Visitors can expect a thoughtful curation that connects contemporary artistic expression with historical roots. Reddit

Beyond paintings and sculptures, the museum often incorporates elements of design, photography, and historical artifacts to provide a holistic view of Provençal culture. This approach ensures that the exhibits are not only visually engaging but also intellectually stimulating, offering insights into the historical narratives and cultural exchanges that have shaped the region. The museum's commitment to regional art makes it a valuable stop for understanding the soul of Provence. Reddit

A Building with a Past: The Maritime Health Station

The museum's location is as significant as its art. It's housed within the former Maritime Health Station, a building originally constructed in 1948 to serve as a quarantine facility for sea arrivals. This historical context adds a unique layer to the visitor experience, as the architecture itself tells a story of Marseille's maritime past and its role as a gateway to France. The adaptive reuse of this structure is a testament to thoughtful urban regeneration. Reddit

Architects have masterfully integrated modern design elements while preserving and highlighting traces of the building's original function. This creates a fascinating dialogue between old and new, where the minimalist contemporary spaces are juxtaposed with the historical character of the station. Exploring the museum means not only appreciating art but also experiencing a piece of Marseille's history reimagined for the 21st century. Reddit

The Allure of the Terrace View

One of the most frequently praised aspects of Musée Regards de Provence is its stunning terrace. Offering panoramic views of the bustling Marseille Old Port, the iconic MuCEM, and the Mediterranean Sea, it's a visual feast. This scenic vantage point transforms a museum visit into a multi-sensory experience, allowing visitors to connect the art within to the vibrant city outside. Reddit

The terrace is more than just a viewpoint; it's an integral part of the museum's offering. The on-site tea room allows visitors to linger, enjoy a coffee or a light meal, and soak in the breathtaking scenery. Many reviewers highlight this as a major draw, suggesting that the views alone are worth the admission price, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light paints the port in spectacular hues. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2