This massive museum, built on reclaimed land right by the sea, features a mix of permanent and temporary exhibits that all share common themes around regional culture and history. Permanent highlights include an exhibition on past and present culinary traditions and the elements that "make" the Mediterranean a cultural concept. Because of its popularity and central location, the museum features on plenty of city tours, including Segway and bicycle tours, walking tours, and even self-guided audio tours.
The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations is a must-visit for those interested in history and cultural anthropology.
Large bags and suitcases are not allowed at the museum.
All three museum entryways are wheelchair-accessible, but wheelchair users may need assistance in some sections. Staff are on hand to help.
The museum looks out over the sea near the Old Port (Vieux Port) of Marseille on the promenade Robert Laffont. It's easy to access by public transportation, and the Vieux-Port and Joliette metro stations are a 10-minute away. Bus numbers 49, 62, and 82 also stop nearby, as does T2 of the tram.
The museum is open every day of the week except for Monday throughout the year (except on May 1 and Dec. 25). Opening hours vary by season, so it's wise to check the website for up-to-date information. Come first thing in the morning or towards closing to avoid peak crowds, but be aware that the ticket desk closes 45 minutes before the museum shuts, and the exhibition halls close 15 minutes before the museum itself.
Across a small bridge from the central part of the Mucem sits Fort Saint-Jean, a historic fort that’s now part of the museum. Louis XIV commissioned it, and while many people come simply for the exhibits, the structure itself is a must-see for architecture fans or photographers. The fort has a particularly intriguing backstory: it was constructed to prevent sedition, with its cannons pointing toward the city rather than away from it.