Cannes Travel Guide

Museums & Galleries

Musee d'Art et d'Histoire de Provence: is located in the Hotel de Clapiers-Cabris, which was built in 1771. The museum’s collection includes numerous archaeological finds and historic pieces, such as ornamental brasses, ceramics, four-poster beds, kitchenware, marquetry, paintings and urns. The Hotel is set amid lovely gardens.
2 rue Mirabeau, Grasse. Open: 10:00 to 19:00, Monday to Saturday.

Musee de la Castre: is housed in the Castre Tower, originally part of the Cannes Castle, which was built by monks to protect the bay and the settlement’s fort in the 11th century. A number of archaeological and ethnological items from around the world are on display, with the majority coming from the Mediterranean area.

Musee de la Mer: Fort Royal de Sainte-Marguerite is a registered historical monument, situated on an island in the bay, which is the closest island to the city. This maritime museum occupies most of the fort’s ancient structure. On the ground floor you’ll see state prisons and the cell where the very mysterious ‘man in the iron mask’ was held for 11 years.

Archaeological finds, discovered in Roman and Saracen underwater wrecks are on display. There’s also a space devoted to photo exhibitions, opening onto a large terrace looking out at the sea and the Cannes coastline.
Fort de I'ile Sainte-Marguerite. Open: 10:30 to 17:45, Monday to Saturday.

Musee International de la Parfumerie: is found in nearby Grasse, the birthplace of traditional perfumery. This is a wonderful museum devoted exclusively to perfume and everything related to it. Visitors are taken on a guided tour of the perfume making process, from the creation of essences to the finished product.

Opened in 1989, the museum boasts an outstanding collection of antique and contemporary objects associated with perfume and make-up, including a travel case belonging to Marie Antoinette. Refreshments are available on the terrace.
6 place du Cours Grasse. Open: June to September 10:00 to 19:00, Daily. October to May 10:00 to 17:30, Wednesday to Monday.