Sitting on the French Riviera is the coastal town of Antibes. It’s a beautiful seaside resort city located between the equally beautiful cities of Cannes and Nice. Antibes is best known for its old and historic buildings planted facing the backdrop of the sea and this is why many tourists visit the lovely town. One of these historic buildings is the Musee D’Archeologie, Antibesor simply, the Archaeological Museum of Antibes. Though there are also other interesting museums to see in Antibes, the Archaeological Museum is unique because it houses all excavated objects and ancient discoveries significant to the history of Antibes. It’s one of the most recommended places for tourists to visit and you should definitely not miss out on the different interesting artifacts from both land and sea. To help pique your interest further, here’s a guide to Musee D’Archeologie, Antibes, France.
Things to do
Marvel at the historic pieces
As you might have figured, the very highlight of this museum is the ancient artifacts of Antibes. These mostly cover Greek and Roman pieces from back when Antibes was known as Antipolis. There are also pieces from the Phoenician and Etruscan civilizations, all who have tried their luck in entering this part of France. Even the bastion where it’s located, the Bastion Saint-André, is a piece of history itself. It was built in 1698 as a fortress but discoveries of artifacts dating as early as the 16th century. Some of the pieces you will discover include ceramics, vases, coins, inscriptions, pieces from shipwrecks and many other fascinating items that will take you back into time.
Take in the gorgeous surrounding
Aside from the main attraction that is the museum itself, people come to visit Musee D'Archeologie for its beautiful views. The bastion where it is housed sits on the very edge of the peninsula and it gives you great views of the Mediterranean Sea ahead. After your tour inside the museum, you can take photos of the splendid views of the ocean and admire its natural beauty. Antibes is known to be a picturesque old town, so it’s no surprise if these views take your breath away.
What to eat
The Musee D'Archeologie is located within a busy part of Antibes so it won’t be difficult for you to find something to eat after your tour of the museum. Here are some of the nearest eating places you can check out.
Le Golden Beef
Get your meat fix at Le Golden Beef, which is just across the street from Musee D’Archeologie. They serve delicious steak choices you’ll surely be craving for like ribeye and sirloin as well as other amazing dishes and desserts too. Don’t forget to pair these with a good glass of wine from their list. The staff is great and attentive so you’re guaranteed to some good service at Le Golden Beef. Best to book ahead to avoid the hassle of the big crowds.
Le Phenicia
For a different type of cuisine, we’d recommend Le Phenicia, a Lebanese and Middle Eastern restaurant. A little off the street from the Musee D'Archeologie, Le Phenicia is a favorite among locals. They serve excellent Lebanese food and Middle Eastern dishes in a warm atmosphere that people simply love. They also have vegetarian options and a takeaway menu. Plus the view is fantastic, you get to eat across the park which faces the sea.
Restaurant Albert 1er
If you’re not into meat that much, head on a little further down the street from Musee D’Archeologie and spot Restaurant Albert 1er - Poissonnerie “Chez Mô” at the corner of the road. This restaurant specializes in seafood selections with only the freshest catch straight from the Mediterranean Sea just across. After all, this side of Antibes is already considered beachside, so the best way to enjoy it is having a relaxed seafood meal by the sea.
Travelers tips
Accessibility
The Musee D’Archeologie is proud to offer museum accessibility for all. They are open to assisting those who need additional mobility and offer special assistance to guests who are visually impaired, deaf and mentally disabled. Additionally, guide dogs are also welcome. People under this special category are granted free admission to the museum. For regular guests, individual tickets are priced at 3 EUR (3 USD) while students, senior citizens, and professors are given special discounts at 1.5 EUR (2 USD).
Self-guided tours
Should you wish to take a self-guided tour with your group, you may inquire with the museum beforehand to know the price and process. Tours are given in English and French.
Museum etiquettes
Guests must practice proper museum etiquette while inside the premises. Minimizing your noise, putting your phone on silent and not using it too much, and not taking excessive photos are just some of the proper etiquette you should observe when inside a museum.
How to get there
Antibes is a relatively small and closely-knit town, so there isn’t much mass transportation to go around. Buses are available but they’re usually taken if you’re heading to another town.
Walk
Traveling within Antibes is best done on foot. Walking would be the most advisable way to go around the seaside resort town.
Ride a bike
Another alternative would be the use of bikes. It’s the French Riviera, after all. How else would you get around?
Online maps
The Musee D’Archeologie is near the coast in the southwestern part of town. You can use the aid of apps like Google Maps to get to the museum on foot or by bike.
Closest airport
It’s also important to note that if you’re coming into Antibes for the first time, the closest airport is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, and is only 20 minutes away by car.
How to book tickets
Many attractions offer online ticket booking for their guests. However, Musee D’Archeologie likes to keep it traditional. Tickets are available to be purchased on-site only. The individual regular ticket costs 3 EUR (3.5 USD) while students, senior citizens, and educators can get a discounted rate at 1.5 EUR (2 USD). For disabled guests, admission to the museum is free plus you will be given special assistance.
Musee D'Archeologie information
Musee D'Archeologie
Address: Bastion Saint-André, 06600 Antibes, France
Official website: Musee D'Archeologie
Department of tourism: France
Opening hours: Nov - Jan: Tue - Sat: 10am - 1pm, 2pm - 5pm; Feb - Oct: Tue - Sat: 10am - 12:30pm, 2pm - 6pm (closed on Mon)
Price: From 3 USD
History
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