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France/Things to Do in Marseille, solo trip

Old Charity Center (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is Old Charity Center?

86%Solo-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 86% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can explore free galleries at own pace, browse the poetry library, attend free films, and enjoy quiet reflection; the site is safe and easy to navigate alone.

Google
Reviews4.5/ 5
(from 4,901 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free core experience: Most permanent collections and poetry readings are free, letting you explore without cost.
  • Quiet reflection spot: The cloister’s calm atmosphere suits solo reading and journaling.

Challenges:

  • Limited elevator access: The elevator can be under repair; be prepared to climb stairs with bags.
  • French-only signage: Labels and guest information are often only in French; bring a translation app.
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🏖️ Explore Old Charity Center with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Old Charity Center. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Old Charity Center?

  • A 17th-century Baroque almshouse established to shelter Marseille’s indigent and displaced
  • An architectural ensemble centered on a monumental domed chapel flanked by cloistered galleries around a serene courtyard
  • A public cultural hub integrating archaeology and world‐art museums with a poetry institute and independent cinema

What is so special about Old Charity Center for solo trip?

  1. Explore free archaeology and world art galleries at your own pace
  2. Browse a specialized poetry library open midweek
  3. Watch indie and short films at a monthly free screening
  4. Relax with coffee in a 17th-century baroque courtyard
  5. Plan visits on free-entry days for temporary shows

Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours

Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Solo travelers can explore free galleries, watch a short film, and relax at the café at an unhurried pace.

(View Old Charity Center on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in Old Charity Center

Permanent Archaeology and Art Collections:

Wander the free archaeology and African-Oceanian-Amerindian art galleries.

Tip: Move room to room slowly and read labels to appreciate each piece.

Poetry Library at cipM:

Browse rare poetry volumes in a quiet library open Wed–Sat.

Tip: Check opening days before you visit to avoid disappointment.

Le Miroir Cinema:

Catch indie and short films inside the cloister.

Tip: Join the free first-Saturday screening or reserve a €5–€6 ticket for other showings online.

Temporary Exhibitions:

See rotating art and archeological displays in the galleries.

Tip: Visit on opening day or the first Sunday of the month for free entry.

Café Ollā:

Enjoy coffee or a light snack in the central courtyard.

Tip: Arrive early to grab an outdoor table and enjoy a quiet reading break.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Old Charity Center

  1. Buy exhibition tickets online: Reserve your spot for paid shows to skip the desk line.
  2. Time your visit: Arrive at opening (10 AM) to avoid small crowds in galleries and the café.
🏖️ Tour Old Charity Center like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Old Charity Center. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Old Charity Center

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Arthur Chionh

Arthur Chionh

Dec 2025

Nice historical site with a chapel(?) in the middle of a grand courtyard, with several levels of exhibitions. Entry to the entire site was free when I visited on 07Dec2025, you just needed to collect a ticket and show it to the staff at the exhibition entrances. Good to walk around and have a look :)

Josh

Josh

Nov 2025

This former charitable center is now three floors of global art exhibits from the museum of Marseilles and a central former chapel with a contemporary art installation, at least when I visited. There is also an outdoor cafe in one corner. The architecture is the star attraction. Even if not seeing the art, it's a pleasant shaded walk. Tickets were available free at the ticket office, and not requi...

Tiago Martins

Tiago Martins

Oct 2025

It’s a marvellous piece of architecture! In a very nice area where you feel the native vibe. Be aware that you can pass the security for free but to actually visit everything inside you have to pay the ticket. Even without paying it is worth to pass by.

Eileen Weed

Eileen Weed

Oct 2025

The Old Charity Museum in Marseille has a lot to offer! The displays of African, South American and Mediterranean art were excellent! There were also convenient lockers to store our bags / backpacks. It is definitely worth it to visit here while you are in Marseille.

Jason Cobb

Jason Cobb

Aug 2025

The buildings are an amazing step back into time. The art exhibit in the dome was a bit eccentric for my taste but it was done well. The Egyptian exhibit upstairs was fascinating and the tattoo exhibit down stairs was interesting but not really for me. The staff was a bit less than friendly but maybe because it was Sunday they were in a bit of a mood.

When is the best time to visit Old Charity Center (Marseille, France)?

The domed courtyard stays cool in summer and heated in winter. Check the online calendar for seasonal film and poetry events.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Marseille on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Permanent galleriesEUR 0
Temporary exhibition ticketEUR 10
Cinema ticketEUR 6
Coffee at Café OllāEUR 4
Total EstimatedEUR 20

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Old Charity Center

Address: 2 Rue de la Charité, 13002 Marseille, France

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About Old Charity Center

Opening Hours

Monday:Closed
Tuesday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+33 4 91 14 58 46

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