The collection of musical instruments is considered the second most important in France, surpassed only by the Musée de la Musique in Paris.
The palace features a reconstructed 18th-century apothecary shop, complete with original ceramic drug jars and wooden cabinets.
The interior ceilings contain elaborate trompe-l'œil frescoes that manipulate perspective to expand the perceived volume of the rooms.
It served as the primary residence of the Lascaris-Vintimille family until the French Revolution, after which it suffered decades of neglect and subdivision.
The museum holds a rare collection of harpsichords, including instruments dating back to the late 16th century.
The Palais Lascaris is a 17th-century aristocratic residence located in the heart of Old Nice, representing the zenith of Genoese Baroque style. Built for the Lascaris-Vintimille family, the palace features a monumental staircase, ornate stucco work, and a collection of period furniture. It houses a significant collection of nearly 500 historical musical instruments, donated by Antoine Gautier. Visitors can explore grand state rooms, including a bedroom decorated with 18th-century Flemish tapestries and rare ceiling frescoes. The site functions as a municipal museum dedicated to the preservation of local decorative arts and baroque heritage. Its architectural design incorporates typical features of Nice's old town, including a narrow frontage that opens into a grand interior courtyard.
The monumental stone staircase in the central courtyard, which captures the symmetry and light of the baroque architecture.
Visit the upper floors first, as the most impressive decorative ceilings and the musical instrument collection are located there.
Look for the narrow 'traboule'-style entry passages common to Old Nice architecture when locating the entrance on Rue Droite.
Bring a pair of lightweight binoculars if you wish to study the finer details of the ceiling frescoes from the ground.
Do not attempt to access the museum via vehicle, as Rue Droite is located within a restricted-traffic pedestrian zone.
Closed on Tuesdays.
Photography is permitted without flash; large bags and backpacks must be left in lockers provided at the entrance.
