See

Musée National du Costume

Costume Museum

Housed in the former French governor's palace, this architectural gem with its large outer staircase is one of the main attractions in town. Its excellent collection of traditional costumes, masks, ornaments and ethnographic photographs provides a fascinating insight in the culture and history of Ivory Coast during and outside colonial times. The 4000-m² museum premises holds various publications, models of traditional houses and life-size dancing scenes. If your budget allows, consider hiring a guide for extra information.

Hours: Tue - Sun 9:00 - 17:00
Price: CFA 1000

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Listing from Wikivoyage: Grand-Bassam, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Updated 28 Sept 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

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See
Mairie de Grand-Bassam
Town Hall
A restored French colonial building.
See
Palais de Justice
Law Courts
Constructed in 1910, it was used as a court until 1954. This building has not been as lucky as the other French colonial structures, and has reportedly decayed beyond repair.
See
Maison des Artistes
Unlike some other buildings, the name of this colourful building describes what it's used for. In this "house of the artists" you can watch local sculptors and other artists working and buy their creations.
Do
Swim at Grand-Bassam Beach
The seaside of Ancien Bassam is extremely popular among Ivorians. On the weekends, the place is packed, however, during the weekdays, you may have it all to yourself. Beware of strong currents; there are no lifeguards. Also beware of trash; the beach is quite filthy, sadly.