Cannes

Introduction

You will find Cannes nestled on the French Riviera within the Alpes-Maritimes department of Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur. This resort city is renowned for its associations with the wealthy and famous, as well as its high-end restaurants and luxury hotels.

The city serves as a prominent hub for international gatherings, hosting major events such as the Cannes Film Festival, Midem, and the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. You can experience an atmosphere defined by these prestigious conferences and its reputation for glamour.

Before you go

Prepare for a vibrant atmosphere if you visit during May, when the city hosts the Cannes Film Festival. During this period, you can witness celebrities and directors on the steps of the Palais des Festivals at the end of La Croisette.

While the high-end restaurants, casinos, and nightlife provide an air of exclusivity, you can find experiences that suit your personal preferences. You might explore the architecture and cobbled streets of Le Suquet or enjoy people-watching from a street-side table overlooking the marina.

Getting there

You can reach Cannes by train, which offers scenic views along the beach as it travels from Nice. While trains run frequently between these two locations, you should purchase your ticket from a station machine or from on-board staff to avoid stiff fines for not having a valid ticket. If you prefer traveling by bus, several options connect Nice and Marseille to Cannes. Regional Zou! buses also connect Nice Parc Phoenix and Cannes Gare SNCF, stopping at the airport and in Antibes.

For those arriving by plane, you will likely land at Nice's Côte d'Azur International Airport or Marseille Provence Airport. While taxi services from these airports are available, they can be expensive. If you choose to drive, be aware that coastal roads can become slow and frustrated during popular times. To avoid heavy traffic on the main roads, you can park in nearby areas like Mougins or Mouans Sartoux and complete your journey by train. If traveling during peak season in August, you should book your transportation in advance as it may sell out. Additionally, be mindful of potential labor strikes when using public transit; check local news websites before purchasing your tickets.

Getting around

Walking is often your fastest way to navigate Cannes, allowing you to discover sights you might otherwise miss. If you prefer motorized transport, an efficient bus system serves as the only public transportation in town, connecting you to the city center and neighboring areas like La Bocca, Le Cannet, and Mandelieu-La Napoule.

You can also choose to travel by taxi or rent a car from local agencies. While parking is available, the city features a complex one-way system that makes walking a more convenient option for many travelers. If you do drive, utilizing off-street parking garages is recommended over searching for street parking; specific lots provide convenient access to the port and old town, while others are located near the Croisette and the station.

Where to stay

You can choose from a variety of accommodations that cater to different styles and preferences throughout the city. For those seeking luxury and grandeur, stay at one of the grand dames on the Croisette, where you can enjoy private beaches, spas, and high-end amenities. If you prefer a unique experience, some hotels offer rooms inspired by different continents or boutique settings featuring art works in every room. Other options include modern apartments with kitchenettes and large working spaces, or residences located near shopping quarters that feature exotic vegetation and terrace views.

• Stay in the exclusive area of La Californie at a modern luxury villa.
• Choose a residence in the Cannes-La-Bocca shopping quarter featuring a central patio and nearby public beach access.
• Relax in the Golden Square on a quiet street between the Croisette and luxury stores.
• Select an apartment with full air conditioning, a private garden, or even private beach access during the warmer months.
• Experience Italian-style accommodation with a large terrace.

Food & drink

Savor the fresh regional produce sourced from local markets to enjoy a meal that highlights the area's flavors. While dining along the riverfront offers people-watching and posing opportunities, you can find more reasonable options in the back streets of Rue de Antibes or in the historic district of Le Suquet. In the beautiful old district of Le Suquet, specifically on rue Meynadier, you can dine outdoors with a stunning view of the town below.

For a romantic atmosphere away from the central crowds, travel to the historic quarter of Le Cannet. You can enjoy alfresco dining at Place Bellvue, a tree-lined square featuring quality restaurants and picturesque French scenes. If you prefer more affordable options, head toward the La Bocca neighborhood where local ingredients are used to create high-quality meals in a simple but lovely setting.

What to see and do

Explore the historic charm of the old town, where you can wander through narrow winding streets filled with souvenir shops and restaurants before taking in the views from the castle ruins. For a culinary experience, visit the Covered Market on rue Meynardiers to see a wide variety of food. If you prefer coastal scenery, stroll along La Croisette, the center of tourist activity featuring luxury hotels and boutiques, or head toward the Suquet quarter for an elevated view over the city. You can also admire the yachts in the port or seek out Murs Peints, where houses are decorated with large portraits of stars and movie themes.

Experience the glamour of the film industry at the Palais des Festivals to see the famous steps or find the handprints of actors nearby. For a more serene escape, visit the Îles de Lérins in the bay; the smaller island, St Honorat, features a monastery where you can buy unique souvenirs, while the larger island, Ste Marguerite, offers shops and shaded coves for swimming. Cultural interests are well served by the Notre-Dame d'Esperance, which houses 19th-century paintings, and the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire de Provence, where you can see traditional costumes and pottery. For those interested in local history or nature, the Tour du Masque offers a look into literary lore, while the Croix des gardes provides trails and vistas.

• Palais des Festivals
• Murs Peints
• Suquet
• Îles de Lérins
• Notre-Dame d'Esperance
• Musée d'Art et d'Histoire de Provence

Festivals & events

You can experience the glamour of the film industry during the Festival de Cannes held in April.

Three days in Cannes

Day one, you can begin your journey in the heart of the French Riviera. You might spend your time exploring the historic charm of Le Suquet or walking along the famous promenade of La Croisette.

Day two, you can venture further into the region to experience the atmosphere of nearby coastal destinations like Nice or Antibes. You can also take in the scenery of the Côte d'Azur.

Day three, you can explore the surrounding areas such as Mouans Sartoux or Mougins while taking in the local culture of the Provence region.