Discover Cannes | A Visitor's Introduction to Cannes

Why is Cannes Worth a Visit?

Cannes is worth visiting for its blend of glamour, history, and seaside beauty. This stunning Mediterranean city is famous for its annual film festival, but it offers so much more than celebrity spotting. With its golden sandy beaches, historic old town, and world-class shopping, Cannes is a place where visitors can indulge in luxury while soaking up the relaxed Riviera vibe. The lively La Croisette promenade, with its upscale hotels and boutiques, showcases the high-end side of the city, while the charming streets of Le Suquet reflect the traditional French charm. Cannes also serves as a great base for exploring other Côte d’Azur destinations, such as Nice, Monaco, and the Lérins Islands.

Cannes Highlights: Things to See and Do in Cannes

1. La Croisette

La Croisette is Cannes’ most famous boulevard, stretching along the Mediterranean coast and offering stunning views of the sea. Lined with palm trees, luxury hotels like the InterContinental Carlton Cannes, high-end boutiques, and restaurants, this promenade embodies the glamour of the French Riviera. A stroll along La Croisette is a must, whether you're window shopping at designer stores like Chanel and Dior or relaxing at one of the many beach clubs. For those who enjoy sunbathing, the public beaches along La Croisette provide the perfect spot to soak up the Mediterranean sun.

2. Palais des Festivals et des Congrès

The Palais des Festivals is the heart of the Cannes Film Festival, where the world’s most famous actors, directors, and filmmakers gather every May. You can’t miss the Allée des Étoiles, Cannes’ version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, located outside the Palais. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building to learn about its history and the iconic red carpet. Even outside the festival, the Palais is a hub of activity, hosting various international conferences, festivals, and exhibitions throughout the year.

3. Le Suquet (Old Town)

Perched on a hill overlooking Cannes, Le Suquet is the city’s historic heart. The cobbled streets and colourful houses offer a glimpse into Cannes’ past, long before it became a glamorous destination. Explore the winding streets filled with charming shops and quaint restaurants, and make your way to the top for panoramic views over the city and the Bay of Cannes. At the summit, you'll find the Église Notre-Dame d'Espérance, a beautiful medieval church, and the Musée de la Castre, housed in an ancient castle, which features an impressive collection of art and artefacts from around the world.

4. Îles de Lérins

Just a short boat ride from Cannes, the Lérins Islands are a peaceful escape from the bustling city. The two main islands, Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat, offer visitors unspoiled nature, crystal-clear waters, and fascinating history. Île Sainte-Marguerite is famous for its Fort Royal, where the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned. You can explore the fort and its museum, as well as enjoy scenic walks through the island’s pine forests and eucalyptus trees. Île Saint-Honorat, home to a working monastery, offers a tranquil atmosphere where you can visit the abbey, taste the monks’ wine, and explore the island’s ancient chapels and fortifications.

5. Marché Forville

For a taste of local life, visit Marché Forville, Cannes’ bustling indoor market. Located at the foot of Le Suquet, this vibrant market is the perfect place to sample fresh produce, seafood, cheeses, and pastries from the Provence region. The market is especially lively in the mornings, and it's a great place to pick up ingredients for a picnic or simply enjoy the sights and smells of traditional French cuisine. On Mondays, the market turns into a flea market, offering antiques, vintage goods, and unique finds.

6. Musée de la Castre

Located in the historic Le Suquet district, the Musée de la Castre is housed in a medieval castle overlooking Cannes. The museum’s diverse collection includes artefacts from ancient Mediterranean civilizations, as well as art and objects from Africa, Asia, and Oceania. The museum is also home to a collection of 19th-century landscape paintings and musical instruments from around the world. After exploring the exhibits, be sure to climb the castle’s tower for breathtaking views of Cannes, the harbour, and the Lérins Islands.

7. Port de Cannes

The Port de Cannes is a bustling marina where luxury yachts and fishing boats bob in the azure waters. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, admiring the impressive yachts and watching the comings and goings of the harbour. The port is also the departure point for ferries to the Lérins Islands and nearby coastal towns. Along the waterfront, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy fresh seafood with a view of the sea. For a glimpse of Cannes’ luxurious lifestyle, visit during the annual Cannes Yachting Festival, held in September.

8. Plage de la Bocca

While La Croisette’s beaches are well-known, for a more laid-back beach experience, head to Plage de la Bocca, located west of the town centre. This long, sandy beach is less crowded and offers a more relaxed atmosphere, making it popular with locals. Plage de la Bocca is perfect for a peaceful day by the sea, with its calm waters and stunning views of the Esterel mountains in the distance. The beach is family-friendly and has plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and beach games.

9. La Malmaison Art Centre

The Centre d'Art La Malmaison, located on La Croisette, is a small but prestigious art gallery housed in a former 19th-century hotel. The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary and modern art, featuring works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Matisse, and Miró. La Malmaison offers a cultural escape from the glamour of Cannes and is a must-visit for art lovers. The exhibitions change frequently, so there’s always something new to discover.

10. Cannes Shopping: Rue d'Antibes and Luxury Boutiques

Cannes is a paradise for shoppers, offering everything from designer boutiques to charming local stores. Rue d'Antibes, one of Cannes’ main shopping streets, is lined with a mix of high-end brands, French fashion labels, and chic boutiques. For those in search of luxury, La Croisette is home to flagship stores of famous brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Hermès. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, unique gifts, or artisanal products, Cannes offers a stylish shopping experience for all tastes.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There:

Cannes is easily accessible by air, train, and car. The nearest airport is Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, located about 30 minutes from Cannes by car or train. Regular shuttle buses and private transfers are available from the airport to Cannes. Cannes Train Station offers excellent connections to major cities along the French Riviera, including Nice, Monaco, and Marseille, with regular TER and TGV services. If you’re driving, Cannes is easily reached via the A8 motorway from Nice or Marseille.

Getting Around:

Cannes is a walkable city, with most attractions located within close proximity to each other. The town’s streets are pedestrian-friendly, and walking is the best way to explore the old town, La Croisette, and the port. Cannes also has an efficient public transport system, including buses operated by Palm Bus, which connect the town with nearby destinations like Antibes and Grasse. Taxis and bike rentals are also widely available, and boat trips to the Lérins Islands depart regularly from the port.

Parking:

Parking in Cannes can be challenging, especially during the busy summer months and major events like the Film Festival. However, there are several public car parks around the city, including Parking La Croisette, Parking Lamy, and Parking Forville. Many hotels offer parking facilities, but it’s recommended to check in advance and be prepared for high demand during peak times. Park-and-ride services are also available just outside the city centre.

Dining:

Cannes is renowned for its excellent dining scene, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual bistros. La Palme d'Or, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant at the Hôtel Martinez, is famous for its creative Mediterranean cuisine. For a more casual yet elegant meal, try Le Bistrot Gourmand, known for its local seafood dishes. Astoux et Brun is a favourite among locals for fresh oysters and seafood platters. Don’t miss the chance to dine al fresco at one of the beachside restaurants along La Croisette, where you can enjoy views of the sea while savouring Provençal cuisine.

Shopping:

Cannes is a shopper’s paradise, whether you're looking for high-end fashion or unique souvenirs. Rue d'Antibes is the main shopping street, home to a mix of French and international brands. Luxury shopping can be found along La Croisette, where designer boutiques like Chanel, Dior, and Gucci are located. For a more local shopping experience, head to Marché Forville, where you can pick up fresh produce, Provençal delicacies, and handmade crafts. Cannes also has several art galleries and antique shops for those looking to take home a piece of the Côte d’Azur.

When to Visit:

The best time to visit Cannes is between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach days and outdoor activities. May is especially lively, thanks to the Cannes Film Festival, which draws celebrities, filmmakers, and tourists from around the world. While summer is the peak tourist season, spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Winter in Cannes is mild, making it a great destination for a quiet escape, although some restaurants and attractions may have shorter hours.

Local Events:

Cannes is famous for its year-round events, with the Cannes Film Festival in May being the most prestigious. Even if you’re not attending the screenings, the festival creates a vibrant atmosphere throughout the city. In September, the Cannes Yachting Festival draws yachting enthusiasts from all over the world, with exhibitions and luxury boat displays at the port. The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, held in June, celebrates innovation and creativity in advertising and media. Throughout the year, the city also hosts concerts, exhibitions, and cultural festivals that showcase the best of the French Riviera.

Exploring Beyond Cannes:

Cannes’ location on the French Riviera makes it an ideal base for exploring the region. Just a short train or bus ride away, you can visit glamorous Nice, with its beautiful Promenade des Anglais and vibrant old town. For a taste of luxury, head to Monaco, home to the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino and stunning coastal views. The nearby town of Antibes offers charming old streets and the famous Picasso Museum, while the hilltop village of Grasse is known as the perfume capital of the world, with perfume factories and museums to explore.