Visit Cannes: Luxury, beaches and cinema
Cannes, on the Côte d’Azur, is a city synonymous with glamour and luxury. Known for its international film festival, it attracts visitors from all over the world to enjoy its beaches, luxury boutiques and festive atmosphere. From the Croisette to the Lérins Islands, Cannes offers a wide range of activities combining relaxation, culture and gastronomy. It’s a must-see destination for those looking to immerse themselves in Mediterranean elegance while discovering a rich historical heritage.
Cannes must-sees: Between glamour and history
La Croisette: Cannes’ most famous avenue
The Croisette is the very symbol of Cannes glamour. This palm-lined avenue stretches for several kilometers along the Mediterranean Sea, offering breathtaking views of private beaches and luxury hotels. Visitors can stroll past prestigious boutiques, stop off at a terrace café or simply admire the panorama. In summer, the Croisette becomes the center of entertainment, with festivals, exhibitions and social events attracting celebrities and tourists from all over the world.
Le Vieux Port: An emblematic place
The Old Port of Cannes is a must for discovering the city’s maritime soul. With its mix of luxury yachts and traditional fishing boats, this historic port is the ideal starting point for a seaside stroll. Café terraces offer breathtaking views of the moored boats, while restaurants serve up local specialties based on fresh fish. Strollers can also admire the view of Le Suquet, Cannes’ historic district, rising in the background.
Le Suquet: Cannes’ historic district
Perched on a hill, Le Suquet is Cannes’ oldest district. Its cobbled streets and colorful facades immerse visitors in the authentic atmosphere of old Cannes. Climb up to the Notre-Dame d’Espérance church for a panoramic view of the entire bay of Cannes. This district is also the ideal place to immerse yourself in the city’s history, while discovering craft stores and art galleries.
Things to do in Cannes: Sea, shopping and relaxation
Cannes beaches: fine sand and turquoise waters
Cannes is famous for its beaches, which stretch along the Croisette. Visitors can take advantage of the private beaches for luxurious relaxation, or opt for the more accessible public beaches. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and water sports such as paddling, jet-skiing and scuba diving. For those who prefer to relax, the comfortable deckchairs and beach bars offer the perfect setting to unwind while admiring the sunset.
The Lérins Islands: A jewel case of unspoilt nature
Located off the coast of Cannes, the Lérins Islands are a haven of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Sainte-Marguerite, the largest of the islands, is home to a pine forest and secluded coves where you can swim in complete tranquillity. The island of Saint-Honorat, meanwhile, is famous for its monastery, where the monks produce wines and liqueurs. Hiking trails allow you to discover the local flora, while the turquoise waters offer ideal spots for diving and snorkeling.
Cannes and the cinema: In the footsteps of the stars
The Palais des Festivals: The epicenter of glamour
The Palais des Festivals is the beating heart of the Cannes Film Festival. Every May, celebrities from all over the world gather here to climb the famous red carpet steps. This iconic venue also hosts conferences, exhibitions and screenings throughout the year, making Cannes a must-see for cinephiles. Visitors can stroll along the esplanade and immortalize the moment by taking photos in front of the red carpet.
The City of Cinema: An open-air museum
Cannes is a city where cinema is omnipresent. Strolling through the city center, visitors can discover murals dedicated to film icons. These works of art, scattered throughout the city, pay tribute to the stars of the seventh art and recall the indefectible link between Cannes and cinema. What’s more, a number of iconic locations have served as the backdrops for cult films, giving movie buffs the opportunity to follow a veritable filming circuit.
Gastronomy in Cannes: Mediterranean flavors
Local specialities
Cannes’ gastronomy reflects the flavors of the Mediterranean. Highlights include socca, a galette made from chickpeas, and pissaladière, an onion and anchovy tart. Fresh fish caught off the coast also features prominently in local restaurants. Each dish tells a story, that of the culinary traditions of the Côte d’Azur.
Cannes gourmet addresses
If you’re a gourmet, Cannes has plenty of places to sample local produce. The Forville market is the ideal place to discover Cannes’ specialties, from seafood to spices and artisan cheeses. Gourmets can also dine in Michelin-starred restaurants or sample artisanal ice cream while strolling along the Croisette.
Practical tips for visiting Cannes: Transport and accommodation
Getting around Cannes
Cannes has a convenient public transport network for getting around without a car. Buses serve the city’s main districts, while self-service bicycles make it easy to get around along the Croisette. Shuttle boats run regularly to the Lérins islands. Visitors can also opt for boat trips to discover Cannes from the sea.
Where to stay in Cannes
Cannes offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets. The luxury hotels along the Croisette offer stunning sea views and top-of-the-range services. For those seeking a more authentic setting, Le Suquet offers charming guest houses and apartments. Families will appreciate the vacation homes located near the beaches, while budget travelers will find friendly inns in the town center.
Cannes embodies Mediterranean charm and French luxury. Between sandy beaches, strolls along the Croisette and cultural discoveries, every visitor can immerse themselves in the art of living in Cannes. Whether you’ve come for the film festival, to explore the Lérins Islands or to sample the local specialties, Cannes is a destination that promises an unforgettable stay, between glamour, relaxation and tradition.