Cannes is one of the most beautiful cities on the French Riviera, best known for its famous film festival. Here you will find a mix of history, culture, culinary traditions, beautiful beaches and breathtaking scenery. Here are all our tips on what to see in Cannes, the best sights, beaches not to be missed and an itinerary for a day trip!
What to see in Cannes
1 - Vieux Port de Cannes
The Vieux Port is the old port of Cannes. It is located at the foot of the Suquet hill, the city's historic centre, and is bordered in part by the beautiful Boulevard de la Croisette.
This is the right place to take a stroll caressed by the sea breeze, or to stop at one of the many bars and restaurants serving mainly fish dishes! It is a real meeting place, both for tourists and French people, and is always very lively! Moreover, ferries to the island of Santa Margherita and catamaran cruises depart from here!
It is located in Jetée Albert Edouard. Easily accessible on foot from Marché Forville (600 m, 7 min). Reference bus stop Quai Saint Pierre (lines, 7, 8 and Suquet) - Get directions
2 - Boulevard de la Croisette
The Boulevard de la Croisette is Cannes' beautiful promenade. Approximately 2 km long, it starts at the Vieux Port and runs along the entire coastline to the Port de Pointe Croisette at Pointe Croisette.
The Boulevard is lined with beautiful beaches on one side, the most famous of which is Croisette Beach, and luxury hotels, high-fashion boutiques, clubs and restaurants on the other. It is the best starting point to get to know the whole city. Also, during the Cannes Film Festival period you can see several celebrities parading here! During the rest of the year, it is always a very cheerful place, both during the day and at night. At night, it becomes one of the hubs of the movida, thanks to the many clubs present!
Easily accessible on foot from any point in the city, such as from the Marché Forville (500 m, 6 min) or the Gare de Cannes central station (500 m, 7 min). Numerous bus stops all along the seafront (lines 8, 18, N21) - Get directions
3 - Croisette Beach
The Cannes seafront is lined with several beaches, but the most famous and well-known is definitely Croisette Beach. It is very easy to get to and because of its centrality it is also one of the most crowded.
The beach is divided into several parts. Most of it is private, with the establishments belonging to the hotels along the Promenade, but there are also some public areas, such as the stretch of Palme Beach, at Pointe Croisette, and the nearby Bijou-Plage. However, these are equipped beaches, with parasols, sunbeds, bar service and all the comforts for a totally relaxing day!
The beach is easily accessible on foot from any point in the city, especially by running along the Boulevard de la Croisette. Numerous bus stops all along the seafront (lines 8, 18, N21) - Get directions
4 - Suquet district
Photo by Christophe.Finot. The Suquet district is the oldest area of Cannes. It is located on a small hill, near the Vieux Port, and is a concentration of history and tradition! For a first approach to the city, we recommend you take part in a guided tour on an electric bike, with a local guide who will tell you various anecdotes about this wonderful place!
The district is characterised by characteristic uphill streets, where numerous shops, cafés and restaurants can be found. We can say that this area represents the traditional side of Cannes, while La Croisette is the more fashionable one! It is also home to several attractions such as the Marché Forville market and the Musée de la Castre. It is also a great area to look for accommodation, with more affordable prices than La Croisette and with incredible views of the harbour, the city and the sea!
The neighbourhood is easily accessible on foot from all parts of the city, such as the Vieux Port (600 m, 5 min). The area is served by the Suquet bus line - Get directions
5 - Marché Forville
Photo by MOSSOT. While strolling through the streets of the historic Suquet district, you should definitely not miss a visit to the Marché Forville, the most famous covered market in Cannes, first opened in 1934.
This market occupies an area of about 3,000 square metres and inside you will find lots of local products: from cheese to charcuterie, from fruit to vegetables and even spices. You will also find local handicrafts, perfect for taking home a souvenir of this trip. If you visit Cannes on a Monday, then this is a must: only on Mondays there is a wonderful flea market, a paradise for antique lovers.
How to get there: 6 Rue du Marché Forville. Easily accessible on foot from the Vieux Port (600 m, 7 min). Reference bus stop Marché Forville (Suquet line) - Get directions
Hours: 15 September to 14 June Tue-Fri 7:30am-12:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-1pm, 15 June to 14 September daily 7:30am-1:30pm
Ticket price: free
6 - Rue d'Antibes
Photo by ptwo. If you love shopping, you definitely can't miss Rue d'Antibes, one of the city's most famous shopping streets! It stretches for a good 1.2 km, between Rue du Maréchal Joffres and Rond-Point du Général Maubert, and is full of shops, restaurants and clubs.
The street runs parallel to the Croisette and features shops of well-known international brands, including clothing and cosmetics, alternating with small boutiques and local shops. The street is also framed by beautiful buildings. You cannot miss a stop at Ladurée, the famous Parisian patisserie best known for its macaroons!
Easily accessible on foot from any point in the city, such as from the Gare de Cannes central station (230 m, 2 min) or the Croisette (200 m, 2 min). The street is served by bus line 18 - Get directions
7 - Palais des Festivals and Cannes Walk Of Fame
Photo by Copyleft. On a visit to Cannes, there is one place you absolutely cannot miss: we are talking about the Palais des Festivals, the venue of the famous Cannes Film Festival. It is here that celebrities parade and it is always here that the main events take place. Unfortunately, it cannot be visited inside, except by attending special events. In any case, we recommend that you take at least one photo in front of the steps!
Surrounding the Palais des Festivals is the Cannes Walk of Fame, the walk with the footprints of great actors and personalities, similar to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Here you can go in search of the handprint of your favourite actor!
How to get there: 1 Boulevard de la Croisette. Easily accessible on foot from the Vieux Port (260 m, 3 min). Palais des Congrès reference bus stop (lines 8 and A) - Get directions
Hours: depending on events and festivals. Consult official website
Ticket price: according to events and festivals. See official website
8 - Musée de la Castre
Photo by M.Strīķis. If you love visiting museums then there is one in Cannes that you absolutely must not miss: we are talking about the Musée de la Castre, housed inside the city's castle! It is located on top of the hill on which the Suquet district is built, so the view from up here is truly spectacular!
Inside this museum you can experience a real journey through the history of the world! Already the setting will take you back in time as you find yourself walking through rooms dating back to the 12th century. You can then admire works and objects from all over the world, from musical instruments from Africa to marvellous oriental paintings and works from the Mediterranean area. An exhibition not to be missed!
How to get there: 6 Rue de la Castre. Easily accessible on foot from the Marché Forville (500 m, 5 min). Reference bus stop Castre-Perrissol (Suquet line) - Get directions
Hours: October to March Tue-Sun 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm, April to June and September Tue-Sun 10am-1pm and 2pm-6pm, July and August daily 10am-7pm
Ticket price: full price €6.00, concessions €3.00
9 - Villa Rothschild
Photo by MOSSOT. If you manage to stay a few more days in the city, you should definitely not miss the wonderful Villa Rothschild, whose English-style gardens have been declared a Historical Monument. It is located a little further from the centre than the other attractions, in the Croix des Gardes district.
This neoclassical-style villa was built in 1881 at the behest of the Baroness de Rothschild. It is one of the most beautiful villas on the French Riviera, a true icon. In 1947, the villa was confiscated from the family and became the property of the city. Today, it is mainly used for cultural events and is home to the Noailles municipal media library.
How to get there: at 1 Avenue Jean de Noailles. Easily accessible on foot from Plage du Midi (400 m, 4 min). Reference bus stop Médiathèque (line 7A) - Get directions
Hours: Tue-Sat 9:30am-6pm, Sun-Mon closed
Ticket price: free
10 - Casino Barriere Le Croisette
Photo by giggel. Finally, we couldn't leave out one of Cannes' main attractions, especially when it comes to nightlife and entertainment: we're talking about the Casino Barriere Le Croisette, the most famous and busiest in Cannes! It is located at the beginning of the Boulevard de la Croisette, in the same complex as the Palais des Festivals.
It is one of the most exclusive venues and the right place to spend the evening in Cannes(warning: no admittance for minors). Inside you will find an amusement arcade with slot machines, English roulette, a poker table and much more, but that's not all! There is also a restaurant and a discotheque. The setting is that of a casino with retro charm, typical of the movies, really unique! ID is always checked at the entrance, so if you want to get in, make sure you have it with you.
How to get there: in 1 Espace Lucien Barrière. Easily accessible on foot from the Vieux Port (260 m, 3 min). Palais des Congrès reference bus stop (lines 8 and A) - Get directions
Hours: generally daily 10am-3pm, with closing times varying according to the period. See the official website
Ticket price: free, individual activities are charged
What to see in Cannes in a day: recommended itinerary
Start this day in Cannes with breakfast at Ladurée, a famous French Parisian patisserie, with a great cappuccino and some macaroons. Here you will already be on Rue d'Antibes, the famous shopping street. Follow it all the way to the Vieux Port. From here spend the rest of the morning discovering the Suquet district, stopping at the Marché Forville market.
Stop at Le Troquet à Soupes for lunch and then stroll along the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, between the iconic buildings on one side and the beach on the other. Don't forget to take a photo outside the Palais des Festivals and look for celebrity footprints along the Walk of Fame! We also recommend you spend a few hours on Croisette Beach, the most beautiful beach in Cannes!
For dinner, head back to the Vieux Port to admire the sunset and the city lights reflecting on the water, then have lunch at the famous L'Assiette Provençale (reservation recommended). Finally, if you don't have to leave or are not travelling with children, we recommend spending the evening at Casino Barriere Le Croisette.
One-day itinerary at a glance
Breakfast at Ladurée(Get directions)
Rue d'Antibes - opening hours: always accessible - ticket cost: free
Vieux Port - opening hours: always accessible - ticket cost: free
Suquet - opening hours: always accessible - ticket cost: free
Marché Forville - opening hours: 15 September to 14 June Tue-Fri 7:30am-12:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-1pm, 15 June to 14 September daily 7:30am-1:30pm - ticket cost: free
Lunch at Le Troquet à Soupes(Get directions)
Boulevard de la Croisette - opening hours: always accessible - ticket cost: free
Palais des Festivals and Walk of Fame - opening hours: outdoor always accessible - ticket cost: free
Croisette Beach - opening hours: always accessible - ticket cost: free (rental fee)
Dinner at L'Assiette Provençale(Get directions)
What to see nearby
Monaco,Monte Carlo and Eze: Excursion to discover the famous principality of Monaco, with a visit to Monte Carlo and the small village of Eze, with a wonderful view of the sea. Info and costs here
Saint Tropez: wonderful resort on the Côte d'Azur, now known throughout the world. You can visit the traditional Provençal market, relax on the beach or stroll through the colourful alleys of the old town. It can also be reached by boat from Cannes. Info and costs here
Nice: one of the most famous cities on the Côte d'Azur, just 30 minutes by train from Cannes. Here you can lose yourself in the streets of the old town, stroll along the Promenade or admire the view from the Castle Hill
Antibes and Cap d'Antibes: wonderful seaside resort, just 12 min by train from Cannes. Here you can relax on the beach, go shopping in the craft shops or follow the Chemin des Douaniers hiking trail with wonderful views of the sea
Calanque de l'Esterel: situated against the backdrop of the volcanic rock massif of l'Estérel. The most beautiful excursion is by boat, passing through the various coves and bathing in the crystal-clear water. Info and costs here
Isle Saint Marguerite: the largest of the Iles de Lérins islands, located between Golfe Juan and Golfe de la Napoule. These islands once housed monasteries and were a place of retreat for learning ecclesiastical teachings. Accessible by ferry. Info and costs here
Valbonne: a small Provençal village with a fairytale atmosphere nestled in the hills of the Côte d'Azur. Don't miss the Provençal market and a stroll through the flower-filled balconies of the old town. Located 13 km from Cannes
Catamaran cruise: half a day on board a catamaran as you sail the gulf of La Napoule. You can admire the coastline, snorkel and enjoy the crystal-clear sea. Info and costs here
Where to eat
La Palme d'Or: French haute cuisine restaurant, 2 Michelin stars with tasting menu
Average price per person: €180.00
Address and contact details: 73 Boulevard de la Croisette(Get directions) / tel: +33492987414La galette de marie: a place specialising in sweet and savoury crepes, but also a good range of dishes for a quick lunch
Average price per person: €15.00
Address and contact details: 9 Rue Bivouac Napoléon(Get directions) / tel: +33493681513L'Assiette Provençale: French cuisine restaurant overlooking the Vieux Port de Cannes
Average price per person: €30.00
Address and contact details: 9 Quai Saint-Pierre(Get directions) / tel: +33493385214Astoux et Brun: brasserie specialising in fish dishes, excellent oysters
Average price per person: €40.00
Address and contact details: 27 Rue Félix Faure(Get directions) / tel: +33493392187Le Troquet à Soupes: small restaurant with French and Mediterranean cuisine, excellent soups
Average price per person: €20.00
Address and contact details: 64 Rue Meynadier(Get directions) / tel:
What to do in the evening: Cannes' nightlife areas and best clubs
If you want to enjoy the summer evenings and keep the early hours then you've come to the right place! Cannes has a very lively nightlife, with lots of clubs scattered all over the city! The hot spot is definitely Boulevard de la Croisette, Cannes' famous seaside promenade. Here you can find all kinds of venues: from casinos with gambling halls, restaurants and even discos, to luxury hotels with wonderful panoramic terraces open to all, but watch out for the dress code! If you are looking for something quieter in the old town you will also find numerous pubs and more informal clubs with live music!
The best pubs, clubs and discos
Casino Barriere Le Croisette: the most important and busiest casino in Cannes, with gaming room, restaurant and disco / Address: 1 Espace Lucien Barrière(Get directions) / Facebook page
Bisous Bisous Club: disco with panoramic terrace inside the famous Palais des Festivals / Address: 1 Boulevard de la Croisette (Getdirections) / Facebook page
Célébrités & Terrasse Bar: one of the most exclusive and elegant bars and roof terrace in Cannes, in the InterContinental Carlton hotel, also frequented by celebrities / Address: 58 Boulevard de la Croisette(Get directions) / Facebook page
Morrison's: one of the most famous pubs in Cannes, ideal for drinking great beer and listening to live music / Address: 10 Rue Teisseire (Getdirections) / Facebook page
Le Brumel's Piano Bar: piano bar and disco, with DJ sets and great cocktails / Address: 3 Boulevard de la République (Getdirections) / Facebook page
Plan your stay in Cannes: info and tips
How to get there: By plane to Nice, at the Aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur. From the city then by rental car via the A8 (27 km, 30 min) or by direct Nice-Cannes train (40 min). All the main towns on the Côte d'Azur are connected by an excellent rail system.
Getting around: on foot. The attractions are all close together and the centre is perfect for getting around on foot. For a first approach to the city, you can opt for an electric bike tour. A boat trip in the gulf on a catamaran cruise is a must.
Where to park: there are numerous car parks in the city, mainly underground car parks in the centre, but prices are very high (on average €3.00/4.50 per hour, max €40.00 for a day). There is free parking at Point Croisette(get directions), but spaces sell out quickly
Where to stay: from €60.00 per room - see offers
