If you’re planning a trip to Cannes, there are tons of things to see and do in this charming French city. From its historic buildings and beautiful beaches to trendy bars and boutiques, there’s something for everyone!
One of the best ways to explore the city is by bicycle. There are plenty of well-maintained bike paths and trails that wind throughout the city.
The Palais des Festivals
The Palais des Festivals, or the Palais de Festivals et des Congres in French, is the cultural centre of Cannes and hosts the city’s most popular events. From concerts to theatre and dance performances, the schedule is busy throughout the year.
This convention centre opened in 1982 and is the venue for the Cannes Film Festival, the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity and the NRJ Music Award. It is also home to several other important events.
One of the most famous is the Cannes Film Festival, which takes place every year in May. It has become a major tourist draw and is one of the most glamorous festivals in the world.
During the festival, you can take a walk along the famous Promenade de la Croisette. There are several casinos in the area, as well as a number of restaurants and shops.
La Croisette
A world-famous promenade that stretches for 3 kilometres from the Palais des Festivals to Port Canto, La Croisette is home to luxury hotels and high-end shops. It’s a great place to stroll and people-watch, as well as take in the gorgeous views of the sea and Isle Sainte-Marguerite.
You’ll also find plenty of restaurants along this street to try some delicious French cuisine, if you’re looking for something more upscale. Some even offer food tours that will take you on a tour of the street and explain the origins of some of your favorite dishes like ratatouille or bouillabaisse!
The beaches in Cannes and those in the islands nearby are thriving, thanks to their Mediterranean climate. You’ll find public and private ones that are a great way to enjoy the sun or take a dip between screenings!
In addition to its famous seafront promenade, Cannes is home to several museums. One of the more popular is Le Musee de la Castre, which houses a mixed bag of artifacts ranging from 19th century landscapes to Tibetan masks. The museum is located in a castle fortress that once belonged to the Lerins monks.
Ile Sainte-Marguerite
The largest of the Lerins Islands, Ile Sainte-Marguerite is a paradise-like retreat a half mile offshore from Cannes. It is a perfect destination for a day trip from the town, with beaches and coves a world away from the busy beach clubs and Promenade de la Croisette.
Aside from the secluded coves and sandy beaches, Ile Sainte-Marguerite offers a dazzling array of natural and cultural heritage sites. Nature-lovers will find a pristine forest, the Lake of Bateguier and an avenue of scented eucalyptus.
Those looking to immerse themselves in history will be charmed by the Fort Royal, a 17th-century bastion that once served as a prison and home to the Man in the Iron Mask. This prison cell is the subject of numerous legends and is now a maritime-themed museum.
The smaller of the two islands, Ile Saint-Honorat, is also worth a visit as it’s home to the Abbey of Lerins, where Cistercian monks still live today. Both islands can be accessed via boat from Cannes and provide a relaxing escape from the bustle of the South of France.
The Cote d’Azur
Cannes is a glamorous traveler’s dream, attracting droves of world-famous film stars every year. It’s also home to a wide range of cultural attractions, pristine beaches, and luxury hotels.
Located on the beautiful Cote d’Azur, the town is surrounded by designer boutiques and trendy restaurants, making it the perfect place to indulge in a little retail therapy! The city also has a number of great activities, such as a cooking class or street art tour.
The cosmopolitan vibe and breathtaking views of the Cote d’Azur make it a popular destination for tourists all over the world. In addition to the glitz and glamour of Cannes, there’s also the chance to visit the elegant cities of Nice and Monaco.
A trip to the Riviera isn’t complete without a day trip to these charming seaside resorts and yacht-friendly cities! You can reach both of these destinations from Cannes by train in about an hour, so you’ll be able to explore more of the French Riviera during your stay.
