Welcome to Cannes
Cannes' mild Mediterranean climate brings lush palm tree line boulevards and long balmy nights in the summer, along with perfect cycling, running and sailing conditions over the winter months. Basking in the sun, this is a city that the rich and famous have been coming to for over 150 years. It simply sparkles with glamour, whilst the grandeur of the coastal promenade of La Croisette and the Belle Epoque buildings reflect its aristocratic history.
Today, Cannes is still home to the internationally wealthy who provide a ready and willing clientèle to the city's numerous designer boutiques, swanky bars and lavish hotels. Plenty of gourmet restaurants with terraces spilling onto the pavements line the streets of Cannes, while its waterfront promenade is dotted with private beaches and swanky beach clubs serving delicious cocktails under the sun. No wonder Cannes has become the playground of the rich and famous.
Behind the glitz, however, there is a softer side to Cannes – the district of Le Suquet is the heart of the old town and is filled with little lanes, ancient buildings and an old harbour that is home to both traditional fishing boats and luxury yachts. Here, charming little streets lead on to picturesque squares. At the top of the hill lies a ruined 12th-century castle now host to the Museum of La Castre, affording panoramic views over La Croisette, the beach and the sparkling sea.
Latest news, reviews & events in Cannes
Find out all about what is happening in Cannes and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, fabulous beaches, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in this glamorous city.
You will not be short of entertainment in this beautiful French Riviera town, especially during the summer. Perhaps the best known of all the events is the highly glamorous Cannes Film Festival – certainly worth a day trip to the city just to see which celebrities you can spot. There are also markets, international fairs and plenty of cultural and musical festivals.
What to see & do in Cannes
Head out onto the beach and venture into the sparkling blue waters to enjoy a whole range of watersports or, to experience more of the coast along Cannes, hire a yacht or book a boat trip to the islands of Saint Honorat and Sainte Marguerite. There are also plenty of sporting activities on dry land such as exploring on bike or foot. Shopping is also a popular option, either at the local markets or the designer boutique shops.
There is a wealth of places to visit in Cannes, from top-class art museums to the remains of ancient chapels and famous vineyards. Thanks to its varied history, you will find reminders of the prehistoric times, the Romans and even the English throughout the region, from expensive villas and amazing architecture to ruins, churches and art. Cannes is also blessed with fabulous scenery, from the coastline of the French Riviera to the rolling hills inland.
History & Culture in Cannes
The first settlement at Cannes dates back to the 2nd century BC. It fell under Roman domain and then was populated mainly by monks in the Middle Ages. After centuries of turmoil, Cannes flourished in the 19th century.
Sights & Attractions in Cannes
When it comes to sights worth seeing, Cannes is probably better known for its Belle Epoque hotels and festival halls. Yet, heading away from the red carpet to the old town of Le Suquet, you'll find a touch of its medieval history.
Sights in Cannes
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Musee Picasso (Chateau Grimaldi)
The Picasso museum is housed in the Chateau Grimaldi in the centre of the town of Vallauris. The chateau was built over a Roman fort in the 16th century.
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Musee de la Mer, Ile Sainte-Marguerite
Situated within the Royal Fort on Ile Sainte-Marguerite in the Bay of Cannes, this museum is a place not only of learning but also of rich history.
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Musee Bonnard, Le Cannet
Pierre Bonnard stayed in this beautiful Belle Epoque house in Le Cannet for over 20 years and painted many of his famous works here.
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Le Moulin de Forville (Musee Victor Tuby)
Forville Mill dates back to the 14th century. Some of the original presses are still on display, as well as traditional Provencal objects.
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La Malmaison
La Malmaison used to be a part of the original 19th century 'grand dame' hotel - the Grand Hotel - which was demolished and then rebuilt in 1963.
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Bellini Chapel
Villa Fiorentina dates back to the 19th century and was one of the first luxury villas that paved the way for aristocrats to build their holiday homes in Cannes.
Beaches in Cannes
Cannes has several beaches to choose from, from public beaches to glamorous private beach clubs with sunloungers, DJs and flowing champagne. There are also watersports galore on offer.
Beaches in Cannes
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Plage Mace Beach, Cannes La Croisette
Enjoy the calm waters and amazing views without paying through the roof for a private beach area.
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Plage du Casino Beach, Cannes La Croisette
Clean and well maintained but free to use. No umbrellas, chairs or sun loungers are provided but you can pick your spot to lay down your towel for the day.
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Plage Zamenhof Beach, Port Canto
Shallow waters, sandy beach and amazing views without paying through the roof for a private beach club. There are two municipal run beaches along the Croisette, Plage Zamenhof to the east and Plage Mace to the west.
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Le Moure Rouge Plage Beach, Gazagnaire
A long and narrow stretch of sand on Cannes' eastern most beach and coastal area. Quiet and relaxed, this beach is a favourite with locals as there are no large hotels nearby.
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Bijou Plage (Port Canto) Beach
Situated just past Port Canto and before Palm Beach, this is one of two completely non-smoking beaches in the Cannes area (the other being Plage des Rochers at Cannes La Bocca).
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Gazagnaire Plage Beach, Gazagnaire
A public beach flanked by Le Moure Rouge beach and marina to the east and the Cap de la Croisette to the west. Being in a residential neighbourhood it attracts a very local crowd.
Dining in Cannes
Unsurprisingly, given its glitzy reputation, Cannes has some seriously good dining on offer for all budgets. If you just want to wander until something strikes your fancy, Cannes is the town to do it.
Restaurants in Cannes
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Le Park 45 Restaurant
Enjoy the fabulous one-Michelin-starred restaurant with its light and creative cuisine and elegant decor.
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Fouquet's Restaurant
Le Fouquet's at the Hôtel Le Majestic combines Parisian charm with culinary excellence, led by Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire. A timeless spot for culture and cuisine lovers in Cannes.
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La Table du Chateau Restaurant
The Château de la Tour feels like a private residence, offering an intimate and refined experience. With Meilleur Ouvrier de France 2000, Chef Didier Anies, at the helm, the restaurant is a true destination for elegance, creativity and exceptional cuisine - unique in Cannes.
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Plage du Festival Beach Club
La Plage du Festival offers a refreshing gourmet experience in a chic and relaxed atmosphere. With its beachside setting, stunning views, and vibrant cocktails, it’s a must-visit spot in Cannes.
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La Palme d'Or Restaurant
Awarded one Michelin star, La Palme d'Or invites you to discover chef Jean Imbert’s culinary artistry in an unforgettable setting.
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Carlton Beach Club
Soak up the sunshine and sea breeze over lunch at the Carlton Beach Club, where local flavours, fresh ingredients and a touch of French Dolce Vita come together by the water’s edge.
Events in Cannes
Events in Cannes
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Swim between the Lerins Islands
With the wonderful backdrop, the warm waters of the Mediterranean and a friendly atmosphere, you can join hundreds of other swimmers in this popular event.
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Cannes Yachting Festival
The annual International Boat Show at Cannes has become one of the largest in Europe.
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European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Cannes, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
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Les Régates Royales
Since 1929, the Régates Royales has been organising numerous sailing regattas throughout the month of September in Cannes. Thousands of crews take to the water each year in up to 150 yachts.
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Swimrun weekend
This team sport is based on two persons travelling through nature and time, completely dependent on each other. The team alternates between running and swimming along a premarked course in nature. It can be between islands or between lakes
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Festival International des Jeux (Games Festival)
Annually in February, in the Palais des Festivals, over 170,000 enthusiasts come together for the three day Games Festival.
Things to do in Cannes
Apart from the quintessential activity of people-watching, there are plenty of nautical adventures to be had here. The area also features several golf courses while shopping is among the most popular pastimes.
Things To Do in Cannes
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Motorbike hire
Based in Cannes, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
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One Week Yacht Charter Itineraries
Experience the French Riviera your way with 212 yachts, using one of their sample itineraries or with a specialised itinerary created just for you, based on what you like and don't like, as well as their own expertise.
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Club des Dauphins Swimming School
Based in the public beach of Bijou Plage in Cannes, this swimming school on the Côte d'Azur has been in operation since 1962 and is led by Thierry, a fully qualified skiing, swimming and fitness instructor.
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Road bike hire
This company is based in Cannes and offers a wide range of road bikes, with delivery available to Antibes.
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Cannes, Antibes & Saint-Paul-de-Vence Tour, from Cannes
From big cities to medieval towns, see all the stunning Riviera has to offer.
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Taste of Cannes Vespa Tour
Follow your guide and discover the famous French Riviera city of Cannes, riding the iconic Vespa scooter.
Nightlife in Cannes
As you’d expect, there’s no shortage of things to do at night in this town, whether you’re in the mood for trying your luck at the casino, catching a concert, dancing at an exclusive nightclub or having a pint at a relaxed Irish pub.
Bars & Clubs in Cannes
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Fouquet's Bar
Bar Fouquet’s, located on the iconic Croisette, offers a glamorous setting where you can enjoy expertly crafted signature cocktails by Emanuele Balestra. Perfect for socialising and unwinding, this contemporary space combines stylish surroundings with refreshing drinks and delightful treats.
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Carlton Bar
Whether you’re after a timeless classic or a custom-made creation, the bar’s mixologist will craft your perfect drink with care and creativity.
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Warm Up Bowling
If you fancy a different and fun night out in Cannes, then head to Cannes Bowling in Cannes La Boca. There are 16 alleys and over 2,500m² of pure bowling entertainment.
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Casino Barriere Le Croisette
You will find all games in this casino, including private poker rooms, English roulette, blackjack and various gaming tables.
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Ma Nolans
Ma Nolan’s, Cannes is the latest addition to Ma's family! A stone's throw away from the Palais des Festivals and a two minute walk from the station it is in the perfect location.
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Cotton Jazz Club
Nestled in the narrow streets of Cannes oldest district, Le Suquet, this jazz bar hosts some great musicians.
Where to stay in Cannes
From luxury hotels and celebrity haunts to beachside villas and chateaux nestled in the hilltop villages, the city of Cannes – La Croisette, the old town and La Bocca – and the surrounding towns have a lot to offer.
How to get to Cannes
Situated on the southern coast of France, in the very heart of the French Riviera, Cannes is only 24km from the International airport in Nice, making it an easy city break from most European cities.
Transfers for Cannes
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Private airport transfers
From Nice airport to Cannes, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
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Helicopter Charter Flights
Heli Securite offer transfers on a helicopter from the airport to your yacht or various destinations in and around the Cannes area, St Tropez and Monaco. In addition to this they also service all of the main French ski resorts from their base in Courchevel.
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Helicopter Transfers and Scenic Flights
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
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Chabe Airport Transfers
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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Loisirs Animations Transfers
For Cannes and the surrounding areas, Loisirs Animations offers excursions by minibus or coach to help you discover the stunning Provence surroundings. They also offer transfers from Nice airport in their comfortable minibuses that seat up to eight passengers.