Cultural activities in Cannes

Cannes has a long history, its first settlement dating back to the 2nd century BC. In the old part of the city, Le Suquet, you can visit the medieval castle of the Castre Tower. If it's modern history you're interested in, near Cannes you can find the ruins of the Malpasset Dam, which gave way in 1959 killing 423 people.

Cannes is the European capital of cinema, hosting the glamorous Cannes International Film Festival in May. First held in 1939, it has seen the biggest stars in Hollywood walk across the Palais red carpet, including Sophia Loren, Grace Kelly, Cary Grant and Kirk Douglas. The wide variety of cinemas in Cannes means that you can catch the latest releases, but also independent films or art house features.

Cannes, like the whole of France, is a paradise for any foodie. Local delicacies include nougat and pastis, while there are delicious regional recipes like the boullabaise soup, pissaladiere, ratatouille or socca. Many culinary schools and restaurants around Cannes offer cookery classes where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes or discover the newest trends in French cuisine.

There are many village festivals around Cannes where you can mingle with the locals, dance to traditional music and taste local specialities while learning more about the region's history and customs.

In Biot there is a beautiful Japanese garden that has become a museum dedicated to bonsais. They even organise courses for bonsai enthusiasts.

Cannes boasts a vibrant music scene with a range of live bands, superstar DJs and jazz clubs to be found, along with a busy calendar of music festivals and street performances. From jazz to latin music, rock, classical or dance music, you will find a spot where to enjoy live bands.

Cannes and the surrounding area have a whole host of markets where you can find a bargain, check out the local crafts or buy regional produce. There are also a couple of night markets perfect for those balmy summer evenings.

Cannes has a wide range of museums and galleries to keep visitors entertained. From historical buildings and churches to very important art collections, including those dedicated to artists that lived locally like Fernand Léger or Picasso. The region also offers history museums and exhibitions dedicated to typical products like perfume.

With such a long history as Cannes has, there are multiple religious buildings in the area to visit. From the 5th-century Abbaye de Lerins Monastery to more recent constructions like the Basilique de Notre-Dame de la Victoire, there is something for every architecture aficionado.

Cannes is a large city with a bustling cultural scene, so there is no shortage of theatres. Many of the shows are in French, but you can also head to a dance or circus performance.

The region of Provence produces some of the best wines in the world. Take a tour around one of the beautiful vineyards in Cannes. Taste the carefully made wines, learn more about them, the grapes and the wine making process whilst enjoying the wonderful vineyard scenery.