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.

© Ali Shayler

© seecannes.com/
Beautiful island just off the south coast of Cannes with stunning views of the Riviera
The gorgeous island of Saint Marguerite is the largest of the islands off the coast of Cannes. Regular ferries run from Cannes and only take around 15 minutes, yet this small island made up of a quiet pine forest and pretty coves feels far separated from the glitzy boutiques and hotels of Cannes.
Covered with pine and eucalyptus forest and edged with beautiful coves, this is an island to enjoy nature. The waters are crystal clear, with stunning views back to the Riviera coastline. There are only about 20 houses on the island in a small village near the ferry dock; the rest of the island is covered in forest, with an old fort and museum where you can explore the island's Roman and Crusader history, as well as its final days as a notorious French prison and soldier's hospital. The are a couple of restaurants for refreshments, and daily ferries provide access.
Annually in February, in the Palais des Festivals, over 170,000 enthusiasts come together for the three day Games Festival.
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.
This 17th century fort gained notoriety for housing the 'Man in the Iron Mask' - a prisoner during the time of Louis XIV and immortalised by the writers Voltaire and Alexander Dumas (and by Leonardo DiCaprio in the 1998 film of the same name).
The rest of the island is covered with pine forests and walking trails - exploration of which will no doubt lead you to your own little beach or cove.
The main attraction is the fort and old prison, the Royal Musée de la Mer. You can see the cells and old Roman cisterns; the museum also houses artefacts from Roman and Saracen shipwrecks. There's a small cemetery for French and North African soldiers nearby. Go there and check it out for yourself.
Pierre Bonnard stayed in this beautiful Belle Epoque house in Le Cannet for over 20 years and painted many of his famous works here.
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.
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.
North west from the centre of Cannes is the impressive Grand Jas Cemetery. The cemetery was built in 1866 as the town centre of Cannes kept growing thus creating a need for a bigger cemetery.
Replacing the old chapel Sainte-Anne, the Eglise Notre-Dame de l'Esperance was completed in 1627, after more than a century of work.
The Promenade de la Croisette is the true heart of Cannes. Under the shade of pine and palm trees, this boardwalk stretches for over three kilometres. A great place to soak up the sun and the sea breeze while you check out the best luxury shops and hotels.
With sandy stretches and private rocky coves, the beaches on this small island are well worth the trip over alone.
Ile Sainte Marguerite may not have ice cream shops and parasols all over the place but it has far more character and hidden charms than your average beach, with its bright blue water, fragrant forests, cool breezes, and smugglers coves.
Tucked away on the western side of Pointe Croisette, Palm Beach is a quiet and relaxed public beach with a great view and plenty of watersports activity.
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.
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).
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.
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.
There are two restaurants and two snack bars on the Ile Ste-Marguerite. However, since you are on a beautiful island for the day it's nice to take a picnic with you. On the island you'll find a large number of picnic areas where the views are fantastic and the shadow of the pine trees is much appreciated in the summer. Furthermore they are close to the sea if you want to pop in for a quick swim.
Le Roof at Hotel Five Seas combines refined gastronomy, breathtaking views, and a welcoming atmosphere. From gourmet breakfasts to creative lunches, the restaurant offers a range of exceptional dining experiences. The Lounge Bar is a perfect spot for cocktail lovers, offering signature drinks and a chic, trendy setting.
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.
La Plage du Martinez blends relaxed elegance with gourmet flair, offering Mediterranean dishes by Chef Jean Imbert in a stunning seafront setting.
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.
Enjoy the fabulous one-Michelin-starred restaurant with its light and creative cuisine and elegant decor.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A quirky atmosphere and an intriguing interior in this small bar and restaurant.
A magical place offering food, music and dancing under the palm trees and stars…while perhaps looking at some film stars too.
A fun, hip and affordable option open for lunch and dinner. With chic decor and lots of outdoor tables, this place really buzzes in the summer.
You can easily walk around the island in a couple of hours, on forest paths that smell of pine and eucalyptus. There are sculptures to look out for in the trees, as well as a lagoon for birdwatching. You can clamber over the rocks along the beach looking for creatures in rockpools, or just settle on the beach for a day of relaxing, snorkelling and picnics.
This company is based in Cannes and offers a wide range of road bikes, with delivery available to Antibes.
Based in Cannes, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
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.
Follow your guide and discover the famous French Riviera city of Cannes, riding the iconic Vespa scooter.
Sit back and relax on this guided tour of the French Riviera and its countryside.
From big cities to medieval towns, see all the stunning Riviera has to offer.
Leaving Cannes and travelling east along the coast allows you to enjoy the Cap de la Croisette just outside of the centre of Cannes as well as the towns, villages and seaside resorts that are scattered along the Cote d'Azur. A good train service ensures that your journey does not need to be a return, but merely a one way trip.
There is no other way to discover the stunning coast of the Cote d’Azur than by bike. This bike ride is not the most challenging, as no serious hills are conquered, but it is a stunning way to explore the coastal towns of the Cote d’Azur.
This intermediate cycle offers a wonderful contrast of colours as you pass the reds and ochres of the Esterel rock on one side and rippling azur waters of the Mediterranean coastline on the other. A local favourite, you won't be the only one on the road if you ride during the summer or on weekends.
A 15 minute boat ride from Cannes brings you to the small island of St. Marguerite. With dense woodland covering most of the island there is plenty of shade.
The small island off the coast of Cannes was uninhabited until Saint Honoratus founded a monastery on it sometime around the year 410. The island has seen many invaders who over the years have driven out and even massacred the monks, but they have returned and today the island is home to 30 Cistercian monks.
The Cordula was created by the Ligurians, then occupied by the Greeks and Romans before being burned by the Barbarian invasions of the 4th century. The wooded parkland now lies lust north of the coast at Vallauris and offers shade on sunny days.
A short walk with a small climb taking in the best the bay has to offer. Towering red rocks, deep vegetation and crashing blue waves make this walk a must for all the family.
Nestled in the alpine foothills of Grasse, this walk takes you from the coast to the top of Grosses Grues 440m. Climbing through vegetation, along rivers, over volcanic formations and past large oak trees, this walk has a lot to offer someone wanting a taste of the outdoors.
Steep cliffs and secret beaches line the coast around Col de l'Esquillon. This walk takes you up into the hills where you can gaze at the surrounding landscape with uninterrupted views of the coast and the hills inland.
Offering divers the chance to explore some of the beautiful underwater areas around Cannes. You will dive the pristine beauty of these relatively untouched, idyllic dive sites.
With all their years of experience in water sports you can be assured that you are in safe hands whichever one you choose to try!
Here you can learn about the regattas organised by the club and the art of sailing, as well as of course the practical side.
With two locations, one in Cannes and another one on Île Ste Marguerite, this association organises sailing, sea kayaking and wind surfing courses throughout the year.
Easy Dive is a diving centre and shop in Cannes. There are a range of different courses for all levels from complete beginner to advanced and instructor courses.
Airxkite offers full courses on kite surfing, including theory and practical. All Airxkite classes in the water take place between April to November.
Located in an idyllic setting, 600m from the Croisette and 300m from the rue d'Antibes, in a secure and quiet residence, magnificent villa on a wooded plot of 2350 m² with sea view.
8 km from Mandelieu, in a domain 15 minutes from the beaches, on St Jean de l'Estérel in the heart of the "Parc Résidentiel de l'Estérel", beautiful contemporary villa located on a plot of 3000 m2.
9 km from Cannes on the heights of Mandelieu, beautiful Provencal house located on a 1200m² garden with pool heated on request (10mx5m - 80-200cm depth - Alarm).
Villa just 3 km from Cannes in the town of Le Cannet, with a beautiful sea view.
Holiday villa in Cannes: 12 kms from Cannes in Mouans-Sartoux, with a beautiful park of olive trees, comfortable country house located in a park of 1 hectare.
In Cannes, 300 m from the sea, 3 km from the Palais des Festivals and the Croisette, beautiful charming villa located on a plot of 3000 m2 in a very quiet green setting.
Located in an idyllic setting, 600m from the Croisette and 300m from the rue d'Antibes, in a secure and quiet residence, magnificent villa on a wooded plot of 2350 m² with sea view.
Mas Du Duc is a maison provençale of true beauty with its exquisite views. When you step through its private gates, greeted with the scent of citrus trees, lavender and rosemary you will soon discover its elegant style. Close to Grasse and only a short drive from the French Riviera and the beaches of Cannes, this extraordinary villa will amaze you in every way.
Holiday rentals Mougins: 9 km from the Palais de Festivals and the Croisette, in the municipality of Mougins, beautiful villa located on a plot of 1700m² in the heart of a residential area.
Villa 8km from Mandelieu, in a domain 15 minutes from the beaches, on St Jean de l'Estérel in the heart of the "Parc Résidentiel de l'Estérel", luxurious property with an enclosed park of 1 hectare.
Located in the commune of Mandelieu-la-Napoule, 500m from the beach and 9 km from Cannes, this sumptuous building is unique in its kind, classified as a "remarkable residence".
8 km from Mandelieu, in a domain 15 minutes from the beaches, on St Jean de l'Estérel in the heart of the "Parc Résidentiel de l'Estérel", beautiful contemporary villa located on a plot of 3000 m2.
Exceptional view of the sea, the Bay of Cannes, Iles de Lérins, and the old quarter Le Suquet. Ideally situated, at the start of La Croisette, just steps from luxury shopping and beaches of golden sand.
With a rich history and elegant contemporary flair, Carlton Cannes blends timeless glamour with personalised experiences. From sea-view suites and serene patios to fine dining and bespoke wellness, every detail is designed to elevate your stay.
Just moments from the famous Croisette and the lively energy of Cannes, La Bastide de l'Oliveraie is a charming four-star hotel set within a peaceful garden surrounded by silvery olive trees. Tucked away in a quiet residential area, it offers a serene retreat while keeping you close to the heart of the city.
This modern, spacious guest house combines the comforts and facilities of a four-star hotel with the relaxed, friendly atmosphere of a high-end guest house.
Set in a secluded, tranquil location surrounded by ancient oaks, olive trees, oleanders, and the sweet fragrance of jasmine, it’s easy to see why this peaceful haven was a favourite of Picasso.
Ideally located in the heart of Cannes on Rue d’Antibes, Hôtel Le Canberra is a stylish four-star retreat just steps from the famous Croisette.
Regular ferries run from Cannes and only take around 15 minutes. Ferries and boat trips also run from St Tropez, Antibes and Nice.
From Nice airport to Cannes, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
150 vehicles at your disposal for taxi services regionally and across the whole of France 24/7.
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.
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
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.
Contemporary Cannes apartment on the famous Croisette, benefitting from sea views and excellent facilities.
Located on the heights of one of the sought-after neighborhoods of Cannes, this elegant contemporary of recent construction enjoys a magnificent panoramic view of the sea.
Outstanding location for this high-end apartment set within a secure. prestigious residence featuring a swimming pool and concierge service.
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.
See allLatest News & ReviewsYou 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.
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