Run-up to the Riviera Marathon 2018
Nice-Cannes Marathon on Sunday, November 4th 2018
We're almost there! France's second largest marathon after the Paris Marathon will take place next Sunday. More than 10,000 runners from 56 different countries have signed up and over 50,000 visitors are expected to watch the sports event of the season in the French Riviera.
This year the Nice-Cannes Marathon celebrates its 11th edition. For just over 42 kilometres, participants will run from Nice to Cannes on a coastal route enjoying gorgeous sea views and passing through picturesque villages like Saint-Laurent-du-Var, Cagnes-sur-Mer, Villeneuve-Loubet, Antibes, Juan-les-Pins and Golfe-Juan. The race starts at the iconic Promenade des Anglais in Nice and finishes at the famous Boulevard de la Croisette in Cannes.
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Getting there
Several streets and roads along the route will be closed to the traffic for most of the day so, if you're taking part in the marathon or just a spectator, we recommend you take advantage of the Riviera's public transport to reach your destination on Sunday, November 4th. The French train system, SNFR, will offer a Pass Marathon which will allow everyone to use the TER train line between Nice and Cannes for only €6 throughout the day. Runners can also use the shuttles that the organisation has put at their service for €7 to reach Nice from Cannes in the morning or return to Nice from Cannes in the evening.
What to do
There are tonnes of things to do in Cannes. Hire a bike and explore the town, book a boat trip, enjoy a guided tour of the city complete with some wine tasting... If you're feeling tired after the run, a visit to a spa will soothe those sore muscles. The marathon's organisation have also set up their own activities. The Village Running Expo Marathon will be open from Thursday to Saturday at Place Massena in Nice. On Saturday, there is also a breakfast run open to everyone; meet at 10:00 at Place Massena and enjoy an after-run brunch.
Where to celebrate
The marathon's organisers have struck a deal with the Ma Nolan's Irish Pubs chain which has two establishments in Nice (Vieux Nice and Nice Port) and one in Cannes. Pub grub is the deal here while finishers will get special discounts on draught beers from 14:00 after the race upon presentation of their medal. For a celebratory meal, there are plenty of places to choose from. In Cannes, head to La Maison Corse for some traditional Corsican charcuterie with a glass of wine or carb load at Ciro Restaurant with Italian pasta and pizza, Neapolitan style. In Nice, the best pre- or after-run fuel is probably just getting a piece of pissaladiere or socca at the Cours Saleya Provençal Market. If you'd rather sit down, the city has plenty of restaurants to choose from ranging from traditional local cuisine to Italian fare and international delicacies.
More inspiration...
While you're in Cannes, take a look at our Events Calendar to see what's on then. If you still haven't booked your accommodation in the area, check out our recommendations.
