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.
Vallauris Golfe-Juan
A great area between the towns of Cannes and Antibes
The commune is known as Vallauris Golfe-Juan, combining the traditional charm of the pottery capital of the Riviera, Vallauris, which sits inland, with the seaside resort and sandy beaches of Golfe-Juan.
It most recently came to prominence when Picasso lived here from 1948 to 1955. He created many sculptures whilst here and encouraged local artisans to embrace ceramics, reintroducing local pottery traditions from the 17th century. Workshops, galleries and boutiques continue the pottery heritage today. The Municipal Museum of Ceramics is housed within the Chapel of the Castle and also contains Picasso's 'War and Peace' fresco.
Golfe-Juan is perfectly located in the Côte d’Azur, in a large bay just a short distance from Juan les Pins and Antibes, in between the beautiful cities of Nice and Cannes. Made up of narrow wonderful sandy beaches this bay is home to many large yachts with its popular marina, Port Camille Rayon, being the hub of this beautiful town.
Full of history, culture and arts, you can discover the beautiful ceramic pieces that Golfe-Juan and Vallauris are famous for. With a host of galleries and museums, beautiful architectural buildings and traditional workshops you can soak up the culture and history of this area.
Wander the streets and enjoy the charm of this French Riviera port. In the daytime the beaches are lined with umbrellas and people enjoying the sun, sand and beautiful blue sea. At night time the town turns into a hub of restaurants, bars and clubs; with the tourists and locals sitting down to enjoy a long leisurely Provençal dinner and the young chic fashionable crowds sipping on cocktails looking out at the port.
Events in Cannes
Perhaps one of the most popular events in the annual calendar of Vallauris Golfe-Juan is the celebration and re-enactment of the landing of Napoleon.
If markets are your thing then you are in the right part of France, the Côte d’Azur and Provence are known for their fantastic markets. The food market is held every day except Mondays in the mornings in the centre of Vallauris at Place Paul Isnard and you can browse the stalls for fresh fruit, plump olives and wonderful Provencal meat. For fresh fish caught that morning head down to the old port nice and early and depending on the fisherman and their catches you can pick up some delicious catches from that day. Antibes is a place known for its creativity and arts and in peak season in July and August you can stroll the promenade in the evenings and experience a market full of artistic pieces and craft goods bought from the artists themselves.
Events in Cannes
See all Events in Cannes-
-
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.
History & Culture in Cannes
The town of Vallauris was created in 1501 to a very specific grid style as a defensive strategy to protect the town from invaders. A castle was then built in 1568 on the site of a previous monastery. The area was particularly active during the 1800's with the landing of Napoleon in 1815 at Golfe-Juan, the first train arrival in the area in 1862, pottery making reaching its height during the latter half of the century and the building of the port in 1896.
With Picasso's influence during the 1940's and 50's, and the gift of his famous sculpture 'War and Peace' to the French State, Vallauris was given a national museum and later opened a public art gallery.
Golfe-Juan is very much linked in history to Juan les Pins and Antipolis, or Antibes as it's now known. The early history of Golfe-Juan is rather lost in time, and not much is known about what happened in the first few centuries. However it is known that in 1480 the Antibes region was riddled with the plague and a huge number of the population were wiped out, leaving many towns and cities to start again.
In 1501 Vallauris and Golfe-Juan were occupied and started to rebuild once again, encouraged by Lord Raynier, families from neighbouring Italy settled in the area and it slowly started to repopulate and become a bustling village. In 1568 the castle of Vallauris was built in a Renaissance style and still stands today as a monument to the Renaissance time.
The beautiful Port Camille Rayon was originally built in 1896 opening up the whole area to shipping trade and creating a new dynamic for the Golfe-Juan and Vallauris.
Vallauris Golfe-Juan is now soaked in culture, with artists and elites residing here. Picasso created many exceptional art pieces during his time here, including his ‘Temple of Peace’ and the ‘War and Peace’ monument painted inside the temple. With a history of ceramic and pottery art this region is known for its artists and creativity, remaining a popular spot for artists of many trades today.
Sights & Attractions in Cannes
Head to the castle of Vallauris, which has been converted into a collection of museums and galleries.
Visit the National Picasso museum with the famous Picasso mural called ‘War and Peace’ in the castle's chapel. Picasso created over 4,000 ceramic works during his time in Vallauris; there are many of his works and famous plate series on display here.
The Magnelli Museum sits in the most modern part of the castle and is a combination of Alberto Magnellis abstract artwork.
Back in the village there is a bronze statue by Picasso called Man with a Sheep, which Picasso insisted children be allowed to climb upon (which they do).
Finally, visit the Ceramics Museum which houses a number of historical and fascinating ceramic collections.
Back on the coast in Golfe Juan, see the start of Napoleon's famous 'Route Napoleon' at the statue 'Napoleon's Column'; each year in March the town of Golfe Juan celebrates Napoloen's landing with a parade and re-enactment.
Sights in Cannes
See all Sights in Cannes-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
St George's Church
To the west of the town centre is the church of Saint George, built in a typically English Neo-Gothic style.
-
Hurtebize Art Gallery
This gallery has an impressive collection of post-impressionists such as Marc Chagall, Hans Hartung, Victor Vasarély, André Marfaing or Georges Mathieu, as well as a selection of contemporary artists
-
Promenade de la Croisette
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.
Beaches in Cannes
The beautiful sandy beach at Golfe Juan provides the perfect place to spend a day soaking up the sun, splashing in the sea and watching the sunset, perhaps with a cocktail in hand.
There are a number of excellent beach clubs with restaurants, or grab a picnic and head to a public stretch of beach. You can also try your hand at water skiing, banana boating, wakeboarding and other water sports and the bay of Golfe-Juan is a popular dive spot with numerous dive sites nearby.
Beaches in Cannes
See all Beaches in Cannes-
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.
-
Plage Mace Beach, Cannes La Croisette
Enjoy the calm waters and amazing views without paying through the roof for a private beach area.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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).
Dining in Cannes
Golfe-Juan has a range of restaurants, from the relaxed and trendy beach restaurants to those restaurants serving fresh Mediterranean cuisine in a traditional and romantic setting.
Restaurants in Cannes
See all Restaurants in Cannes-
Le Park 45 Restaurant
Enjoy the fabulous one-Michelin-starred restaurant with its light and creative cuisine and elegant decor.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Carlton Riviera Restaurant
Riviera brings the flavours of the Mediterranean to life with fresh market produce and the catch of the day, served in a stylish brasserie setting overlooking the sea.
-
La Plage du Martinez
La Plage du Martinez blends relaxed elegance with gourmet flair, offering Mediterranean dishes by Chef Jean Imbert in a stunning seafront setting.
-
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.
Nightlife in Cannes
Bars & Clubs in Cannes
See all Bars & Clubs in Cannes-
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.
-
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.
-
Cotton Jazz Club
Nestled in the narrow streets of Cannes oldest district, Le Suquet, this jazz bar hosts some great musicians.
-
L'Experience Bar
This small bar serves cocktails, wines and beers from unique wineries and breweries. They also have some savoury nibbles on offer.
-
Le Bar a Vin
A great place to meet friends in central Cannes, especially popular after work, with a really relaxed vibe.
-
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.
Things to do in Cannes
There is plenty to do when in Vallauris Golfe-Juan, being a busy port and a hot spot for holidaymakers there is something to keep everyone entertained. Not only can you browse the local markets, enjoy the shops and spend hours lying on a beach soaking up the sun you can also explore some of the museums and learn more about the history of this seaside area.
Situated right next to Juan les Pins, Antibes, Nice and Cannes you can explore the surrounding area simply by hopping in your car or catching a bus. The wonderful coastline stretches out for miles, hire a bike, explore on foot or just take a coastal drive to discover the beautiful scenery. We highly recommend going into the hills of Cap d’Anitbes and exploring some of the beautiful villas and houses tucked into the hills with fabulous views stretching out over the Mediterranean. Another great way to see the area is on a hire a scooter. The perfect way to enjoy the warm summer air, sea breeze and to explore the coastal areas and up into the Provençal countryside villages.
If you're after something more active, head to the coast and enjoy a number of watersports, try your hand at water skiing, banana boating, wakeboarding and other water adventures. The bay of Golfe-Juan is a popular dive spot, with numerous dive sites near by, so why not try out some of the local diving school and see the area from under the water...the beautiful sandy beaches and blue sparkling Mediterranean provide the perfect place to spend a day soaking up the sun, splashing in the sea and watching the sunset. There are a number of excellent beach clubs with restaurants or grab a picnic and head to a public beach.
Children and families will also enjoy Marineland waterpark which is a short drive from Vallauris Golfe-Juan where you can see creature of the sea, watch an animal show, enjoy some thrills on a water ride and play adventure golf.
If you want to discover more of the French Riviera or ocean then what better way to explore than by hiring a boat or yacht for the day. There are a number of luxury companies who will take you along the coast exploring the ocean and neighbouring famous towns such as St Tropez. Anchor out at sea and enjoy a Mediterranean lunch in the peace and calm of the ocean or hop of the boat and explore the towns and villages.
Things To Do in Cannes
See all Things To Do in Cannes-
Road bike hire
This company is based in Cannes and offers a wide range of road bikes, with delivery available to Antibes.
-
Motorbike hire
Based in Cannes, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
-
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.
-
A Day in Monaco Tour, from Cannes
Sit back and relax on this guided tour of the French Riviera.
-
Taste of Cannes Vespa Tour
Follow your guide and discover the famous French Riviera city of Cannes, riding the iconic Vespa scooter.
-
Monte Carlo & Eze Guided Tour
Panoramic views, medieval villages, and the glamour of the Monte-Carlo.
Yachts & Sailing in Cannes
-
Christina O Superyacht
Christina O is arguably the most famous superyacht charters in the world, and for good reason.
-
Mach One Superyacht
Mach one is a stunning 32m superyacht charter Cannes. Built in 1999 and refitted in 2013, this Mangusta 105 superyacht is simply awesome. With the rare licence to cruise with 16 guests at sea, Mach One is perfect for event superyacht charter Cannes.
-
Latitude Superyacht
Experience luxurious superyacht charter Cannes with Latitude. 43.50m of design excellence, this Dutch Yacht Builders superyacht boasts remarkable interior and exterior design features. Her attention to detail and commitment to sophistication and quality make her an exemplary member of her class.
-
Silver Wave Superyacht
French superyacht Silver Wave is a spectacular 45.7m motor yacht crafted in 2009 in the world-renowned Palmer Johnson American shipyard. Her futuristic and elegant exterior lines are a tribute to the Palmer Johnson design team. She effortlessly cause heads to turn and admire her beauty. Her Iconic ‘Silver wave’ colour exterior paint provides a stunning contrast to the deep blue waters she navigates.
-
So Chic Superyacht
With a fantastically accurate name, So Chic is an elegant luxury yacht charter built by Azimut. Based on the French Riviera, with this luxury yacht charter you are free to explore the magical mediterranean.
-
Summer 30m Motor Yacht
This remarkable superyacht is a superb 30.8-meter motor vessel.
Watersports in Cannes
Watersports in Cannes
See all Watersports in Cannes-
Seafirst
Kayak hire and trips on offer to discover the beautiful coastline of the Cote d'Azur by sea kayak, leaving from Palm Beach on the Cap de la Croisette near Cannes.
-
SWZ Team Ski & Wake Zone
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!
-
Pierre de Coubertin Swimming Pool
This public swimming pool is located in Cannes La Boca. It has two pools, one is a 25 metre pool with a depth of 3.4 metres, the other is a smaller pool of 12 metres.
-
Easy Dive School
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.
-
Cannes Stand Up Paddle
You can rent your stand up paddle board from half an hour up to a week at a time, perfect to liven up a cruise around the Mediterranean. Their nearby surf shop also sells all kinds of gear related to surf, windsurfing and paddle-boarding.
-
Plongee Club de Cannes Diving School
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.
Villas in Cannes
Villas in Cannes
See all Villas in Cannes-
Hsud0032 Villa
On the heights of Mandelieu la Napoule, beautiful new villa with a panoramic sea view located on a plot of 1700m ² in terraces.
-
Hsud0072 Villa
On the heights of Mandelieu, with magnificent sea views, beautiful villa set in 3000m² of enclosed grounds in the heart of a residential area.
-
Hsud0018 Villa
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".
-
Hsud0031 Villa
Situated in the famous Californie district, 1km from the beaches and 4.5km from the Palais des Festivals, this charming villa is set in 2600m² of fenced garden with a beautiful sea view. A private saltwater swimming pool (12m x 5m - max depth 1.85m - alarm) is at your disposal.
-
Hsud0024 Villa
In the town of Mandelieu, 3km from the sea, magnificent residence of character located on a plot of 5000m².
-
Hsud0046 Villa
A 2.3 km from the Palais des Festivals and the Croisette, in the prestigious Park SPRINGLAND, beautiful villa on a closed ground of 1500m ².
Holidays Rentals in Cannes
Holiday Rentals in Cannes
See all Holiday Rentals in Cannes-
Ock-en-Bourg Villa, Châteauneuf-Grasse
This stylishly furnished villa is located on a large private estate surrounded by a beautiful Mediterranean garden with olive trees and cypresses.
-
Hsud0207 Apartment
6km from Cannes, luxurious estate situated on the hills of Mandelieu.
-
Hsud0062 Villa
In the heart of Cannes, 2km from the famous Croisette and its beaches, in a private and secure residential estate with trees, magnificent character villa with a sea view.
-
Hsud0035 Villa
Belle epoque 280 sqm property in a quiet area and only a ten- minute walk from the beach and the convention centre.
-
Hsud0119 Apartment, Le Cannet
Located in a luxury residence on the heights of Cannes, magnificent Palatine-style apartment on the 3rd floor.
-
Hsud0040 Villa
This is a unique villa facing the sea in the heart of Cannes, in the very chic area called Palm Beach.
Hotels in Cannes
Ideally located on the coast of the beautiful Mediterranean and with the town of Vallauris sitting in the hills behind it, there are plenty of lovely places to stay that provide peace or calm or put you in the heart of the bustling port.
Golfe Juan and Vallauris are home to a number of cosy and beautiful B&B’s that provide exceptional comfort and reasonable prices.
Hotels in Cannes
See all Hotels in Cannes-
Splendid Hotel
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.
-
Renoir Hotel
This hotel is a fully renovated ''glamour'' boutique hotel, a stone’s throw away from the Palais des Festivals, the Croisette beaches and the shops along Rue d’Antibes. It is anchored at the heart of life in Cannes.
-
Juana Hotel, Juan les Pins
Hotel Juana is a stylish 1930s landmark offering timeless elegance, refined service, and an enviable location on the French Riviera.
-
Tiara Miramar Beach Hotel, Theoule-sur-mer
Perched high above the Corniche d'Or in Théoule-sur-Mer, the five-star Tiara Miramar Beach Hotel & Spa boasts balconies and terraces that cascade down to a secluded private beach.
-
Cannes Villa St Barth Hotel
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.
-
Villa Garbo Luxury Aparthotel
Just minutes from the Croisette, La Villa Garbo is a luxury aparthotel offering refined serviced apartments in the heart of Cannes. Combining elegance with comfort, this discreet Belle Époque residence promises an exceptional stay with all the freedom and intimacy of a private apartment, plus the service of a boutique hotel.
How to get to Cannes
Transfers for Cannes
See all Transfers for Cannes-
Private airport transfers
From Nice airport to Cannes, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
-
Cannes Taxi
150 vehicles at your disposal for taxi services regionally and across the whole of France 24/7.
-
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.
-
Chabe Airport Transfers
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
-
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.
-
Private Jet and Helicopter Transfers
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.
Property For Sale in Cannes
Property for Sale in Cannes
See all Property for Sale in Cannes-
-
-
Apartment for Sale
A superb, completely refurbished apartment, boasting stunning sea views.
Apartment for Sale
€1,490,000 -
Villa for Sale, Alpes-Maritimes
Prime Location - walking distance to the centre
Villa for Sale, Alpes-Maritimes
€4,500,000 -
Apartment for Sale
Californie - Panoramic sea view - Corner apartment with terrace
Apartment for Sale
€1,750,000 -
Apartment for Sale
Modern two-bedroom apartment with sea views on La Croisette.
Apartment for Sale
€2,750,000
