Top 5 Essential Things to Do in Cannes
Cannes is more than red carpets — it’s beaches, old-town views, island escapes, markets, and Mediterranean light. Whether it’s your first visit or a quick day trip, this concise guide highlights the unmissable experiences to plan an effortless Cannes getaway.
A Brief History of Cannes
From Fishing Village to Film Capital
Once a humble fishing port, Cannes grew around Le Suquet’s hillside settlement. In the 19th century it blossomed into a winter resort for European aristocracy, and in 1946 the Cannes Film Festival cemented its global allure. Today, the Palais des Festivals, luxury boutiques, and yacht-filled marinas mingle with timeless lanes and local life.
Fun Facts About Cannes
- Red Carpet Fame: The Cannes Film Festival each May draws cinema’s elite to the Palais des Festivals.
- Two Islands, Two Vibes: Sainte-Marguerite (nature trails, sea museum) and Saint-Honorat (monastic vineyards).
- Shopping Spine: Rue d’Antibes is the city’s chic retail artery parallel to La Croisette.
- Old-World Core: Le Suquet overlooks the bay with panoramic views and Provençal charm.
- Year-Round Events: From Cannes Lions (June) to fireworks festivals in summer.
Glamour meets authenticity — all within a compact, walkable waterfront city.
1. Stroll La Croisette & Cannes Beaches
La Croisette is Cannes’ signature curve — palm-lined promenades, Belle Époque hotels, beach clubs, and endless sea views. Stop for a coffee, dip at public Plage Macé/Zamenhof, or book a lounger at a private beach for the full Riviera treat.
- Why go? Postcard scenery, easy swimming, classic Cannes atmosphere
- Local tip: Sunset light along the promenade is prime time for a relaxed walk and photos.
- Cost: Free (public beaches); private beaches paid
| Beach | Good For |
|---|---|
| Plage Macé | Central, family-friendly public stretch |
| Plage du Midi | Wide sandy bay west of the port |
| Private beaches | Loungers, service, restaurants |
2. Explore Le Suquet (Old Town)
Climb the cobbled lanes of Le Suquet to discover Cannes’ medieval heart, topped by the Notre-Dame d’Espérance church and a scenic viewpoint over the harbor and La Croisette.
At the base, dive into Marché Forville’s Provençal flavors — cheeses, olives, flowers, and seasonal produce.
- Why go? Historic lanes, skyline views, authentic food market
- Local tip: Visit the market in the morning (closed Mondays outside peak seasons).
3. Palais des Festivals & Film Spots
See the red‑carpet steps where film history is made each May. Stroll the Allée des Étoiles (handprints) and the Vieux Port for a star-studded sense of place — no invite required.
- Why go? Iconic photo op, movie heritage, harbor strolls
- Local tip: Early morning = fewer crowds on the steps.
4. Boat to the Lérins Islands
Hop a short ferry to Île Sainte‑Marguerite for pine-scented trails, coves, and the Fort Royal (with the Sea Museum). Or choose Île Saint‑Honorat for monastic calm, vineyards, and coastal paths.
- Why go? Nature escape minutes from the city
- Local tip: Pack water shoes; bring a picnic and a trash bag (leave no trace).
- Duration: Half‑day to full day
5. Shop & Snack: Rue d’Antibes & Marché Forville
Browse Rue d’Antibes for French brands and chic concept stores, then graze at Marché Forville for socca, cheeses, olives, and strawberries in season.
- Why go? Local taste + retail therapy in one loop
- Local tip: Many boutiques close at midday off‑season; check hours.
Where to Stay in Cannes
Sleep close to the action — beachfront icons, Le Suquet charm, or calm residential pockets.
- Budget: Hôtel des Allées – Simple rooms near Forville market.
- Mid‑range: Hôtel Barrière Le Gray d’Albion – Between Croisette and Rue d’Antibes.
- Luxury: Carlton Cannes – Belle Époque legend on La Croisette.
Best Restaurants in Cannes
From market‑fresh Provençal plates to fine dining by the bay:
- Marché Forville Bistros: Daily specials from hyper‑local produce.
- Le Suquet Tables: Elevated Riviera cuisine on quiet lanes.
- Beach Clubs: Long lunches with toes‑in‑the‑sand vibes.
Shopping in Cannes
Mix luxury maisons on La Croisette with accessible finds on Rue d’Antibes. Don’t miss local perfumeries, linens, olive oils, and artisan soaps.
- La Croisette: Flagship boutiques, jewelry, couture.
- Rue d’Antibes: French staples, shoes, beauty.
- Forville & side streets: Gourmet take‑homes, wine shops.
Cannes for Families
- Beaches: Gentle sands at Plage Macé & Plage du Midi.
- Islands: Easy trails and shallow coves on Sainte‑Marguerite.
- Mini‑trains & carousels: Seasonal fun along the promenade.
Many restaurants offer kids’ menus and shaded terraces. Morning beach time = calmer seas.
Free Things to Do in Cannes
- Walk La Croisette & Old Port
- Climb Le Suquet viewpoint
- Public beaches (Macé, Zamenhof, Midi)
- Window‑shop along Rue d’Antibes
- Sunset from the Quai Saint‑Pierre
When to Visit Cannes
Best overall: May–June & September for warm seas and fewer crowds (outside major events).
July–August are beachy and lively; spring and autumn balance great weather with calmer vibes. Winters are mild and quiet.
Weather in Cannes Throughout the Year
Mediterranean climate: sunny summers, gentle winters.
| Season | Avg. Temp (°C) | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | 13–20°C | Flowers, terrace lunches, ideal for walking |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 22–30°C | Beach days, late sunsets, busy calendar |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | 15–24°C | Warm seas, harvest flavors, softer light |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 9–15°C | Quiet promenades, mild coastal air |
Map & Layout Tips
Cannes is walkable along the bay. Trains/TER connect to Nice, Antibes, and Monaco. Ferries run to the Lérins Islands from the old port. For day trips, the station is central and frequent.
How to Get to Cannes
- By Train: Cannes station (TER, TGV) links the Riviera and Paris.
- By Air: Fly into Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE), then TER from Nice‑Saint‑Augustin or airport bus.
- By Car: A8 autoroute; paid garages near the center.
- By Ferry: Local boats to the Lérins Islands from Vieux Port.
Tip: During major events, pre‑book transport and stays early.
Nightlife & Evenings
- Seafront Cocktails: Hotel bars and beach lounges along La Croisette.
- Wine Bars: Around Le Suquet and Marché Forville lanes.
- Live Music: Seasonal gigs on the promenade and select venues.
Local Events & Festivals
- Cannes Film Festival: May – cinema’s most famous red carpet.
- Cannes Lions: June – global creativity festival.
- Festival d’Art Pyrotechnique: Summer fireworks over the bay.
- Cannes Yachting Festival: September – Europe’s leading in‑water boat show.
Plan Your Visit to Cannes
Mix beach time with island escapes, market lunches, and sunset strolls — Cannes is effortless Riviera living.
Experience Glamour by the Sea
From Film Spots to Quiet Coves
Build Your Itinerary
Travel Smart & Light
Ready to explore Cannes?
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely — beaches, islands, markets, and Old Town scenery make it a great stop for any traveler.
Yes. Trains from Nice or Antibes are fast; you can cover La Croisette, Le Suquet, and a beach in one day.
Sainte‑Marguerite for easy trails and coves; Saint‑Honorat for abbey quiet and vineyard walks.
Cannes Travel Itinerary Ideas
1‑Day
- Morning: Le Suquet & Marché Forville
- Afternoon: La Croisette & beach swim
- Evening: Sunset by the Old Port
2‑Days
- Day 1 as above
- Day 2: Lérins Islands (Sainte‑Marguerite) + boulevard stroll
3‑Days
- Add Saint‑Honorat, museum time, or a boat/yacht tour
Pro Tip: Use Cannes as a base for day trips to Antibes or Nice by TER.
Explore More French Riviera Highlights
Keep the coastal magic going — don’t miss our guides to Nice and Antibes.