Cannes is a picturesque and glitzy destination filled with sunbathers on its main beach, grand 19th-century villas, intimate theatre venues and historic museums. Cannes is world famous for the Cannes Film Festival but is an alluring destination year-round with its Mediterranean islands, bustling local markets and nightlife.
Things to do in Cannes
The Boulevard de la Croisette is a famed waterfront strip in Cannes where you’ll find a palm-lined promenade, glamorous palace-style hotels, fine dining restaurants and boutiques. Relax on one of the sun loungers on the golden beach overlooking the Baie de Cannes, swim in the calm waters or dine at inviting restaurants, such as Vega Luna or L’Ondine, known for its Mediterranean cuisine.
Immerse yourself in Cannes’ vibrant history at the Musée de la Castre, where you can marvel at 19th-century Riviera landscape paintings, priceless musical instruments and a treasured medieval tower. Afterwards, head over to La Malmaison to explore the works of 20th and 21st-century artists in a former hotel.
Do you love exploring the Mediterranean coast and islands? Catch a ferry over to the Lérins Islands, an archipelago with four islands, including the Île de Saint-Honorat. Here you’ll find a community of Cistercian monks and medieval monasteries. Hop across to Ile St Marguerite to see where the infamous “Man in the Iron Mask” was held captive in the Fort of St Marguerite.
Time your visit to Cannes for the world-famous Cannes Film Festival, held every year in the contemporary Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. If you prefer to discover the region’s natural spoils, head to the Saigne river, where you can go canyoning, canoeing or hiking. Immerse yourself in the local culture at Marché Forville, a market with seafood, flowers and local produce.
Getting around Cannes
You can fly into Cote d'Azur International Airport, which is a 30-minute drive from Cannes. The city is easily explored on foot but is also well serviced by public buses, taxis and VTC transportation.