Things To Do
in Cannes
Cannes sits on the French Riviera, renowned for its glamorous seafront, world-famous film festival, and sun-drenched beaches. The city blends elegant promenade culture with a historic hillside old town full of Provençal charm. Lined by palm trees, the Croisette showcases luxury hotels, chic boutiques, and blue Mediterranean waters.
Beyond the glamour, Cannes offers markets, museums, and easy access to the Lerins Islands and Esterel coast for day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the narrow streets of Le Suquet, the old quarter of Cannes. Visit the historic Notre-Dame d'Esperance church, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city and the bay. Take a moment to appreciate the charming architecture and vibrant colors of the buildings that line the cobblestone paths.
After a leisurely lunch at a local café, immerse yourself in the history of Cannes by visiting the Musée de la Castre. This museum, located in a former monastery, showcases a fascinating collection of art and artifacts from around the world. As you wander through the exhibits, take in the panoramic views of the coastline from the museum's tower.
As the sun sets, head to the iconic Boulevard de la Croisette for a leisurely evening walk. The promenade comes alive with lights and the sounds of laughter from nearby restaurants and bars. Enjoy a fine dining experience at a beachfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while listening to the gentle waves lapping at the shore.
Enjoy a sunny morning at Plage de la Croisette, where you can relax on the soft sands or take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea. Rent a sunbed and umbrella for the perfect spot to soak up the sun while sipping on a refreshing drink. For the adventurous, try your hand at paddleboarding or jet skiing to kick off the day with excitement.
After a morning of sun and fun, indulge in a leisurely lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants, sampling local seafood specialties. Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach, or join a guided snorkeling tour to discover the underwater beauty of the nearby islands. The vibrant marine life will leave you in awe, offering a unique perspective of Cannes' natural beauty.
As dusk approaches, return to your accommodation to freshen up before heading out for the evening. Explore the local nightlife by visiting a beach bar for cocktails and live music, where the atmosphere is lively and vibrant. Alternatively, enjoy a sunset cruise along the coastline, providing a stunning backdrop as you sip champagne and take in the views.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $60-100 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $8-12 |
| 🏨One-night mid-range hotel | $120-250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastline and iconic film festival fame
- Excellent seafood and Provençal cuisine
- Walkable old town, easy day trips to Lerins Islands and Esterel coast
- Seasonal crowds during the festival and peak summer
- High prices in tourist areas
- Some beaches require paid access or sunbed fees
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Y a-t-il une option végétarienne ?" - Is there a vegetarian option?
Places to Visit in Cannes
Visit one of these nice places.
Long, palm-lined boulevard with golden beaches, luxury hotels, and sea views; best at sunrise or golden hour.
Iconic red carpet venue along the harbor; photograph the glass-fronted building and the glittering sea backdrop.
Historic hillside streets, wind-tattered towers, and panoramic views over Cannes and the bay.
Colorful market stalls and bustling quay provide vibrant, everyday life photography opportunities.
Azure water, pine forests, and the fortress of Fort Royal offer atmospheric island photography (from the water or shore).
Food in Cannes
Cannes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A briny seafood stew traditionally from nearby Marseille, often served with rouille and croutons, available at seaside restaurants.
Must-Try!
A classic mix of tomatoes, tuna, hard-boiled eggs, olives, anchovies, and green beans, best enjoyed in a bistro with a view of the sea.
A chickpea pancake crispy around the edges, commonly enjoyed as a street-food snack or light lunch along the market streets.
Olive paste often spread on bread, a staple at Provencal markets and seaside tavernas.
Provençal onion tart with olives and anchovies, a rustic bite popular in Nice and coastal towns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market in Old Cannes offering fresh produce, olives, cheeses and flower stalls.
Casual options along the old port and quays, with local snacks like socca and panisses and fresh grilled seafood.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple Bonjour or Bonsoir when entering shops or restaurants; use 'Madame/Monsieur' in formal settings.
French is preferred; many service staff speak some English, but learning a few phrases is appreciated.
Dress modestly for churches and religious sites; maintain a calm demeanor in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Cannes
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is included at many high-end restaurants; it’s customary to round up the bill or leave 5-10% if service is not included.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for markets and small vendors; contactless payments common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures, blooming bougainvillea, and fewer crowds; great for outdoor markets and coastal walks.
Warm to hot days, peak beach season, and festival crowds; expect longer lines and vibrant nightlife.
Pleasant weather returns with fewer visitors; sea still warm enough for swimming and boating.
Mild, with occasional rain; open-air patios are quieter, but many events around the film festival season keep the city lively.
Cannes at Night
Hiking in Cannes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hiking along red volcanic rock cliffs with sweeping sea views near Theoule-sur-Mer.
Gentle climbs through the cobblestone streets of Cannes' old town with viewpoints over the bay.
Easy to moderate hikes on the island with forested paths and coastal scenery.
Airports
How to reach Cannes by plane.
Major international gateway, about 25-40 minutes from Cannes by car or train, with direct flights to many destinations.
Small regional airport offering general aviation, private flights, and some charter services; convenient for quick access to the coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly French families and retirees living in Cannes or nearby towns along the Riviera.
International residents and seasonal workers who come for tourism, the film festival, and hospitality roles.
International visitors drawn by beaches, festivals, and coastal towns, with a varied mix of ages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Riviera is famous for sailing and water sports; many clubs rent boats and offer lessons.
Several clubs and public courts around Cannes, with scenic coastal views.
Jog along the Croisette and play beach volleyball or paddleboard at designated waterfront zones.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cannes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Provençal cuisine can be veggie-friendly: look for ratatouille, grilled vegetables, salads with olives and feta; ask for cheese or egg toppings; many places can adapt dishes on request.