Cote Dazur, France
This iconic building forms the heart of Cannes' international fame, serving as the official venue for the annual Cannes Film Festival. Its distinctive, modern architecture stands prominently at the end of La Croisette. Most famous for its red carpeted steps, known as "Les Marches" (The Steps), where countless film stars and celebrities walk during the festival.
External viewing is free and accessible 24/7. You can walk up the famous red carpet steps (when not covered for an event) and take photos. Access inside the Palais is generally limited unless attending an event, conference, or a guided tour (schedules vary). Look for the "Chemin des Étoiles" (Walk of Stars) on the pavement with handprints and signatures.
The Musée de la Mer is accessible by a regular ferry service from Cannes' Vieux Port. An entry fee (typically around €6.50) is charged for the museum.
This small, picturesque archipelago lies just a short ferry ride off the coast of Cannes, presenting a refreshing natural escape. Consists of Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat, both known for unspoiled beauty and clear waters.
The larger island, offering extensive walking trails, secluded coves for swimming, and the historic Fort Royal. It also features the Eco-Musée Sous-Marin, an underwater sculpture park.
The quieter and more spiritual island, home to an active Cistercian monastery where monks produce wine and liqueurs. It presents a tranquil atmosphere and vineyards.
La Croisette Beaches are a mix of public and private sandy beaches. Plage du Midi & Plage de la Bocca, to the west of the Vieux Port, are wider public sandy beaches, generally less crowded.
Located west of Cannes, this dramatic mountain range is known for its striking red porphyry rock cliffs. The landscape is rugged and wild, presenting breathtaking scenery and hiking opportunities.
Beyond the well-known attractions, Cannes is a few quieter, lesser-known spots that present unique experiences or a local perspective.
While the Palais des Festivals is a major landmark, many visitors overlook the "Chemin des Étoiles." Here, concrete imprints of film stars' hands and signatures are embedded into the pavement around the Palais des Festivals. It is Cannes' answer to Hollywood's Walk of Fame.
A large natural park located on a hill above Cannes, presenting a peaceful escape from the city's bustle. This park features walking and jogging trails through Mediterranean vegetation, picnic spots, and various viewpoints.
From Parc de la Croix-des-Gardes, discover truly panoramic vistas of Cannes, its bay, the Lérins Islands, and the Esterel Massif. It is a favorite spot for locals seeking fresh air and exercise.
The park is an ideal spot for a morning walk or a sunset viewing, presenting a different perspective of Cannes' beauty. It is free to enter, accessible by car or a longer uphill walk from the city center.
Take some time to stroll around the Palais, actively seeking out the handprints of your favorite actors and directors. This a fun, free activity connected to cinematic history.
Find handprints and signatures of film celebrities embedded in the pavement around the Palais des Festivals.
Enjoy trails, picnic spots, and panoramic views of Cannes and the coastline from this natural park.
Traditional fishing boats moor alongside extravagant superyachts, creating a striking visual contrast. A lively place for local fishermen.
The Vieux Port (Old Port) represents a traditional maritime atmosphere. Here, traditional fishing boats moor alongside extravagant superyachts, creating a striking visual contrast.
Cannes has stunning natural beauty, notably its coastline, beaches, and nearby islands, offering many water-based activities.
Its prime location on the Mediterranean, bordered by hills and the Esterel Massif, makes it an excellent base for various outdoor pursuits.
Cannes' most famous beaches stretch along the promenade. These are a mix of public and private (hotel-owned) sandy beaches.
The calm waters of the Bay of Cannes are ideal for a variety of water sports.
A unique experience awaits at the Eco-Musée Sous-Marin, an underwater sculpture park near Île Sainte-Marguerite.
For more challenging hikes, head west to the Esterel Massif. This rugged, red-rock landscape presents steep climbs, dramatic coastal paths, and trails.
The Vieux Port (Old Port) serves as a captivating attraction, embodying Cannes' maritime heritage and its present-day luxury.
Traditional fishing boats moor alongside extravagant superyachts, creating a striking visual contrast. The port is a lively place for local fishermen unloading their catch.
Beyond fishing, the Vieux Port is a departure point for ferries to the Lérins Islands and a showcase for impressive superyachts.
From the port, you get glimpses into both the city's maritime heritage and its modern luxury. It is a good spot for people-watching and photography.
Wander around the port freely and observe the bustling activity. Enjoy a coffee at a waterside cafe.
Catch a ferry from the Vieux Port to the beautiful Lérins Islands for a peaceful escape.
Walk up the famous red carpet steps and explore the "Chemin des Étoiles" (Walk of Stars) for celebrity handprints.
Book City ToursExplore the medieval château with its diverse art collections and climb the tower for panoramic views of Cannes.
Get TicketsVisit the historic fortress on Sainte-Marguerite Island, home to the "Man in the Iron Mask" cell and the Musée de la Mer.
Explore Fort RoyalCannes' most famous promenade. It is ideal for leisurely strolls, people-watching, and absorbing the city's glamorous atmosphere.
One of Cannes' oldest and most charming pedestrian streets, retaining much of its traditional character.
Cannes presents a diverse mix of glamour, history, and nature.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring Le Suquet and the islands. Plan your itinerary to combine different types of attractions efficiently. Consider purchasing tickets for major attractions online in advance.
Cannes presents ample opportunities for relaxation, from luxurious spas to natural settings.
Many luxury hotels on La Croisette feature high-end spas, presenting a range of treatments from massages and facials to hydrotherapy.
The numerous private beach clubs along La Croisette offer a luxurious way to relax.
While some local studios in Cannes present drop-in yoga or meditation classes, dedicated multi-day retreats.
No natural hot springs directly in Cannes. For such experiences, travel to other regions of France.
Cannes comes alive after dark, presenting a range of entertainment options from live music to glamorous nightclubs.
Théâtre Croisette: A smaller, more intimate venue for plays and local productions. Le Baoli: A famous nightclub with glamorous parties and celebrity sightings.
For late-night entertainment, Cannes has multiple options including lively bars and casinos.
Gotha Club (Seasonal): A large outdoor nightclub during summer with international DJs.
Marché Forville is the main covered market (closed Mondays). Marché Gambetta is a smaller covered market with food, flowers, and clothing. Marché La Bocca provides a more everyday shopping experience.
Explore smaller shops in Le Suquet and along Rue Meynadier for local crafts, Provençal fabrics, ceramics, handmade jewelry, and artisanal products. Perfect for unique souvenirs.
La Croisette is the destination for high-end luxury shopping with flagship stores of world-renowned designer brands. Rue d'Antibes presents a mix of accessible luxury brands and independent boutiques.
