Cote Dazur, France
Efficient planning before your trip minimizes last-minute stress.
A structured approach to pre-trip tasks guides your preparations.
Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area and issued within the last 10 years. Renew if needed.
If your nationality needs a Schengen visa, research the application process, required documentation, and apply in advance.
Book flights and main accommodation early, especially for high season or major events (Cannes Film Festival). Early booking secures better rates.
If specific tours (e.g., private boat charters, popular day trips) or fine dining experiences are planned, make reservations.
If you plan to rent a car and your national driving license is not from an EU/EEA country, obtain an IDP.
Make digital (cloud storage, email) and physical copies (stored separately from originals) of your passport, visa, and confirmations.
Acquire a Universal power adapter (Type E/C for France), a portable charger, and Travel-sized toiletries.
Inform your banks about your travel dates and destinations to prevent fraud alerts and card freezes while abroad.
Install navigation, translation, transport, and dining apps. Download offline maps and language packs. Pack medications and a basic first aid kit.
These steps also make for a smoother trip.
Research prior to your trip makes a difference.
Prepare your home for your absence.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Coverage should include medical emergencies, trip cancellation/interruption, and lost luggage. World Nomads is one option.
The first few hours in a new destination are often disorienting. This checklist helps you settle in efficiently.
Have your passport (and visa, if applicable) ready. Prepare to answer questions about your visit.
Proceed to the baggage claim area and retrieve your checked bags.
Follow signs to your pre-arranged or chosen mode of transport (train, bus, taxi) for transfer to Cannes.
Use your navigation app to find your hotel or rental.
Once settled, take a short walk to locate the nearest ATM, pharmacy, supermarket, and public bus stop.
Head to the main tourist office for up-to-date local maps, event schedules, and personalized advice.
Withdraw Euros from an ATM at the airport or once you arrive in Cannes.
This is generally the most convenient way to get cash.
If you have not arranged an eSIM, consider purchasing a local French SIM card.
Buy it at the airport or a mobile phone store for connectivity.
Have your booking confirmation and identification ready for a smooth check-in.
This helps speed up the process at your accommodation.
Locate your accommodation using your navigation app.
Follow the transfer plan you prepared in advance for transport from Nice Airport to Cannes.
A smooth departure makes for a positive end to your trip.
Time your journey to the airport carefully.
Cannes to Nice Airport travel time needs to be factored in, especially during peak season traffic.
By meticulously going through this pre-trip checklist, you approach your Cannes adventure feeling well-prepared.
