Discover the Charm of Cannes

Getting There | where to stay | things to do | tours | eat and drink | know before you go

A holiday travel Guide to the Iconic French Riviera Town of Cannes

Cannes is a beautiful city located on the French Riviera, known for its glamorous film festival, luxury shops and yachts, and stunning beaches. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a fun-filled holiday with friends, Cannes has something for everyone.

Getting to Cannes

The nearest airport to Cannes is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, which is located just 30 minutes away by car or train. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus, taxi, or train to get to Cannes. If you’re driving, the A8 motorway connects Cannes to Nice and other nearby towns and cities.

Where to Stay in Cannes

Popular hotels in Cannes with sea views

Cannes offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly apartments and hostels.

Things to do in Cannes

The city caters to all interests and tastes. The city is known for its film festival, which takes place in May, but also offers a wide range of activities for visitors year-round.

The Croisette is the perfect place to take a stroll, admire the luxury yachts moored in the harbor, and take in the beautiful sea views. Along the promenade, you’ll find a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while watching the world go by.
The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès is the iconic venue where the Cannes Film Festival takes place, and you can take a tour of the building to learn more about the history of the festival.
The Suquet, the old town of Cannes, offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Here you can find the historic Cannes Castle, which dates back to the 12th century, as well as a number of other historic buildings and monuments.
For beach lovers, there are a number of beautiful beaches in Cannes, including the Croisette Beach, the Midi Beach, and the Plage du Martinez. These beaches offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Cannes also offers a wide range of shopping options, from luxury boutiques on the Croisette to charming local markets. The Forville Market is a great place to buy fresh produce, while the Marché de la Croissance is a popular spot for souvenirs and local crafts.
Cannes is also home to a number of excellent museums and galleries, including the Musée de la Castre, which features a collection of art and artifacts from the region, and the Musée de la Mer, which explores the history and culture of the Mediterranean.

Eat & Drink in Cannes

Cannes offers a wide range of authentic food and drink options that will tantalize your taste buds. Some must-try dishes include:

Bouillabaisse: A traditional fish stew from the Provence region, typically made with a variety of fish and shellfish, along with vegetables and herbs.
Socca: A traditional chickpea flour pancake that is a staple of the local cuisine.
Pissaladière: A type of pizza-like dish, typically topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives.
Pan Bagnat: A sandwich made with tuna, eggs, olives, and vegetables, typically served on a round roll.
Ratatouille: A vegetable stew made with eggplant, peppers, onions, and tomatoes.

In terms of drinks, some must-try options include:

Rosé wine: Cannes is located in the heart of the Provence wine region, and rosé wine is a local specialty.
Pastis: A popular anise-flavored liqueur that is often mixed with water and served as an aperitif.
Côtes de Provence: A type of wine that is made in the Provence region, and is typically a blend of different grape varieties.
Calvados: A type of apple brandy that is popular in the region.
Côte d’Azur Cocktail: A cocktail made with gin, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and grenadine, that is named after the French Riviera.

You can find many authentic restaurants and bars around the city, especially in the old town of Le Suquet, which offers a charming and authentic experience with some of the best restaurants, cafes, and bars in the city.

Travel Tips about Cannes

Cannes holidays are magical and here’s why…

Cannes has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. The best time to visit is between April and October when the weather is warm and sunny.

The currency in France is the Euro. It’s advisable to have cash with you as not all places accept credit cards and some places may charge extra for card payments.

Cannes has a good public transportation system, with buses and trains that run regularly. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive. Walking and biking are also great options to explore the city.

French is the official language, but many people in the tourist industry speak English.

Tipping is expected in restaurants and cafes, usually around 10-15% of the total bill.

Cannes is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially when it comes to pickpocketing and purse snatching.

Cannes is a glamorous city, and many restaurants and nightclubs have a dress code. It’s a good idea to dress up, especially in the evening.

Cannes is famous for its film festival, which takes place in May. If you’re planning to attend, book your accommodation and tickets well in advance.

Cannes has several public and private beaches, many of which offer sun loungers and parasols for rent. Some beaches charge a fee to access.

Cannes is known for its luxury boutiques and designer shops, but there are also many independent shops and markets where you can find unique and interesting items.

Cannes has a wide variety of restaurants, from casual bistros to gourmet Michelin-starred restaurants. There’s something for every taste and budget.

Cannes has a lively nightlife, with many bars and nightclubs to choose from. Like Monaco, some places have a strict dress code and can be quite exclusive.

Overall, Cannes is a great destination for holidays, with beautiful beaches, great weather, delicious food, and plenty of things to see and do. It’s a good idea to plan ahead and book your accommodation and tickets in advance, and to be aware of the local customs and practices.