Visit Cannes
Between the glittering sea and the Provençal hinterland, Cannes unfolds its iconic Croisette boulevard lined with palaces and beaches, its lively Old Port and the hilltop Suquet district. The city of the Festival welcomes visitors and professionals from around the world throughout the year.
Why is Cannes known around the world?
Cannes is a seaside resort in the Alpes-Maritimes, famous for its International Film Festival founded in 1946, which has become one of the world's most celebrated cinema events. The city is also renowned for the Croisette, its luxury hotels, its beaches and the nearby Lérins Islands.
Cannes Highlights
Glamour, sunshine, cinema and nature: here is what makes Cannes a truly unique destination on the French Riviera.
La Croisette
The iconic boulevard lined with palaces, beaches and palm trees, the Croisette runs along the bay for over a kilometre and is the heart of Cannes's glamorous identity.
Cannes Film Festival
Founded in 1946, the Cannes International Film Festival is one of the world's most prestigious cinema events, drawing filmmakers and stars to the Croisette every May.
Lérins Islands
Minutes away by boat, Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat offer unspoilt nature, a historic fort and a Cistercian abbey founded in the 5th century by monks still active today.
Le Suquet District
The old town perched on its hill, Le Suquet keeps its cobbled lanes and the Notre-Dame d'Espérance church. Its panoramic view over Cannes Bay and the islands is exceptional.
Old Port and Market
The animated Old Port and the colourful covered Marché Forville set the rhythm of daily life in Cannes, with flowers, fish, fruit and Provençal specialities all on display.
Beaches and Sea
Cannes offers golden sandy beaches, both public and private, with an exceptional sunshine record. Water quality is consistently recognised throughout the summer bathing season.
What to discover in Cannes?
The Croisette boulevard is the symbol of Cannes: running along the bay for over a kilometre, it connects the Palais des Festivals to the private beaches and grand hotels that have hosted the world's greatest film stars. Behind the seafront, the Suquet district, the old town perched on its hill, offers a more authentic atmosphere with cobbled lanes, the Notre-Dame d'Espérance church and a panoramic view over the Bay of Cannes. The lively Old Port is the departure point for ferries to the Lérins Islands.
Just minutes away by boat, the islands of Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat make for an unmissable natural and historical excursion. The first shelters the royal fort where the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned, while the second has been home since the 5th century to a Cistercian abbey whose monks still produce wines and liqueurs. Cannes also offers a varied gastronomic scene and several lively markets, including the celebrated covered Marché Forville.
Practical Information for Cannes
Region
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Department
Alpes-Maritimes (06)
Population
Approx. 74,000 inhabitants
Area
19.6 km²
Time zone
UTC+1 (Central European Time)
Official language
French
Currency
Euro (€)
Best season
Spring and summer (May to September)
Cannes in pictures
Frequently Asked Questions about Cannes
How do you get to Cannes?
Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport, 25 km away, is the closest. From Nice, Cannes is accessible by train (30–40 min) or by car via the A8 motorway. From Paris, the TGV serves Nice in about 5.5 hours. Bus and shuttle services complement transport options from Nice Airport.
What is the best time to visit Cannes?
Spring (May–June) and summer (July–August) are the best periods to enjoy the beaches and the Mediterranean climate. May coincides with the Film Festival, which brings great energy to the city. Autumn is pleasant and quieter. Even in winter, the mild Riviera microclimate makes visits enjoyable.
Can you visit the Palais des Festivals?
The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès can be visited on guided tours organised by the Tourist Office outside major events. These tours allow you to discover the building's history, the Palme d'Or room and the behind-the-scenes areas of the Cannes Film Festival.
How do you reach the Lérins Islands from Cannes?
Ferries to the Lérins Islands depart from Cannes Old Port throughout the day. The crossing takes about 15 minutes to Sainte-Marguerite Island and 30 minutes to Saint-Honorat Island. It is advisable to head out early in high season to avoid the largest crowds.
What day trips can you take from Cannes?
From Cannes, it is easy to reach Antibes and the Picasso Museum, Grasse and its perfumeries, Nice 30 km away or Monaco 50 km away. The perched villages of the Grasse hinterland such as Mougins or Vence are accessible in half an hour for a taste of Provençal life.
Are there free beaches in Cannes?
Yes, Cannes has free public beaches accessible on foot from the Croisette. Private beaches charge for sunlounger and parasol rental. Outside the main tourist area, several quieter public beaches are reachable by bus or bicycle, offering a more relaxed alternative for sunbathing.
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