Cannes, the city
If you're looking for an exceptional vacation destination that combines a passion for cinema, cultural richness and natural beauty, Cannes is your ideal answer. This emblematic city, famous for its international film festival, is a true crossroads of history and modernity, elegance and conviviality.
Explore Cannes and discover its preserved heritage, sandy beaches, dreamy islands, charming port, lively markets, gourmet restaurants and exclusive boutiques. Cannes is a dynamic, innovative and influential city, radiating far beyond the borders of France. Alpes Maritimes and region Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.
This article invites you to dive into the world of Cannes, offering you a comprehensive guide to its history, iconic locations, tips and major events. Cannes promises to fill you with wonder and captivate your heart!
Discovering Cannes: between history and modernity
A brief history of the town
The town of Cannes, now renowned for its glamorous, cosmopolitan glow, has its roots in the Middle Ages, when it was a simple village of fishermen and monks associated with the Lérins Islands.
The town has gone through tumultuous times, marked by Franco-English and Franco-Spanish confrontations around its islands.
The arrival of the English and Russian aristocracy in the 19th century, attracted by the mild climate and beautiful scenery, marked the beginning of the town's metamorphosis. The construction of luxurious villas and hotels gave Cannes its characteristic prestige and elegance.
It has become a destination of choice for Europe's elite.
Cannes today: a city looking to the future
In the 20th century, Cannes forged an international reputation with the launch of the Film Festival, attracting film celebrities to the Croisette every year. The city became an emblem of glamour, art and culture, but also of innovation and creation, hosting a variety of events and conventions linked to yachting, advertising, real estate and new technologies.
Cannes also offers an exceptional lifestyle, with its rich natural and historical heritage: beaches, islands, harbor, old quarter, museum, casino, etc. Its varied cultural and sporting program includes shows, concerts, exhibitions, festivals and fireworks.
Constantly evolving, Cannes knows how to reinvent itself without losing its unique charm and identity.
Cannes must-sees
La Croisette: a boulevard of dreams
La Croisette, Cannes' emblematic boulevard, stretches along the bay, offering magnificent views of the sea and islands. Here you'll find the finest hotels, luxury boutiques, elegant restaurants and sumptuous palaces.
The Cannes Film Festival comes to life here, with its famous "montée des marches" and red carpet. The Croisette is the perfect place to stroll, admire the scenery, dream or be seen.
The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès: at the heart of glamour
The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, the symbol of Cannes, hosts the Film Festival and many other important events. It's the vibrant heart of the city, bustling with screenings, meetings, debates, awards ceremonies and parties.
A meeting place for film stars, professionals, journalists, fans and the curious, this is the theater where the excellence of cinema is revealed.
The Lérins Islands: a nature getaway
The îles de Lérins archipelago, off the coast of Cannes, comprises the islands of Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat. Accessible by boat, they offer a haven of peace and nature, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
On Sainte-Marguerite, discover the Fort Royal, prison of the Man in the Iron Mask, and the Musée de la Mer. On Saint-Honorat, visit Lérins Abbey, built by monks in the 5th century, and taste the wine they produce.
Le Suquet: the old Cannes
Le Suquet, a historic district perched on a hill, offers exceptional views over Cannes. It is home to the remains of the medieval castle of the Lords of Cannes, now the Musée de la Castre, and the 16th-century church of Notre-Dame-de-l'Espérance.
With its cobbled streets, ancient buildings, artisanal boutiques and traditional restaurants, Le Suquet is an invitation to discover the picturesque charm of Cannes.
Everyday life in Cannes: tips and good addresses
Eating out in Cannes: between gastronomy and small bistros
Cannes, with its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, is a gourmet's paradise. Enjoy local specialties such as socca, pissaladière, salade niçoise, ratatouille, pan bagnat, bouillabaisse and daube provençale. Or treat yourself to an exceptional meal in one of the city's Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Palme d'Or, Fouquet's or Park 45. For a more casual experience, don't miss the small bistros such as Bistrot Gourmand, Petit Paris or Café Florian.
Shopping in Cannes: from haute couture to local markets
Shopping enthusiasts will be delighted in Cannes, thanks to a varied offer ranging from haute couture to local markets. The Croisette is home to prestigious names such as Chanel, Dior, Prada and Cartier. For more affordable shopping, head to Rue d'Antibes, where you'll find Zara, H&M and Mango, among others. You can also immerse yourself in the local atmosphere by exploring markets such as Forville, Gambetta or the provençal market.
Getting around Cannes: tips and means of transport
Getting around Cannes is easy and pleasant, with several options at your disposal. Explore the city on foot to enjoy its unique climate and charm. The bus, with a single fare of 1.50 euros, serves all neighborhoods. By train, you can discover other Côte d'Azur towns such as Nice, Antibes and Monaco. For even more freedom, consider renting a bike, car, scooter or even a boat.
Housing: from luxury to more affordable options
Cannes offers accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. Stay in a palace like the Carlton, Majestic or Martinez for a luxury experience. For a more modest but comfortable choice, consider hotels like the Splendid, Cavendish or Renoir. Renting an apartment, villa or homestay via Airbnb, Booking or Homelidays is also an option. For a more convivial and economical experience, opt for a campsite, youth hostel or B&B.
Conclusion
Cannes, with its irresistible charmis the perfect destination for all types of stay: leisure, cultural or business. This iconic city promises memorable experiences, whether you're traveling alone, as a couple, with family or friends. It welcomes you with open arms, ready to share its bright sunshine, magnificent beaches, rich heritage, glamorous atmosphere and infectious joie de vivre.
Don't let this opportunity pass you by: book your trip to Cannes today and get ready to experience the holiday of your dreams in an exceptional city!
FAQ
Where to go for a walk in Cannes?
For an unforgettable walk, here are two must-sees to suit your preferences:
- La Croisette: Cannes' emblematic 2 km-long promenade along the sea, the Croisette offers a breathtaking view of the bay and the Lérins islands. Between palaces, luxury boutiques and the Palais des Festivals, stage of the famous Cannes Film Festival, it's the perfect place for a stroll, shopping or simply enjoying a drink on the terrace.
- Le Suquet : Discover the charm of Cannes' historic district, perched on a hill overlooking the city. Stroll through its picturesque alleyways, explore the Museum of World Explorations, admire the square tower and Notre-Dame-de-l'Espérance church, and enjoy panoramic views of the harbor and Croisette from the belvedere. Immerse yourself in Cannes' Provencal heritage and atmosphere.
What's Cannes like?
Located on the Côte d'Azur in the Alpes-Maritimes region, Cannes is famous for its international film festival, its magnificent Croisette promenade, its sandy beaches, the Lérins islands and its rich architectural heritage.
Why go to Cannes?
There are many reasons to visit the city, depending on your interests:
- Film lovers : The Cannes Film Festival, a major cinematic event, attracts lovers of the 7th art every May, offering a unique opportunity to see the stars, the films in competition and immerse yourself in the world of cinema.
- Nature lovers: Cannes seduces visitors with its fine sandy beaches, the Lérins islands and Mediterranean climate, ideal for water sports, swimming or discovering the history of the mysterious Iron Mask on Sainte-Marguerite Island.
What's the real name of Cannes?
The name Cannes, unchanged today, has its origins in the Ligurian word Canoameaning "summit" or "height", referring to the fortified village on the hill. From Canoas, the name evolved through various forms such as Canua, Canoïs, Canue and Cano, before being officially adopted in 1793.
