If you are looking for the best things to do in Cannes, this guide includes the famous places, a few cultural stops, beautiful viewpoints, beaches, markets, and an easy island escape. Cannes may be associated with red carpets and luxury hotels, but the city has enough variety to fill one or two very enjoyable days.
Long before it became one of the most glamorous resorts on the Mediterranean, Cannes was a modest fishing village. Today, its elegant streets, chic cafes, grand hotels, sandy beaches, and white yachts make it one of the most famous destinations on the French Riviera.
If you are wondering what to do in Cannes beyond the red carpet, you will find that the city has a surprisingly varied personality. The glamorous side is impossible to miss, although the old town, market, islands, and public beaches reveal a much more relaxed destination.
Cannes was a kind of Cinderella destination on my French Riviera road trip. I had wanted to visit it for a long time, although I imagined it would be much larger in both surface area and population.
Once I arrived, I realized that Cannes fits the idea that the best things sometimes come in small packages. It is compact, easy to explore on foot, and a good choice even if you only have one day in Cannes.
I spent two nights here and walked almost everywhere, which gave me enough time to see the main Cannes attractions without rushing from one place to another. If you also want to visit the Lérins Islands or enjoy a few hours at the beach, two days will feel much more relaxed.
Fun facts about Cannes
- Cannes covers only 19.6 square kilometers and had a population of about 74,350 in 2023.
- Lord Brougham arrived in Cannes unexpectedly in 1834 after an epidemic interrupted his journey to Italy, and his decision to build a villa helped attract British aristocrats to the town.
- The first Cannes Film Festival took place in 1946, although an earlier edition had been planned for 1939 and was interrupted by the start of World War II.
- The current Palais des Festivals opened in 1983 and its famous entrance has 24 steps.
- Almost 450 actors and directors have left their handprints and signatures along the Chemin des Étoiles.
- Cannes has 7.6 kilometers of beaches, including 13 public beaches and dozens of private beach concessions.
- The Lérins archipelago includes four islands and islets, although visitors mainly explore Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat.
Where to stay in Cannes
Cannes is compact, but choosing the right area can save time and make the experience more enjoyable. Prices rise considerably during the Film Festival and other major events, so book early if your dates are not flexible.
- Budget accommodation:
- Mid range accommodation:
- Luxury accommodation:
15 things to do in Cannes
1. Walk along Promenade de la Croisette
Let us begin with the most famous of all the things to see in Cannes. La Croisette is a 2.5 kilometer boulevard that runs from the Palais des Festivals toward Palm Beach, with the Mediterranean on one side and luxury hotels and shops on the other.
The promenade has palm trees, landscaped areas, benches, beach clubs, and plenty of places to stop for photos. Some parts reminded me of Ocean Drive in Miami, although the grand facades of Cannes create a completely different atmosphere.
The Carlton is one of the most recognizable hotels along the boulevard, with more than a century of history and a long list of famous guests. Even if you are not staying there, the exterior is worth admiring if you love architecture as much as I do.
La Croisette is also an excellent place for people watching. You will see couples on holiday, business travelers, street performers, local residents, and tiny dogs dressed almost as elegantly as their owners.
Tip: Walk here early in the morning for softer light, fewer people, and better photos of the hotels and coastline.
2. Relax on the sandy beaches in Cannes
Spending a few hours by the sea is one of the best things to do in Cannes during the warmer months. Unlike many beaches around Nice, several beaches in Cannes have soft sand instead of pebbles, which makes a lazy afternoon much more comfortable.
The city has both private beach clubs and public beaches. Plage Mace is conveniently located near the Palais des Festivals, while the beaches along Boulevard du Midi are good options west of Le Suquet.
Private beach clubs charge for sunbeds and services, and prices vary widely depending on the location and season. The public beaches are free, so Cannes can still work well for travelers on a smaller budget.
Tip: Bring your own towel, water, and sun protection if you choose a public beach, especially in July and August.
3. Explore Le Suquet and its historic streets
Le Suquet is the oldest neighborhood in Cannes and the place where the city’s past feels most visible. Its sloping streets, stone houses, colorful shutters, small restaurants, and flower covered balconies are a pleasant contrast to the polished world of La Croisette.
The hill was once connected to the monks of Lérins, who controlled the medieval fortress above the settlement. Fishermen later lived around this area, long before Cannes became associated with celebrities and luxury yachts.
Walk up toward Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance and Place de la Castre for one of the most beautiful panoramas in the city. From the top, you can see the red rooftops, Vieux Port, the curve of the bay, and the Lérins Islands in the distance.
The climb is steep in a few places, but the view is worth the effort. Comfortable shoes will make the old cobbled streets much easier to enjoy.
⇒ Book your ticket for a 1 or 2-Hour Segway Tour and explore the main parts of Cannes
4. Visit the Musée des Explorations du Monde
The former Musée de la Castre has been called the Musée des Explorations du Monde since 2021. It occupies part of the medieval castle above Le Suquet and contains Mediterranean antiquities, ethnographic objects, artworks, and musical instruments from different parts of the world.
One of the highlights is the square medieval tower, reached by 109 steps. The panorama from the top covers Cannes, La Croisette, the bay, and the islands, so it combines culture with another excellent viewpoint.
Opening days and hours change during the year, and the museum sometimes closes while exhibitions are being installed. Check the official museum page before visiting.
5. See the Palais des Festivals and its red carpet
The Palais des Festivals is one of the top things to do in Cannes, even if the modern building itself may not impress everyone. I still think a more ornate Belle Epoque palace would have suited the glamorous event better, but this is obviously my very subjective architectural opinion.
The present building opened in 1983 and has become one of the most recognizable places in international cinema. Its 24 famous steps are covered by the red carpet during the festival, and visitors can usually stop outside for a classic Cannes photo.
The Festival de Cannes takes place every May, but access to the official festival areas and most screenings requires accreditation. Public options include Cinema de la Plage screenings during the event, subject to capacity and the program for that edition.
Tip: Festival dates bring huge crowds and much higher hotel prices, so book several months ahead if you specifically want to experience Cannes in May.
READ ALSO: From Nice to Eze Village – French Riviera’s hidden gems
6. Shop on Rue d’Antibes and Rue Meynadier
Rue d’Antibes is one of the busiest shopping streets in Cannes and runs parallel to La Croisette. The buildings have beautiful facades, while the shops include French labels, international brands, cosmetics, accessories, and several familiar names such as Zara and H&M.
For a more traditional atmosphere, continue toward pedestrianized Rue Meynadier. This historic street is lined with food shops, bakeries, clothing stores, and small places where you can look for local products and souvenirs.
The original route of Rue d’Antibes once formed part of the road connecting Cannes with Antibes. Today, it is a good place to browse even if your luggage has absolutely no room for another purchase.
READ ALSO:
Epic COLMAR itinerary – 2 days in Colmar France
7. Follow the Chemin des Étoiles
The Chemin des Étoiles is Cannes’ answer to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, although here the stars leave handprints and signatures. Almost 450 actors and directors are represented around the Palais des Festivals and nearby streets.
You can look for names such as Catherine Deneuve, Jodie Foster, Sylvester Stallone, Sharon Stone, and Spike Lee. It is a quick, free activity and an easy addition to a one day in Cannes itinerary.
READ ALSO: 3 Alsace Villages to visit in one day
8. Walk around Vieux Port
Vieux Port sits beside the Palais des Festivals and below Le Suquet. Fishing boats, sailing boats, and enormous yachts share the harbor, creating one of the most characteristic views in Cannes.
The Cannes Yachting Festival is held here every September, when the port becomes even more impressive and considerably busier. Ferries and sightseeing cruises also depart from the waterfront, including services to the Lérins Islands.
Walk along Quai Saint Pierre and look back toward Le Suquet for a beautiful composition of boats, pastel buildings, and the old town on the hill. This is one of my favorite photo angles in the city.
⇒ Book a trip to Calanques of the Esterel
⇒ Take a ferry to Ste. Marguerite Island
9. Visit Marché Forville
Marché Forville is the best place to see a more local side of Cannes. The stalls sell fruit, vegetables, cheese, flowers, Provençal products, and fresh fish from the Bay of Cannes.
The market normally operates in the morning, from Tuesday to Sunday outside summer and every morning in July and August. Renovation work has affected its layout, so check the current location and schedule before you go.
Arrive before late morning for the best selection and a livelier atmosphere. You can also try local specialties such as socca, tapenade, olives, and seasonal fruit while exploring the area.
10. Admire the architecture of Cannes
Cannes is especially enjoyable for travelers who love architecture. The city mixes Belle Epoque hotels, ornamented villas, pastel facades, wrought iron balconies, Art Deco details, and several modern buildings that create some interesting contrasts.
La Croisette has the most famous palace hotels, while quieter residential streets reveal elaborate villas surrounded by palm trees, citrus trees, and flowers. Lord Brougham’s arrival in 1834 encouraged other wealthy British visitors to build winter residences here, helping transform the old fishing town into an international resort.
I could spend hours looking at the facades, balconies, columns, and small decorative details. Cannes rewarded this habit on almost every street.
⇒ Explore Cannes on a 2.5 hour E-bike tour
11. Take a boat trip to the Lérins Islands
A trip to the Lérins Islands is one of the most rewarding and unique things to do in Cannes. Boats reach the two main islands from the city in around 15 to 20 minutes, replacing the busy boulevards with clear water, forest paths, small coves, and centuries of history.
Sainte-Marguerite is the largest island and is known for Fort Royal, where the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned. It also has walking trails through pine and eucalyptus trees, quiet swimming spots, and an underwater museum with sculptures by Jason deCaires Taylor.
Saint-Honorat is smaller and has been home to a monastic community for around 16 centuries. The Cistercian monks still produce wine, liqueur, honey, and olive oil, while the monastery and fortified tower give the island a peaceful, historic atmosphere.
Ferry schedules and prices vary by season, and different companies serve the two islands. Plan at least half a day for one island and bring water, sun protection, and comfortable shoes.
Popular boat trips from Cannes include:
12. Find the cinema murals around Cannes
Cannes has turned several walls into an open-air museum dedicated to cinema. The murals are scattered around the city and feature characters or artists connected with films, including Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, Alain Delon, and Jean-Paul Belmondo.
Some are close to the center and easy to include while walking between the main Cannes attractions. The official Painted Walls guide lists the subjects and addresses, which makes planning a small self-guided route much easier.
Tip: Do not try to reach the Pop Art wall inside the Ferrage road tunnel on foot, because pedestrian access is prohibited.
13. Visit La Malmaison contemporary art center
La Malmaison is one of the most important recent additions to this Cannes travel guide. The historic building on La Croisette reopened in January 2025 after a major renovation that expanded its exhibition area from 207 to 600 square meters.
The center now has galleries across three levels, temporary contemporary art exhibitions, a bookshop, and a panoramic terrace facing La Croisette and the Mediterranean. Check the current exhibition and opening hours, because the building closes while exhibitions are being installed or removed.
14. Watch the sunset by the sea
What would a glamorous seaside resort be without a beautiful sunset? I spent only two nights in Cannes, but both evenings gave me colorful skies and a very good reason to stay near the water a little longer.
The beaches west of Le Suquet are especially convenient for sunset views, while Vieux Port adds boats and the old town to the background. Bring something to sit on and arrive before the sun begins to disappear, because the best colors sometimes arrive earlier than expected.
Watching the sunset is one of the most romantic things to do in Cannes if you travel with your partner. I can understand why the city is also popular for honeymoons and special occasions.
15. Enjoy the evening atmosphere in Cannes
Cannes feels different after sunset, when the terraces fill up and the hotels, yachts, and palm-lined streets begin to glow. Le Suquet is a lovely area for dinner, while La Croisette works well for an evening walk beside the sea.
You will find elegant restaurants, relaxed cafes, rooftop bars, casinos, and several places for late drinks. Prices can be high around the famous hotels, so check menus before sitting down if you are traveling on a budget.
The cheerful holiday atmosphere was one of the things I noticed from my first evening in the city. Even a simple walk after dinner felt like part of the Cannes experience.
15. The unforgettable holiday atmosphere
The last reason is the highly positive vibe of the city that I felt from the first moments.
Everything seems like an endless holiday in which the world is joyful.
The terraces are full of people having fun, eating delicious food, and simply enjoying life.
Undoubtedly, there are many places where to go out in Cannes.
Things to know before visiting Cannes
How many days do you need in Cannes?
One full day is enough for La Croisette, the Palais des Festivals, Vieux Port, Marché Forville, and Le Suquet. Two days are better if you want to add a beach break, museums, or a trip to the Lérins Islands.
What is the best time to visit Cannes?
Late spring and early autumn usually offer warm weather with fewer crowds than July and August. May is exciting because of the Film Festival, but accommodation becomes much more expensive and parts of the center are extremely busy.
How do you travel from Nice to Cannes?
The direct train is normally the easiest option and takes around 30 to 40 minutes from Nice Ville, depending on the service. Cannes station is centrally located, only a short walk from Rue d’Antibes, the Palais des Festivals, and La Croisette.
How do you get around Cannes?
Most central attractions are close enough to explore on foot. Local Palm Bus services are useful for La Bocca, Palm Beach, and places outside the compact center, while an electric shuttle connects the Town Hall area with Le Suquet.
Are there free beaches in Cannes?
Yes, Cannes has 13 public beaches in addition to private beach clubs and one beach under municipal management. Public beaches are free, although facilities and available space vary.
Is Cannes expensive?
Cannes can be expensive, especially during major events and in the hotels, restaurants, and beach clubs along La Croisette. Walking the promenade, exploring Le Suquet, visiting the public beaches, finding the murals, and seeing the handprints are all free.
Can tourists attend the Cannes Film Festival?
The main festival is primarily reserved for film industry professionals and accredited participants. Members of the public can still enjoy the atmosphere outside the Palais and may attend public events such as Cinema de la Plage, depending on the program and available seats.
Is a trip to the Lérins Islands worth it?
Yes, especially if you have at least two days in Cannes or want a break from the busy center. Sainte-Marguerite is better for nature, swimming, and Fort Royal, while Saint-Honorat is ideal for monastic history, vineyards, and a quieter atmosphere.
Is Cannes worth visiting?
Cannes is worth visiting if you enjoy seaside walks, architecture, viewpoints, beaches, markets, and a little glamour. It is compact enough for a day trip, yet varied enough to keep you busy for a weekend.
Hey Bella 🙂 I just wanted to say your blog is absolutely beautiful <3 I loved this article on Cannes (I'm french) it made me remember how incredibly chill life is in the South of France…. Thank you for making me go back with your amazing pictures