Things to see and do in Cannes
Top highlights and exclusive tips from travel experts
Plan your Trip
Your tailor-made itinerary – No cost, no commitment
Excellent
4.4 of 5
4,924Reviews
Excellent
Plan your Trip
Your tailor-made itinerary – No cost, no commitment
What should you do in Cannes?
Cannes blends seaside glamour with Riviera ease, framed by palm-lined boulevards and the glittering Mediterranean. Along La Croisette, luxury hotels, beach clubs, and designer boutiques overlook wide sandy beaches and bright blue water. Up in Le Suquet, the old town’s cobbled lanes and viewpoints offer a quieter, more historic side of Cannes, with sweeping views over the harbor and bay. You can take a short boat ride to the peaceful Lérins Islands, spend long afternoons at a beach restaurant, and end the day with a sunset walk along the promenade—Cannes is all about slowing down and savoring the light.
La Croisette
Where Riviera glamour meets sun-soaked seaside living
Le Suquet (Old Town)
History, charm, and sweeping bay views
Lérins Islands
A peaceful escape just minutes from Cannes
What to do in Cannes?
La Croisette
Cannes’ most iconic boulevard stretches along the Mediterranean, lined with palm trees, luxury boutiques, and elegant hotels. This sunlit promenade is perfect for leisurely walks, beachside lunches, or simply admiring the Riviera light dancing on the water.
View more details
Le Suquet (Old Town)
High above the marina, Le Suquet offers a quieter, more historic side of Cannes. Its steep cobblestone lanes lead to pretty squares, flowered balconies, and the hilltop Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance, where panoramic views sweep across the bay.
Palais des Festivals et des Congrès
Home of the world-famous Cannes Film Festival, this modern venue is the city’s red-carpet heart. Come any time of year to see the iconic steps, explore exhibitions, or visit during festival season to feel Cannes at its most glamorous.
Lérins Islands
Just a short boat ride from the pier, the Lérins Islands offer a peaceful escape from the city. Île Sainte-Marguerite charms with pine forests, walking paths, and clear coves, while Île Saint-Honorat is home to a serene monastery and quiet beaches perfect for swimming.
Vieux Port (Old Port)
At the foot of Le Suquet lies Cannes’ picturesque Old Port, where fishing boats and sleek yachts share the same calm waters. Morning markets, sea-facing cafés, and gentle breezes give this harbor a relaxed Riviera feel throughout the day.
Marché Forville
This beloved daily market showcases the flavors of Provence: fresh produce, local cheeses, olives, flowers, and seafood. Wander the aisles, chat with vendors, and sample regional specialties before heading to a nearby café for lunch.
Boulevard du Midi Beaches
Southwest of the city center, these long sandy beaches offer a quieter alternative to the main Croisette. With gentle waves and plenty of space, they’re ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or a relaxed afternoon by the sea.
Rue d’Antibes
One street back from La Croisette, Rue d’Antibes blends boutique shopping, small cafés, and bustling local energy. It’s a great place to browse French brands, pick up Riviera-style fashion, or enjoy a pastry on the go.
Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance
Set atop Le Suquet’s hillside, this 17th-century church is one of Cannes’ most atmospheric landmarks. Inside, you’ll find a quiet stone interior, while outside the square offers sweeping views of terracotta roofs, the marina, and the bay.
Port Pierre Canto
This elegant marina sits at the eastern end of La Croisette and offers a calmer, more refined experience than the bustling Vieux Port. Evening strolls here provide beautiful views of yachts, the sea, and the lights of Cannes reflected on the water.
Practical information for your trip
The ideal time to visit Bordeaux is from May to September, when warm temperatures and long sunny days make the city and coastline especially enjoyable. Spring and early fall offer fewer crowds and comfortable weather for sightseeing, boat trips, and exploring nearby villages.
Cannes has both. Much of La Croisette is lined with private beach clubs, but several public beaches are available as well, including Plage du Midi and Plage de la Bocca. Public beaches are free, while private clubs offer loungers, umbrellas, and restaurant service for a fee.
Absolutely. The city offers calm, shallow beaches, pedestrian-friendly promenades, boat trips, and family-friendly restaurants. Many hotels also provide family rooms and kids’ activities during summer.
Two to three days is perfect for seeing the highlights: La Croisette, Le Suquet, the Lérins Islands, and the markets. With four or more days, you can add day trips along the French Riviera or deeper exploration of the Esterel Mountains.
Cannes can be pricey, especially during the Film Festival and peak summer months. However, traveling in the shoulder seasons (April–June, September–October) offers better hotel rates and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Discover these exciting places too
Plan for free
Custom holiday packages and trips that fit your budget
Personalized for you
Itineraries built exactly to your needs
Private VIP guides
A personal English-speaking, native-European travel expert for every step
Peace-of-mind support
Full service assistance before, during, and after your trip
