In this fun-and-friendly guide, we will assist you in discovering the best of Cannes, including historic old cities to lunch spots overlooking the sea in a style that does not seem like you are reading a tourist booklet. Oh, and if you’re looking for where to stay, we’ll also talk about holiday rentals Cannes France, that travelers like you are loving right now.
Let’s start wandering!
La Croisette: The Beachfront Star of Cannes
Imagine a promenade with palm trees on the edge and views to the sparkling blue of the sea, luxury shops, beach clubs and fashion cafes; this is indeed La Croisette.
This is where Cannes truly comes alive and this is the most lively promenade at night with the setting sun casts everything in gold. You can go on a biking trip, go on a long walk, or simply take a coffee. It is where celebs walk-in film season, though it is also ideal for families, couples, or single travelers.
Travel tip: Take a drink or a seafood platter at the Carlton Beach Club. It is classy, though not snobby, and you feel like being in the movies.
Le Suquet: Old Town Charm & City Views
When you like cobbled streets and the local flair, you will love Le Suquet, the old town of Cannes nestled on a hill beyond the port.
Take the meandering lanes and discover small shops that are made by artisans, small restaurants and neighborhood bakers. This will take you to the highest point, where you will strike the Church of Our Lady of Esperance and Castre Museum. The best part, however? The lookout point has a panoramic view of the city and the sea.
Don’t Miss: Hike up before sundown. With the terracotta roofs covered in the golden hour, it is a perfect place to take photographs.
Marché Forville: A Foodie’s Playground
It is a busy indoor market where people come to buy fresh produce, cheese, flowers, olives and even handmade soaps.
It is best to feel the pace of local life, whether you are just going to have a snack in your Airbnb or want to cook something; Marché Forville is a great place to visit. Also, it is a morning place, open weekdays (with the exception of Mondays), and occasionally you can find such pre-prepared foods as pissaladiere (a local pizza-like snack) or charcuterie.
Insider tip: Be there early and take a croissant at one of the nearby boulangeries on Rue Meynadier. You can then go around the stalls, sipping a fresh coffee.
Take a Boat Trip to the Lérins Islands
Just off the coast of Cannes lie the Lérins Islands: peaceful, pine-covered escapes where you can hike, swim, and explore.
Île Sainte-Marguerite is the larger of the two and is home to the Fort Royal, which once imprisoned the mysterious “Man in the Iron Mask.” The island has walking trails, coves, and picnic spots.
Île Saint-Honorat is smaller but rich in history. It’s home to an active monastery where monks still make wine and honey. You can taste and even buy some on-site.
Getting there: Boats leave regularly from Cannes’ Old Port. It’s a 15-minute ride that’s worth it.
Cannes Beaches: Public and Private Options
The beaches in Cannes are a combination of public and private beach clubs. Considering that you want to spend your time in style with full service, then a beach club is the place to do it. The majority of these institutions are situated in the area of La Croisette and provide such services as food, drinks, sunbeds, as well as DJs playing in the afternoon.
To have a family-friendly and fun time, you should visit Plage du Midi or Plage de la Bocca, which are less busy and less pretentious.
Beach Tip: At the exclusive beach clubs, you can pay to rent a sunbed on a daily basis. In return, you get towels, waitstaff, and sometimes live music. Worth it if you’re treating yourself.
Rue d’Antibes: Shopping Without the Overwhelm
Rue d’Antibes is parallel to the La Croisette but is slightly less show-off and much more friendly. There are stores of popular French brands, trendy local boutiques, and every now and then, there is a designer outlet.
It’s an ideal place to hunt souvenirs or a last-minute replacement of that Beach outfit you left behind.
Pro Tip: Lots of shops are closed between 12.30 and 2.30 for lunch so you might have to shop in the morning or in the late afternoon.
Day Trip to Grasse or Antibes
Wanting to get out of the crowd? Go to the world perfume capital, Grasse. You can check out factories producing fragrances like Fragonard and learn how perfume is made and even create your own perfume.
Or take a train, which is just under 20 minutes to Antibes. It is a picturesque seaside resort city with a crowded market, city walls of the Middle Ages, and Picasso Museum containing his paintings during his stay.
The two are fantastic half-day/full-day activities.
Where to Stay: Hotel or Home Rental?
Cannes does offer luxury hotels, although more travelers have been going into home rentals, which offer more room, privacy, and the chance to live like inhabitants.
Holiday rentals Cannes France are a feasible and fashionable option to stay, whether you are on vacation with your loved ones, your family, or with your group during festival time.
You can even rent out luxury accommodations at Cannes, in case you desire something a bit fancier.
There are even luxury residence rentals in Cannes, in case you want something extra special. They provide hotel-quality service along with the same comfort of a home situation, perfect when taking longer journeys or celebrating in a group of people.
Best Time to Visit Cannes
The sweet spot? May to early July and September. The weather is warm, the crowds are manageable, and you avoid the peak August rush when much of France is also on vacation.
If you’re coming for the Cannes Film Festival, book months in advance. The city transforms during those weeks: exciting but chaotic, and with very high demand.
Winter is mild and peaceful, perfect for a quiet seaside retreat.
Dining in Cannes: From Street Food to Stars
Cannes offers everything from beachside pizza to Michelin-starred tasting menus.
- La Table du Chef is a hidden gem with high-end flavors and fair prices.
- Astoux et Brun is famous for its fresh seafood.
- For something casual and authentic, try Chez Vincent & Nicolas for great pasta and wine.
And yes, you can find excellent gelato almost everywhere.
Cultural Highlights and Local Events
Besides the Film Festival, events in Cannes include Cannes Yachting Festival, International Games Festival and Les Nuits Musicales du Suquet (classical music series in the old town).
Look at the city calendar in advance: You will be able to attend a firework show or an outdoor concert.
Nightfall Group: Elevate Your Stay in Cannes
If you’re dreaming of a luxury stay that goes beyond just finding a nice place, Nightfall Group delivers exactly that. They specialize in exclusive villa rental Cannes France experiences, think private chefs, concierge service, yacht charters, and high-end cars at your fingertips.
Nightfall isn’t just about giving you a home. It is also about making an experience with customized services, luxury residencies and 24-hour assistance. Whether it is the Cannes Film Festival you are going to, or you are planning a luxury getaway with your friends, their estates are not only exceptional in terms of their design, but also in the service they offer.
From modern cliffside estates to historical homes with private pools, their villas to rent in Cannes France are curated for travelers who expect more and get it.
Final Thoughts
Cannes does not only mean red carpets and yachts. It is an all-round destination that has got something to contribute to any kind of a traveler. Whether one can see out over the world, in a beach cafe, skipping the islands in the blue sea, or walking on the stones of old streets, up very high, above the port, Cannes is magic around the corner.
and whereabouts are you to betake yourself, as to whereabouts to stay? Have another person roll out the red carpet to you. If you want Cannes luxury residence rentals, or custom-selected properties through Nightfall Group, you can turn this visit into your own personal festival, no badge necessary.
Start planning your trip with Nightfall Group now by calling +1 (310) 666-7012 or emailing Bookings@nightfallgroup.com, and get in touch with one of our concierge team members to curate a luxury staycation tailored exclusively to your desires.
Bon voyage!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Cannes expensive to visit?
It can be, especially during peak events like the Film Festival. But outside of May and August, prices are more reasonable. You can also eat and explore affordably with a bit of planning.
2. Do I require a car in Cannes?
Not really. The city is on foot, and you can get to nearby towns by public transport. Renting a car may, however, come in handy when you are touring the villages made up of hilltops or when making day trips.
3. Does Cannes have family-friendly activities?
Yes! The coast, the Lérins Islands, and the Le Suquet are all super with children. It will also have child-friendly restaurants and open fields to play on the coast.
4. Is it better to stay in a hotel or to rent a villa?
It all depends on the way you want to travel. Convenience is found in hotels, space, privacy and sometimes better value can be found in rentals. Nightfall Group offers rentals that fuse together luxury and services into one world.
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