About
Cannes is a city on the French Riviera, on the Mediterranean coast of southeastern France. It is best known as the home of the Cannes Film Festival, which takes place each May and draws filmmakers, actors and film enthusiasts from around the world. Even outside festival season, the city keeps much of its polished, seaside character.
What to see and do
- The beaches. Cannes is set on the Mediterranean, and its waterfront is the natural place to spend a relaxed afternoon.
- Boulevard de la Croisette. This famous promenade runs along the bay and is lined with luxury shops, hotels and cafés. It is a good place for a stroll, whether or not you plan to shop.
- Le Suquet. The historic old quarter rises above the harbour, with narrow streets and an older, more intimate atmosphere that contrasts with the glamour of the seafront.
Who it suits
Cannes appeals to visitors who enjoy a blend of sophistication and easy coastal living. Film lovers may want to plan a visit around the festival in May, when the city is at its most lively, though it is busier and more expensive then. At other times of year, the quieter streets and beaches offer a calmer way to experience the Riviera.
Whatever the season, Cannes makes a good base for exploring the wider Côte d'Azur, combining time by the sea with the charm of its old-world quarter.