7 must-see attractions in Cannes

Cannes, a French city famous for its international film festival, attracts countless tourists to explore. If you are planning to travel to Cannes, this guide will provide you with some practical information and recommended attractions and activities. First of all, you must visit the famous Palais des Festivals et des Congrès to experience the unique atmosphere of the film festival. It is recommended that you take a stroll on the beautiful La Croisette and enjoy the charming view of the Mediterranean Sea. In addition, don’t miss Le Vieux Port and Le Suquet, where you can experience the history and culture of Cannes. I hope this Cannes guide can help you enjoy your trip to Cannes better.

1. Film Festival Palace

The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès is a landmark building in Cannes, located on the famous La Croisette, and is the main venue for the Cannes Film Festival. This modern building was originally built in 1982 and was significantly expanded in 1999 to accommodate the continuous development and expansion of the film festival. The design of the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès is simple and magnificent, and can accommodate thousands of spectators and international media representatives.

Every May, the Palais des Festivals becomes the focus of the global film industry, welcoming movie stars, directors, producers and fans from all over the world. The red carpet ceremony is the most well-known scene of the Palais des Festivals, where stars walk up the steps under flashing lights, attracting the attention of the global media.

In addition to the Cannes Film Festival, the Palais des Festivals also hosts various international conferences, concerts and exhibitions. It is a multifunctional cultural and conference center with multiple theaters, meeting rooms and exhibition spaces equipped with advanced audio and visual equipment to meet the needs of various large-scale events.

2. Boat tour in Cannes

A boat tour is a great way to explore this Mediterranean city and its surroundings. Departing from Le Vieux Port in Cannes, visitors can explore the stunning Mediterranean coastline. Boat tours offer a variety of itineraries, including trips to the picturesque Lérins Islands and sailing along the beautiful French Riviera.

The Lerins Islands are one of the most popular destinations for boat tours, mainly including Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat. Île Sainte-Marguerite is famous for its clear waters and dense pine forests. Visitors can stroll on the island and visit the famous Fort Royal, where the “Iron Mask” was imprisoned in history. Île Saint-Honorat attracts tourists with its historic monastery and peaceful atmosphere.

Boat tours can also take tourists to appreciate the luxurious villas, magnificent beaches and blue waters along the coast of Cannes. The guide usually provides commentary during the voyage, introducing the attractions and historical stories along the way, so that tourists can have a deeper understanding of Cannes and its surrounding areas.

Whether it is a short tour or a day trip, a Cannes cruise can provide visitors with an unforgettable sea experience, experiencing the charming scenery of the Mediterranean and the unique charm of Cannes.

3. Croisette, Cannes

La Croisette is one of the most famous seaside avenues on the French Riviera, located in the center of Cannes, stretching about 2 kilometers along the Mediterranean coastline. Famous for its luxury and picturesque scenery, La Croisette brings together the world’s top hotels, high-end restaurants, fashion boutiques and private beaches, and is a symbol of luxury life.

Every May, the Cannes Film Festival is held here, attracting stars and celebrities from the global film industry. The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès on the Croisette becomes the focus of world attention. Fans and media gather on both sides of the red carpet, making it very lively.

In addition to the film festival, the Croisette attracts a large number of tourists all year round. Along the way, you can admire the exquisite Belle Époque buildings, such as Hotel Carlton, Hotel Martinez, etc. Strolling along the palm-fringed promenade, visitors can enjoy the charming sea view and warm sunshine.

The avenue also has several public beaches suitable for swimming and sunbathing, complete water sports facilities, and a wealth of entertainment options. The Croisette at night is even more dazzling under the lights, making it the best place to experience Cannes’ charming nightlife. Whether it is day or night, Cannes Croisette provides a unique experience of luxury and leisure.

4. Cannes Beach

Cannes Beaches is one of the most popular attractions in this Mediterranean coastal city, attracting countless tourists to enjoy the sun and sea. Along the famous La Croisette, the several kilometers of beach are composed of public and private parts to meet the needs of different tourists.

Public beaches such as Plage du Midi and Plage du Carlton are open to the public free of charge, providing visitors with a comfortable beach experience. These beaches are fully equipped with showers, toilets and lifeguards to ensure the safety and convenience of visitors. Visitors can sunbathe on the soft golden sand or swim and snorkel in the clear waters to enjoy a seaside leisure time.

Private beaches offer more luxurious services, including high-end restaurants, bars, sun beds and parasols, where visitors can enjoy personalized service and a private environment. Famous private beaches such as Zplage and Plage Belle Mare often attract celebrities and wealthy people to vacation.

In addition, Cannes Beach also hosts a variety of water sports and activities for adventure seekers, such as sailing, water skiing and jet skiing. Every May, during the Cannes Film Festival, the beach is even more star-studded and becomes the focus of global attention.

5. St. Margaret Island

Île Sainte-Marguerite is one of the Lérins Islands near Cannes, France, known for its natural beauty and historical sites. Just a 15-minute ferry ride off the coast of Cannes, this peaceful island is the perfect place for travelers to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature.

The most famous attraction on the island is Fort Royal, a historic fortress that once held the “Man in the Iron Mask”. The story of this mysterious prisoner has attracted countless tourists to explore. Now, the fort houses the Musée de la Mer, which displays marine life and shipwreck relics, as well as exhibitions about the history of the island.

St. Margaret Island also has dense pine forests, fragrant eucalyptus forests and beautiful beaches, making it an ideal place for hiking and picnicking. Walking trails around the island allow visitors to explore this natural paradise and enjoy the magnificent sea views and rich flora and fauna.

The island is car-free, maintaining a pure and peaceful environment suitable for those seeking relaxation and natural experiences. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or a tourist who wants to enjoy a leisurely time, Sainte-Marguerite Island provides a perfect holiday destination.

6. Cannes Casino

The Casino de Cannes is one of the important entertainment facilities in this Mediterranean coastal city, attracting many tourists and local residents to try their luck and enjoy the nightlife. Located on the famous La Croisette, the Casino de Cannes is famous for its luxurious environment and diverse entertainment options.

Cannes Casino offers a variety of classic gambling games, including roulette, blackjack and baccarat, to meet the preferences of different gamblers. In addition, the casino also has a number of modern slot machines and electronic game machines, providing a more convenient and diverse gaming experience. Whether you are an experienced gambler or a novice, you can find entertainment that suits you here.

In addition to gambling facilities, Cannes Casino also has high-end restaurants and bars, providing visitors with a rich choice of food and drinks. The restaurants in the casino usually offer exquisite French cuisine, accompanied by a selection of wines, creating an elegant dining environment. The bar is an ideal place to enjoy night entertainment and socializing.

7. Le Suquet District

Le Suquet is the historic old town of Cannes, located on a small hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the port in the city center. This charming area is famous for its narrow cobblestone streets, ancient buildings and strong historical atmosphere. Strolling in Le Suquet, visitors can feel the strong southern French style and admire the colorful houses and rich historical relics.

The core of Le Suquet is the Notre-Dame d’Espérance Church, which was built in the 17th century and is one of the landmarks of the area. The bell tower next to the church provides an excellent viewing point where visitors can overlook the city of Cannes and the blue Mediterranean Sea.

The streets of the old town are lined with traditional restaurants, cafes and small handicraft shops, providing tourists with a rich shopping and food experience. At night, Le Suquet becomes particularly charming, and the ancient streets and buildings illuminated by lights exude a romantic atmosphere.

In addition, Le Suquet is the birthplace of the Cannes Film Festival. During the annual film festival, it attracts many filmmakers and tourists to experience the unique charm and cultural atmosphere of Cannes. Whether you are a history lover or an ordinary tourist, Le Suquet is the best choice to explore the history and culture of Cannes.