Mention Cannes and most people immediately think of the Cannes Film Festival, red carpets and Hollywood celebrities. While that glamorous reputation is well deserved, there’s far more to this beautiful French Riviera destination than flashing cameras and luxury yachts. Beneath the glamour lies a city of historic streets, sandy beaches, bustling markets, Mediterranean islands and spectacular coastal scenery that can be enjoyed by every visitor.

Whether you’re strolling along the world-famous La Croisette, exploring the winding lanes of Le Suquet, relaxing on the beach or setting sail for the crystal-clear waters surrounding the Lérins Islands, Cannes offers an excellent mix of culture, history and outdoor experiences. Food lovers will discover outstanding Provençal cuisine, shoppers can browse everything from luxury fashion houses to local boutiques, while photographers will find postcard-worthy views around almost every corner.

Cannes is also an ideal destination for travellers who like to mix sightseeing with relaxation. The compact city centre makes it easy to explore on foot, while regular ferries, sightseeing tours and boat trips allow you to discover the coastline from a completely different perspective.

This guide brings together the very best things to do in Cannes, helping you experience much more than the famous film festival and discover why this elegant Riviera city continues to attract visitors from around the world.

Attraction	Time Needed	Admission	Best For
La Croisette	1-2 hours	Free to walk	Photography, people-watching, luxury hotels
Le Suquet (Old Town)	1-2 hours	Free to wander	History, atmosphere, hidden viewpoints
Palais des Festivals	30-45 minutes	Free to view exterior & red carpet	Film fans, photography
Cannes’ Beaches	Half a day	Free public beaches; private beach clubs charge	Swimming, sunbathing, families
Marché Forville	About 1 hour, best in the morning	Free to browse	Food lovers, local atmosphere
Half-Day Catamaran Cruise	About 4 hours	Cruise ticket required	Swimming, snorkelling, island scenery
Île Sainte-Marguerite & Fort Royal	Half a day	Ferry fare, plus museum ticket for Fort Royal	History, walking trails, nature
Musée des Explorations du Monde	1-2 hours	Museum ticket required	Culture, panoramic watchtower views
Croix des Gardes Forest Park	1-2 hours	Free	Walking, nature, quiet viewpoints

Walk Along the Legendary La Croisette

No visit to Cannes is complete without spending time on La Croisette, the city’s iconic palm-lined boulevard stretching for almost two kilometres beside the Mediterranean. More than just a promenade, La Croisette is the beating heart of Cannes, where luxury hotels, designer boutiques, golden beaches and impressive yachts combine to create one of the world’s most famous waterfronts.

Walking the full length of the boulevard is one of the best ways to experience Cannes. Along the route you’ll pass legendary hotels including the Carlton Cannes, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic and JW Marriott, many of which have hosted actors, royalty and world leaders during the Cannes Film Festival. Even if you’re not staying there, their magnificent Belle Époque architecture makes them attractions in their own right.

Between the hotels you’ll find private beach clubs, public beaches, stylish cafés and countless benches overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean. It’s an excellent place to stop for coffee while watching luxury yachts sail across the Bay of Cannes or simply enjoy the relaxed Riviera atmosphere.

The promenade is equally enjoyable in the evening. As the sun begins to set, the palm trees, luxury hotels and marina are bathed in warm golden light, creating one of the most photogenic walks anywhere on the French Riviera. Whether you’re interested in luxury, photography or simply enjoying a seaside stroll, La Croisette is an essential part of every visit.

Explore the Historic Streets of Le Suquet

Long before Cannes became synonymous with luxury holidays and international film stars, life centred around Le Suquet, the city’s historic Old Town. Rising above the harbour on a gentle hill, this charming medieval quarter remains one of Cannes’ most atmospheric neighbourhoods and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.

The narrow cobbled streets wind between colourful houses, traditional restaurants and small artisan shops, creating a completely different atmosphere from the glamour of La Croisette below. As you climb higher, you’ll discover quiet squares filled with flowers, hidden staircases and inviting cafés where you can pause to soak up the surroundings.

One of the greatest pleasures of exploring Le Suquet is simply wandering without a plan. Every corner reveals another picturesque scene, whether it’s a stone archway, a colourful shuttered house or an unexpected viewpoint overlooking the harbour. The district still feels wonderfully authentic despite its popularity with visitors.

Continue climbing and you’ll eventually reach the hilltop overlooking Cannes, where several of the city’s most important historic attractions await. Even if you’re only spending a day in Cannes, Le Suquet deserves plenty of time, offering a welcome contrast to the city’s more modern and glamorous waterfront.

Visit the Palais des Festivals and Walk the Famous Red Carpet

For film lovers, no attraction is more iconic than the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, home of the world-famous Cannes Film Festival. Every May, this modern conference centre becomes the centre of the international film industry as actors, directors and celebrities from around the globe arrive to celebrate cinema.

Outside festival season, the building remains one of Cannes’ most popular attractions. Visitors can stand on the famous red-carpet staircase, recreate the classic celebrity photographs and admire the Walk of Fame, where handprints from some of the world’s biggest stars are displayed nearby.

The surrounding area is always lively, with cafés, luxury boutiques and the marina creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day. Looking across the harbour, you’ll often see impressive superyachts moored just metres from the festival venue, reinforcing Cannes’ reputation as one of Europe’s most glamorous destinations.

Even if you’re not particularly interested in cinema, visiting the Palais des Festivals is almost a rite of passage in Cannes. It’s one of those places that has become instantly recognisable around the world and provides a fascinating insight into the event that transformed this once-small fishing town into an international icon.

Discover Cannes in a Vintage French Bus

If you’re visiting Cannes for the first time, one of the most enjoyable ways to get your bearings is aboard the Vintage French Bus Tour. Rather than spending hours walking between attractions, this unique two-hour guided experience combines sightseeing, local history and spectacular viewpoints in a beautifully restored classic Estafette minibus, itself an icon of French motoring.

The tour begins close to the Old Port before heading past the famous Palais des Festivals, where you’ll have time to stop for photographs beside the world-famous red carpet. From there, you’ll cruise along glamorous La Croisette, passing elegant Belle Époque hotels, luxury boutiques, palm-lined promenades and some of the most expensive real estate on the French Riviera.

The experience doesn’t stop at the waterfront. The route continues towards Palm Beach and Port Canto, before climbing into the historic streets of Le Suquet, where you’ll leave the vehicle to explore Cannes’ medieval quarter on foot. Here your guide introduces the history of the city while leading you through narrow cobbled lanes to hidden viewpoints overlooking the harbour and the Bay of Cannes.

You’ll also visit the lively Marché Forville, where colourful stalls are packed with fresh seafood, Provençal produce, artisan cheeses and regional delicacies. Throughout the journey your guide shares fascinating stories about Cannes’ transformation from a quiet fishing village into one of the world’s most glamorous destinations.

Because the tour combines transport, walking, photography stops and expert commentary, it’s an excellent introduction to the city. By the time you finish, you’ll not only have seen many of Cannes’ most famous landmarks, but you’ll also know exactly where you’d like to return later in the day.

Relax on Cannes’ Beautiful Sandy Beaches

Unlike many destinations along the French Riviera, Cannes is blessed with long stretches of soft golden sand, making it one of the best seaside resorts on the Mediterranean. Whether you’re looking for a luxury beach club complete with waiter service or a free public beach where you can simply spread out your towel, there’s an option for every type of visitor.

Many of the beaches lining La Croisette belong to the prestigious waterfront hotels. These private beaches offer sun loungers, parasols, waiter service, changing facilities and stylish restaurants, creating an effortlessly glamorous Riviera experience. They’re ideal if you’re planning to spend the entire day relaxing beside the sea.

Fortunately, you don’t need a luxury hotel budget to enjoy Cannes’ coastline. Public beaches such as Plage Macé, Plage Zamenhof and Plage du Midi provide free access to the beautiful Mediterranean and are perfect for swimming, sunbathing or simply enjoying the spectacular coastal scenery.

The calm, clear water makes Cannes an excellent place for swimming, paddleboarding and family beach days, while the wide sandy shoreline offers plenty of space even during the busy summer season. Early mornings are wonderfully peaceful, while evenings are perfect for watching the sun disappear behind the Esterel Mountains.

Even if you don’t plan to swim, spending some time beside the Mediterranean is an essential part of any visit to Cannes. The combination of golden sand, luxury yachts, palm trees and azure blue water perfectly captures everything people imagine when they picture the Côte d’Azur.

Shop Along the Elegant Rue d’Antibes

Running parallel to La Croisette, Rue d’Antibes is Cannes’ premier shopping street and one of the busiest retail destinations on the French Riviera. While the luxury fashion houses dominate the waterfront, Rue d’Antibes offers a broader mix of designer labels, French brands, independent boutiques and everyday shops, making it popular with both visitors and locals.

Walking the length of the street reveals an impressive variety of stores. International fashion brands sit alongside elegant jewellery shops, perfumeries, homeware stores and specialist food retailers, while charming cafés provide the perfect excuse to pause between purchases.

Unlike the ultra-exclusive boutiques overlooking the promenade, many shops on Rue d’Antibes are accessible to ordinary travellers, making it an enjoyable place to browse even if you’re not planning a luxury shopping spree. It’s also one of the best places to pick up French cosmetics, artisan chocolates, fashion accessories and gifts to take home.

The street has a lively atmosphere throughout the day, particularly during the summer months when visitors from around the world fill the cafés and boutiques. Because it’s only a few minutes’ walk from both La Croisette and Le Suquet, it’s easy to include in any sightseeing itinerary.

Whether you’re searching for designer fashion or simply enjoying some window shopping, Rue d’Antibes offers a fascinating glimpse into Cannes’ sophisticated lifestyle.

Experience the Flavours of Marché Forville

For a completely different side of Cannes, head to Marché Forville, the city’s famous covered market and one of the best places to experience authentic local life. Located at the foot of Le Suquet, this bustling market has been serving residents for generations and remains the culinary heart of Cannes.

Inside you’ll find colourful stalls overflowing with fresh fruit, seasonal vegetables, Mediterranean seafood, artisan cheeses, fresh bread, olives, herbs and countless Provençal specialities. The quality of the produce is exceptional, with many stallholders sourcing ingredients from farms and fishing boats across the surrounding region.

The market is particularly popular with local chefs, giving visitors a chance to experience the same ingredients that appear on the menus of Cannes’ excellent restaurants. It’s also a wonderful place to assemble a picnic before heading to the beach or catching the ferry to the Lérins Islands.

Take your time wandering through the aisles, chatting with traders and sampling regional delicacies. The atmosphere is lively, colourful and unmistakably French, providing a welcome contrast to the luxury boutiques and glamorous hotels that Cannes is better known for.

Whether you’re buying fresh produce, enjoying a morning coffee or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Marché Forville is one of the city’s most rewarding and authentic attractions.

Sail on a Half-Day Catamaran Cruise

If you’re looking to experience the French Riviera from the water, few activities compare with a half-day catamaran cruise from Cannes. Combining sailing, swimming, snorkelling and spectacular coastal scenery, this is one of the city’s most memorable experiences and a wonderful way to escape the busy beaches for an afternoon.

Your adventure begins at Cannes’ Old Port, where you’ll board a 15-minute ferry to Île Sainte-Marguerite. Here you’ll transfer to a spacious, fully equipped catamaran, offering comfortable seating, large sun decks and plenty of room to relax while cruising across the crystal-clear Mediterranean.

Once underway, you’ll sail around the beautiful Lérins Islands, with their pine forests, hidden coves and turquoise waters, or head towards the dramatic Corniche d’Or and the striking red cliffs of the Esterel Massif, depending on sea conditions. Throughout the cruise you’ll enjoy magnificent views back towards Cannes, the coastline and the surrounding mountains that make this part of southern France so spectacular.

The highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to anchor in a peaceful bay where you can swim, snorkel and cool off in the exceptionally clear Mediterranean. Snorkelling equipment is provided, making it easy to explore beneath the surface before returning on board to relax in the sunshine.

Lasting approximately four hours, this is far more than a simple sightseeing cruise. It combines island scenery, time on the water, swimming, spectacular photography opportunities and a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere, making it one of the very best activities available in Cannes.

Take the Ferry to Île Sainte-Marguerite

Just 15 minutes by ferry from Cannes lies Île Sainte-Marguerite, the largest of the Lérins Islands and one of the Riviera’s most rewarding day trips. Despite being only a short distance from the glamour of La Croisette, the island feels wonderfully peaceful, with pine forests, eucalyptus trees, quiet beaches and scenic walking trails replacing luxury hotels and busy shopping streets.

The island is best known for Fort Royal, the historic fortress where the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned during the seventeenth century. Today the fort houses a fascinating museum explaining the island’s military history, archaeology and underwater discoveries recovered from nearby shipwrecks.

Beyond the fort, the island offers several kilometres of well-maintained walking paths leading through fragrant woodland and along the rocky coastline. Hidden coves provide opportunities for swimming, while numerous viewpoints offer magnificent panoramas back towards Cannes, the Esterel Mountains and the wider French Riviera.

Because there are very few vehicles on the island, the atmosphere is remarkably peaceful. Many visitors spend several hours exploring on foot before enjoying lunch overlooking the sea or simply relaxing beside the crystal-clear water.

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, walking or simply escaping the crowds, Île Sainte-Marguerite is one of the finest excursions you can make from Cannes.

Discover the Beautiful Lérins Islands

Although Île Sainte-Marguerite receives most of the attention, the entire Lérins Islands archipelago deserves to be explored. Located just offshore from Cannes, these idyllic Mediterranean islands offer a completely different experience from the glamorous mainland, with protected natural landscapes, peaceful walking trails and centuries of fascinating history.

Alongside Sainte-Marguerite sits the smaller Île Saint-Honorat, home to a working Cistercian monastery that has been occupied by monks for more than 1,500 years. Visitors can walk around much of the island, visit the monastery grounds and browse the small shop selling products made by the monks, including wine, honey, olive oil and liqueurs.

The island’s quiet paths wind through vineyards, pine woodland and secluded bays, making it one of the most tranquil places on the entire French Riviera. Unlike many popular coastal destinations, there are no busy roads or large developments here, allowing visitors to enjoy the peaceful surroundings at their own pace.

Many travellers choose to combine both islands into a full day out, taking separate ferry services between Cannes and each island. This allows plenty of time for walking, photography, swimming and discovering the contrasting personalities of these remarkable Mediterranean escapes.

If you’re spending more than a day in Cannes, visiting the Lérins Islands is highly recommended and offers one of the most memorable experiences anywhere along the Côte d’Azur.

Visit the Musée des Explorations du Monde

Occupying a commanding position above Le Suquet, the Musée des Explorations du Monde is one of Cannes’ most fascinating yet often overlooked attractions. Housed inside a former medieval castle and monastery, the museum combines centuries of history with collections gathered from around the world.

Inside you’ll discover exhibitions covering archaeology, ethnography, musical instruments, ancient Mediterranean civilisations and artefacts collected during expeditions across Asia, Oceania, the Americas and the Himalayas. The varied displays make it an enjoyable museum even if you’re not normally a museum enthusiast.

One of the highlights is climbing the historic watchtower, where visitors are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views across Cannes, La Croisette, the Old Port, the Lérins Islands and the sparkling Mediterranean beyond. It’s one of the very best viewpoints in the city and well worth the climb.

Because the museum sits within Le Suquet, it’s easy to combine with visits to the Old Town, Notre-Dame d’Espérance and Marché Forville, creating an enjoyable half-day exploring Cannes’ historic heart. For visitors interested in history, culture and spectacular scenery, it’s one of the city’s hidden gems.

Stroll Around Cannes’ Historic Old Port

Long before Cannes became synonymous with luxury hotels and international film stars, life revolved around the Old Port (Vieux Port). Today it remains one of the city’s most attractive areas, where traditional fishing boats share the harbour with sleek yachts worth millions of euros, creating a fascinating contrast between old and new Cannes.

The marina sits between Le Suquet and the Palais des Festivals, making it a natural stop while exploring the city. As you walk along the waterfront you’ll enjoy constantly changing views across the harbour, where luxury superyachts arrive throughout the year, particularly during the Cannes Film Festival and major international events.

The quays are lined with cafés, restaurants and ice cream parlours, making this an excellent place to stop for lunch or simply watch the boats come and go. Looking back towards Le Suquet, you’ll see the colourful historic buildings climbing the hillside towards Notre-Dame d’Espérance, creating one of the most recognisable views in Cannes.

The Old Port is also the departure point for ferries to the Lérins Islands, catamaran cruises and numerous sightseeing excursions, making it one of the busiest transport hubs in the city. Even if you’re not catching a boat, it’s well worth spending time here soaking up the lively Mediterranean atmosphere.

Climb to Notre-Dame d’Espérance

Towering above Le Suquet, the beautiful Church of Notre-Dame d’Espérance is the highest point in Cannes’ historic centre and one of the city’s most rewarding attractions. Built between the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, this impressive Gothic church has watched over Cannes for hundreds of years and remains an important landmark today.

The climb through the Old Town is part of the experience. As you make your way uphill, the narrow medieval streets become quieter and increasingly picturesque before opening into the peaceful square surrounding the church. Inside you’ll find a surprisingly simple yet elegant interior featuring beautiful stonework, religious artwork and a calm atmosphere that provides a welcome contrast to the bustling waterfront below.

Many visitors come primarily for the spectacular views. From the church grounds you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramas across La Croisette, the Palais des Festivals, the Old Port, the Bay of Cannes, the Lérins Islands and, on a clear day, the distant Esterel Mountains. It’s one of the very best photography locations in the city.

If you’re already exploring Le Suquet and the Musée des Explorations du Monde, adding the church requires only a few extra minutes and completes one of the most enjoyable walks in Cannes.

Escape the Crowds at Croix des Gardes Forest Park

Many visitors never realise that Cannes is home to a beautiful 80-hectare protected forest park overlooking the Mediterranean. Located just west of the city centre, Croix des Gardes Forest Park offers a completely different side to Cannes, replacing luxury shopping and busy beaches with peaceful woodland, walking trails and some of the finest viewpoints on the French Riviera.

A network of well-signposted footpaths winds through Mediterranean pine forests, mimosa trees, eucalyptus groves and native vegetation, making the park particularly enjoyable during spring when flowers are in bloom and the air is filled with the scent of pine and wild herbs.

Several viewpoints are scattered throughout the park, each offering magnificent vistas across Cannes, La Croisette, the Lérins Islands, the Bay of Cannes and the rugged Esterel Massif. On exceptionally clear days it’s even possible to see snow-covered Alpine peaks in the distance.

The walking routes vary in length and difficulty, allowing both casual walkers and more energetic hikers to enjoy the park. Despite being only a few minutes from the city centre, it feels remarkably peaceful and is an excellent choice if you’d like a break from the crowds during the busy summer season.

For anyone who enjoys walking, nature, photography or simply discovering places that many tourists overlook, Croix des Gardes is one of Cannes’ true hidden gems.

Enjoy the Flavours of Provence

After a day spent exploring Cannes, there’s no better way to finish than by enjoying the city’s excellent food scene. Influenced by both the Mediterranean and the nearby hills of Provence, Cannes offers everything from traditional family-run bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants overlooking the sea.

Fresh seafood naturally dominates many menus, with local restaurants serving sea bass, red mullet, mussels, oysters, prawns and seasonal fish caught along the Riviera. Traditional Provençal dishes such as bouillabaisse, ratatouille, pissaladière and daube provençale are widely available, often accompanied by locally produced olive oil, herbs and fresh vegetables.

For a truly memorable meal, choose a restaurant overlooking either La Croisette or the Old Port, where you can enjoy dinner while watching the sun set across the Mediterranean. The atmosphere becomes particularly magical during the evening, when the harbour lights begin reflecting across the water and the yachts return for the night.

Don’t forget to leave room for dessert. Local pâtisseries produce excellent tarte au citron, tarte tropézienne, artisan chocolates and handmade ice cream, providing the perfect sweet ending to a day on the French Riviera.

Rupert’s Handy Travel Tips

Here’s how to make the most of a visit to Cannes, whether you’re here for the film festival buzz or a relaxed few days on the Riviera.

Book the catamaran cruise ahead: The half-day trip around the Lérins Islands is one of the most popular activities in Cannes, so reserve your spot in summer.
Time La Croisette for golden hour: The promenade is at its most photogenic as the sun sets over the Bay of Cannes.
Wear comfortable shoes for Le Suquet: The Old Town’s cobbled lanes and staircases climb steeply up to Notre-Dame d’Espérance.
Take an early ferry to the Lérins Islands: Arriving in the morning gives you the most time to explore Fort Royal and the walking trails before the crowds build up.
Escape to Croix des Gardes if the beaches get busy: This 80-hectare forest park is only minutes from the centre but feels a world away.

Want to meet the reindeer behind our travel tips? Find out more in our page Who is Rupert?.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best thing to do in Cannes?
For many visitors, the highlight is walking along La Croisette, exploring Le Suquet, and taking a boat to the beautiful Lérins Islands. Together they showcase both the glamorous and historic sides of Cannes.

Is Cannes worth visiting?
Absolutely. Cannes offers far more than the famous Film Festival, with beautiful sandy beaches, excellent museums, historic streets, island excursions, luxury shopping and spectacular Mediterranean scenery.

How many days do you need in Cannes?
One full day is enough to see the main attractions, but two or three days allows you to enjoy the beaches, visit the Lérins Islands, take a catamaran cruise and explore the city at a much more relaxed pace.

Can you swim in Cannes?
Yes. Cannes has some of the best sandy beaches on the French Riviera, with both public and private beaches offering excellent swimming conditions throughout the warmer months.

What is Cannes famous for?
Cannes is world-famous for the Cannes Film Festival, the Palais des Festivals, La Croisette, luxury hotels, designer shopping and its glamorous Mediterranean lifestyle.

Can you walk around Cannes?
Yes. Most of Cannes’ main attractions are within comfortable walking distance of one another. The waterfront, Le Suquet, Rue d’Antibes and the Old Port can all be explored on foot.

Are the Lérins Islands worth visiting?
Definitely. The Lérins Islands offer peaceful walking trails, crystal-clear water, fascinating history and beautiful natural scenery just 15 minutes by ferry from Cannes.

When is the best time to visit Cannes?
Late spring and early autumn offer warm weather with fewer crowds, while May is ideal if you’d like to experience the atmosphere surrounding the Cannes Film Festival. Summer is perfect for beaches and boat trips but is naturally the busiest time of year.

Last Updated

August 2026

We regularly review this guide to ensure attraction details, ticket prices and travel information remain accurate and up to date. As tours, ferry services and seasonal attractions can change, we recommend checking with the relevant operator before travelling.

Affiliate Disclosure

Some links on AppSavvyTraveller are affiliate links. This means we may receive a small commission if you make a booking or purchase through them, at no additional cost to you. We only recommend attractions, tours and travel services that we genuinely believe offer value, and every commission helps us continue creating free, independent and regularly updated travel guides for travellers exploring the world.

Tagged:Europe - Western France French Riviera & Provence

Rupert

Globetrotter (60+ countries) & Bow-Tie enthusiast. Hotel pillow connoisseur, breakfast buffet enthusiast, and firm believer in the window seat. Loves exploring off the beaten track followed by a decent slice of cake.