Updated on July 22, 2025
Contents:
- Visit Cannes in one day
- The must-see attractions of Cannes in one day
- Our recommended itinerary for Cannes
- Where to eat in Cannes?
- The best evenings in Cannes
- What shows and events are there to see in Cannes?
- Where to go out in Cannes to party the night away?
- What can you do in Cannes over a weekend?
- Heritage and cultural visits
- Walks along the coast
- The best things to do in Cannes
- Some outdoor sport
- Shopping spree in the luxury boutiques and on Rue d'Antibes
- Excursions and guided tours in the Cannes area
What to see and do in Cannes? Our top recommendations for places to visit
Cannes is the world-famous capital of glamour and cinema, known for its sandy beaches, luxury boutiques, palaces and renowned Croisette, where international stars parade every year. A must-visit seaside resort on the Côte d’Azur… This guide reveals the iconic neighbourhoods to explore, exclusive destinations to discover, shopping sprees to plan, and activities not to miss in Cannes, whether you’re there for a day or a weekend.
Visit Cannes in a day
Would you like to visit Cannes in a day? It can be done! From the glitz of the festival to the picturesque charm of the medieval Suquet district, embark on an adventure combining luxury, culture and breathtaking panoramas.
Must-see attractions in Cannes in one day
At first light, take a stroll along the Croisette, the iconic promenade that runs along the white sandy beaches and the Bay of Cannes. This avenue, lined with palaces and luxury boutiques, will then lead you to the Palais des Festivals, the beating heart of the film industry where the biggest stars of cinema flock every spring.
With your eyes still full of stars, set off to discover Le Suquet, the emblematic district of old Cannes. Stroll along its centuries-old streets, admire the houses with their colourful facades, and let yourself be guided by the melodious sound of the bells of Notre-Dame-d'Espérance, a charming 16th-century church.
Round off your visit to the city with a shopping spree on Rue d'Antibes. This beautiful avenue, which runs parallel to the Croisette, is home to the windows and signs of some of the biggest international brands. A must-see spot for the latest fashion trends.
From Monaco to Cannes...
Make the most of your stay in Monaco to visit Cannes! Monaco and Cannes are barely an hour apart by road, or just 15 minutes by helicopter... In the Principality, leave your luggage in one of our four- and five-star hotels and savour the finest local cuisine at one of our gourmet restaurants. After exploring the Rock, stroll through the vaulted passageways of Cannes old town to the sumptuous Princely Palace, admire the extraordinary diversity of the Exotic Garden or try your luck in the gaming rooms of the legendary Monte-Carlo Casino.
Our recommended itinerary in Cannes
What can you do in Cannes if you only have a day? Follow our step-by-step itinerary to make sure you don't miss any of the city's key sites and monuments:
1 – Start your day with a stroll along the Croisette, your gaze immersed in the blue waves of the Mediterranean;
2 - Continue towards the Old Port of Cannes and see the impressive glass roof of the Palais des Festivals;
3 - See the “Path of the Stars” at the foot of the Palais, where almost 450 film stars have left their mark, and on towards the medieval Suquet district, where cafés and restaurants abound.
4 - Back on the Croisette, take the time to stroll down Rue d'Antibes, where the many fashion boutiques will satisfy even the most discerning eye.
Where to eat in Cannes: restaurants and cafés to try
Sun-drenched vegetables and fruit, intoxicating fragrant Mediterranean herbs, freshly caught fish, wines with a delicate bouquet… in Cannes, gastronomy is enriched by exceptional local flavours. Dine at one of Cannes’ famous local tables, concentrated around rue Hoche in the epicentre of Cannes.
The famous terraces along the Croisette are just the thing for a relaxing drink along the seafront. The views over the bay are breathtaking. But if you're seeking a little more privacy, opt instead for the hushed surroundings of the cocktail bars nestled around the church of Notre-Dame-d’Espérance. A must!
For a great evening in Cannes
Where to party in Cannes? In this dynamic city, there is no shortage of opportunities to go out in the evening: shows and restaurants, rooftop wine bars, clubs or one of the major cultural events that take place throughout the year.
Shows and events in Cannes you shouldn't miss
The Cannes International Film Festival needs no introduction. Famous the world over, it takes place just a few days before the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Monaco, a major event that also attracts thousands of visitors to the Côte d’Azur in spring. Staying in Monaco is a golden opportunity to discover the glamour of Cannes.
But there's much more to Cannes than its film festival. The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès hosts a wide variety of cutting-edge shows throughout the year, including concerts, one-man shows, dance, and hybrid productions.
The theatre scene is just as rich. From classical to boulevard-style plays and the most ambitious contemporary creations, top-notch actors perform in Cannes’ many theatres: Théâtre de la Licorne, Espace Miramar, Théâtre Alexandre III…
And Cannes hosts a number of major cultural events every year. The festive and cross-disciplinary Bal des Fous, the renowned Festival d’art pyrotechnique and the unmissable Plages Électroniques are a real treat for tourists and night owls alike.
Where to go out in Cannes to party the night away?
Your festive evening begins at sunset, the perfect time to find a terrace and partake in the traditional Provençal aperitif! From the Croisette and the Carré d'Or district to the old town, relax into the art of living, in one of Cannes' many trendy bars. Or take to the skies for a breathtaking rooftop experience. The city boasts a number of rooftop bars and restaurant which offer panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
Finally, head to the seafront, if you want to party the night away in one of the city’s main nightclubs. Share world-famous dance floors with a young, international clientele.
What to do in Cannes for a weekend?
A weekend is just right to discover the beautiful attractions that Cannes has to offer. The city boasts a rich heritage, some captivating museums, renowned cultural institutions and a number of major tourist attractions. Not to mention its remarkable coastline.
Explore the culture and heritage of Cannes
What to do in Cannes for a memorable weekend? Choose from our selection of museums and cultural venues:
● Situated high above the old town of Cannes, the medieval castle at Place de la Castre is well worth a visit, now home to the Musée des Explorations du Monde, and for its high square tower which affords an exceptional view.
● Built in 1881, the Villa Rothschild has all the charm of a rich Italian Renaissance residence. Surrounded by a lush garden, it is now home to the Noailles multimedia library, with its rich collection of old books, period magazines and specialist works.
● Cannes film stars are showcased in veritable works of art painted across the city’s walls. XXL tributes include those to Belmondo, Chaplin and Bourvil.
● La Malmaison, a splendid villa built in the 19th century, hosts exhibitions from Cannes' contemporary art centre. It reopened in February 2025.
A must-do
Put on your mask and snorkel, and admire the sculptures at the Cannes Underwater Ecomuseum! Located just forty metres from Sainte-Marguerite Island, these works by British artist Jason deCaires Taylor are intended to raise public awareness of the need to preserve marine biodiversity.
Walks along the coast
Succumb to the magic of the Croisette, the legendary boulevard that stretches like a golden ribbon along the Côte d'Azur. Its palm-fringed waterfront, lined with iconic hotels and luxury boutiques, lends itself equally well to morning strolls in the company of joggers as to long walks at the end of the day, when the setting sun bathes the bay in orange tones.
Not far from Le Suquet and the Old Port, the boulevard du Midi-Louise Moreau is an invitation to enjoy a seaside getaway along the Plage du Midi. Let your gaze wander here over the bay of Cannes, from the Lérins islands to the Estérel massif.
Less than a kilometre from the Croisette, the Croix des Gardes offers breathtaking views over the Bay of Cannes, Lérins Islands, and the surrounding mountains. Immerse yourself in 80 hectares of vegetation in this remarkable green space. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a break in a natural setting.
What to do in Cannes
Sports and wellness activities or shopping in Cannes’ luxury boutiques Follow the guide. With its exceptional coastline, perfect for water sports, and its main shopping streets lined with dozens of fashion boutiques, the town is sure to meet expectations.
Outdoor sports in Cannes
Cannes’ parks and valleys are a fantastic playground for sports enthusiasts. There’s no shortage of outdoor activities: such as jogging along the Mediterranean or in the Californie hills, power walking in the Croix des Gardes Nature Park, riding along the town’s many cycle paths, or exercising on the fitness equipment by the seafront.
Water sports enthusiasts can choose from activities such as diving in clear, unspoilt waters, kitesurfing off Cap de la Croisette and paddleboarding and kayaking on Lérins Islands.
Our tip
Take the Belvedere promenade to the Massif de la Californie. After warming up on the fitness equipment and a climb up under the shade of Mediterranean vegetation, claim your reward of an exceptional panorama of Lérins Islands.
Shopping in luxury boutiques and on rue d'Antibes
Where to shop in Cannes? The city of festivals is also an exclusive shopping destination! The biggest names in haute couture, jewellery and leather goods have made their home on the legendary Croisette. Framed by palm trees and white sandy beaches, discover a succession of iconic luxury brands from Chanel to Dior, Prada and Louis Vuitton.
Running parallel to the Croisette, Rue d’Antibes is at the heart of shopping in Cannes. Nearly 800 shops line this elegant thoroughfare stretching for nearly 3 km, where small, typically Provençal stalls stand side by side with world-renowned brand outlets. Equally popular with fashion enthusiasts, the rue du Commandant André is brimming with cutting-edge fashion boutiques. The many artisanal shops of Rue Meynadier, at the foot of the Suquet district, capture the spirit of Provence.
Our tip
Our tip Visit the Carré d'Or district of Cannes, between Rue d'Antibes and the Croisette. Luxury jewellers and designer labels rub shoulders with trendy restaurants and bars, making this the ideal place to take a break between two shopping sprees.
Excursions and guided tours around the Cannes area
As the epicentre of the Côte d'Azur, Cannes boasts a unique geographical location within easy reach of other splendid places to visit. It’s just a short 15-minute drive from Antibes, a seaside resort famous for its cathedral, Grimaldi Castle, and Fort Carré. Continue north to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a charming Provençal village with cobbled streets and fountains.
Grasse is world-famous for its perfume industry and just a 20-minute drive from Cannes. An elegant little town, well worth a visit, nestling in a lush green setting of mountain forests and caves.
An hour or two’s drive away, Nice, Menton and Saint-Tropez are also must-sees on the Riviera.
With its international reputation and commitment to an exceptional experience for visitors, Cannes has established itself as one of the unmissable jewels of any visit to the Côte d’Azur.
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