Iconic Cannes:
10 Must Visit Places

‘La Croisette’ is the main road, lined with palm trees, along Cannes’ beachfront. You can take a leisurely stroll along the promenade with beautiful views of the beach and sparkling Mediterranean on one side, and fabulous luxury boutiques like Chanel, Dior and Louis Vuitton on the other, interspersed by five-star hotels from the Majestic to the Martinez. Indulge in some shopping, or simply enjoy the people-watching. You can grab an ice-cream or crêpe from one of the stalls or cross the road and take a coffee break at one of our favourite spots, Armani Café or the Carlton terrace.

Unleash your inner shopaholic on Rue d’Antibes, Cannes’ bustling shopping street. From high-end fashion to quirky boutiques, this avenue is a paradise for those seeking a unique shopping experience. Treat yourself to a chic ensemble (at Massimo Dutti, Zara, Gérard Darel), or find the perfect souvenir to remember your Cannes adventure at Fragonard. End your shopping day with a coffee at Bungalow or La Durée.

Home to the renowned Cannes Film Festival, the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès de Cannes is a must-visit for cinephiles. Pose on the famous red carpet staircase, imagine yourself attending a star-studded premiere (even winning the coveted Palme d’Or), and soak in the cinematic history that permeates the air.

Discover the charm of Cannes’ historic district, Le Suquet. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, explore the medieval castle, and revel in the cozy ambiance of local cafés and restaurants. The panoramic view from the top of the hill is a picture-perfect moment, especially at sunset.

Dive into Cannes’ cultural heritage at the Musée de la Castre. Housed in a medieval castle, this museum showcases an eclectic collection of artifacts, including ancient musical instruments, Mediterranean antiquities, and contemporary art. The panoramic terrace offers breathtaking views of Cannes and the surrounding area.

Indulge your taste buds at the lively Marché Forville. This bustling market is a feast for the senses, with stalls brimming with fresh produce, local cheeses, flowers and aromatic spices. Grab a baguette, some cheese, and a bottle of wine for a picnic on the beach. Please Note: Renovations are currently underway at Marché Forville, due for completion in 2026. Until then only a portion of the market is open.

Embrace the maritime charm of Cannes at Vieux Port. Watch the yachts (including superyachts) and fishing boats bob gently in the harbour, dine at seafood restaurants, or take a boat trip to explore the stunning coastline from a different perspective.

Cannes is a haven for food enthusiasts. Indulge in Mediterranean cuisine at beachfront restaurants like La Môme and the Carlton, savour delectable French pastries, and sip on a glass of local wine. From seafood platters at Astoux et Brun to classic Provencal dishes, the culinary scene in Cannes is sure to leave your taste buds delighted.

From the Croisette you’ll notice an island in the distance. This is Île Sainte-Marguerite, easily reached by ferry or by hiring a private yacht. It’s a nature lover’s dream, covered in forest with several paths and long tree-lined avenues criss-crossing the island. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of some of its bays. Île Sainte-Marguerite has a rich history, including a fortress where the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask was once imprisoned. You can visit his cell (more spacious than most) and wander around the Royal Fort and its museum. Tucked away on the side of the fort is the beach and Restaurant La Guérite, a favourite summer destination for the jet set (where Elton John and Jon Bon Jovi have been known to surprise diners with an impromptu serenade).

Île Saint-Honorat is the smaller of the two most famous Lérins islands (there are actually four). You can while away summer days anchored between the two islands where the azur waters are mesmerising, and swim to shore to visit whichever island is closest. Île Saint-Honorat is small enough to wander around in less than an hour, but take your time and savour the nature and beauty. There is a picturesque Abbey on the island, with an active monk community that dates back centuries. You can even buy some of the wine that the monks grow in their vineyard on the island. The monks ask that you please take your rubbish with you when you leave the island. For a fabulous lunch, reserve with La Tonnelle when it’s open. It’s on the waterfront.