Culture & Travel
5 July 2024The city of Cannes on the southern coast of France makes its name known to millions each year with the Cannes Film Festival. Every May, the world’s most famous actors and directors grace the red carpet and the iconic stairs of the Palais des Festivals.
With its stunning beaches, luxury hotels, stylish restaurants, and historical charm, Cannes is a world-renowned tourist paradise, offering plenty of places to explore. Here is a special selection of must-see spots and experiences in Cannes:
Palais des Festivals: Cannes’ Cultural and Artistic Hub
Since we started with the Cannes Film Festival, let’s give the top spot on our list of places to visit to this iconic building. Gaining worldwide fame with the film festival, it hosts red carpet ceremonies, award shows, and film screenings. The Walk of Fame, featuring handprints of famous artists, is one of the most visited spots year-round. So, what else awaits visitors here besides the Cannes Film Festival?
This iconic venue hosts numerous festivals and special screenings throughout the year, so film enthusiasts aren’t limited to the film festival alone. Plus, the modern and impressive architecture of the Palais des Festivals is another reason to visit.
La Croisette Boulevard: The Luxury Showcase of Cannes
While we’re at it, let’s talk about La Croisette Boulevard, where the Palais des Festivals is located. La Croisette Boulevard, the city’s most famous and prestigious street, dazzles with its stunning Mediterranean views, luxury hotels, famous boutiques, and stylish restaurants. The beaches along the boulevard are also among the city’s most popular leisure spots.
Don’t be surprised to see many parks and green spaces while walking along La Croisette Boulevard. These areas are not only perfect for enjoying nature but also feature many artworks and sculptures.
For those thinking of shopping while here, a small tip from us: Rue d’Antibes, a parallel street to La Croisette, offers more affordable shopping options.
Le Suquet: The Historic Heart of Cannes
Le Suquet, the oldest and most historic district of Cannes, enchants with its narrow, cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and breathtaking views. Offering a journey into the city’s past, Le Suquet contrasts with Cannes’ modern and luxurious side, with a historical structure or an interesting detail at every corner. The old stone houses with colorful flower-adorned balconies and charming winding streets are perfect for photography.
There are also many tourist attractions to visit in the area. First up is the Notre-Dame de l'Espérance Church at the top of Le Suquet. One of Cannes’ most important religious buildings, the church offers a stunning view of Cannes.
Other attractions include the Castre Museum, shedding light on Cannes’ history and cultural heritage; the lively Marché Forville, selling local products; the vibrant and popular Rue Saint-Antoine; and the Old Port (Vieux Port), where you can enjoy fresh seafood.
Lérins Islands: Cannes’ Natural and Historical Treasures
Just a 15-minute journey from the Old Port (Vieux Port), we’ll take you to a natural wonder in the turquoise waters of the Cannes bay, the two Lérins Islands facing La Croisette point.
1. Sainte-Marguerite Island
Sainte-Marguerite Island, the largest of the Lérins Islands, is known for its historical and natural richness, having hosted various civilizations throughout history. Fort Royal, a 17th-century structure where the Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned, is the most visited spot here.
2. Saint-Honorat Island
Saint-Honorat, ideal for those seeking spiritual retreat, is famous for its still-active monastery. Visitors can tour the Lérins Monastery, observe the monks' lifestyle, and visit the vineyards they manage.
Cannes: Forville Market - A Meeting Point of Local Flavors and Culture
Luxury, splendor, natural beauty, history… These are often the terms we use to describe the city of Cannes. But our introduction to Cannes would be incomplete without mentioning its authentic and local culture. One of the most vibrant and colorful examples of this culture is the Forville Market, located in the heart of the city. This market, where locals do their daily shopping, is a must-visit for a genuine cultural experience.
Why should you visit the Forville Market, which opens early every morning and continues to welcome visitors until the evening? Firstly, you can find fresh vegetables and fruits from the Provence region, as well as olive oils, cheeses, meat, and fish products. The quality and freshness of these products offered by local producers are top-notch.
While wandering through the market, you also have the chance to taste local delicacies. You can sample a variety of cheeses at the cheese stands and participate in olive and olive oil tastings.
The market is also a great place to meet local producers and artisans. At stands selling handmade soaps, olive oils, jams, and other local products, you can listen to the stories behind these products and shop.
After shopping at the market, you can sit down for a coffee and enjoy a French-style breakfast at the small cafés right next to the Forville Market.
We saved the most important reason for last. While exploring the market, you get the chance to witness the daily life of the locals. The people shopping, the conversations with the vendors, and the lively atmosphere of the market show visitors the authentic side of Cannes. This is a perfect opportunity to get to know the life in the city up close.
