26 June 2023
The timeless radiance of Cannes: Discover its hidden treasures
Cannes, on France’s famous Côte d’Azur, is well known for its prestigious film festival. But this Mediterranean city offers much more than red carpets and celebrities. With its magnificent beaches, timeless glamour and historic heritage, Cannes is a destination that’s sure to win you over. And so we present the best places to visit in Cannes for an unforgettable experience.
La Croisette: La Croisette is the emblem of Cannes, an elegant promenade lined with palm trees and luxury hotels. This avenue is the ideal place for a stroll while admiring the sparkling sea. You’ll also find designer boutiques, refined restaurants and lively bars. The Croisette is also home to the Cannes Film Festival, offering an opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of cinema.
Old port of Cannes : Located at the eastern end of the Croisette, the Vieux Port de Cannes is a picturesque place where fishing boats and pleasure craft rub shoulders. Stroll along the harbor and admire the luxurious yachts and colorful sailing boats. Stop off at one of the many seafood restaurants to sample local specialties while enjoying a breathtaking view of the harbor.
Le Suquet : Overlooking the city, Le Suquet is Cannes’ historic district. Climb the narrow streets and steep staircases to reach the old church of Notre-Dame-d’Espérance. From this hill, you’ll have a panoramic view of the town, the Bay of Cannes and the Lérins Islands. Stroll the charming cobbled streets of Le Suquet, explore the local craft stores and relax in one of the picturesque cafés.
Lérins Islands : Off the coast of Cannes, you’ll find the magnificent Îles de Lérins. Take a ferry from the Vieux Port to the island of Sainte-Marguerite, famous for its historic fortification, the prison of the Man in the Iron Mask. Stroll along the shady paths, enjoy the sandy beaches and visit the sea museum. The island of Saint-Honorat, meanwhile, is famous for its active Cistercian monastery, where the monks produce wine and liqueurs.
Castre Museum : Housed in the medieval Château du Suquet, the Musée de la Castre is well worth a visit for history and culture buffs. Here you’ll find collections of pre-Columbian artifacts, Provençal works of art and souvenirs from Cannes’ past. Climb to the top of the château’s square tower for a breathtaking panoramic view of Cannes and the surrounding area. You can also explore the Mediterranean gardens that surround the museum, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting.
Forville market: For an authentic experience, visit Marché Forville, located in the heart of Cannes. This lively market offers a multitude of fresh produce such as fruits, vegetables, cheeses, spices and flowers. Stroll through the colorful stalls, soak up the enchanting aromas and chat with local producers. It’s the ideal place to discover Provencal gastronomy and take home culinary souvenirs.
Cannes Beaches: The city offers a selection of public and private beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun. Among the most popular beaches are Plage de la Croisette, Plage du Martinez and Plage de la Bocca. Choose your spot on the sand, settle back on a deckchair and enjoy the Mediterranean ambience.
Musem of Masque de fer: If you’re interested in maritime history, don’t miss the Musée du Masque de Fer (Musée de la Mer) on the island of Sainte-Marguerite. This fascinating museum houses a collection of marine objects, ship models and underwater archaeological explorations. Learn more about the region’s maritime history and discover sunken treasures.
The Palace of Congresses and Festivals : It’s a Cannes must-see, best known for hosting the famous Cannes Film Festival every year. Located on the Croisette, this iconic building is where the biggest names in the film industry gather to celebrate the best in cinema. You can stroll the red carpet, imagine the stars climbing the steps and even visit the inside of the palace when there are no events taking place.
The Villa Rothschild Garden : the garden of Villa Rothschild is a hidden gem in Cannes. This exquisite garden offers an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty. Created by Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild, the garden is brimming with colorful flowers, elegant sculptures and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Stroll through the winding paths, relax in the themed gardens and admire the elegant fountains. It’s the perfect place to take a break from Cannes’ lush natural surroundings.
Cannes is much more than just a world-renowned glamour destination. It offers a unique combination of charm, elegance, sunny beaches and historical heritage. Whether you’re interested in cinema, culture, history or simply relaxing on the beach, Cannes will win you over. By exploring the places mentioned in this article, you’ll discover a different facet of this enchanting city on the Côte d’Azur.