Cannes, the crown jewel of the French Riviera, is a city that evokes images of red carpets, luxury yachts, and sun-drenched boulevards. Best known for hosting the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, this Mediterranean gem is the pride of France; it is where historic charm meets modern high-society living.
In this guide, we will cover top things to do in Cannes for tourists to make the most of your travel experience and enjoy the French Riviera’s charm and beauty.
- 1. Stroll Down the Iconic Boulevard de la Croisette
- 2. Pose on the Red Carpet at the Palais des Festivals
- 3. Explore the Medieval Charm of Le Suquet
- 4. Feast on Local Flavors at Marché Forville
- 5. Escape to the Serene Île Sainte-Marguerite
- 6. Shop Like a Pro on Rue d’Antibes
- 7. Find the “Cannes Cinema” Street Art
- 8. Relax on the Sandy Shores of Plage de la Bocca
- 9. Experience the Glitzy Nightlife at a Rooftop Bar
- 10. Discover the Monks of Île Saint-Honorat
- FAQs
1. Stroll Down the Iconic Boulevard de la Croisette
The Boulevard de la Croisette is the beating heart of Cannes and undoubtedly one of the must-see places in Cannes. This 3-kilometer palm-lined promenade stretches along the Mediterranean shoreline, flanked by sandy beaches on one side and legendary hotels like the Carlton and Martinez on the other.
As you walk, you’ll pass high-end designer boutiques and perfectly manicured gardens. For those seeking things to do in Cannes for tourists who want a taste of the movie star life, a stroll here at sunset is non-negotiable. The azure water turns a deep gold, and the entire boulevard glows with the prestige that has made Cannes famous for decades.
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location:Boulevard de la Croisette
- Entry Fee: Free
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2. Pose on the Red Carpet at the Palais des Festivals
No trip to the City of Cinema is complete without visiting the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. While the building itself is a modern, utilitarian structure, its famous red-carpeted steps are a magnet for visitors worldwide. It is one of the top things to do in Cannes to take a photo on the Montée des Marches, just like your favorite Hollywood icons.
Nearby, you can find the Walk of Stars, where over 300 handprints of famous directors and actors are embedded in the pavement. It is a simple but thrilling way to connect with the city’s cinematic heritage. Even outside of festival season, the energy of the Palais remains a central part of the Cannes identity.
- Google Rating: 4.4/5
- Location:1 Boulevard de la Croisette
- Entry Fee: Free
3. Explore the Medieval Charm of Le Suquet
For a change of pace, head to Le Suquet, the oldest district in Cannes. Perched on a hill overlooking the harbor, this medieval quarter is a labyrinth of steep cobblestone alleys and pastel-colored houses. It offers a grounded, authentic contrast to the polished glamor of the Croisette. It is a place where history feels tangible at every turn.
At the summit, you’ll find the Church of Notre-Dame d’Espérance and the Musée de la Castre. From the hilltop square, you are treated to the most spectacular panoramic views of the Bay of Cannes and the Esterel Mountains. This is one of the most romantic things to do in Cannes today, especially as the city lights begin to twinkle below.
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Location:Le Suquet District
- Entry Fee: Free to explore
4. Feast on Local Flavors at Marché Forville
If you want to experience Cannes like a local, the Marché Forville is the place to be. This historic covered market is a riot of colors, scents, and Mediterranean energy. Local farmers and fishermen gather here daily (except Mondays) to sell everything from fresh socca (chickpea pancakes) to aromatic Provençal herbs and local seafood.
Exploring the stalls is one of the most fun things to do in Cannes for food lovers. Grab some artisanal goat cheese, a bottle of rosé, and some fresh olives for a picnic by the sea. On Mondays, the food stalls are replaced by a fascinating flea market, where you can hunt for vintage French posters and antique treasures.
- Google Rating: 4.4/5
- Location:6 Rue du Marché Forville
- Entry Fee: Free
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5. Escape to the Serene Île Sainte-Marguerite
Just a 15-minute ferry ride from the port lies the largest of the Lérins Islands, Île Sainte-Marguerite. This island is a nature lover’s paradise, covered in eucalyptus and pine forests with hidden rocky coves perfect for swimming. It is famously home to the Royal Fort, where the “Man in the Iron Mask” was once imprisoned.
Visiting the island is a top choice for those looking for things to do in Cannes for tourists who need a break from the crowds. You can hike the island’s trails, visit the Maritime Museum, or enjoy a long lunch at one of the upscale seaside restaurants. It offers a rare sense of tranquility and prehistoric beauty just a stone’s throw from the city’s hustle.
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location: Ferry from Quai Laubeuf
- Cost: Ferry approx. €20–€25 round trip
6. Shop Like a Pro on Rue d’Antibes
While the Croisette is for window shopping at Chanel and Dior, Rue d’Antibes is where the real shopping happens. This bustling street runs parallel to the seafront and is lined with a mix of international brands, chic French boutiques, and high-end perfumeries. It is the commercial heart of the city and a paradise for fashion enthusiasts.
Whether you are looking for the latest Parisian trends or high-quality leather goods, Rue d’Antibes has something for every style. It is a great place to spend an afternoon wandering between shops and stopping at elegant tea rooms for a macaron. The street captures the stylish, everyday life of the French Riviera’s well-dressed residents.
- Google Rating: 4.5/5
- Location:Rue d’Antibes
- Entry Fee: Free
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7. Find the “Cannes Cinema” Street Art
Bologna has its porticoes, and Cannes has its “Murs Peints” (Painted Walls). To celebrate its status as a cinema capital, the city commissioned several massive murals across its buildings. These masterpieces depict iconic movie scenes and stars, from Charlie Chaplin to Alfred Hitchcock. Finding these murals is one of the most fun things to do in Cannes.
You can pick up a map at the Tourist Office to follow the trail through the city’s various neighborhoods. It is a fantastic way to discover the “lesser-seen” corners of Cannes while admiring high-quality urban art. These murals turn the entire city into an open-air museum dedicated to the silver screen, blending urban decay with artistic brilliance.
- Google Rating: 4.5/5
- Location:Palais des Festivals
- Entry Fee: Free
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8. Relax on the Sandy Shores of Plage de la Bocca
Cannes is one of the few places on the French Riviera with natural sandy beaches. While the central beaches are often private and expensive, Plage de la Bocca in the western part of the city offers a more relaxed, public alternative. It is the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming in the turquoise Mediterranean, or enjoying water sports.
The beach is well-maintained and provides a great family-friendly atmosphere. Because it is slightly further from the center, it feels more spacious and less frenetic than the “Croisette” beaches. It is a wonderful place to soak up the sun and enjoy the simple pleasure of the Riviera’s crystal-clear waters without the high price tag.
- Google Rating: 4.5/5
- Location:Boulevard du Midi Louise Moreau
- Entry Fee: Free
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9. Experience the Glitzy Nightlife at a Rooftop Bar
When the sun goes down, the night things to do in Cannes truly shine. The city is famous for its sophisticated nightlife, ranging from high-stakes casinos to swanky rooftop bars. For a memorable evening, head to a rooftop like Vertigo or Le Roof to enjoy a cocktail while looking out over the illuminated harbor and the silhouettes of the Lérins Islands.
The vibe is effortlessly chic, with soft lounge music and a fashionable crowd. If you’re feeling lucky, you can also visit one of the city’s historic casinos. Whether you choose to dance at a beach club or sip wine in a quiet alley bar in Le Suquet, the night air in Cannes is always filled with a sense of excitement and luxury.
- Google Rating: 4.4/5
- Location: Various (Croisette and Le Suquet)
- Entry Fee: Varies; Cocktails approx. €18–€25
10. Discover the Monks of Île Saint-Honorat
The smaller sister of Sainte-Marguerite, Île Saint-Honorat, has been home to a community of Cistercian monks since the 5th century. This island is incredibly unique because the monks still inhabit the fortified monastery today. They are famous for producing world-class wines, honey, and lavender oil, which you can purchase directly at the island shop.
The island is a designated zone of silence and prayer, making it one of the most peaceful must-see places in Cannes. You can visit the old fortified monastery right on the water’s edge or explore the small chapels dotted around the shoreline. It is a spiritual and historical sanctuary that feels completely detached from the modern world.
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Location: Ferry from Quai Laubeuf
- Cost: Ferry approx. €20; Monastery visit is free
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FAQs
What is the best way to get around Cannes?
Cannes is a very walkable city, especially in the central areas. For longer distances, the local “Palm Bus” network is reliable and affordable. If you want to visit nearby towns like Nice or Monaco, the regional TER train is the fastest and most scenic option, running frequently throughout the day.
Is Cannes safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Cannes is one of the safest cities in France. The streets are well-lit and monitored, especially during the festival and summer seasons. However, as with any high-end tourist destination, be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas like the Marché Forville or the Palais des Festivals.
How many days do I need for Cannes?
A 2-to-3-day trip is perfect for exploring the city. This allows one day for the Croisette and Le Suquet, one day for the Lérins Islands, and a final day for shopping and the beaches. Cannes also makes a great base for exploring the rest of the French Riviera.
Is English widely spoken?
Yes, English is very widely spoken due to the city’s international status and the large number of annual festivals. You will have no trouble in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, a polite “Bonjour” (Good day) goes a long way with the locals.
What is the weather like in Cannes?
Cannes enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October), when the weather is warm enough for the beach but the crowds are manageable.
