Have you decided to visit Cannes in 1 day? Excellent idea, you won’t have time to get bored!
Between its iconic Promenade de la Croisette and its magnificent Mediterranean landscapes, we were charmed by the city. Renowned the world over for the Cannes Film Festival, you’ll love discovering this must-see seaside resort on France’s Côte d’Azur!
In this article, we suggest detailed itineraries to spend 1 day in Cannes, and not miss a thing! Check out our practical tips and our many photos to make up your own mind about this destination.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Practical tips for visiting Cannes in 1 day
Getting around by foot, public transport and ferry
The vast majority of tourist attractions are concentrated in downtown Cannes, close to the Promenade de la Croisette. So it’s a pleasure to walk straight through the colorful alleyways.
Nevertheless, we recommend you take public transport if you want to get away from the city center. The city is very spread out. The Palm Bus network is well developed. During the summer season, free shuttles run to the Beaches de la Bocca. There are also paying shuttles running through Le Suquet. Find out more here.
The departure point for the Îles de Lérins is in the old port. Ferry journeys are relatively frequent and quick (15-20min). We advise you to book your return tickets in advance, as this is a very popular activity with tourists.
The weather in Cannes
Cannes enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate. However, temperatures can sometimes rise considerably in summer, which can make outdoor activities uncomfortable (especially if you’re sensitive to heat). We advise you to visit the city and its surroundings in spring, autumn or winter.
Even in the depths of winter, the water temperature never drops below 13°. Sunbathing is no longer in season, but it’s perfectly possible to go swimming in a wetsuit (the bravest just put on a swimsuit).
Attendance in Cannes
Cannes is very busy, especially during the Film Festival and the summer season. Tourist attractions are quickly snapped up. If you have the opportunity, we advise you to go outside these 2 highlights of the year. Traffic jams are frequent and numerous due to the density of the population and tourism. Some streets are entirely pedestrianized, and paid parking is relatively expensive.
The Cannes Culture Pass
To benefit from discounts on a selection of cultural activities and events, the city offers the Cannes Pass Culture. It costs €10 for Canois residents and €15 for non-residents. You’ll enjoy reduced admission rates to the Musée des Explorations du Monde, or the Musée du Masque de Fer on Île Sainte-Marguerite. Shows programmed at the Palais des Festivals are also included. More information on the official website here.
Map of Cannes’ main tourist attractions
See our map of the main tourist attractions in Cannes:
Where to sleep in Cannes
WHERE TO STAY IN Cannes
Option 1: Downtown
Enjoy the charm of the old town and all its restaurants.
We recommend..:
- Five Seas Hotel – prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel BW Le Mondial – prices, pictures and availability
Option 2: on the Croisette
Along the seafront promenade and beaches.
We recommend..:
- Hotel Le Carlton – prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel Martinez – prices, pictures and availability
Option 3: The Suquet and surrounding area
On the heights of the old town, with lots of charm.
- Hotel le Suquet – prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel Canopy by Hilton – see prices, pictures and availability
Option 1 – Cannes highlights in 1 day
Ready for a 1-day tour of Cannes? Between the Promenade de la Croisette, the old town and Place de la Castre, you’ll love discovering this seaside resort on the Côte d’Azur! In fact, we’ve written a full article on the must-do activities in this city!
Day 1 – 10h-11h30: stroll along the Promenade de la Croisette
To get your stay in Cannes off to a good start, head for the famous Promenade de la Croisette! It runs along the Mediterranean Sea for around 3 kilometers from the Palais des Festivals to Port Canto. This avenue embodies luxury, glamour and the French art of living. We spotted numerous hotels, restaurants, beaches and designer boutiques as we made our way to the palace.
Cannes is world-renowned for its close ties with the film industry, not least because of the Festival de Cannes, one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals. You’ve probably already seen the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès and its famous steps on TV. This is where French and international stars take to the red carpet every May. Imagine the paparazzi taking your picture, and strike your best pose! Who knows, maybe we’ll see your face in the press?
Just 100m from the palace, you won’t want to miss the Church of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Voyage. It provides an insight into the region’s religious history. What’s more, the building’s interior is adorned with superb stained glass windows and magnificent vaulted ceilings, testifying to the artistic and architectural talent of the period. At night, its architecture is enhanced by projection effects!
Day 1 – 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: stroll through the old port and shop at the Forville market
The old port of Cannes is just 200m from the church. It’s a place steeped in history and linked to Le Suquet. The atmosphere is lively, as local fishermen sell their fresh fish right on the quayside. Enjoy magnificent views of the Mediterranean Sea and the islands on either side of the harbor. Opposite the Château de la Castre, we watched the boats come and go. It is also the departure point for ferries to the Îles de Lérins.
A few steps away, behind the Hôtel de Ville, you’ll find the historic market. It’s a must-see place to discover Provencal gastronomy. It’s open every morning for a gustatory awakening to the flavors of the South of France. Once you’re there, chances are you’ll want to fill your basket with delicious finds!
Day 1 – 12:30-14:30: lunch in an Old Town restaurant
Feeling hungry? It’s one of our favorite times of day: lunch! To whet your appetite, here are 2 of our favorite restaurants in the historic district:
- Restaurant Le Pompon: this good address offers small dishes to share. If you’re a gourmet, you’ll opt for several portions to discover a range of inventive local flavors. The à l’ardoise menu is renewed according to market arrivals. We liked the wine selection, which went perfectly with the dishes!
- Restaurant Aux Bons Enfants: a genuine family institution since 1935, serving Provencal cuisine based on market produce (only 50m away). Today, the 3rd generation is at the helm, carrying on the traditions of yesteryear. We loved the friendly, family atmosphere!
Discover other fine restaurants in Le Suquet.
OUR TPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR IN Provence
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Day 1 – 2:30 – 3:30 pm: stroll through the historic Suquet district and its small shops
Le Suquet is Cannes’ historic district, situated on a hill overlooking the harbor and bay. It’s famous for its Provencal charm, with narrow cobbled streets, colorful facades and picturesque squares. We loved strolling through the narrow streets of the old town! It’s not at all the same atmosphere as on the Promenade de la Croisette. Glamour has given way to the charm of the old and the traditional.
Day 1 – 3:30-6pm: visit Place de la Castre, its castle and church
The day isn’t over yet – there’s still plenty of surprises in store! To reach Place de la Castre, take a detour via Square du Caroubier. We were there briefly, but it’s a very pleasant place with a view of the Château de la Castre.
Once you’ve reached the summit on Place de la Castre, take time to contemplate the scenery. You’ll enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of the historic site, the town and its bay. Afterwards, we suggest a visit to Notre-Dame-de-l’Espérance Church and the Musée des Explorations du Monde. Depending on your personal interests and timing, you can choose to discover 2, or just 1 location. We fell in love with the museum, which offers a breathtaking view of Cannes, but we also loved the church!
Built in the 16th century, the Church of Notre-Dame-de-l’Espérance is a magnificent example of Provençal Gothic architecture. It’s also famous for its bells, and their unique sound, which have long set the pace for the daily lives of Cannois. The church and its bell tower have been listed as a historic monument since 1937. Read our dedicated article to find out more.
Also listed as a historic monument, Château de la Castre is home to the Musée des Explorations du Monde. In fact, it was formerly known as the Musée de la Castre. It’s one of the oldest historic sites in Cannes! It was built in the 11th century. Today, it hosts exhibitions of primitive art, Orientalism and Mediterranean antiquities.
Between masks, sculptures and musical instruments, we discovered unique objects from another time. We really enjoyed exploring this place, and especially taking advantage of its 360° view over the whole city and the sea. In our opinion, it’s the best view in Cannes! What do you think?
Read our article on the Museum of World Explorations.
A LITTLE MORE patience
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Option 2 – 1 day in Cannes: explore the Lérins Islands
Visit duration
Depending on your availability, you should allow 1 full day to visit Île Sainte-Marguerite. However, half a day is enough to explore Île Saint-Honorat, which is smaller than its neighbor.
Ferry to Île Sainte-Marguerite
The ferry crossing takes about 15 minutes. The shuttles make the connection very frequently. We advise you to buy your tickets online in advance, as Île Sainte-Marguerite is very popular – see availability.
Ferry to Île Saint-Honorat
From the old port of Cannes, it takes 20 minutes to reach Île Saint-Honorat by ferry. Shuttles run on a regular basis. They are operated by the monastery.
Eating in
In both cases, we strongly recommend that you bring your own food. You’ll find several picnic tables facing the Bay of Cannes, or between 2 trees bent by the wind. Ideal for a gourmet, natural break!
Day 1 – 10am-5pm: Alternative 1 – visit Île Sainte-Marguerite and its Iron Mask Museum and Fort Royal
The island’s history is marked by the mysterious legend of theMan in the Iron Mask, who was imprisoned in Fort Royal for 11 long years. Disembarked on the island in 1687, he was locked up in a cell designed expressly for him under the orders of King Louis XIV. He was forced to wear an iron mask until his death in 1703. His identity remains a mystery to this day, even if historians have a few clues! Today, it is possible to visit his cell in the museum.
The Museum of the Iron Mask and Fort Royal houses a collection linked to its captivity and intriguing existence. Learn more about the theories and speculations surrounding the identity of this mysterious individual, one of the most famous enigmas in French history! Beyond this myth, the natural environment of Île Sainte-Marguerite charmed us. In our opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful islands on the Côte d’Azur!
Find all our tips for visiting Île Sainte-Marguerite: activities + photos.
Day 1 – 10am-2pm: Alternative 2 – discover the Île Saint-Honorat and its famous Abbey of the Lérins monks
We loved visiting Île Saint-Honorat for its rich historical heritage and natural setting. During our walk, we discovered 7 10th-century chapels and ruins dating back to the 11th century. The most famous is the Chapelle de la Trinité, on the eastern tip of the island. This group of religious buildings belongs to theAbbey of Lérins. There’s also a fortified monastery, 2 churches and vineyards.
On either side of the island, we discovered numerous small coves with breathtaking views over the bay. Remember to bring a mask and snorkel for snorkeling along the coast! The water is turquoise and transparent. We advise you to wear water shoes to walk on the rocks without injuring yourself.
Find all our tips for visiting Ile Saint-Honorat: activities + photos.
Option 3 – 1 day in Cannes: temple of luxury and glamour
To make the most of your Cannes experience, we recommend that you opt for activities that are out of the ordinary. Cannes is renowned for its luxury establishments, designer boutiques, casinos and private beaches. It’s the ideal place to enjoy top-of-the-range services while creating beautiful memories!
Day 1 – 10am-12.30pm: shopping on Rue d’Antibes and the Croisette
A temple of glamour, the great couture houses line the Boulevard de la Croisette, from Dior and Gucci to Saint Laurent and Louis Vuitton. If you have the financial means and are a lover of luxury products, this is the perfect opportunity to visit a boutique and snap up a one-of-a-kind piece!
Cannes is linked to the world of fashion, thanks in large part to its famous Film Festival, which hosts a veritable parade of stars. It’s a high-end shopping destination. Rue d’Antibes is also packed with designer boutiques. So, tempted by a shopping spree?
Day 1 – 12:30-14:30: lunch in an exceptional gourmet restaurant
Throughout the city, you’ll discover many exceptional gourmet restaurants. See our full selection here, or our 3 recommendations below:
- Restaurant Table 22: beyond the elegant decor, we ate very well. From aperitif to dessert, Chef Noël Mantel’s work was extremely precise. It was a superb experience!
- Restaurant La Table du Chef: we were seduced by the bold concept of this establishment. A true bias, the chef proposes a blind menu in 4 steps. This surprise menu features fresh seasonal produce from the Forville market and local producers. It includes a starter, fish, meat and dessert.
- Restaurant L’Affable: refined, delicate and varied dishes. The cuisine is very gourmet, prepared with fresh, quality produce. The restaurant offers 2 menus, 1 for lunch and 1 for dinner, as well as a lunch menu at just €28. We recommend this excellent restaurant with its relaxed chic atmosphere.
Day 1 – 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm: enjoy the private beach of a 5-star hotel
After a delicious meal, we head to the Croisette for a little digestive break! However, don’t forget to put on sunscreen and protect yourself from UV rays. Here are our 2 suggestions for hotels with superb private beaches:
- Hôtel Barrière: this luxury establishment, located just 100m from the Palais des Festival, boasts top-of-the-range facilities: a spa area, a gym, several restaurants, a private beach and even a casino! We had a great time on the hotel’s landscaped beach. If you’re looking for an experience combining refinement, comfort and glamour, this is the place to be! You can extend the pleasure by staying overnight – see photos, prices and availability.
- Hôtel Martinez: beyond its ideal seafront location on the Croisette, this establishment boasts a host of luxurious amenities, including its own private beach. You’ll enjoy the lively atmosphere of this cult avenue, and an exceptional panorama of the bay. You can extend the experience by staying one or more nights – see photos, prices and availability.
See our article on the best hotels in Cannes.
Day 1 – 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.: A successful poker run at the casino
Considered the gambling capital of Europe, Cannes has a strong casino presence. They frequently host poker tournaments. Their renown attracts players from all over the world who appreciate the 1st-class services offered by luxury establishments. They offer a variety of entertainment, such as slot machines, blackjack, English roulette and a full range of table games. Ready for a wild game?
The city’s 3 major casinos are part of high-end hotel complexes:
- Hotel Barrière,
- Marriott Hotel,
- Hotel 3.14.
OUR TPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR IN Provence
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Option 4 – 1 day in Cannes: around the cinema
Would you like to take advantage of your visit to the city to immerse yourself in the world of cinema? You’ve come to the right place! Cannes is internationally renowned for its special relationship with the 7th art.
Day 1 – 10am-11am: search for your favourite celebrity’s footprint on Chemin des étoiles
Once you’ve headed west along the Promenade de la Croisette, don’t hesitate to climb the steps to the Palais des Festivals! Imagine your favorite big-screen stars posing on the red carpet at the Film Festival! We were curious to discover this emblematic place that has seen film celebrities from all over the world pass through its doors.
In addition to the red carpet, we noticed a special feature on the floor. The Chemin des étoiles in Cannes, the equivalent of the Walk of Fame in Hollywood, surrounds the palace with over 150 star handprints. For fans of actresses and actors, it’s a top cinematic destination!
In addition to the Film Festival, the palace also hosts other events, including CANNESERIES. With its pink carpet, this April festival celebrates French and international series.
Day 1 – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: explore the city’s 7th art frescoes
Throughout the city, large walls are painted in honor of the 7th art. Have fun looking for these huge frescoes on cinema as you wander through the colorful streets of Cannes. Find out more here. Are you up to the challenge?
Day 1 – 1pm-2.30pm: lunch in Cannes’ oldest restaurant
After so much walking, it’s finally time for lunch! Direction Restaurant Da Bouttau (Provencal inn). You can’t miss Cannes’ oldest restaurant! We found the setting very charming and traditional. The plates are simple and generous. We even discovered that celebrities such as Pablo Picasso, Sean Connery and Georges Clooney have frequented the establishment!
Discover our selection of the best restaurants in Cannes.
Day 1 – 2:30-5 p.m.: see a film at the cinema
To immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Cannes Film Festival, we advise you to go and see a film at the cinema! The city’s cinemas boast giant screens and superior sound quality, allowing total immersion in the story. From blockbusters to art house, the film selection is truly diverse! You’ll have the chance to meet other film buffs and chat after the screening.
Throughout the year, the daily lives of Cannois are punctuated by film-related events. There is also an association dedicated to the 7th art, which organizes events throughout the town.
Day 1 – 5-6pm: sipping a cocktail on the Croisette
Fancy a nightcap overlooking the magnificent bay of Cannes? Head for the Croisette beaches, where you’ll discover a host of waterfront restaurants. During the Cannes Film Festival, stars rub shoulders with these establishments!
Here are 2 good addresses that we particularly liked, and which are part of our restaurant recommendations for Cannes:
- Restaurant Rado Beach Helen: in addition to the incredible scenery, you’ll love this place! From local specialties such as homemade ravioli or gnocchi, to simpler meat or fish dishes, the restaurant favors short circuits. If you have time to dine there, jump at the chance!
- Restaurant Mademoiselle Gray (Hôtel Barrière): enjoy a drink or a quality meal! This fine restaurant will take you on a journey thanks to its unique environment and Lebanese-style cuisine. You can also extend the experience by staying one or more nights at the Hôtel Barrière in Cannes – see prices, availability and bookings.
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information, good addresses to make your stay in Provence a success, will soon be gathered in a single ebook!
If you wish to be informed of the publication of our guide on Provence, subscribe:
Option 5 – 1 day in Cannes with children
Planning a 1-day visit to Cannes with your children? Below are our suggestions for activities that will appeal to young and old alike!
Day 1 – 10am-12pm: enjoy the beaches of Cannes and their activities
We strongly advise you to take advantage of Cannes’ sunny climate and stretches of white sand. With your toddlers, it’s best to avoid the times of day when the sun’s rays can be most intense (between 12pm and 4pm). And don’t forget that the more family-friendly Cannes Beaches are far from the city center. Here are our recommendations:
- Boulevard du Midi beaches: ideal for children, the Plages du Midi are open to the public. They are 700m long and are supervised every summer. For sports enthusiasts, there are 2 beach volleyball courts. With the Blue Flag label, they are also environmentally friendly. We enjoyed the wide range of nautical activities available on these beaches: introduction to sailing, windsurfing, mini-catamaran, optimist, etc.
- Plages de la Bocca: easily accessible from the center of Cannes, we drove to the Plages de la Bocca in just 15 minutes. It’s also possible to take public transport, with a stop on line 22 in the direction of Théoule-Mairie. They are less popular than the Plages de la Croisette. There are 3 zones: Plage BoccaCabana, Plage Le Cabanon and Plage des Rochers de la Bocca. They offer a variety of water sports activities to keep your little adventurers happy!
Our article on the best beaches in Cannes will be available soon.
Day 1 – 12pm-1.30pm: test a kid-friendly restaurant
Eating well on vacation is sacred (especially with children)! Don’t worry, we’ve come up with some practical, kid-friendly addresses in Cannes:
- Restaurant Aux P’tits Anges: if you’re looking for a good place to eat with your little ones in a friendly atmosphere, go to Restaurant Aux P’tits Anges. Located in the city center, this establishment offers hearty, tasty cuisine. The dishes are carefully prepared, and the desserts are delicious. The children’s menu, priced at €12, is a big hit with families!
- Restaurant Al Brunello: while visiting the historic district of Cannes, take the opportunity to dine at Restaurant Al Brunello in the company of your children. As the name suggests, you’ll be able to enjoy generous Italian cuisine. Emblematic Italian dishes, such as pizzas and pastas, are featured here. Between ravioli, gnocchi and margherita, your kids will be spoilt for choice!
Day 1 – 1:30 – 2:30 pm: Take a ride on the Little Train of Cannes
If you’d like to see the town without walking too far, we recommend taking the Little Train of Cannes. It’s a fun way to discover the conurbation that’s sure to please young and old alike! Find out more here.
Day 1 – 2:30-5pm: exploring the Croix-des-Gardes Natural Forest Park
A veritable green lung for Cannes, the Parc Naturel Forestier de la Croix-des-Gardes covers 80 hectares. With 20 km of trails and 6 lookouts, you’ll enjoy a unique setting! If you’re looking to recharge your batteries away from the hustle and bustle of the Croisette, we recommend a long stroll through this verdant setting populated by wealthy villas.
As you stroll along, you’ll discover some magnificent viewpoints. As you progress, you’ll gain height. Once you reach the highest point, you’ll enjoy an exceptional panorama of the bay, the Lérins Islands and even the Massif de l’Estérel! If you’re accompanied by very young children, it’s best to use a baby carrier, as the trails are difficult to negotiate in a baby carriage.
Day 1 – 5-6 p.m.: a little gourmet break before heading home
Want to end your day on a sweet note? Visit Glacier Nivà for exceptional gelatos with original flavours! Made with quality local ingredients, these ice creams will transport you to Italy. This Côte d’Azur glacier is very famous in the region!
WHERE TO STAY ON THE Côte d’Azur
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
Other ways to discover Cannes: excursions + cultural sites
Discover the riches of Provence
Would you like to discover more of the region during your stay in Provence? An excursion from Cannes offers a unique opportunity to explore the emblematic destinations of the Côte d’Azur. Whether it’s a cultural, historical or nature visit, you’ll have a day full of discoveries.
Take advantage of these day trips to explore the French Riviera. You’ll have a choice of destinations, each more attractive than the last: Nice, Monaco, Grasse, Valbonne, Gourdon, Èze, Antibes, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the Gorges du Verdon, Monte-Carlo, and also the Italian Riviera!
Check out our excursions in Provence departing from Cannes.
Take to the sea to discover magnificent landscapes
Do you have sea legs? We strongly recommend a private boat trip from Cannes to discover the Calanques de l’Estérel or Cap d’Antibes. From the sea, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views over these natural areas of the French Riviera.
Les Calanques de L’Estérel
These are a series of coves and cliffs in the Massif de l’Estérel, a mountainous region near Cannes and Saint-Raphaël. They offer spectacular views of the sea, vegetation and rocks.
See our boat trips to the Calanques de l’Estérel.
Cap d’Antibes
This wooded peninsula dotted with villas and luxury hotels separates Antibes from its seaside resort, Juan-les-Pins. Here you’ll find the Bois de la Garoupe and the Plateau de la Garoupe, some ten metres higher up. You can also admire the Chapelle du Calvaire and the beautiful Phare de la Garoupe lighthouse.
See our boat trips to Cap d’Antibes.
Explore Cannes with a local
To discover a city in depth, we recommend you take a tour accompanied by a local. You’ll be able to immerse yourself in the life of a local, and discover hidden or little-known good addresses. We’ll satisfy your curiosity by sharing regional customs and traditions. Thanks to the guide, you’ll learn more about lifestyle and trends in Cannes. What’s more, you’ll be free to ask any questions you may have.
See our guided tours of Cannes with a local.
Enjoy contemporary art at the Suquet des Artistes residence
Housed in a former town mortuary, the Le Suquet des artistes residence showcases local works of art. Inaugurated in 2016, this exhibition gallery hosts 2 to 3 art events a year. Its aim is to promote contemporary plastic art. We liked the fact that art was also expressed outside the building.
Contemporary art takes many forms, and here you’ll discover paintings, sculptures, installations and other original works. We loved the life-size cow on display in the garden. Would you put it in your home?
Discover the Musée Bonnard (Le Cannet Côte d’Azur)
The museum is housed in the former Hôtel Saint-Vianney, with its Belle Époque architecture. Magnificently preserved and surrounded by lush gardens, it houses a remarkable collection of works by French painter Pierre Bonnard, a master of Post-Impressionism. We gazed at her luminous, colorful paintings, which capture the beauty of the Côte d’Azur. As we explored the galleries, we immersed ourselves in the creative universe of this artist, greatly inspired by the landscapes of the South of France.
Browse a book in the Médiathèque Noailles (Villa Rothschild)
The Croix-des-Gardes and Californie districts are home to some exceptional villas, including the famous Villa Rothschild. Listed as a historic monument, it became the Médiathèque Noailles. It’s a cultural treasure trove housing a vast collection of books, films and multimedia resources. Located in the heart of Cannes, it offers a peaceful space for reading, research and artistic exploration. The library’s exterior also charmed us!