Have you decided to visit Cannes in 2 days? Great 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! A temple of luxury and gambling, it is home to many prestigious hotels, restaurants and casinos. Between the historic Suquet district, the port, the beaches, the market and the museums, tourist attractions abound!
In this article, we suggest detailed itineraries to optimize your visit and make sure you don’t 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 2 days
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
Our ideal itinerary: 2 days in Cannes
Are you ready to embark on a 2-day tour of Cannes? Fasten your seatbelts, here we go!
Don’t worry, we’ve listed lots of activities on Day 1, but these places are really close together on foot!
Day 1 – 10h-10h30: stroll along the Promenade de la Croisette
If you arrive in Cannes by train, you’ll disembark at the station, about a 10-minute walk from the Croisette. However, if you’re coming by car, we advise you to park in the Lamy parking lot at 121 Rue d’Antibes. From Monday to Friday, the first 2 hours are free (details here). This way, all you have to do is get out and you’re right back in the center of town.
To get your stay in Cannes off to a good start, head for the famous Promenade de la Croisette! We were curious to finally discover this not-to-be-missed avenue on France’s Côte d’Azur. It runs along the Mediterranean Sea for around 3 kilometers from the Palais des Festivals to Port Canto. It embodies luxury, glamour and the French art of living.
We observed the many hotels, restaurants and designer boutiques lining the Boulevard de la Croisette. Along the way, you’ll discover a series of beaches offering different views of the Bay of Cannes. Lost between land and sea, the Croisette is as pleasant by night as it is by day.
Day 1 – 10.30am-11am: walk the red carpet at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes
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 celebrities take to the red carpet every May. Strike your best star pose and immortalize the moment!
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 more than 150 stars’ footprints. 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 festival celebrates series from all over the world in April.
Day 1 – 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.: visit Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Voyage church
We recommend making this part of your city tour. Located just 100m from the Palais des Festivals, you won’t want to miss it. 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.-12 p.m.: stroll through the old port and take in the view
The old port of Cannes is a place steeped in history and full of charm. Directly linked to the Suquet district, we imagined generations of Cannois walking these cobbled streets. The atmosphere is lively, as local fishermen sell their fresh fish on the quayside.
Enjoy magnificent views of the Mediterranean Sea and the islands from the old port. Opposite the Château de la Castre, we watched the boats come and go. The old port is also the departure point for ferries to the Lérins Islands.
Book your ferry to the Îles de Lérins.
Day 1 – 12pm-12:30pm: Shopping at Marché Forville
Located in the heart of Cannes behind the Hôtel de Ville, the historic market is a must-see place to discover Provencal gastronomy. It’s open every morning for a tasty awakening to the flavours of the South of France! Once you’re there, chances are you’ll want to fill your basket with delicious finds. We also really enjoyed the area, with its small boutiques, food shops and restaurant terraces.
Day 1 – 12:30-14:30: lunch in an Old Town restaurant
After so many visits, it’s time for lunch! Here are 2 favorite restaurants in the Suquet district to whet your appetite:
- Restaurant Le Pompon: this fine Cannes restaurant 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 Da Bouttau (auberge provençale): you won’t want to miss Cannes’ oldest restaurant! We found the setting very charming and traditional. The plates are simple and generous. A little anecdote: celebrities such as Pablo Picasso, Sean Connery and Georges Clooney have frequented the establishment!
Discover other fine restaurants in the Suquet district.
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 – 4:30 pm: visit the Musée des Explorations du Monde for the best view of Cannes
Located high up in the Suquet district, this museum focuses on primitive art, Orientalism and Mediterranean antiquities. Formerly known as the Musée de la Castre, it was installed in the remains of the castle of the same name. Classified as a historic monument, it was built in the 11th century. It’s one of the oldest historic sites in Cannes!
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 bay. In our opinion, it’s the best view in Cannes! What do you think?
Read our article on the Museum of World Explorations.
Day 1 – 4:30 pm – 5:00 pm: meditation at Église Notre-Dame-de-l’Espérance
Just a stone’s throw from Place de la Castre lies the Church of Notre-Dame-de-l’Espérance. Built in the 16th century, it 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.
The church has a special architectural feature: a tower. Known as the Clock Tower, it was originally connected to the castle. We were won over by this special feature, which sets it apart from the rest. It has a lot of character, both inside and out. Once inside the church, we discovered a sober yet elegant decor, with pretty pointed arches and colorful stained glass windows. Here you can contemplate magnificent religious paintings and sculptures, as well as chandeliers and an impressive organ.
See our article on Notre-Dame-de-l’Espérance church.
Day 1 – 5 – 6 p.m.: a little gourmet break
Fancy a little gourmet break between 2 visits? 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!
Day 1 – 6pm-8pm: enjoy your hotel’s top-of-the-range services
We recommend that you don’t return too late from your day’s sightseeing to take advantage of the hotel’s top-of-the-range services. Access to the spa area sometimes closes relatively early in some establishments. It’s time to take advantage of your hotel’s private beach, or the optimal comfort of your room!
We’ve written a full article on the best hotels in Cannes, but here are 2 options with luxurious amenities:
- Hôtel Martinez: a temple of luxury and glamour, Cannes is home to several prestigious establishments with private beaches. We particularly recommend Hôtel Martinez, on the seafront, with its own beach and restaurant. Enjoy the ambiance of the Croisette, and an exceptional panorama of the bay. – see photos, prices and availability.
- Five Seas Hotel: located just one street from the Croisette, this magnificent 5-star establishment seduced us with its perched swimming pool overlooking the city. The bay window framing the terrace allowed us to contemplate the cityscape. You can watch incredible sunsets, and the reflection of clouds in the shimmering water. So, tempted by a little enchanted swimming? – Check photos, photos and availability.
Discover our experience at the Five Seas Hotel.
Day 1 – 8-10pm: dinner on the Croisette in a waterfront restaurant
Want to dine overlooking the sea and enjoy the sunset? Head for the Croisette beaches, where you’ll discover a host of waterfront restaurants.
Here are 2 good restaurants that we particularly liked, and which are part of our recommendations for restaurants in Cannes:
- Rado Beach Helen Restaurant: in addition to the incredible scenery, you’re in for a treat! From local specialties such as ravioli or homemade gnocchi, to simpler meat or fish dishes, you’re sure to have a great time.
- Restaurant Mademoiselle Gray (part of the Hôtel Barrière): this establishment will take you on a journey with its unique surroundings and Lebanese-style cuisine. A series of dishes are made directly from fresh market produce: salads, poke bowls and semi-cooked tuna. You can 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!
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Day 2 – 10am-5pm: discover 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 2 – 10am-5pm: Option 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 2 – 10am-2pm: Option 2 – explore 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 island’s coastline! 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.
WHERE TO STAY ON THE Côte d’Azur
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
Alternative 1 – Best excursions
Discover the riches of Provence
Would you like to explore more of the region during your 2-day 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.
Alternative 2 – activities with children
Kid-friendly restaurants 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 to delight young and old alike! 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 eat at Restaurant Al Brunello in the company of your toddlers. 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!
Other things to do with children in Cannes
- Cannes little train: if you want to see the town without walking too much, we recommend the Cannes little train. It’s a fun way to discover the city without getting too tired, and it’s sure to please young and old alike! Find out more here.
- Look for the painted walls: all over the city you’ll find large walls painted in honor of the 7th art. Have fun looking for these huge cinema murals with your kids. Find out more here. Are you up to the challenge?
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.
Alternative 3 – Experience luxury and glamour
Sleeping in a 5-star hotel
To make the most of your Cannes experience, we recommend staying in a 5-star establishment if you can. Everything is in place to guarantee you an exceptional stay: the comfort, equipment, layout and staff are all top-notch. We stayed in spacious, elegantly decorated rooms with stunning views. Cannes is the ideal place to enjoy top-of-the-range services while creating beautiful memories! Some prestigious hotels have private beaches or casinos (sometimes even both).
See availability of 5-star hotels in Cannes.
Dinner 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. We enjoyed it and had a great time!
- 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.
Discover the great French fashion houses
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 has a close relationship with 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 packed with designer fashion boutiques.
Successful casino poker
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 little game?
The city’s 3 major casinos are part of high-end hotel complexes:
- Hotel Barrière,
- Marriott Hotel,
- Hotel 3.14.
Alternative 4 – nature locations
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. At a certain point, you’ll enjoy an exceptional panorama of the bay, the Lérins Islands and even the Massif de l’Estérel!
Pointe de l’Aiguille Departmental Nature Park (Théoule-sur-Mer)
We loved exploring the scenic hiking trails that line the Parc de la Pointe de L’Aiguille. The views over the Mediterranean Sea are numerous and impressive. Biodiversity was unique in this unspoilt natural sanctuary. Strolling along the trail, we discovered secluded beaches. They invited us to swim and relax in an idyllic setting. In short, this natural getaway won us over completely. We were blown away by the beauty of the coastal environment.
The Beaches of Cannes
Les Plages Boulevard du Midi
Ideal for families, 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.
The Beaches of 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 for young and old alike!
Our article on the best beaches in Cannes will be available soon.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Cannes Film Festival?
An international film event, the Cannes Film Festival usually takes place in May. However, precise dates may vary from year to year. We advise you to consult the official website here for the exact dates for the current year. They are announced in advance. The festival usually lasts 2 weeks, and attracts celebrities from all over the world!
What beaches are popular in Cannes?
Renowned for its Promenade de la Croisette, the town also boasts a number of popular private beaches. This famous Côte d’Azur avenue runs alongside the Mediterranean Sea. On its private beaches, you’ll find bars and restaurants with their feet in the water. Take advantage of this opportunity to relax in a deckchair and take a short break overlooking the Bay of Cannes before resuming your sightseeing!
Are there any campsites in Cannes?
There’s only 1 campsite in Cannes, and it’s a long way from the town center. If you want to spend the night camping, we recommend Mandelieu-la-Napoule. Camping Marvilla Parks – Côté Mer is very popular with tourists. Further inland, Camping Le Parc Des Monges is another good address in Auribeau-sur-Siagne.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE Côte d’Azur
- Inspiration
The most beautiful landscapes in 30 photos
Best things to do on the Côte d’Azur
Most beautiful villages
Best beaches on the Côte d’Azur
Most beautiful gardens
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Most beautiful islands
Secret places
- Practical advice
Successful travel on the Côte d’Azur (coming soon)
Rent a car in Provence – in Nice – in Cannes – in Marseille – in Aix-en-Provence.
Itineraries: 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
Weekend ideas: best-of – romantic – luxury – unusual
- Where to stay
Where to stay on the Côte d’Azur
Best luxury hotels on the Côte d’Azur
Hotels by the sea
Best boutique-hotels
