Just a stone’s throw from the famous Promenade de la Croisette and the Palais des Festivals, we highly recommend a visit to the Église Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Voyage. It provides an insight into the region’s religious history.
Here are our practical tips and photos to help you plan your visit to the building.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is a visit to Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Voyage Church worthwhile?
In our opinion, it’s a must-see in Cannes, as it’s so close to the Croisette and the Palais des Festivals.
It also bears witness to the region’s religious heritage. The interior of the building is decorated with superb stained glass windows and magnificent vaulted ceilings, testifying to the artistic and architectural talent of the period.
This is one of the best attractions in Cannes.
What you can see
The plaque in honor of Napoleon Bonaparte
Before entering the religious building, you’ll notice a plaque on the wall facing Rue Bivouac-Napoléon. It bears witness to Emperor Napoleon’s return from Elba on March 1, 1815. He had set up camp there.
The architecture
Thanks to its strategic location in downtown Cannes, we passed the church several times. Day or night, we really enjoyed the Roman-inspired architecture, designed by Laurent Vianey. If you get the chance, go there after dark to discover the play of light projections on its façade!
The Choir
The choir catches the eye as soon as you enter the church. It is very bright and balanced. Embellished with superb vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows, we really enjoyed it. Don’t hesitate to walk to the end of the central aisle to better appreciate its splendor.
The organ
Once you’ve reached the choir level, turn around and look up to admire the organ that dominates the building. Dating from 1901, it was restored in 2008 by Strasbourg’s Maison Mühleisen.
Colored stained glass
Take time to contemplate the magnificent, colorful stained glass windows that adorn the church’s walls. Concentrate on understanding the scenes depicted. They’re really violent! Do you recognize the stoning of Saint Stephen?
The magnificent chandeliers
We were impressed by the majestic chandeliers hanging from the ceiling of the religious building. They are very elegant and sophisticated. Once we were positioned at the height of the fixtures, we were able to observe every detail!
Cherub statues
Hidden beneath the organ, we noticed statues of cherubs. These little winged creatures seem to be praying, carrying the weight of the instrument on their backs.
Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Voyage church in Cannes: how to get there
Where is Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Voyage Church?
- In the heart of Cannes,
- Just metres from the Croisette promenade and the Palais des Festivals,
- From the station, it’s a 5-minute walk.
Access by car
We advise you not to drive onto the Boulevard de la Croisette. Traffic can be tricky (with pedestrianized streets), and parking rates are expensive.
Parking: park nearby
Once in Cannes, we recommend parking your car at Parking Lamy, 121 Rue d’Antibes. From Monday to Friday, the first 2 hours are free (details here). Afterwards, it’s easy to get around the city center on foot.
Public transport access
The Palm Bus network is well developed. The church is close to the Gare Maritime, Rue des Serbes and Gray d’Albion stops. Find out more here.
Visiting difficulties
You won’t find it particularly difficult to visit the church.
Practical tips for visiting Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Voyage church
Schedules and prices
Admission to the church is free.
It is open every day except Monday (same for masses).
How long
Depending on your interest in churches and religious art: between 5 and 30 minutes.
Best moment
We really enjoyed discovering this religious building by night. Its architecture was enhanced by colorful projections!
Direction of visit
There’s no set way to visit. It’s a single large room in which you’re free to move around as you please.
Eating out
Located just a few meters from the Promenade de la Croisette, you’ll find plenty of good places to eat near the church.
Check out our article on the best restaurants in Cannes for a great time!
Hotels
You’re in the heart of downtown Cannes. Here are our recommendations:
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
