17 Fun & Exciting Things to do When Visiting Cannes France
Are you looking for some activities to add to your itinerarry during your visit to Cannes, France? European travel enthusiast Emma Braby shares some of her favorite things to do during your next visit, from her personal experiences spending time in Cannes.
Last updated: February 13, 2024
12 min read
Cannes is the playground of celebrities and the wealthy, and it is known as the star of the French Riviera. Cannes is most famous for its glitzy and glamorous film festival held in May, but there’s so much more to Cannes than this. The city of cinema is rich in cinematic history and art, as well as iconic streets to wander.
Cannes is also steeped in history dating back to the 2nd century. And it is also sprinkled in modern art thanks to contemporary art galleries and submerged sea museums aimed at improving biodiversity and educating the world. And if you take the time to explore the lesser-known parts of Cannes, you’ll discover that it is also full of natural beauty.
Thankfully, you don’t have to minted to take a trip here, and many things to do in Cannes are free. Whether you’re passing through the French Riviera and hopping off for a day or stopping off in Cannes for a week, there are plenty of things to get stuck into. So, let’s look at our 17 things to do in Cannes.
Take A Stroll Along La Croisette
Peak Season
Cannes Film Festival (May), Summer Months (June to August)
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Film Enthusiasts, Luxury Seekers, Beach Lovers, Fashion Aficionados, Cultural Explorers
La Croisette is one of the most famous streets in France and the most popular street in Cannes. The promenade runs along the seafront, stretching 3km long, and it is filled with the best (and most expensive) hotels, restaurants, casinos, and shops.
It is lined with palm trees and twinkling lights and is particularly pretty at night. In the summer, Cannes hosts a famous fireworks festival, so grab a spot on the beach and enjoy the dazzling display with a bottle of your favorite beverage.
Spend a few hours perusing the designer boutiques, treating yourself to something special, and you might spot a celeb too. But be sure to pause for a moment to soak in the busy atmosphere of La Croisette.
You’ll find it hard to believe that before the end of the 19th century, it was just a dirt road surrounded by sand dunes. Oh, how the times have changed!
Rue D’Antibes
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August), Film Festival Period (May)
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Shopping Enthusiasts, Fashion Lovers, Cafe-Goers, Boutique Explorers, Cultural Enthusiasts
If you’re in the mood for more retail therapy, head to the rue d’Antibes, parallel to La Croisette. It is named rue d’Antibes because it eventually leads to Antibes and runs for 11km. It is an old national road, and it is home to numerous brands, as well as smaller, family-run stores.
You’ll experience an upscale but casual street that is more budget-friendly than the shops in La Croisette. Plus, rue D’Antibes is worth visiting to admire the architecture, including the former Cannes theatre, intricate ironwork, and sculptures by Pelligrini.
Many stores spill their goods onto the street, giving it an open-market feel. Expect clothes, accessories, gifts, furniture, and much more. This road is sprinkled with cafes and other eateries, and I found it a great spot to grab a coffee and people-watch.
You’re less likely to spot a celeb down rue D’Antibes, but there’s something about people watching ordinary folk. Just be warned, it gets jam-packed with many cars whizzing up and down the street, so be careful.
Marche Forville
Peak Season
Year-Round
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Food Enthusiasts, Market Lovers, Culinary Explorers, Fresh Produce Aficionados
At the foot of the hill leading up to Le Suquet sits the bustling Marche Forville, Canne’s largest covered market. It was pedestrianized in 2012 and given a makeover, giving it a bright white modern interior. It’s free to visit and stroll around.
Sample the products and buy a selection of items, including fresh fish, seasonal vegetables and fruit, and traditional local delicacies. There’s a stall there run by a family originally from Spain, and they cook up a giant pan of paella to take away.
My top tip is to arrive here early like the locals do. It gets crowded and warm from mid-morning onwards, and you get first dibs on the best produce, including fish fresh off the boat from the Carayon stall.
Pick some ingredients for a picnic, and take them with you for a day at the beach. It opens at 7 am and shuts down at 1 pm, from Tuesday to Sunday. On Mondays, the covered market transforms into an all-day flea market full of local treasures and mementos.
Vieux Port
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Yachting Enthusiasts, Beach Lovers, Film Aficionados During the Cannes Film Festival
This is the old port, and it is a vivid mix of traditional charm and great wealth. Up above the impressively elegant rows of yachts and suave bars that grace the water’s edge, you can see the medieval architecture of Le Suquet. Choose a bar and park yourself up for a few hours, watching the contrast between the fishermen working on their boats and wealthy individuals and celebs being ferried to and from their yachts.
Vieux Port is another top spot for snapping some incredible shots, especially during the sunrise or sunset when the colors of the buildings on the ground and in Le Suquet shimmer in new colors.
The old port also hosts world-famous events all year round, including Regates Royales and the Cannes Yachting Festival in September. You can’t miss the riches of those that own a boat here, but you can pick your favorite yacht and dare to dream.
Le Suquet
Peak Season
Year-Round
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History Enthusiasts, Culinary Explorers, Art Lovers, Outdoor Dining Aficionados
Cannes is all about glitz, glam, and fresh innovation. But if you’re after a taste of old-time culture, wander up rue St-Antoine, past the old port on your left, to Le Suquet. It was originally a Roman settlement and is Canne’s oldest neighborhood.
The winding cobbled steps lead up to the maze of pastel-colored buildings that have stood since the 18th and 19th centuries. This was one of my favorite things to do in Cannes, and it feels like you’re stepping back in time and offers some of the best photo opportunities.
Le Suquet is full of quaint restaurants, sweet gift shops, and underground bars, so you’re in for a relaxed afternoon high up above the busyness of Cannes. I chose to visit Le Suquet in the evening. Not only was it cooler to tackle the steps, but the sunset and the view across the glistening Bay were spectacular.
Musee des Explorations du Monde
Peak Season
Local Events and Festivals, School Holidays
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Travel Enthusiasts, Cultural Explorers, Photography Aficionados, History Buffs
As you venture to the top of Le Suquet, you are greeted with a medieval chateau, once the Lerins monks’ home. The museum displays artwork, antiques, musical instruments, and more artifacts from the city and worldwide.
Now called the Museum of World Explorations, it was previously known as Museum de la Castre. This museum takes you on a journey through art from five continents and hosts various temporary exhibitions. The building itself, with the stonework, is a beautiful masterpiece too.
The best part about this place? It has to be the medieval tower that overlooks the Bay of Cannes. There are 109 steps to contend with, but it’s not a tough climb. It’s worth the 360-degree panorama view of the Bay, where you can see out into the Med, the Isles Lerins, and beyond without interruption.
You can take your time to enjoy the cool courtyard and the lush Mediterranean garden home to large umbrella pines and other freshly scented fauna.
La Croix des Gardes
Peak Season
Spring and Summer (April to September)
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Hiking Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Panoramic View Seekers, Outdoor Fitness Enthusiasts
This is a must for nature lovers, as the Parc Naturel Forestier de la Croix des Gardes is a rugged nature reserve covering 80 hectares. It is nicknamed the “green lung” of Cannes, and it sits on a hill behind Le Suquet, so you can expect incredible views of the whole of Cannes. In the 19th century, a wealthy British gentleman built a chateau to the west of the city with extensive gardens.
Now it is a space for everyone to enjoy. The large forest park has 20 km of dust pathways, with a few fitness trails and equipment along the way. Locals use it as their gym, but it’s a great way to keep the kids entertained on what they might call a boring walk. But it’s anything but!
It is home to beautiful flora and fauna and smells as exquisite as it looks. It is a fair walk up a steep hill, so it isn’t for everyone. I took a taxi up to the top and walked back down, and I was greeted with an impressive giant polished steel cross.
There are six viewing points to enjoy, allowing you to catch your breath. I really recommend this walk. Not only is it beautiful and doesn’t get too busy, but it has an untouched feeling compared to the busy city of Cannes.
Take A Boat Trip
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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Sea Lovers, Coastal Explorers, Yacht Enthusiasts, Romantic Couples, Photography Aficionados
If you’re like me and drawn to the water, this is an unmissable thing to do in Cannes. Cannes is sat on the edge of the Med, meaning gorgeous blue seas, and who can resist that? Admire the coastline from afar. You can stick to Cannes and nearby areas or travel further away to another place. I sailed to St Tropez on a day-long excursion.
We left Cannes port in the morning and moored in St Tropez for the day, exploring the rows of boutiques and market day on a Saturday. It’s a hassle and traffic-free way to enjoy the magical St Tropez. I sat on the back of the boat, watching the sea crash under my feet, swinging from the rails, admiring the chateaus and villas dotted along the coastline.
Many boat trips are available, whether you want to spend a half-day or full-day just cruising the sea, taking in the salty air and sea breeze. Listen to the waves lapping against your boat, but most of all, peace and quiet away from the city.
Plenty of snorkeling tours are available, taking you to all the best spots to view the sea wildlife and swim in crystal-clear waters. As well as catamaran tours and private trips with customizable options.
The Beaches
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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Beach Lovers, Sunbathers, Water Sports Enthusiasts, Outdoor Leisure Seekers
You can’t come to the Cote d’Azur and not hit a beach, and in Cannes, there are plenty of stunning beaches to choose from. There are public beaches that have a few amenities and are natural and easy-going for a relaxed vibe. Plage de la Bocca is a top beach for those seeking a glimpse into the everyday life of a Cannes resident.
Alternatively, there are private beaches, usually attached to hotels or available to enter for a fee. They are closer to the main street with better amenities, and some offer waitperson service, such as Carlton Beach. Other beaches to consider are Plage de la Bocca, Canne’s westernmost beach, Plage Vegaluna, a family-friendly private beach, and Plage du Midi, one of the best beach spots for sunset views.
Cannes has some of the best beaches in the south of France and hosts one of the biggest beach parties in Europe. Les Plages Electroniques is a three-day festival with three stages, more than 40 artists, a festival village, a huge dance floor, and more after-parties than you can imagine. If you’re in the mood for a rave, this is a party not to be missed!
Iles de Lerins
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Nature Lovers, Beachgoers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, History Buffs, Boating Aficionados
Sure, there’s tonnes to do in Cannes. But take a ferry ride south from the Port of Cannes, and you’ll reach the breathtaking Lerin islands in just under 20 minutes. There are four islands, only the largest two are accessible by ferry, and the other two can only be reached by private boat.
On the boat, you’ll notice how crystal blue the water is, feeling like you’ve left France and hopped across the Med to a Greek island. Both islands are traffic free, offering a tranquil break from the hustle and bustle of Cannes.
The largest island is Ile Sainte-Marguerite, famously home to Fort Royal, a prison that housed the Man in the Iron Mask, which you can visit. Enjoy wandering around this sleepy island and enjoy the refreshing smell of pine and eucalyptus. The second largest island is Ile Saint-Honorat.
It has a monastery home to around 20 monks, and it is also open to the public with a shop selling wine and other monastic goods produced on the island. Take the time to wander around both islands because they are full of hidden coves to snorkel and other gems to discover. Be sure to take a picnic and water, as eating options are limited on the islands.
Le Monastere Fortifie
Peak Season
Year-Round
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History Enthusiasts, Architecture Admirers, Cultural Explorers, Spiritual Seekers
The second largest of the Lerins islands is Ile Saint-Honorat, home to a monastery known as La Monastere Fortifie or Abbaye de Lerins. A local hermit founded a monastery on the island around the year 410. The island has been under attack throughout the years, and a fortified monastery was built between the 11th and 14th centuries. In the 19th century, a Cistercian community was founded and has remained there since.
The fortified monastery is open to visitors, and you can get a glimpse into the monk’s life and watch them make wine under their vow of silence. It is a tranquil visit, with clear paths winding around the island and the vineyards. It’s an excellent spot for photographs, and the fort appears to rise straight out of the sea.
The modern monastery is closed to the public as it is home to a community of around 20 monks, although it is used as a Christian retreat. The monastery also has a hotel which is sometimes available to book. Just be prepared for the toilets on the island; they are very French and contain nothing more than a hole in the ground!
Ecomusee Sous-Marin
Peak Season
Tourist Season (Late Spring to Early Fall)
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Maritime History Enthusiasts, Naval Technology Lovers, Underwater Exploration Enthusiasts
This is one of the newest things to do in Cannes and could be one of the best. It opened in 2021, which was after my visit. However, this underwater eco-museum looks incredible, and visitors are raving about it. There are six submerged statues in the sea, and each face is of a resident of Cannes. The sculptures evolve, becoming covered in marine life and part of the ecosystem. The museum aims to raise public awareness of protecting the Med and other seas.
It is on the largest of the Lerin islands, Ile Sainte-Marguerite. When you arrive at the pier, cross the island, and the museum sits directly above the path to the forester’s house.
The statues are located 84 to 132 meters from the shore and 3 to 5 meters deep. The museum is free. Just be sure to pack a snorkel, your swimming gear, and a map of the statues to see them in all their underwater glory.
Casino Barriere Le Croisette
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Nightlife Enthusiasts, Entertainment Seekers, Gaming Aficionados, Luxury Travelers
This is the largest casino in the French Riviera, with over 220 slot machines, including vintage and modern machines. It has electronic roulette wheels and traditional gaming tables for an authentic casino feel. The poker room has 11 tables and hosts weekly tournaments and events like the World Poker Tour. You’ll also find a friendly café welcoming guests for lunch and dinner and an aquarium.
Whether you want to splash your cash or set a budget, visiting a casino should be on everyone’s bucket list. Even if it’s to step inside for a quick wander to see all the lights and winners celebrating. Other casinos include Palm Beach Cannes, which has a great view of the Med and the Lerin islands and is much quieter. Or Casino Les Princes Cannes, which has a more down-to-earth Las Vegas vibe.
Musee Bonnard
Peak Season
Tourist Season (Late Spring to Early Fall)
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Art Enthusiasts, Admirers of Pierre Bonnard’s Work, Cultural Explorers, History Buffs
Musee Bonnard was the home of famous neo-impressionist painter Pierre Bonnard (1867 to 1947). He lived there in Le Cannet from 1922 to when he died. This is the period he created his best and most well-known artwork.
His art is easily recognizable by the rich and bold colors and includes several landscapes of St-Tropez and other Riveria resorts. The building is one of the last examples of Belle Epoque design, previously known as the Hotel Saint-Vianney. It’s also wonderfully air-conditioned, a much-welcomed break in the sweltering summer months.
Musee Bonnard is out of town, roughly 3km north of Cannes. Take the bus from Canne’s train station to the Mairie du Cannet, usually city bus 1. It takes around 15 minutes, and the bus ride is a great way to see more of the ordinary houses and way of life.
The museum regularly features special exhibitions and other artists’ work. This is a relatively small art museum, but Pierre Bonnard is to Le Cannet what Monet is to Giverny, so this is a must for art admirers.
Painted Walls of Cannes
Peak Season
Year-Round
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Street Art Enthusiasts, Cultural Explorers, Photography Aficionados, Urban Art Lovers
You can’t come to the city of cinema and miss these beautiful walls dotted throughout the city. The frescos were created in the early 21st century and pay tribute to famous films, actors, actresses, and directors. Some of the most well-known include paintings of Marilyn Monroe, James Dean, Charlie Chaplin, and many others.
They are all free to view, and you can either view them as you walk around town or spend a few hours on a self-guided Painted Walls trail. A map is available to download, although it doesn’t include two (Jean-Paul Belmondo and Taxi Driver). This open-air cinematographic museum is a must for anyone into art or cinema. Plus, it’s an Instagram winner!
Cannes Festival
Peak Season
May
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Film Enthusiasts, Red Carpet Admirers, Celebrity Watchers, Cultural Explorers
We can’t have a list of things to do in Cannes without discussing the Cannes Film Festival. If you’re in Cannes in May, it’s an absolute must-see. Every year Cannes shows the world exactly why it is known as the city of cinema and welcomes famous actors and directors from around the globe. Get a glimpse of the stars climbing the steps smothered in the famous red carpet, or watch them from the side of the Palais des Festivals.
If you aren’t in Cannes in May, do not worry. You can still see the red carpet that hosts other events all year round. Why not see a show, dress up for the night, and get a snap of you strutting your stuff up the steps like all the other stars do?
Chemin des Etoiles
Peak Season
Cannes Film Festival (May), Summer Months (June to August)
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Astronomy Enthusiasts, Stargazers, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Explorers, Romantic Couples
Another popular thing to do in the city of cinema is to walk the “Walk of Stars.” Discover the handprints of the greatest international film stars along the Chemin des Etoiles, between Esplanade Pompidou and the Palais des Festivals. It is a copy of Hollywood’s Walk of Fame but with palm prints and signatures on the ground.
There are almost 400 handprints and signatures to view, belonging to Julie Andrews, Sylvester Stallone, Meryl Streep, and more. Measure your hands against the impressions to see how you measure up against the stars. There are plenty of cafes along the way, so grab an ice cream and a drink for a quick refreshment while searching for your favorite celebrity.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, the list of our favorite things to do in Cannes. There’s more to this city than the glitz and glam of the cinema. With plenty of beaches to choose from, nature reserves, and food halls, nature lovers and foodies are spoiled for choice. And if you’re into history, it goes back to the 2nd century with forts, castles, and more. Plus, with the bougie outdoor markets, modern art, and submerged eco museums, there’s something for the young ones and modernists too.
