Top 25 Best Things to Do in Cannes, France

If you’re thinking of spending some time in Cannes, you’re in for a real treat!

This gorgeous city on the French Riviera has so much to offer visitors, from gorgeous beaches and yachts to fantastic restaurants and nightlife – there’s plenty to do in this chic Mediterranean city!

Whether you want to spend your days exploring its ancient streets or lounging on its famous sandy beaches, if you’re visiting the French Riviera, you can’t miss out on spending some time in Cannes.

But, I know what you might be thinking…

Is Cannes worth visiting?

What is there to see in Cannes?

And more importantly… What are the best things to do in Cannes?!

I spent an amazing year living near Cannes and had the chance to explore all the ins and outs of the city. To help you make the most of your time here, I’ve put together a list of the top 25 best things to do during your time in Cannes.

About Cannes

Where is Cannes, anyway?

Cannes is a city located in the French Riviera, on the Mediterranean coast of France. It is known for its beautiful beaches, its luxury hotels and resorts, and its annual film festival. It’s also a popular destination for yachting and has some of the largest marinas in Europe.

The beaches in Cannes are some of the best in the country, and are perfect for lounging in the sun or enjoying some fresh air and a refreshing swim.

There are also plenty of water sports to try out if you’re feeling adventurous, such as jet skiing, windsurfing, or parasailing!

Cannes is also known for its excellent restaurants, which offer a wide variety of cuisines from all over the world. In addition to French and Mediterranean fare, you can find anything from sushi to steak in Cannes.

The city also has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and casinos to keep you entertained into the early hours of the morning.

Cannes is divided into two parts – the old town (known as Le Suquet) and the newer part of town, where most of the hotels, restaurants, and shops are located. The old town is home to the city’s castle, churches, and museums, as well as some charming pedestrian streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

This city is home to many art galleries, museums, and designer boutiques, and is a popular destination for both tourists and business travelers – seeing about 4 million visitors each year!

What to see in Cannes

• The Old Town of Le Suqet
• Le Marché aux Fleurs
• Île Sainte-Marguerite
• Palais des Festivals
• Boulevard de la Croisette
• Notre-dame d’Espérance
• Cannes Yachting Festival
• Cannes Film Festival

Top 25 Best Things to Do in Cannes

1. Visit the Marché aux Fleurs

When visiting Cannes, a trip to the Marché aux Fleurs is a must. In this charming flower market, you can find everything from roses to lilies to daisies!

Every morning, locals sell fresh flowers at the market, making it the perfect place to pick up a bouquet or two.

Marché aux Fleurs is open Tuesday through Sunday from 7am to 12:30 pm, and is located on Allées de la Liberté near Marché Forville, another popular market in Cannes. It’s the perfect spot for picking up some beautiful flowers or just people-watching the crowds nearby.

So whether you’re looking for some fresh flowers for your hotel room or simply want to take in the sights and smells of Cannes, definitely head to the Marché aux Fleurs!

2. Check out the Vieux Port

You simply can’t visit Cannes and not make a trip to the Old Port – it’s one of the essentials on the list of what to do in Cannes.

This is one of the most popular areas in Cannes, and for good reason. The Vieux Port (Old Port) is located in the heart of the city and is home to a number of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops.

Built in the 1950s, this picturesque port is home to all of the yachts and boats of Cannes, and is a popular hangout spot for locals and tourists due to the picture-perfect views of the sea.

There are also a number of historic buildings around the old port, including Fort Royal and the Eglise Notre-Dame de Bon Port. Plenty of bars and restaurants are located near Vieux Port, where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning views of the sea and surrounding area.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or just want to relax with a drink, the Old Port is definitely worth exploring during your trip to Cannes.

3. Admire the architecture of Le Suquet Hill

Located at the top of La Croisette, Le Suquet is one of the​​ oldest parts of Cannes and is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Château de l’Île.

Perched on top of the hill with stunning views over the city, this picturesque area is popular among tourists and locals alike who enjoy its old world charm and character. It’s a great vantage point for people watching or enjoying direct views of La Croisette Boulevard below.

There are a number of restaurants, cafes, and shops in Le Suquet as well, making it a great place to wander around, explore the area, and take in all of its beauty.

Whether you prefer strolling along quaint streets or just taking in the breathtaking views from La Croisette, don’t miss a chance to explore Le Suquet while in Cannes! It’s a lovely place to spend the morning or early afternoon exploring the historic side of town.

4. See the sights from La Castre Museum

If you are a fan of art and history, then La Castre Museum should definitely be added to your list of Cannes things to do.

Located in the tower of an 18th-century castle on Le Suquet hill, this museum houses a collection of medieval paintings, sculptures, and archaeological artifacts from around the world. With its stunning views of Cannes and the Mediterranean Sea, the museum is also a great place to enjoy the scenery.

La Castre Museum is open every day except Monday from 10am to 5pm and is located near the top of La Croisette. Tickets are ​€6, or you can get a combined ticket with the Musée de la Castre​ and Fort Royal for €10.

So if you’re looking to explore art, history, and Mediterranean antiquities while in Cannes, make sure to check out this museum while you’re here.

5. Watch a movie at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès

Palais des Festivals des Congrès is one of the top attractions in Cannes, and it’s also the site of the annual Cannes Film Festival. This massive convention center is located on La Croisette and features a number of conference rooms, meeting rooms, and auditoriums.

Even if you’re not attending the film festival, you can still enjoy a movie at Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. There is a ​​Cinema Le Majestic​ located in the complex with three movie screens and seating for nearly 1,000 people.

This state-of-the-art theater shows both new releases as well as classic films, making it the perfect place to enjoy some quality cinema while in Cannes.

Movie buffs visiting Cannes can even take a guided tour by a professional screenwriter, and spend the day learning about the history, culture, and even some gossip about the movie industry in Cannes.

This is a great way to see one of the city’s most iconic buildings and get a behind-the-scenes look at the film festival that happens here every year.

If you’re lucky, you might even cross paths with some movie stars on the red carpet!

6. Explore Notre-Dame d’Espérance

This 16th-century Roman Catholic church located in central Cannes is worth a visit for its beauty, history, and interesting architecture. Though little is known about the exact history of Notre-Dame d’Espérance, it was most likely built during the 16th century by Venetian merchants as a way to memorialize their fallen comrades who died in a naval battle.

With its gold paint and intricate details on the façade, it’s easy to see why ​Notre-Dame d’Espérance​ is one of the most fascinating churches in Cannes. You can tour the inside of the church and admire its paintings and sculptures, or just spend some time relaxing on the benches in the gardens surrounding it.

If you’re looking for a place to worship or just want to admire its beauty from the outside, be sure to visit this historic site – Whether you’re religious or not, this church is definitely worth a visit during your trip to Cannes!

7. Discover local art at the Centre d’Art La Malmaison

Art lovers, this one’s for you!

Cannes is home to a number of world-class museums and galleries, including ​the Centre d’Art La Malmaison​. Located in the heart of downtown Cannes, this museum features two main buildings that showcase a variety of modern works from local artists.

The museum also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, such as art fairs, exhibitions, and lectures. Whether you’re an artist yourself or just want to learn more about the local art scene in Cannes, be sure to add ​Centre d’Art La Malmaison​​ to your list of Cannes things to do.

The museum is open from 10am to 6pm, Tuesday through Sunday.

8. Grab a bite at La Petite Maison

When it comes to what to do in Cannes France, eating should be at the top of your list.

After all, after a day of exploring all the things to do in Cannes, you’re going to need a good meal.

And there’s no better place to get one than at ​La Petite Maison​ – a Michelin-starred restaurant serving up some of the best French cuisine in town. Add this beauty to your list of what to see in Cannes!

Located in the Le Suquet district of Cannes, La Petite Maison is known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food. The French Riviera is home to some of the most amazing foods in the world, and this restaurant definitely doesn’t disappoint.

Be sure to try their ​signature dish,​​​ Nicoise Salad – a traditional French salad made with fresh vegetables, tuna, eggs, and olives. Whether you want to stop by for a quick lunch or spend the evening dining on their amazing dishes, it’s worth checking out this restaurant if you’re looking for a taste of French culture in Cannes, France.

Delicious French food not your thing? No problem – there are plenty of other great restaurants to choose from in Cannes. No matter if you’re looking for a quick snack or a gourmet meal, this city has something to fit your tastes and budget.

Just be sure to make reservations in advance, especially if you’re planning on having dinner at one of the more popular restaurants like this one!

9. Kayak or paddleboard at Pointe Croisette Beach

Cannes is home to some of the best beaches in France, making it the perfect place to enjoy some watersports on the sea.

And one of the best places to do that is at Pointe Croisette Beach, located just next to the famous Palais des Festivals.

This public beach has everything you could want – plenty of sun, soft sand, and crystal-clear water. It’s also a great place for swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking. If you’re looking to explore the coastline, there are a number of rental shops nearby where you can rent equipment for the day.

10. Sunbathe at Plage de la Bocca

If water sports aren’t your thing, there are still plenty of other Cannes France things to do.

There are tons of gorgeous beaches in Cannes to relax on, and one of the best places to go is Plage de la Bocca, a beautiful beach located right in the middle of downtown Cannes. This beach offers plenty of space for sunbathing, making it a great place to relax and unwind even if you’re just visiting for the day.

The public beach is also close to a number of shops, cafes, and restaurants – so if you get hungry or thirsty, it’s easy to go grab a bite and head back to the beach. This beach is always packed with both tourists and locals playing music, dancing in the sea, having a seaside picnic with friends, or playing volleyball in the sand.

Everyone at Plage de la Boca is always in a good mood and eager to have some fun, it’s definitely one of the most upbeat things to do in Cannes!

11. Take a day trip to Ile Sainte-Margeurite

When it comes to what to do in Cannes in summer, a boat trip to this stunning nearby island comes to mind.

Cannes is located nea​r some of the most beautiful islands in Europe, making it a great place to take a day trip. One of the most popular islands is Ile Sainte-Marguerite, located just a mile and a half off the coast of Cannes.

This picturesque island has plenty to see and do, so be sure to plan a whole day for exploring everything it has to offer.

One of the most popular things to do on Ile Sainte-Marguerite is visit Fort Royal, a historic fortress that offers incredible views of the island and surrounding sea. There are also plenty of sandy beaches and paths for hiking, making it the perfect place for a day trip in nature.

And if you’re looking to do some shopping, there are a number of local markets with great deals on souvenirs, jewelry, and other goods.

You can get to Ile Saint Margeurite by ferry in just about 20 minutes. This round-trip ferry ticket to Ile Saint Margeruite will pick you up in Cannes and drop you off right back in the city, so all you have to worry about is spending a relaxing day on the island!

12. Explore the Lérins Islands

The Lérins Islands are a group of four small islands located just off the coast of Cannes.

These islands are some of the most beautiful in all of Europe, and they’re definitely worth a visit if you’re looking to relax on a quiet beach away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The largest and most popular island is Ile Sainte-Marguerite, but there are many other popular islands in the Lerins group including Ile Saint-Honorat and Ile de Lérins.

Both of these islands offer plenty of great things to see and do, so be sure to add them to your itinerary if you have time. You can get to the Lérins Islands by ferry from Cannes, and there are a number of different companies that offer this service.

Once on the islands, you can spend your day hiking and exploring the beaches, or simply take in the beautiful views of the coast.

You can even go snorkeling while on the Lerins Islands – there are a number of reefs located just offshore, providing you with the perfect opportunity to see some of the amazing marine life that the French Riviera has to offer.

On this 3-hour snorkeling tour, you’ll spend the afternoon out at sea and discover the incredible underwater world of the Mediterranean Sea. You’ll get a chance to see the red rocks of the marine-protected area of Esterel-Theoule, and enjoy the charm of the Lerins islands.

Whatever you do on these islands, be sure to bring your camera – the stunning natural beauty of these small islands is not to be missed!

13. Take a food tour along La Croisette

When in France, do as the French do – and learn about (and taste) the history of some of their most iconic dishes!

There are a number of different food tours offered in Cannes that will take you along La Boulevard de la Croisette, the city’s most famous street. On these tours, you’ll learn about the origins of dishes like ratatouille and bouillabaisse, and get to taste some of the best food that Cannes has to offer.

You’ll also get to visit some of the city’s most popular restaurants and food shops, and learn about the history of some of Cannes’ most famous chefs. These tours typically last around 3 hours, but you’ll leave feeling like a real expert on French cuisine!

On this 3-hour food tour of Cannes, you’ll stroll down the Boulevard de la Croisette and explore the city’s vibrant food scene and learn about the history of some of its most iconic dishes. You’ll visit a variety of different restaurants and food shops, and get to taste some of the best food that Cannes has to offer.

This is a great way to experience the culture of Cannes and learn about the city’s culinary traditions!

14. Attend the Cannes Yacht Festival

What’s a trip to Cannes without a visit to the world-famous Cannes Yacht Festival?

This event is held each year in September, and it’s one of the most important events on the international yachting circuit. The festival draws some of the most luxurious and expensive boats from around Europe – and it’s a great way for you to see these amazing vessels up close!

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, then you can also charter a yacht for the day and explore Cannes from the water. There are a number of different companies that offer this service, and it’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective.

You can even enjoy some of the amazing views of the coastline while you’re out on the water – it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Cannes Yacht Festival is a must for any traveler who wants to experience the best that this beautiful coastal city has to offer. Whether you’re looking for an amazing vacation rental or just want to charter your own private yacht, it’s definitely a must-do thing to do in Cannes.

15. Sail on a catamaran around the French Riviera

See Cannes from the water on a catamaran tour of the Cote d’Azur. This is a great way to see the city from a different perspective, and it’s also a great way to experience some of the amazing views of the coastline.

This private 3-hour boat tour from Cannes is fully customizable and is a great way to see all the major cities along the French Riviera and enjoy a luxury experience aboard a private catamaran. Your captain and crew will take you on a tour of the Bay of Cannes on this tour, stopping along the way for lots of opportunities to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the water.

You’ll get to see some of the most famous sights along the coast, and enjoy an optional lunch buffet. You can even stop at a private beach and enjoy exclusive access to a day in the sand!

You can choose between a half-day tour or a full-day tour, at daytime or at sunset. This is perfect for those looking for a luxury experience on the water – It’s a great way to see the beauty of the French Riviera without having to worry about driving or taking public transportation!

16. Rent a bicycle and explore Cannes

Cannes is a great city to explore by bicycle, as there are plenty of well-maintained bike paths and trails that wind throughout the city. Renting a bicycle is a great way to see the city on your own terms, and it’s also an exercise-friendly activity for those who want to stay active during their trip.

Renting a bicycle is a great way to see all the major sights of Cannes without having to worry about public transportation or driving. You can explore at your own pace, and there are plenty of different routes that you can take depending on your interests.

There are even E-Bike guided tours in Cannes that allow you to explore the city with a local on an electric bike!

Whether you want to see the front-line beaches or explore the city’s hidden alleyways, renting a bicycle and hitting the pavement is a unique and fun way to see the city.

17. Take a trip to Saint-Tropez

A visit to Saint-Tropez is a must when on a trip to the Cote d’Azur!

This charming seaside town is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches and amazing yachts. Located just 53 miles from Cannes, you can easily get to St Tropez by car in just about 2 hours.

On this full-day Saint Tropez shore excursion, you’ll get to cruise along the coast by car and experience the stunning scenery and vibrant culture in Saint Tropez. Soak up Mediterranean views as you drive along the coast and stop in the beautiful coastal town of Port Grimaud.

Once in Saint-Tropez, you’ll have the chance to admire luxury yachts docked on port waters, sample Provençal food at the local markets, browse through the boutique shops, and have a drink in one of many French cafés before heading back to Cannes.

If you want to see the best of Saint-Tropez, then you need to take a boat trip down the coast! There are many different boat companies near the Vieux Port that offer day trips from Cannes to Saint-Tropez, and it’s a great way to see the Côte d’Azur from the water.

P.S. There are a few different ways to get to St Tropez, depending on your schedule and budget. Check out my guide to the 5 Best Ways to get from Cannes to St Tropez!

18. Stroll along the Boulevard de La Croisette

For a chill day in Cannes, take a leisurely stroll along La Croisette. This world-famous promenade is located right on the water and is lined with palm trees, luxury hotels, and high-end shops.

During your walk, you’ll get to people watch, window shop, and enjoy the beautiful weather and scenery. Make sure to stop at one of the many cafes or restaurants along the Boulevard de La Croisette for a refreshment and to take in the stunning views of the water!

One of my personal favorites is the restaurant La Voile Rouge, which has an outdoor terrace overlooking the water.

La Croisette is generally pretty calm and slower-paced, so it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind during your trip to Cannes.

19. Sample local fresh produce at Marché Forville

If you’re looking for a great place to do some souvenir shopping while in Cannes, be sure to check out Marché Forville. This covered market is one of the best places in the city to find local produce, meats, cheeses, and more.

You’ll find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to artisanal breads and handmade chocolates. There are also a few cafes and restaurants located inside the market, so you can grab a bite to eat while you shop.

Even if you don’t end up purchasing anything, the Forville Market is worth a visit for the amazing food, atmosphere, and views.

20. Indulge in some luxury shopping on Rue d’Antibes

In need of some retail therapy while on the Côte d’Azur? Look no further than Rue d’Antibes. This bustling street is lined with some of the best luxury shops and boutiques in Cannes, so you’re sure to find something that piques your interest!

With everything from high-end fashion brands to jewelry stores and home decor shops, you’ll be able to take care of all your shopping needs on Rue d’Antibes. If you’re looking for a particular item, chances are you’ll be able to find it on this street.

And, if you get hungry from all the shopping, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants lined along Rue d’Antibes where you can grab a bite to eat.

21. Discover the Musee Picasso La Guerre et La Paix

The Picasso Museum, known as the Musee Picasso La Guerre et La Paix, is a must-visit attraction in Cannes. Located in an old castle, this museum features nearly 2,000 works by Pablo Picasso, including many of his most famous paintings and sculptures.

If you’re a fan of Picasso’s work or interested in learning more about his life and career, then this museum is definitely worth a visit.

Even if you’re not particularly interested in art, the Musee Picasso La Guerre et La Paix is still an impressive place to see. The museum is open from 10am to 5pm daily and is closed on Tuesdays.

22. Visit Provence and the perfume capital of Grasse

Cannes is close to so many other picturesque villages and towns on the Côte d’Azur, making it perfect for a short trip for the day.

One of my personal favorite places to visit is the town of Provence. This charming town is located in the heart of wine country and is known for its beautiful scenery and great wine! There are many different wineries located in Provence, so you can spend the day tasting different wines and enjoying the views.

If you’re not a fan of wine, there are also plenty of other activities to enjoy in Provence, such as hiking, shopping, and exploring the charming streets.

Another popular destination on the Riviera is Grasse, which is known as the perfume capital of the world. This town is home to many different perfume factories and stores, so you can learn about the history of perfume making and even create your own custom scent!

If you’re looking to take a break from the crowded beaches and resort town feel of Cannes, a trip to the surrounding regions is a great option.

This 8-hour group trip to Provence and Grasse will take you to some of the most beautiful and popular places on the Riviera. You’ll get to experience the charming town of Provence, visit a few wineries, explore the streets of Grasse, and more! This particular tour is targeted for groups of 8 or more, so it’s ideal if traveling to Cannes with friends or family.

However, you can always find another tour that is tailored to your needs and preferences, or just rent a car and explore Provence yourself!

23. Take a day trip to Nice or Monaco-Monte Carlo

Cannes may be lovely, but it’s not the only place worth visiting on the Côte d’Azur!

Nice is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. This city is known for its stunning coastline, amazing food, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking to relax on one of the many public or private beaches, explore different neighborhoods, or enjoy a nice dinner, you’ll find plenty to do in Nice.

There are tons of things to do in Nice, and you can easily spend a whole day (or even a few of them) exploring this scenic seaside city. You’ll want to bring your camera – there are tons of photo-ops and perfectly Instagrammable spots all over Nice!

Another nearby town worth visiting is Monaco-Monte Carlo. This glamorous city is home to some of the most famous casinos and luxury hotels on the Riviera, as well as beautiful parks and gardens. It has all the glitz and glam of Cannes, times ten.

You can spend a day exploring the streets of Monte Carlo, trying your luck at the famous casinos, or just enjoying a luxurious meal and shopping.

I recommend checking out the beautiful garden in Monaco, which is located on the grounds of the Royal Palace. This scenic garden is perfect for anyone looking to relax, as well as those who enjoy a good photo op!

If you’re interested in seeing all that the Côte d’Azur has to offer, I would highly recommend taking a day trip to either Nice or Monaco-Monte Carlo.

Both of these cities are easily accessible from Cannes by train or bus, so you can plan an excursion with ease.

The most efficient way is by train – you can take an SNCF train from the Cannes train station to Nice for about 20 euros, and the trip takes about an hour. Monaco can also be reached by train for around the same price, and is about 20 minutes longer than the trip to Nice.

You could even take a guided tour from Cannes that stops in Nice and Monaco and includes a walking tour of both cities.

24. Catch a movie at the Cannes Film Festival

The Cannes Film Festival is the most prestigious film festival in the world, and it takes place every year in May. If you’re a movie fan, this is definitely an event you won’t want to miss!

During the festival, celebrities from all over the world. flock to Cannes to attend the screenings of films from all genres and countries. With so many events taking place at once, you may need a whole day just to catch a glimpse of your favorite celebrities on the red carpet.

However, if you can’t make it for the entire festival, you can also check out one of the other popular events or attractions in Cannes.

Even if you’re not a big movie fan, the experience of attending the Cannes Film Festival is truly one of a kind. This event is definitely worth checking out, even if just for a day!

25. Spend a night at the Hotel Château de la Tour

This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Cannes, just a few minutes’ walk from the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. The Hotel Château de la Tour offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as a delicious Michelin-starred restaurant.

It features an outdoor swimming pool, garden, spa, and a state-of-the-art gym. Private massages can be arranged, and the hotel also offers a limousine service to help you get around town. This 33-room 4-star hotel is located just a 10-minute walk from Plage du Midi (Midi Beach), Vieux Port, and central Cannes, so a perfect starting and ending point to your days.

Whether you’re attending the Cannes Film Festival or just looking for an unforgettable place to stay on vacation, the Hotel Château de la Tour is sure to impress. You won’t regret spending a few nights at this luxurious and elegant hotel in a beautiful castle hotel! A double-room at this hotel starts at around 129 EUR ($130 USD) per night. You can check availability on Booking.com.

As you can see, there’s no shortage of things to do in Cannes, France! Whether you’re looking for culture, relaxation, or excitement, you can easily fill up your days (and nights) in this stunning seaside city.

From browsing through the flea market, gazing at ancient artifacts and musical instruments at Musée de la Castre, hiking up to the top of Le Suquet, sunbathing at Palm Beach or strutting down the red carpet at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, there’s something for everyone in Cannes.

Where to stay in Cannes

You can browse through over 100 hotels, resorts, and vacation homes in Cannes here 👇

Thanks for reading!

I hope this guide has given you some good ideas for planning your days in Cannes. If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to leave a comment. I hope you enjoy your time here!

Related Reads

The French Riviera is home to many different towns and cities, each with their own unique attractions and things to do. If you’re visiting and looking for more ideas of what to do in the area, be sure to check out all my other blog posts about the South of France!

Pin this Post!