Cannes Travel Guide: Beyond the Film Festival

Few destinations capture the glamour of the French Riviera quite like Cannes. Known worldwide for its famous film festival, luxury hotels and elegant waterfront, Cannes offers far more than celebrity sightings and red carpets.

Located just 35 minutes from La Colle-sur-Loup, Cannes is a wonderful day trip that combines beautiful beaches, exceptional dining, luxury shopping and a charming historic quarter overlooking the Mediterranean.

Whether you visit for a few hours or spend an entire day exploring, Cannes is one of the Riviera's most iconic destinations.

Why Visit Cannes?

While Cannes is synonymous with luxury, visitors are often surprised by how accessible and enjoyable the city is. Beyond the designer boutiques and grand hotels lies a vibrant seaside town filled with local markets, historic streets and stunning coastal scenery.

The city offers the perfect blend of Riviera sophistication and Mediterranean charm.

Walk Along La Croisette

No visit to Cannes is complete without a stroll along Boulevard de la Croisette.

Stretching along the waterfront, this famous promenade is lined with palm trees, luxury hotels, designer boutiques and beach clubs. As you walk beside the Mediterranean, you'll enjoy views of superyachts, sandy beaches and the sparkling sea.

Highlights include:

• Luxury shopping

• Waterfront cafés

• Private beach clubs

• Famous hotels

• Mediterranean views

La Croisette is the heart of Cannes and one of the Riviera's most recognisable landmarks.

Explore Le Suquet

Above the modern city lies Le Suquet, Cannes' historic old quarter.

This charming hilltop neighbourhood features narrow cobblestone streets, colourful buildings and some of the best views on the French Riviera. It offers a glimpse into Cannes before it became an international luxury destination.

The climb is well worth the effort.

From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views across the harbour, city and coastline.

Relax on the Beaches

Cannes is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches.

Unlike many areas of the French Riviera, Cannes offers long stretches of golden sand that are ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Visitors can choose between:

• Public beaches

• Private beach clubs

• Family-friendly swimming areas

• Waterfront restaurants

The beaches are particularly beautiful during the quieter spring and autumn months.

Discover Luxury Shopping

For those who enjoy shopping, Cannes is one of the Riviera's premier destinations.

International luxury brands, elegant boutiques and jewellery stores line the streets surrounding La Croisette.

Popular shopping areas include:

• Rue d'Antibes

• La Croisette

• Luxury designer boutiques

• Local artisan shops

Even visitors not planning to shop often enjoy browsing the beautifully presented storefronts.

Visit the Old Port

The Vieux Port offers a wonderful contrast to the glamour of modern Cannes.

Fishing boats share the harbour with luxury yachts, creating a fascinating blend of old and new Riviera life. The waterfront is an excellent place to enjoy a leisurely lunch or evening aperitif.

Take a Boat to the Lérins Islands

Just offshore, the Lérins Islands provide a peaceful escape from the city.

Known for their natural beauty, walking trails and crystal-clear waters, the islands are among the Riviera's hidden treasures.

Many visitors consider this one of the highlights of their Cannes experience.

Dining in Cannes

Cannes offers some of the finest dining on the French Riviera.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Fresh Mediterranean seafood

• Provençal cuisine

• Michelin-starred restaurants

• Waterfront dining

• Traditional French bistros

Many restaurants offer beautiful sea views, particularly along the waterfront and in Le Suquet.

How Far Is Cannes from La Colle-sur-Loup?

Distance: Approximately 28 km

Driving Time: Around 35 minutes

The journey is easy and makes Cannes one of the most convenient and rewarding day trips during your stay.

Why We Love Cannes

Cannes perfectly combines Riviera glamour with authentic Mediterranean charm. Visitors can spend the morning exploring historic streets, enjoy lunch by the sea, relax on the beach and finish the day watching the sunset from Le Suquet.