A Practical Guide to Visiting Cannes
- Margaux Delang
- 7 aug
- 4 minuten om te lezen
Known for its red carpets, luxury boutiques and Mediterranean beaches, Cannes is more than just glitz and glamour. Behind the film festival façade, you’ll find a charming seaside town with a walkable old quarter, vibrant markets, and surprisingly laid-back spots. If you’re exploring the French Riviera, Cannes is absolutely worth a stop — even for just a day.
How to get to Cannes
Cannes is easy to reach, whether you’re traveling by train, car, or bus. Here’s how to get there — with all the practical details you need.
By Train
The SNCF TER trains are one of the most convenient ways to reach Cannes if you're exploring the French Riviera.
From Nice-Ville:
Duration: approx. 35 minutes
Price: from €5.90 one way
Trains run every 20–30 minutes throughout the day
From Antibes: around 10–15 minutes, tickets from €3
From Monaco: around 1 hour, tickets from €8.50
Arrival Station: Gare de Cannes, located right in the city center — just a 5–10 minute walk to the beach, old town (Le Suquet), and La Croisette.
Tip: Buy your tickets via the SNCF Connect app or at the station machines. Don’t forget to validate your ticket before boarding the train.
By Car
Cannes is easily accessible via the coastal highway D6007 or the A8 motorway (exit 42 – Mougins/Cannes).
From Nice: approx. 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic
Parking info: See section below
Note: Expect traffic delays during high season or major events like the Cannes Film Festival (May) or summer weekends. It’s best to arrive early in the day.
Scenic route alternative: You can also drive the coastal road (D6098) for sea views — slower, but beautiful
By Bus
Regional buses offer a budget-friendly (but slower) alternative.
Bus 200 from Nice to Cannes
Duration: about 1.5 hours
Price: just €2.10 per ride
Departs from Nice Albert 1er / Verdun
Arrives at the Cannes bus station near the port
Tip: It's cheap but not the fastest. Best suited for travelers on a budget or with plenty of time
Parking
There are several underground parking garages around the city center. The most convenient for exploring on foot is Parking Lamy or Parking Palais, both located near the Croisette and old town.
Rates vary but expect to pay around €2.50/hour or €20–25 for a full day. In summer, it fills up quickly, so arrive early if you're driving.
Accessibility
Cannes is relatively flat and accessible, especially along the Croisette and in the newer parts of town. The train station, beaches, and shopping areas are all easily walkable.
Le Suquet, the old quarter, does involve some climbing and cobbled paths — so if you’re visiting with a stroller or wheelchair, you may want to limit your exploration to the lower streets or take your time heading uphill. The rest of the city is very manageable and well-maintained.
What Makes Cannes Worth Visiting
While Cannes is best known for its international film festival, the city offers plenty to enjoy year-round — even if you’re not there in May. Here are some highlights you can easily fit into a half-day or full-day visit:
Walk the Croisette
The Boulevard de la Croisette is Cannes’ famous palm-lined promenade, stretching along the sea from the old port to Port Canto. It’s lined with luxury hotels (like the Carlton and Martinez), beach clubs, and designer boutiques. Tip: Walk the full stretch for beautiful sea views, then loop back through Rue d’Antibes for shopping.
Explore Le Suquet (Old Town)
This is the oldest part of Cannes — a hilltop neighborhood with winding streets, colorful houses, and local charm.Must-sees:
Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance (free entry, great viewpoint)
Tour du Suquet (the old watchtower)
Rue Saint-Antoine, a picturesque street full of small restaurants
Visit Marché Forville
Just below Le Suquet lies the Marché Forville, a lively covered market open every day except Monday (morning only). You’ll find local cheeses, fruit, tapenade, flowers, and even street food.
Musée Castre
Located in the old Suquet castle, this small museum features art and ethnographic objects from around the world.Entrance: Around €6 (reduced rate available)Bonus: Climb the tower for one of the best 360° views in Cannes.
Stroll the Vieux Port
Right next to the old town is the Vieux Port, where fishing boats sit next to luxury yachts. It’s a nice area for a relaxed walk, especially in the late afternoon. Tip: From here, you can also catch the ferry to Île Sainte-Marguerite.
Day Trip to Île Sainte-Marguerite
A short 15-minute ferry ride (€17.50 return) takes you to this peaceful island — perfect for walking, swimming, and escaping the crowds. Don’t miss:
The Fort Royal (where the Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned)
Shaded pine forests and hidden coves
No cars, just nature
Boats leave from: Quai Laubeuf (next to the old port) — check timetables in advance.
Relax on the Beach
Cannes has both private and public beaches along the Croisette. Public options include Plage Macé and Plage du Midi, both clean and centrally located.Tip: Bring your own towel to save money — renting a beach bed can cost €30–€50 at private clubs.
Combine Cannes With
If you have a car or a full day to explore, Cannes pairs nicely with a visit to nearby Îles de Lérins. Boats to Île Sainte-Marguerite leave regularly from the old port and take only 15 minutes. Once there, you’ll find nature trails, quiet beaches, and the historic Fort Royal.
Alternatively, combine Cannes with a stop in Antibes or Mougins for a mix of coast and countryside.
