This glamorous city in the heart of the French Riviera is best known for the Cannes film festival event held every May, when the world’s movie industry gathers for a week of premieres, parties and award ceremonies. Cannes has been attracting the wealthy since the days of the Grand Tour and today is no different. Originally a fishing port its reputation as a health resort began in the mid 1800s when it became a popular winter destination for British aristocracy.
Cannes accommodation includes some fantastic homes and houses built over the last two centuries, many now converted to provide unique holiday homes in the South of France. Villa rentals in the hills above the city make a great base to explore both the city and the inland towns of Provence with their rolling hills and rich artistic heritage. Cocteau, Renoir and Matisse have all been inspired by the tranquil scenery and golden light of places like Grasse, Aix and St-Paul.
The city itself is relatively small and the best way to enjoy its famous seafront, old town and shopping streets is on foot. Rent an apartment in Cannes to be close to fashionable attractions like La Croisette, the city’s palm fringed seafront boulevard, with its designer stores and grand restaurants, a tribute to France’s belle epoque. This is the Riviera as you have seen it in films, big houses, big cars and big sunglasses.
Centered around its old port, now a marina packed with yachts belonging to the rich and famous, Le Suquet is a great spot to gaze out over Cannes, while a climb to the top of Tour de Mont Chevalier offers a wider view across to the Massif de l’Esterel. The beaches here are clean, well maintained and frequently private, often charging 30 Euros a day for the use of a sun bed and parasol. Free spots are situated at the western and eastern edges of la Croisette and become very busy on hot days and during the summer.
If you decide to stay in an apartment in the centre of Cannes, consider crossing to the Ilhes de Lerins at some point during your visit. These two islands are a must if you have a day spare, especially Ste Honorat, with its ruined castle and working monastery. Take an early boat and you will have time to find a secluded spot on one of their numerous rocky beaches.
An important part of any stay in Cannes is the food and the city prides itself on being home to some of France’s finest cuisine. Unless a sea view is important, give the restaurants of La Croisette a miss, in favour of smaller places in La Suquet, the old town. Not only are they less expensive but the food tends to be better and the atmosphere in the evenings is enchanting.
With only a few weeks of cool weather every winter Cannes makes a great city to visit, especially in the spring and autumn. Couple its chick charm and Hollywood atmosphere with a great beach and it’s easy to understand why only Paris is a more popular choice of French city destination.