Top Luxury Things to Do in Cannes, France
To truly appreciate the beauty of the French Riviera, a visit to Cannes is a must. Known primarily for its illustrious Cannes Film Festival, the city has a variety of other alluring attractions waiting to be explored.
Wander through the charming Le Suquet district, admire the stunning views from the Notre-Dame d'Esperance church, or indulge in some retail therapy on the vibrant Rue d'Antibes.
La Croisette
The glamorous La Croisette, located in Cannes, France, is often likened to the renowned Promenade des Anglais in Nice. This famous street is lined with high-end shops, palm trees, and casinos, and runs parallel to the sea. Its luxurious hotels, some of which boast private beaches, add to the allure of this famous street.
Though there may be a fee for using the sun loungers, visitors can relish in first-class treatment while admiring the breathtaking vista of the Bay of Cannes.
Rue d’Antibes
Cannes is renowned for its exceptional shopping opportunities, boasting some of the most sophisticated and upscale stores in all of South of France. The iconic Rue d'Antibes is a premier destination for shopping, spanning 3 km along the Croisette.
This street is home to a variety of shops, from specialty boutiques to renowned international brands, and is a must-see for those who love to browse. Even for non-shoppers, the stunning architecture adorned with sculptures by renowned artist Pellegrini is a sight not to be missed. With high-end fashion, opulent home decor, and exquisite jewelry, Rue d'Antibes offers an unparalleled shopping experience in Cannes.
Cannes Yachting Festival
The Cannes Yachting Festival provides an opportunity to admire the newest and most luxurious yachts on the market. It serves as a prominent showcase for shipbuilders to display their impressive vessels, drawing in a diverse international crowd with almost half of the visitors coming from other countries.
This highly anticipated event occurs each September at two main locations - Le Vieux Port (Old Port) and Port Pierre Canto.
The Cannes Yachting Festival provides an opportunity to admire the newest and most luxurious yachts on the market.
Le Vieux Port
The charming Old Port, with its blend of nostalgic allure and opulent wealth, is a delightful sight to see. Nestled at the base of Le Suquet, Cannes' oldest and most historic district, it is a preferred spot for indulging in delicious meals.
Tourists flock to the port to savor lunch at its numerous upscale restaurants and hike up the nearby hills for breathtaking vistas of the port and city.
Le Suquet
The charming district of Le Suquet, or Cannes Old Town, is a delightful destination with quaint cobblestone streets, alluring restaurants, and stunning vistas of the Bay of Cannes. It has a fascinating past, once being a hub for fishermen and earlier acting as a protective stronghold.
This area truly encompasses the essence of classic Cannes before its rise to fame for the film industry. Guests can marvel at historic buildings, take in breathtaking panoramas, and indulge in a diverse selection of dining options, from elegant French restaurants to casual bistros, tapas bars, and cafés.
La Mairie de Cannes (Town Hall)
The city's historical roots are reflected in the striking design of Cannes Town Hall, known as La Mairie de Cannes. Designed by local architect Louis Hourlier, this impressive structure was constructed in 1876. Adorned with 16 caryatids and sculpted blazons, the building's facade is a breathtaking sight.
The grandeur is further enhanced by the use of Doric and Ionic columns, with a striking dome featuring two clocks crowning the building that stands proudly by the port in the old part of Cannes.
Notre-Dame d’Espérance
While in Cannes, make sure to add a visit to Norte Dame d'Esperance to your itinerary. This historic and magnificent site, situated in the heart of the city, is must-see. Dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries, this gothic church perched on a hill in Le Suquet offers breathtaking views of Cannes. Its intricate exterior and tranquil interior offer a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Whether you're appreciating its architectural details, capturing photos, or seeking a moment of quiet reflection, Norte Dame d'Esperance is a fantastic destination. And if you happen to be in Cannes in the month of July, don't forget to attend the annual Musical Nights of Le Suquet festival held at this spectacular attraction.
Croix-des-Gardes Park
Located just under a kilometer away from the famous Croisette, lies the tranquil Croix des Gardes Park. A peaceful oasis of nature, it offers the perfect retreat from the busy city, inviting visitors to take a stroll and engage in recreational activities.
As a sensitive natural area, it serves as a critical refuge for the diverse plant and animal life of Provence, making it a vital component of the region's precious ecological heritage just waiting to be explored and admired.
Photos by Jannis Lucas on Unsplash , Gaetan THURIN on Unsplash , Jim Thirion on Unsplash .