Cannes had been on my bucket list forever and it somehow it still exceeded my expectations! Yes, Cannes is known for the Cannes Film Festival and the glamour that comes with it, but what I loved most was how easy it felt. The beaches are sandy (which is rare for the French Riviera), the town is incredibly walkable, and there’s a relaxed, yet elevated energy woven into all of it.
It’s the kind of place where you can spend your morning at the beach, wander through charming streets in the afternoon, and end the day with a long dinner by the water while everything glows in that soft golden light.
Itinerary
We loved Cannes, and I’m already dreaming of our return. You could spend as much or as little time here as you desire. I would actually consider staying here for a few nights rather than just visiting for the day. That said, you can absolutely experience the highlights in a day if you’re short on time. I would plan your itinerary based on markets and day trips!
Airport / Train Stations
- Airport – Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) Closest major airport, about 30 minutes away by car.
- Train- Cannes Train Station, located right in the center of town
Transportation
- Train – One of the easiest ways to get to Cannes
- Taxi / Uber – Readily available and convenient, especially if traveling with kids or beach gear.
- Walk – My favorite way to experience Cannes (or any city really)! Everything from the beach to the old town is very walkable.
Top Things to Do in Cannes
- Spend the day at the beach
The sandy shoreline here is one of the biggest draws, especially if you’re traveling with kids. We also really love spending the day at a beach club. It’s so nice having designated chairs, lounge service, and a slightly more secluded beach area. The beach is more peaceful in the morning, so arrive early if you want to claim a spot and ease into the day. - Walk along the iconic Boulevard de la Croisette
This is one of those places you’ve seen in photos your whole life. Palm trees, the sea just steps away, luxury hotels lining the street… it feels very “Cannes” in the best way. It’s perfect for a slow morning walk or an evening stroll. - Explore Le Suquet (Old Town)
Climb up for some of the best views in Cannes, then take your time wandering the quieter, charming streets. It feels completely different from the waterfront. Slower, more local, and honestly one of the prettiest parts of the city. - Visit the Marché Forville
A local market filled with fresh produce, pastries, flowers, and small bites. It’s such a fun stop in the morning. Even if you’re not buying much, it’s worth walking through just to take it all in. - Stop for gelato or crêpes
A simple but essential part of any Riviera day. There’s something about walking along the water with gelato in hand that just feels like vacation. - Enjoy a long lunch or dinner by the water
Cannes is one of those places where meals are meant to be lingered over. Order something simple, sit outside, and don’t rush. Some of our favorite moments were just sitting at the table, watching the light change over the water. - Take all the photos
Between the yachts, palm trees, soft coastal colors, and that golden light, it’s effortlessly beautiful. You don’t have to try hard here. It just photographs well. - Take the tourist train
We didn’t get to it this trip, but would love to next time. It’s an easy, relaxed way to see the highlights, especially if you’re traveling with kids or just want a break from walking. - Spend time at Plage du Midi
If you want something a little more low-key, this beach has a more local feel and tends to be less crowded than the main Croisette beaches. It’s perfect for a slower, more relaxed beach day. - Take a photo at the Palais des Festivals
It’s a quick stop, but a fun one. Standing on the steps where the Cannes Film Festival happens is one of those iconic little moments. - Wander the Old Port
Take your time walking along the harbor and looking at the yachts. It’s one of those places where you naturally slow down and just take everything in. - Take a boat day to the islands
If you have the time, this is absolutely worth it. The water is crystal clear, and it feels like a completely different pace from Cannes.- Île Sainte-Marguerite is perfect for swimming and quiet beach time
- Île Saint-Honorat is peaceful and unique with a slower, almost untouched feel
- Have an afternoon aperitif
A spritz, a glass of rosé, something light in the late afternoon… it’s just part of the rhythm here. It’s the perfect pause between beach time and dinner. - Take an evening walk along the water
Cannes feels different at night. The lights reflecting on the harbor, the warm air, people lingering outside… it’s one of my favorite times of day.
What would you add to this list?
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