Cannes Hotels

Cannes, France

Cannes is like the Hollywood of France, with its abundance of wealth, glamor, indulgence and celebrity sightings. The city is also full of beautiful scenery – a stunning harbor, a sparkling bay and a romantic Old Quarter all compete for your attention.

Shopping

The Promenade de la Croisette (more commonly known simply as La Croisette) is a coastal avenue of haute couture shops selling designer labels. Such celebrated names as Celine, Chanel, Dior, Tabaud and Jean Paul Gaultier can be found here. Aside from being a fabulous shopping destination, the Promenade is an excellent place for people-watching – one can recline on a bench overlooking the bay to take it all in. This is also the location of the world-famous Cannes Film Festival.

Near La Croisette is Rue d'Antibes, which has something for everyone, from high-end fashion to bargain shopping. Accessorize has affordable jewelry and accessories while stores like Promod, Etam and Pimke are France’s answer to popular US chains like Forever 21.

Sightseeing

To get a taste of Cannes’ history, visitors can climb the narrow streets of Le Suquet, overlooking the old port, where the 12th Century Tour de Mont Chevalier and the church of Notre Dame de l’Esperance stand. The church was completed in 1648 and reopened in 2013 after being closed for extensive renovations. It contains numerous 19th Century paintings as well as a fresco by George Roux.

Bellini Chapel is another gorgeous piece of architecture, built in 1880 and originally belonging to the Serbian Princess Kara-Georgevich. The painter Emmanuel Bellini used this as his studio and a number of his works are on display here.

The Cannes library of Mediatheque Noailles, formerly the Villa Rothschild, is also open to the public and well worth a visit. Constructed in 1881, this neoclassical building was occupied by the German Kammandantur during WWII. The immaculate garden holds many beautiful trees, palms and flowers.

Dining

The quality of the food in Cannes is extraordinary, and much of it is sourced locally. The most popular eateries are along the riverfront, but the Rue Meynadier, in the historic district of Le Suquet, is also home to some fantastic restaurants with lovely views of the city.

A highly recommended dining venue is the historic La Colombe d’Or Hotel & Restaurant, where regulars once included the likes of Picasso and Matisse. La Mere Besson is the place to go for traditional Provençal cooking – beef stew and stuffed rabbit are typically on the menu. Alternatively, Le Mesclun serves delicious meals at very reasonable prices. For mouth-watering desserts, Jean-Luc Pelé on Rue d’Antibes has a wide selection of delectable treats, including macaroons of all flavors.

Planning your trip to the South of France? Take a look at our wide array of affordable accommodation options for this exciting city.