Cannes Hotels

Partake in some retail therapy at the high-class shops all along La Croisette, try some frogs’ legs at a fancy restaurant or see where the stars stay and take in the art-deco grandeur of Hotel Martinez. Whatever you decide to do, Cannes is not the place to leave your credit card at home. Although, you may wish you had done so when you get the bill!

Cannes Top 10

Cannes History

• Russian Orthodox Church – This intricate historic church is easily recognizable by the blue “onions” capping its spires.
• Castre Tower – Overlooking Old Town, this castle was built by monks in the 11th century to protect the port area.
• Ile Saint-Honorat – The second largest of the Lerins Islands is home to Cistercian monks who have been inhabitants since 410.
• Notre-Dame de L’Esperance – This Gothic church was completed in 1648 and has an exceptional collection of 19th-century artwork and statues.
• Il Sainte- Marguerite – The largest of the Lerins Islands is home to Fort Royal, where the “Man in the Iron Mask” was imprisoned.

Cannes Art & Culture

• Cannes Film Festival – Held in mid-May, this international film festival draws the famous and beautiful.
• La Malmaison – Part of the original Grand Hotel complex, the beautiful gardens display modern art exhibitions.
• Cimetière du Grand Jas – This landscaped cemetery overlooking the bay is the final resting of the famous and not-so-known.
• International Fireworks Festival – Held in late July, fireworks become art in this amazing feat of pyrotechnics.
• Espace Miramar – This cultural centre contains a concert hall and large room with rotating visual exhibits.

Cannes Shopping

• Le Suquet – Souvenir shops and eateries are not the only destinations along this historic quarter’s famed winding roads.
• Marche Forville – A well-known covered market held in the mornings and early afternoons offers fresh foods that can be sampled and purchased.
• Rue d’Antibes – Gucci, Cartier, Chanel, Dior, Hermes and other luxury brands can be had in stores along this road.
• Rue Meynadier – This street is often a refreshing bargain alternative to the higher-priced luxury avenues.
• Galerie Gray d'Albion – A fabulous shopping centre filled with boutiques and cafes.

Cannes Gay & Lesbian

• Parad’x – A store to get discreet necessities, such as intimate toys, gadgets and undergarments.
• Disco 7 – Everyone is welcome at this cabaret, where there’s always a party going on (from midnight to 7 am).
• Sauna Le 9 – A clean and discreet multi-age sauna.
• Plage de la Batterie – Sunbathe at this gay nude beach.
• Le Night – A popular dance club in the centre of town is open Wednesday through Sunday nights, with regular themed events.

Cannes Events

The Cannes Shopping Festival takes place in April and includes fashion shows, gala dinners and, yes, shopping.

May’s Festival de Cannes sees the stars gather to watch a load of other stars’ films and drum up some publicity for their own.

The Festival d’Art Pyrotechnique in July and August sees teams from around the world combine fireworks displays with music. It’s a magical setting for some pyro magic.

The Pantiero Festival takes place in August on the roof of the Palais des Festivals. Features the best new music and after-parties that go on until sunrise.

The Cannes Dance Festival comes around every two years in November and December. Moving stuff (ho ho)!

When To Go

Cannes’ Mediterranean climate is one reason for its popularity, enjoying good weather year-round.

May to September sees 12 hours of lovely warm sun – which the beach lovers literally soak up.

A constant sea breeze ensures the temperatures remain pleasant even in the height of summer.

Getting Around

A particularly convoluted one-way system makes driving a nightmare even if you have spent a year’s wages hiring a convertible Mercedes for the afternoon. Walk instead and get your body in shape without resorting to the plastic surgery you’ll see everywhere you go!

An efficient bus system will get you from A to B, but we can’t imagine you’ll see too many celebrities taking this option.

Rent a motorcycle from Columbus International and explore Cannes and its environs in sexy style!

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