Cannes 6 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) and take a taxi or bus to your accommodation in Cannes (~30-40 minutes).
  • 9:00 AM: Check-in to Hotel Carlton, a luxurious hotel with stunning views of the bay.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Villa Rothschild, a beautiful 19th-century mansion turned museum, showcasing art and artifacts from around the world. (Admission ~€5)
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Le Grand Café de la Croisette, a charming restaurant with outdoor seating overlooking the bay.
  • 2:30 PM: Stroll along the famous La Croisette, a 5-kilometer promenade perfect for people-watching and taking in the sights.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Bistrot d’Edmond, a cozy restaurant serving traditional French cuisine.

Things to Know

  • Cannes is known for its high-end shopping, so be prepared to splurge!
  • The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs along La Croisette.
  • Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially during peak season.

Day 2: Beach Day and Water Activities

  • 9:00 AM: Head to Paloma Beach, a picturesque beach with clear waters and powdery sand.
  • 10:30 AM: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the bay.
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at La Gendarmerie, a beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood.
  • 2:30 PM: Relax on the beach, take a nap, or try your hand at water sports like jet-skiing or parasailing.

Transportation

  • Cannes has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams. You can purchase tickets at newsstands or online.
  • Consider purchasing a Carte Liberté, which grants you unlimited travel on local transportation for 1-7 days.

Tips

  • Be sure to visit the Cannes Film Festival Museum (Maison de la Vieille École) to learn about the history of cinema.
  • Don’t miss the stunning views from the top of La Croisette, especially during sunset.
  • Try some fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants along La Croisette.

Day 3: Island Hopping

  • 9:00 AM: Take a ferry to the picturesque island of Lérins Islands ( approx. 30 minutes). Explore the beautiful beaches, gardens, and historic sites.
  • 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch on the island at Le Café de la Plage, offering stunning views and delicious cuisine.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Monastery of Lérins, a 6th-century monastery turned museum showcasing art and artifacts from the region.
  • 5:00 PM: Return to Cannes and enjoy dinner at Le Relais de la Croisette, a restaurant serving traditional French cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 4: Market Day and Shopping

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the bustling Cours Saleya Market, a vibrant marketplace offering fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the nearby Marché aux Puces, a charming flea market with unique finds and antiques.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Le Comptoir de la Croisette, a cozy bistro serving traditional French cuisine.
  • 2:30 PM: Continue shopping along La Croisette, where you can find high-end boutiques and luxury brands.

Day 5: Cultural Day

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Museum of the Sea, showcasing a vast collection of marine artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and historical relics.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the nearby Fort Roy, a historic fortress turned museum offering stunning views of the bay.
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Le Gitan, a restaurant serving traditional Provençal cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, a stunning conference center and venue for the Cannes Film Festival.

Day 6: Departure

  • 9:00 AM: Check-out of your accommodation and head to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) or another destination.
  • 11:00 AM: Return any rental equipment, such as bikes or kayaks, and bid farewell to Cannes.