Cannes is one of the most famous destinations on the French Riviera, known worldwide for its glamour, luxury hotels, and the annual Cannes Film Festival. Yet the town began as a modest fishing village before attracting wealthy visitors during the 19th century.

The transformation started when Lord Brougham, travelling to Nice in 1834, stopped here and was so impressed by the climate that he built a villa. His enthusiasm sparked a wave of interest among aristocratic visitors, helping turn Cannes into a fashionable resort.

Today, the heart of the city stretches around the Bay of Cannes, centred on the elegant Boulevard de la Croisette. This palm-lined promenade is home to luxury boutiques, historic hotels such as the Carlton, Majestic, and Martinez, and sweeping views across the bay toward the Esterel mountains.

The historic old town, Le Suquet, sits above the harbour and preserves the atmosphere of the earlier village. Narrow streets climb toward the Notre-Dame de l’Espérance church, while the nearby Musée de la Castre occupies a medieval castle once built by monks from the Lérins Islands.

Cannes is busiest in May during the Cannes Film Festival, when the Palais des Festivals becomes the centre of the international film industry. Outside festival season, visitors can enjoy the beaches, markets, Cannes harbor, and lively cafés that define everyday life on the Riviera.

👉 Local tip: Walk up to Le Suquet in the evening. The viewpoint above the harbour offers one of the best panoramic views of Cannes, especially at sunset when the Croisette lights begin to glow.