Extravagance along La Croisette
There are few places that demonstrate the glamour of Cannes more than the waterfront. A short stroll along La Croisette will soon have you counting luxury cars and spotting designer duds as beautiful people mingle along the promenade. This famed seaside walkway also features a sweep of sparkling views over the Mediterranean and culminates in the Palais des Festivals – home to the Cannes Film Festival.
The city's reputation for excess is certainly reflected in its accommodation with a collection of beachfront resorts providing premium 5-star amenities. This includes the InterContinental Carlton Cannes and Majestic Barriere Cannes with their striking facades and access to La Croisette. Beautiful mid range options are also available with 3-star hotels such as the Hotel de Provence.
Old world charm in Cannes
Le Suquet takes travellers back to the humble beginnings of Cannes, which makes this historic district worth a wander. The narrow streets are easy to navigate and house a delightful mix of local restaurants and souvenir shops. From the highest point, the castle provides excellent views over the Bay of Cannes.
If the history of this old town is more your style, there are a handful of hotels in the midst of its cobbled streets. The Radisson Blu 1835 Hotel and Thalasso is a 4-star establishment providing easy access to the old quarter as well as the Musee de la Castre.
Spend a day at the islands
The Illes de Lerins provide a fantastic day trip for those seeking a temporary escape from the glitz of the mainland. Ile Sainte Honorat is the smaller of the two and features a monastery and ruins of a castle. Ile Sainte Marguerite also offers a castle and is great for swimming and snorkelling.
There is a huge selection of hotels positioned along the Cannes waterfront, near the ferry terminal, for quick and easy day trips to the islands. The variety is great, providing plenty of choice in terms of style and budget. At the higher end, Marriott and Mercure provide 5- and 4-star service respectively, while the Hotel 7 Art and Hotel Athenee Cannes are stylish mid range boutiques.
