I still remember my first time in Cannes – I had just moved to the South of France, and everything felt like a dream.
The soft Mediterranean light, the beautiful beach clubs, and the beautiful and well-dressed people walking around La Croisette… it was love at first sight.
Over time, Cannes became one of the places I know best, and now, through my work as a travel planner and luxury concierge in the South of France, I help clients discover the most beautiful corners of this lovely town.
In this guide, I’ve gathered my personal favorites and insider tips to help you experience Cannes in the most beautiful way.
Oh, and if you are visiting the South of France soon and need help planning your itinerary or making reservations, make sure to check out my travel and concierge services. Also, don’t forget to follow me on Instagram for more beautiful and elegant places to visit over there.
You might also enjoy these guides: Nice | Paris | Monaco | Cannes | Antibes | Saint-Tropez | New York | London
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Where to stay in Cannes: My Favorite Hotels
Carlton Cannes
An icon reborn, the Carlton Cannes is, for me, the most iconic hotel in Cannes.
First opened in 1913 and recently reimagined after a complete restoration, this legendary hotel blends Belle Époque grandeur with modern sophistication.
Its façade facing La Croisette and private beach make it one of the most photographed hotels in the world.
You can book your stay at Carlton Cannes here.
Hôtel Martinez
Few hotels embody the spirit of Cannes quite like the Hôtel Martinez.
Opened in 1929, its Art Deco style and iconic blue accents are instantly recognizable along La Croisette.
A favorite during the Cannes Film Festival, the hotel combines cinematic history with contemporary luxury. It’s timeless, and elegant.
You can book your stay at Hôtel Martinez here.
Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic
Another Cannes classic, the Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic is another wonderful option. Personally, I’ve stayed here and really enjoyed it.
This hotel exudes old-Hollywood elegance but has every modern comfort -from private beach access to its celebrated restaurant Fouquet’s Cannes.
You can book your stay at Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic here.
Five Seas Hotel Cannes
Steps away from the Palais des Festivals, the Five Seas Hotel is a chic boutique hideaway that offers a more intimate take on Cannes luxury.
Stylish and contemporary, it feels personal and relaxed – with a rooftop pool and bar overlooking the city, a small but elegant spa, and beautifully designed rooms that feel more like a private residence than a hotel.
You can book your stay at Five Seas Hotel here
Other beautiful hotels worth considering include: Hotel Splendid, Mondrian Cannes, and Canopy by Hilton.
Where to Eat: Restaurants I Love
If you’re looking for a classic, can’t-go-wrong spot, Ciro’s is one of my favorites. It’s right on the beach La Croisette, and very elegant, perfect for a long lunch by the sea or a slightly dressier dinner.
When I want dancing and fun energy, La Môme is a go-to as well. The food is delicious, and the ambience is very festive in the second service. They have two addresses: La Môme restaurant and La Môme Plage (the beach club).
Fouquet’s at Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic is another favorite. For beach clubs, I love Copal Beach and Lucia.
For a special occasion, Michelin-starred La Palme d’Or and La Villa Archange are both extraordinary experiences worth trying.
The Ultimate List of Things to Do in Cannes, France
Cannes is a mandatory stop on any French Riviera itinerary as there are so many lovely things to see there.
Here is my list of my favorite things to do in Cannes.
No time for planning? No worries, I can design your custom itinerary according to your preferences.
Enjoy the Sun (and the Food!) at a Beach Club
There’s nothing quite like a beach day in Cannes. My favorite spots are Lucia, La Môme Plage, Copal Beach, and Annex Beach – each with great energy, beautiful design, and amazing food
Spend the Day at La Guérite
If you do one ultra-glamorous thing in Cannes, let it be this. This is the most exclusive beach club in the world!
Located on the Lérins Islands, La Guérite is where long lunches turn into golden-hour dancing by the sea. To get here, the club offers boat transportation, or you can arrive on your own boat.
This restaurant is in VERY high demand and almost impossible to book. If you’d like assistance securing a table, I offer a personalized booking service. Simply email me at hello@camiexplores.com and I’ll handle the arrangements for you.
Have a Glamorous Night Out at Bâoli
A Cannes classic! Bâoli is dinner, cocktails, and a party all in one. Don’t forget to dress up, and I highly recommend booking a table for dinner to guarantee your entrance.
Brunch at Le Carlton
Start your morning in style with the most beautiful Sunday brunch in the Riviera.
Take a Boat to the Lérins Islands
Just a short ride from the port, the Lérins Islands are a little slice of paradise.
Swim in crystal-clear water, walk under the pines, and stop for a glass of local wine at the monastery on Saint-Honorat.
BOOK: Private Boat Trip to Lerins Islands & Cap d’Antibes
Go Shopping Around La Croisette
From Chanel and Dior to chic little boutiques tucked away in side streets, Cannes is a dream for shopping lovers.
Create Your Own Perfume at Molinard
For the perfect souvenir to take back home, design your signature scent at a Molinard perfume workshop.
It’s such a fun and personal experience – and you’ll leave with a little bottle that smells like your trip to the Riviera.
BOOK: Molinard Perfume Workshop
Explore Cannes in a Red Ferrari (With a Photographer!)
See Cannes and its surroundings in style with a private driver-photographer in a red Ferrari California.
BOOK: Ferrari guided visit of Cannes
Visit the Art Galleries and Belle Époque Buildings
Stop by La Malmaison for a bit of culture, then wander to admire the elegant Belle Époque architecture that gives Cannes its timeless charm.
Enjoy a Half-Day Catamaran Cruise with Lunch
Sail along the coast, swim in the sea, and enjoy a lazy lunch on board a catamaran. It’s the dreamiest way to spend a sunny afternoon in Cannes.
BOOK: Half-Day Catamaran Cruise with Lunch
Go on a Food Tour
Cannes is a fantastic place to try authentic local French food.
Eat your way through local markets and bakeries – from Provençal olive tapenade to warm socca and sweet tarte tropézienne. A food tour is such a fun (and delicious) way to experience the city like a local.
BOOK: Traditional Food Group Walking Tour
Watch the Sunset on La Croisette
Stroll down La Croisette as the sky turns gold, then grab an apéro by the Old Port.
That’s a wrap! I hope you enjoyed this guide to the best things to do in Nice. For more places to visit in the French Riviera, make sure to follow me on Instagram. Also, don’t hesitate to reach out for a custom itinerary or restaurant reservations.