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Planning a trip to Cannes? You’re in for a treat.
We’ve spent plenty of time exploring this glamorous French Riviera hotspot, and we can confidently say it’s so much more than just red carpets and film festivals. From cruising the coast by boat to zooming around town in a Ferrari, Cannes is packed with unforgettable experiences.
In this guide, we’re sharing the absolute best things to do in Cannes. We’ve covered the beaches, the food, and the movie magic, so whatever you’re here for, you’ll definitely find something fun to do.
Let’s dive into the top things to do in Cannes to make the most of your trip—allez!
Don’t Miss out On Our Top Choice
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Cannes was this boat tour along the Riviera. Stunning red cliffs, crystal-clear water, and a peaceful snorkeling stop made it feel like our own private slice of paradise—far from the usual beach crowds!
- Don’t Miss out On Our Top Choice
- Things to do in Cannes, France
- 1. Go on a city tour in a vintage 1960s bus
- 2. Take a relaxing boat trip along the French Riviera
- 3. Visit Monaco and Eze with a private guide
- 4. Explore the city on an e-bike
- 5. Taste your way around Cannes
- 6. Drive a Ferrari through the city (with a photoshoot!)
- 7. Learn about Cannes’ famous cinema history
- 8. Attend a classical perfume workshop
- Where to Stay in Cannes, France
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in France
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Things to do in Cannes, France
1. Go on a city tour in a vintage 1960s bus
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 10 am, 2 pm, or 6 pm
- Highlights: Ride through Cannes in a 1960s vintage French bus, see top landmarks like La Croisette and Le Suquet, stop for scenic photos, learn fun stories about the city’s film history
- Inclusions: Guided city tour, professional driver-guide, vintage bus ride, small group (max 8 people)
- Rating: 5 stars (check 80+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking for a fun, laid-back way to explore Cannes with a touch of vintage flair, this retro bus tour is the way to go. It was the perfect way to get to know Cannes and, in fact, it turned out to be one of the highlights of our entire trip!
The tour starts just steps from the port, so it’s super convenient, especially for cruise passengers. We were greeted by our driver and guide, Daniel, who we loved—and no, not just because we have the same name! His vintage van is adorable too and you can definitely expect to see pedestrians snapping photos of it as you cruise around. We felt like celebrities!
Daniel knows all the city’s hidden corners, and clearly loves what he does. He took us cruising along La Croisette with stops to snap photos at the red carpet steps. Then, we wandered through the historic Le Suquet district, and even got the perfect shot of the Cannes sign. Despite the summer heat, the bus had small fans and a nice breeze with the windows open, so it was surprisingly comfortable.
The only thing to note about this tour is that since it’s a small group experience, it does tend to sell out. There are only eight seats on board, so book early to ensure that one of them will be yours!
Read the glowing reviews and book this fun vintage tour here!
2. Take a relaxing boat trip along the French Riviera
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 9:30 am or 1:30 pm
- Highlights: Cruise along the Esterel coastline, explore hidden sea caves and coves, swim and snorkel in clear Mediterranean waters, spot landmarks like the Bubble Palace
- Inclusions: Boat tour with experienced captain, snorkeling gear, life jackets, bottled water, small group tour
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 140+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We loved this boat tour because it showed us a wilder and more scenic side of the French Riviera! It was such a refreshing break from the beach crowds.
We boarded just a short walk from the port and were greeted by our friendly captain, who clearly loved showing off this hidden part of the Riviera. The boat was fast and comfortable, and the group was small, which made the whole experience feel really personal. As we cruised past Théoule-sur-Mer and Cap Roux, we relaxed and showed off the jaw-dropping views of the red cliffs against the bright blue water.
About halfway through the tour, we stopped for a swim and some snorkeling in a quiet cove. The water was crystal-clear, and it felt like we had the entire coastline to ourselves. Another unexpected highlight was seeing the famous Bubble Palace from the water, which is wild-looking and totally unique.
This tour is such a dreamy experience, and our captain, Julian, was so fun and friendly. You’ll want to bring your own sunscreen and a swimsuit, but the snorkels on board are free to use. It’s such a great way to spend a few hours in Cannes, and we’re not the only ones who think so. Read all of the glowing reviews here!
Check availability and book this small group boat tour here!
3. Visit Monaco and Eze with a private guide
- Duration: 5 hours
- Time: 8:30 am or 2 pm
- Highlights: Explore the medieval village of Èze, tour the famous Fragonard perfumery, visit Monaco’s Old Town and Prince’s Palace, drive part of the Grand Prix circuit, see the Monte Carlo Casino
- Inclusions: Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, hotel or port pickup and drop-off from Nice, professional guide, guided visit to Fragonard perfumery
- Rating: 5 stars (check 150+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re staying in Cannes and want to see Monaco in the most relaxed, informative way possible, then this private half-day tour is it. I should note that there’s an additional fee to be picked up in Cannes instead of Nice, but for us it was totally worth it!
Our guide, Mago, was incredibly knowledgeable and planned the perfect day for us. Tailoring the pace of the tour exactly to our needs, he made sure our entire group felt included and comfortable the whole time. That kind of care makes a huge difference!
We started in Èze, a stunning hilltop village that looks straight out of a storybook. The views were unbelievable, and we even got to visit the famous Fragonard perfume factory. Here, we learned all about the art of scent-making (and tried some samples!).
From there, we drove through La Turbie and caught a glimpse of the Roman Trophy of Augustus before heading into Monaco—remember to bring your passport! Once across the border, we saw the Prince’s Palace and the Cathedral where Grace Kelly is buried. Then, the grand finale was cruising along the actual Monaco Grand Prix circuit and stepping into the heart of Monte Carlo to see the famous casino and luxury shops.
This tour is such a memorable and easy way to see some of the most iconic spots on the Riviera. No wonder it has hundreds of 5-star reviews!
Book this Eze and Monaco private tour here with free cancellation!
4. Explore the city on an e-bike
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Time: 10 am or 4 pm
- Highlights: Explore Cannes on an electric bike, visit top landmarks like La Croisette, Le Suquet, and the Old Port, enjoy scenic coastal views, experience hidden gems off the beaten path
- Inclusions: Electric bike rental, guided tour, helmet, safety briefing, bottled water
- Rating: 4.4 stars (check 80+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This e-bike tour is a fun and fresh way to explore Cannes! Riding through the city with a local guide gave us an insider’s look at this glamorous Riviera hotspot, and the electric bikes made the whole experience feel both effortless and exhilarating.
We started right at the old port, where the sea breeze set the perfect tone. From there, we cruised along the famous La Croisette Boulevard, taking in the stunning luxury hotels, stylish boutiques, and chic cafes that make Cannes famous. The highlight for me was stopping at the Palais des Festivals, where we got to walk on the red carpet and imagine the film stars that walk there every year during the festival.
Our guide was super knowledgeable and shared fascinating stories about Cannes’ history, culture, and best local spots for food and drinks. The electric assist on the bike made the whole experience super easy, too. We even climbed up to a beautiful hillside viewpoint without breaking a sweat!
The bikes were in great shape, and helmets were provided for safety, which was reassuring. Overall, this tour let us see so much more of Cannes than we could have on foot or by car, all while having a blast on two wheels. It’s such a unique way to experience the French Riviera!
Check out all the details and book this tour here!
5. Taste your way around Cannes
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: 10:30 am or 5:30 pm
- Highlights: Taste traditional Provençal dishes like socca, pissaladière, and courgette flowers, explore Cannes Old Town and Marché Forville, visit hidden local eateries, learn about regional cuisine from a local expert
- Inclusions: Guided food tour, 4+ tasting stops, lunch, bottled water, small group experience
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
It’s no secret that French food is fabulous, and so checking out the local food scene is a must when you’re in glamorous Cannes! We had such a great time eating our way through the town on this food tour. We went with a local guide who gave us a cool glimpse into the city’s culinary culture, and we got to eat so many delicious bites along the way.
We started near the port and slowly made our way through the charming streets of Le Suquet. We mostly stopped at small family-run spots and hidden gems, so this tour truly helped us sidestep the tourist traps and eat like locals. And trust me, the locals in Cannes eat well! We had everything from warm, crispy socca to savory pissaladière and creamy local cheeses.
I’m getting hungry just remembering all of the delicious food we ate, but what made the experience even better was the fact that our guide, Vanessa, explained the history and traditions behind each dish in a really fun, engaging way.
I thought the tour was really well-paced, too. It wasn’t rushed or overly scripted, and we had plenty of time to chat, snap photos, and enjoy the beauty of Cannes between tastings. We arrived hungry and left feeling happy, full, and totally in love with Provençal food!
Grab your spot on this food tour here!
6. Drive a Ferrari through the city (with a photoshoot!)
- Duration: 35–45 minutes
- Time: Flexible start times between 8:30 am and 8:00 pm
- Highlights: Cruise through Cannes in a classic red Ferrari, drive along La Croisette and Port Canto, exhilarating V8 engine roar, private photoshoot with the car against the Riviera backdrop
- Inclusions: Use of Ferrari California, professional photographer-guide, photo pack, fuel surcharge, parking fees, snacks
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Cannes is all about glitz, glamor, and living the high life, and this private Ferrari tour captures that spirit perfectly! We couldn’t pass up the chance to tear around this celebrity playground in a sleek red Ferrari and if you’re a fan of supercars, then neither should you!
I didn’t think I was a big car person, but riding around town in a Ferrari definitely changed my mind. Now I understand why people fork over the big bucks to own these babies!
We met our photographer-guide, Bryan, right on the iconic Croisette, surrounded by luxury hotels and designer shops. As we cruised along this famous boulevard, the car turned heads everywhere we went. I have to say, it was a pretty great feeling!
We cruised over to Port Canto for our private photoshoot. The sparkling blue water and the yachts lining the marina was the perfect backdrop, and letting our guide handle the camera meant we could just relax and enjoy the moment.
After snapping plenty of photos, the tour continued with breathtaking coastal views, including the shimmering Lérins Islands visible just offshore. Bryan shared lots of stories about the area as we revelled in the thrill of riding in such an iconic car.
This Ferrari experience is a must if you want to see Cannes the way it was meant to be seen. It’s the ultimate luxury treat that makes you feel like you’re living a dream on the French Riviera!
Read the glowing reviews and book this glamorous private tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
7. Learn about Cannes’ famous cinema history
- Duration: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Time: 10:30 am, 11:30 am, or 12 pm
- Highlights: Explore Cannes’ rich history and glamorous film heritage, visit iconic landmarks like the Palais des Festivals, Le Suquet Old Town, and the Croisette, hear behind-the-scenes stories from the Cannes Film Festival
- Inclusions: Guided walking tour, small group experience, audio headset for clear commentary, knowledgeable local guide
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
Price: Check price here!
Every year, Cannes hosts the most prestigious film festival in the world. If you’re keen to learn more about this iconic event, then you can book this tour and do a deep-dive with an expert guide!
What makes this tour special is that it’s led by a screenwriter and a historical researcher. So you’re not just walking around with someone who has memorized a few facts, you’re exploring with an expert! Sarit was just incredible, and she really helped us to understand the traditions behind Cannes’ world-renowned film festival and celebrity allure.
We started our walk through the old port, admiring the luxury yachts while learning how this quiet fishing town transformed into a hotspot for stars and filmmakers. We also explored Le Suquet, Cannes’ charming old town, while listening to fascinating stories about the city’s roots and were introduced to hidden local gems.
Personally, I loved visiting the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, which is the home of the famous film festival. We got to stand on the iconic red carpet, which was such a cool experience!
We then explored the colorful Marché Forville food market and wandered the quaint streets of Rue Meynadier to soak up the local atmosphere. Finally, the tour ended with panoramic views from the top of the city and a visit to the cathedral. This experience really went below the surface and helped us to get to know Cannes on a deeper level, so we can’t recommend it enough.
Book this fascinating walking tour here and enjoy free cancellation!
8. Attend a classical perfume workshop
- Duration: 1 hour
- Time: 10 am, 2 pm, or 5 pm
- Highlights: Create your own signature perfume using classical French techniques, learn about the history of perfume-making, explore a variety of scents and raw materials, take home a personalized fragrance bottle
- Inclusions: Perfume-making workshop, all materials and ingredients, expert guidance, personalized perfume bottle to take home
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
Cannes is known for its glamour and luxury, and this classical perfume workshop is a perfect way to dive into one of France’s most iconic crafts. Plus, you get to take home your own unique bottle of French perfume—does it really get better than this?
This workshop takes place in one of France’s oldest and most esteemed perfumeries, so you really are learning from the best! We were genuinely amazed to learn just how much goes into creating a single scent.
We learned how to balance ingredients and layer notes, and artfully blend our own unique scents. It was a super hands-on experience, as we had the chance to smell and experiment with over 90 different essences to create our perfect perfume. I think my favorite part was mixing them on the classic perfume organ. It was like painting with scents!
Our host was incredibly patient and knowledgeable, guiding us through the process and helping us understand how to create a fragrance that was truly personal. I’m so happy with the scent I ended up with, and I think I’ll have to come back to Cannes when it runs out!
This workshop is perfect for creatives or any fragrance fans. It’s something I had always wanted to do, and it did not disappoint.
Ready to craft your signature scent? Book this workshop here!
Where to Stay in Cannes, France
Cannes has no shortage of amazing places to stay—whether you’re looking for high-end luxury, great value, or budget-friendly comfort. From glamorous beachfront hotels to charming spots near the Old Town, there’s something here for every travel style and price range.
To make things easy, we’ve rounded up three of the most popular hotels in Cannes across different budgets. If any of these still have availability for your travel dates, we recommend booking as soon as you can—they tend to fill up fast, especially during festival season!
Hôtel Martinez – $$$
Located on the iconic Boulevard de La Croisette, Hôtel Martinez is a five-star hotel that pairs Art Deco style with luxe perks like a private beach, Carita Paris spa, and standout dining. Rooms feature marble bathrooms and some have sea-view terraces—perfect for sunset drinks just steps from Cannes’ top sights.
Room prices vary by category and season, typically ranging from €250 to over €1,500 per night. You can check all the room types, deals, and reviews, and book your stay at Hôtel Martinez here on Booking.com.
Best Western Hôtel des Orangers Cannes – $$
Best Western Hôtel des Orangers Cannes is a fantastic mid-range option just outside the Old Town, offering comfort, charm, and great value. It’s just a short walk to Le Suquet, the beach, and the bustling Boulevard de la Croisette. The hotel features cozy, well-equipped rooms—some with sea views—as well as a seasonal outdoor pool, a peaceful garden terrace, and a generous daily breakfast buffet.
Prices typically range from €60–€350 per night, depending on your room and dates. You can check availability and book your stay here on Booking.com.
L’Esterel – $
For a budget-friendly hotel in Cannes, L’Esterel is a top choice! Just steps from the train station and a short walk to the beach and Palais des Festivals, it’s a super convenient budget stay. Rooms are clean, air-conditioned, and soundproofed, with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. One highlight is the rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy breakfast with stunning views over Cannes and the Esterel Mountains.
Private rooms start around €50–€80 per night, depending on the season. Head over to Booking.com to check availability and secure your stay!
For more options, see all of Cannes’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in France
France is a dream to explore by car—think lavender fields in Provence, medieval villages in the Dordogne, and coastal drives along the Côte d’Azur. While the train network is excellent, having your own wheels lets you uncover those hidden gems at your own pace. Plus, French drivers are generally courteous, making road tripping here a breeze!
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in France
- Know the local rules: In France, they drive on the right-hand side, and some intersections follow priorité à droite—meaning cars from the right have the right of way, even if you’re on the main road. It’s also mandatory to carry a reflective vest and warning triangle in your car.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a ding in a parking lot or a chipped windshield on a rural road, having full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable with Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in France are manual transmission, and automatic cars are limited—so book early if that’s what you need. Also, a compact car is great for narrow village roads or tight city parking. We love how easy it is to filter for exactly what you need on Discover Cars.
- Watch for restricted zones (LEZs): Many major French cities (like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille) have low-emission or restricted driving zones. These areas often require special permits or advance registration, and driving into them without authorization can lead to fines. Always check ahead if you’re planning to drive into a city center.
- Be prepared for toll roads: France has an extensive network of toll roads (autoroutes). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with a toll transponder for convenience.
What You Need to Rent a Car in France
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. Some rental companies may require one.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring France on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
Cannes has a special kind of sparkle—whether you’re cruising past red cliffs on a boat, wandering the historic Le Suquet, or soaking up luxury on La Croisette. We hope this guide helped you plan a trip that’s as glamorous, fun, and unforgettable as this French Riviera gem deserves to be.
We’ve spent plenty of time exploring Cannes and beyond, so if you’re looking for even more ideas around the country, be sure to check out our other France blogs here for practical tips and hidden gems from all over. Or see some of our most popular guides below. We think you’ll love them just as much!
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