Cannes, France Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Cannes is a stunning city located on the French Riviera, known for its glamorous beaches, luxurious resorts, and lively atmosphere. It attracts visitors from all over the world, drawn to its elegant promenade, picturesque old town, and world-renowned film festival. With its mild Mediterranean climate and stunning views of the turquoise sea, Cannes offers a unique blend of sophistication and relaxation. Whether you are seeking a luxurious getaway, a cultural experience, or simply a place to soak up the sun, Cannes has something for everyone.

Why Cannes, France?

  • Cannes is the second most populous city in the Alpes-Maritimes department of France.
  • The world-famous Cannes International Film Festival is held annually in the city.
  • Cannes is an important yachting center and host of the annual Cannes Yachting Festival.
  • The Promenade de la Croisette is a popular seaside boulevard lined with palm trees, luxury hotels, restaurants, and beaches.
  • Cannes is home to the Musée de la Castre, a museum dedicated to art and history.

Cannes, France Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
54° F
° F
February
54° F
° F
March
57° F
° F
April
61° F
° F
May
66° F
° F
June
73° F
° F
July
79° F
° F
August
81° F
° F
September
75° F
° F
October
68° F
° F
November
61° F
° F
December
55° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
3.1 inches
February
3.2 inches
March
2.9 inches
April
2.4 inches
May
2.2 inches
June
1.7 inches
July
0.7 inches
August
1.6 inches
September
2.6 inches
October
4.2 inches
November
4.2 inches
December
3.3 inches

History

Set along the French Riviera, Cannes is a vibrant and luxurious city known for its prestigious film festival and opulent lifestyle. Its history dates back to the 2nd century BC when it was originally a small fishing village named Aegitna. The city’s name was later changed to Canua, a Latin word meaning “reed” due to the abundant canes that grew along its coastline.

In the 11th century, Cannes was ruled by the monks of the Lérins Abbey, who were known for their winemaking and fishing skills. It was during this time that the city’s first castle, the Castre Castle, was built. This castle, perched atop a hill, provided strategic protection to the city from pirate attacks.

In the 19th century, Cannes experienced a transformation when it became a popular winter destination for the British upper class. The city’s mild climate and beautiful beaches attracted wealthy tourists, who built luxurious villas and palaces along the coast. This era of glamour and extravagance gave Cannes its reputation as a playground for the rich and famous.

In 1946, Cannes became the host of the first International Film Festival, an event that would put the city on the global map. The festival was a huge success, attracting Hollywood stars and filmmakers from around the world. Today, the Cannes Film Festival remains one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in the film industry.

Aside from its glitzy film festival, Cannes is also known for its picturesque Old Town, also known as Le Suquet. This charming neighborhood is filled with narrow cobbled streets, colorful houses, and quaint shops and restaurants. It also offers stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

Cannes is also a hub for yachting and sailing, with its beautiful marinas and ports attracting luxury boats and yachts from all over the world. The city is also a paradise for foodies, with its Michelin-starred restaurants and traditional French bistros serving up delicious cuisine.

The city has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a small fishing village. Cannes has evolved into a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern luxury, cementing its place as a must-visit destination for travelers from all over the world.

Transportation on Cannes, France

Getting to Cannes, France and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Valid passport for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa not required for EU/EEA citizens and most other nationalities for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period).
  • Return/onward ticket: recommended as proof of departure.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Driving License: Foreign licenses are valid. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-EU licenses.
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side.
  • Road Conditions: Roads are well-maintained, but traffic can be heavy during peak tourist seasons.
  • Speed Limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on open roads, 130 km/h (81 mph) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Parking in Cannes is limited, especially near the Croisette. Use designated parking lots or opt for public transport. Be prepared for tolls on highways.

Local Transportation

Cannes offers a variety of transportation options to explore its luxurious beaches, vibrant streets, and nearby attractions. The city’s public buses are an affordable way to travel to nearby towns and resorts, while taxis provide a more convenient option for quick trips to popular destinations. Rental cars are ideal for those wanting to explore the beautiful surroundings, including the hills and coastal villages, at their own pace. Cannes is also pedestrian-friendly, and walking or cycling around the town is a great way to enjoy its scenic views and bustling atmosphere. With these options, Cannes makes it easy to experience the glamour and charm of the French Riviera.

Know Before You Go...® - Cannes, France Travel Tips

Before making their way to Cannes, France , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Cannes, France even more relaxing.

Capital: Cannes
Population: 75,000 (estimated)
Size: approximately 19.62 square miles (50.76 square kilometers).
Electric Current: 230
Official Language: The official language spoken in Cannes is French, as it is located in the French Riviera. However, English is also widely spoken as a secondary language due to the city's large tourism industry and international film festival.
Currency:
  • Cannes is a popular tourist destination located on the French Riviera, known for its luxury lifestyle and glamorous events such as the Cannes Film Festival. As such, it is no surprise that the city offers a wide range of currency and payment options to cater to the needs of its diverse international visitors.
  • The official currency in Cannes is the euro (EUR), which is widely accepted and used in all establishments. It is recommended to exchange your currency for euros before arriving in Cannes, as the exchange rates at the airport or in the city may not be as favorable.
  • Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Cannes, with most establishments accepting major international cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. However, it is always advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in case of any issues with card payments.
  • ATMs are readily available throughout Cannes, making it convenient for visitors.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping and taxes in Cannes are an important aspect of the local culture and economy.
  • It is customary to tip for good service in restaurants and taxis, but it is not mandatory. The amount of the tip usually ranges from 5-10% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service.
  • In terms of taxes, Cannes follows the standard Value Added Tax (VAT) system, which is currently set at 20%. This tax is automatically included in the price of goods and services, so there is no need to tip on top of the total amount. However, there are certain items that are exempt from VAT, such as food and drink in restaurants, and medical services.
  • It is important to note that tax-free shopping is available for non-EU residents in Cannes. This means that tourists can get a refund on the VAT they paid on eligible purchases made in participating stores. To do this, visitors must present a completed tax refund form, along with their passport, at the airport.
Dress Code: The dress code in Cannes is typically formal and sophisticated, with a focus on designer labels and elegant attire.
Topography: Cannes is a coastal city in the French Riviera known for its beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and lively atmosphere, surrounded by rolling hills and the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Telephone: * Telephone Country Code: +33 * Area Code: 4 (for Cannes and the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region) * Mobile Networks: Excellent coverage throughout Cannes. * Wi-Fi: Freely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Free Wi-Fi hotspots are common along the Croisette promenade.

Cannes, France Weddings and Honeymoons

In Cannes, France getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Apply at the Cannes Town Hall (Mairie de Cannes). One of the parties must have been a resident of France for at least 30 days.

Required documents include:

  • Passports for both parties
  • Birth certificates issued within the last 6 months (translated into French by a certified translator)
  • Certificate of Celibacy (proof of single status)
  • Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage, if required by your country
  • Proof of address or residency

Submit the documents at least 10 days before the ceremony.

Civil ceremonies are mandatory and conducted at the town hall. Religious or symbolic ceremonies can follow.

Costs: Civil ceremonies are free but may incur minor administrative fees. Venue rentals for scenic ceremonies are additional.

Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: Cannes offers luxurious and picturesque wedding venues, such as beachfront resorts, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, or the Lérins Abbey on Île Saint-Honorat. Yacht weddings and ceremonies overlooking the Mediterranean are popular among couples seeking a glamorous setting.