The town of Cannes has now become synonymous with glitz and glamour, thanks to the annual film festival that sees the Hollywood paparazzi descend on this particular corner of the Cote d'Azur. Located on the Mediterranean coast in one of the most-visited areas of France, Cannes is a popular day trip with those tourists who are staying in cheaper towns and cheaper accommodation in other areas of the French Riviera. But Cannes has its historical side too, and has enough beaches and nearby theme parks, to ensure a fun family holiday for children and adults of all ages.
The sandy beach of La Croisette is one of the most popular in the Cannes area; this is the beach that was used to film Elton John's iconic video for I'm Still Standing. Yet another example of Cannes' glamour! At just over 12 kilometres long, you would think you would have no problems finding space, even on busy summer weekends. However, the patches of public beach, where anyone can lay down their towel and enjoy the sun, are getting smaller every year. Most of the beach is taken up with private beaches. In reality, these are beach bars that you pay an entrance fee to and can then rent loungers and parasols. If you have children, the extra expense is worth it for the guaranteed shade and you do get waiter service for your drinks and snacks. Further west are the Plages du Midi, nearer to the modern part of Cannes, where most of the beach is free; get there early, however, as the best spots are usually gone early in the morning on summer weekends.
The old town of Cannes feels very different from the glamorous hotels and the promenade, even though many of the tiny shops that would usually be selling souvenirs are stocked with designer labels instead. Driving is a really bad idea, as the one way system is complicated and getting turned around in the narrow streets is almost impossible. Park in one of the large car parks by the beach and spend the day walking round the rest of Cannes. It may cost you a few Euros in parking fees, but you'll have a much more relaxed day. The old town is centred around the old port, which has so far managed to remain free of the large yachts that seem to fill most of the other harbours on the Cote d'Azur, meaning you can still imagine how Cannes would have looked when it was little more than a fishing village.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Cannes? Then below is a selection of gites in Cannes and villas in Cannes that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
