Destination Cannes
Cannes is far more than red carpets and Riviera glamour. For the discerning traveller, it offers a harmonious blend of cultural richness, Provençal charm, and refined elegance, all framed by the glittering azure waters of the Mediterranean.
Each September, yachting aficionados and lovers of life on the water gather in this vibrant and storied city for the Cannes Yachting Festival – Europe’s leading in-water yacht show.
To help you make the most of your visit, our friends at Sanlorenzo Yachts UK have curated a guide to the best of Cannes, where it will be showcasing an incredible line up of its luxury yachts and superyachts during the festival.
Experience
The soul of Cannes: Le Suquet
Rising above the marina that plays host to the festival’s yachts and superyachts, Le Suquet is the historic heart of Cannes. This medieval quarter, with its cobbled streets, pastel facades, and panoramic sea views, offers a glimpse of the original Cannes – long before it became synonymous with cinema and luxury.
Don’t miss: The ascent to Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance, a tranquil 16th-century church with a prominent bell tower, and the 11th-century Tour du Suquet, a medieval lookout now offering one of the most breathtaking views along the coast.
Artisan charm: Le Suquet is more than a picture-postcard backdrop; it’s a thriving artistic enclave. Wander its winding alleys and discover ateliers restoring antiques, framing Riviera artwork, and handcrafting leather goods. Independent galleries display contemporary and international pieces in beautifully aged stone interiors.
Café terraces spill into the narrow streets, inviting you to linger over a chilled glass of Provençal rosé or indulge in a tasting menu at one of the city’s many hidden, chef-led gems.
A Provençal feast for the senses: Open-air markets
Cannes’ markets are vibrant expressions of its culinary heritage – places where flavour, tradition, and local character converge.
Marché Forville (daily except Monday): Just steps from Le Suquet, this iconic market is a treasure trove of seasonal produce, wild mushrooms, hand-picked herbs, Corsican charcuterie, alpine cheeses, and fresh seafood, including oysters, enjoyed right there with a chilled glass of white wine.
Marché Gambetta: Located near Rue d’Antibes, this urban-style market blends the traditional with the contemporary. Alongside fresh fruit and artisan breads, find gourmet preserves, handmade soaps, Provençal linens, and fashion from local designers. It’s the perfect stop for elegant souvenirs or gifts, with cafés nearby ideal for a relaxed espresso and a touch of people-watching.
Slow down and embrace the rhythm of Riviera life as Cannes’ markets invite you to savour its quieter luxuries: quality, community, and timeless simplicity.
Explore
Cannes is also the perfect base from which to discover the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness if you have time to stay for aa few more days.
The Îles de Lérins
Just off the coast and accessible by tender from the Vieux Port, the Îles de Lérins offer a tranquil contrast to the mainland’s buzz. Draped in pine trees and surrounded by crystalline waters, Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat are rich in history, nature, and quietude – ideal for contemplative walks, cultural immersion, or private wine tastings.
Île Sainte-Marguerite: Home to Fort Royal – once the prison of the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask – this island blends heritage and natural beauty. Explore the Musée de la Mer, wander along aromatic eucalyptus trails, and discover hidden coves for a secluded lunch. Offshore lies the Underwater Ecomuseum, a series of haunting stone sculptures by Jason deCaires Taylor, accessible only by snorkelling or diving, a magical artistic encounter below the shimmering surface.
Île Saint-Honorat: Smaller and more serene, this island has been home to Cistercian monks since the 5th century. The monastic community continues to produce award-winning organic wines, olive oil, and liqueurs, available to sample during private tastings in peaceful, sea-facing courtyards. The island’s medieval tower, chapels, and palm-lined paths make it perfect for a reflective half-day visit on foot.
Enjoy
The Bay of Cannes is your private aquatic playground. Whether you’re based onboard a yacht, in a five-star resort, or on a bespoke day charter, the possibilities are endless.
Watersports & Bespoke Adventures
From Seabobs and e-foils to paddleboards and electric tenders, every possible on-water experience is at your fingertips. Skilled instructors are on hand to guide everything from family-friendly outings to adrenaline-fuelled sessions.
Our helicopter transfers can whisk you to Monaco, Saint-Tropez, Cap-Ferrat, or the vineyards of Provence, each offering spectacular aerial views en route.
For diving enthusiasts, private charters and eco-snorkelling expeditions offer intimate encounters with the marine life around the Lérins Islands. You can even book an underwater photography session with a marine guide – perfect for couples or families wanting to capture unforgettable memories.
Where to Stay
Cannes offers a refined portfolio of accommodations where service is discreet, privacy is paramount, and luxury comes naturally. Whether arriving by car, yacht or private jet, you’ll find options to suit every preference, from iconic hotels to private hillside estates.
Hotel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes
With a prime location on the Boulevard de la Croisette, opposite the Palais des Festivals, Le Majestic combines Belle Époque elegance with modern luxury. A favourite of film industry luminaries, it delivers cinematic glamour at every turn.
Hotel Martinez
A Riviera landmark since the 1920s, Hotel Martinez is part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection. Refurbished in 2018 to preserve its Art Deco soul while embracing sustainable innovation, it continues to welcome royalty, artists, and global icons.
Villa Alang Alang
Nestled in the exclusive hills of Super Cannes, this private villa is a sanctuary of style. With a helipad, cinema room, wellness suite, and a full complement of staff, it’s ideal for long stays, events, or family escapes.
Dining & Drinks
Cannes is a culinary destination where every meal can be customised to your tastes, from intimate chef’s table dinners to rooftop soirées.
La Palme d’Or
Located within Hotel Martinez, this Michelin-starred restaurant by Chef Jean Imbert is a stage for Riviera-inspired cuisine, showcasing seafood in bold and imaginative ways.
Table 22 by Noël Mantel
Hidden in the atmospheric old town, Table 22 is a favourite among locals. Chef Noël Mantel’s passionate team delivers refined Provençal cuisine in a warm, inviting setting.
La Môme Cannes
On stylish Rue Florian, La Môme channels the glamour of 1950s Cannes with its cosmopolitan menu, vibrant crowd, and impeccably curated ambiance – a lively choice for an elegant evening.
Nightlife
As day turns to dusk, Cannes glows with effortless sophistication. Whether you’re in the mood for refined elegance or high-energy glamour, the city comes alive after dark.
Baôli Cannes
Located in Port Canto, Baôli is a Cannes nightlife institution. Its lush garden, ambient lighting, and international DJ sets create a seductive atmosphere for a global crowd.
Fouquet’s Bar
Tucked inside Le Majestic, this bar exudes old-world glamour. Deep leather chairs, polished brass, and expertly crafted cocktails make it the ideal venue for a quiet nightcap.
Experience. Explore. Enjoy.
Whether you’re dropping anchor for the Cannes Yachting Festival or enjoying the Mediterranean summer season, Cannes promises to surprise and delight, effortlessly blending international flair with authentic local soul.
Arrive in style with Admiral Jet
Make your arrival in the Cannes as effortless and stylish as your stay with our bespoke private jet service tailored to your schedule.
Fly direct to Cannes or nearby Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, with VIP treatment from private terminals and departures available within just two hours of booking. Whether you’re travelling for business, leisure, or to step aboard your next yacht, we ensure you arrive refreshed, relaxed, and ready to experience the very best of Cannes.