You can’t think of Cannes without thinking of the celebrated film festival which bears its name and which brings scores of rich and famous people (and of course, the people-watchers who watch them) to its yacht-laden shores each year. This in-built sense of showbiz glamour makes Cannes a favourite port of call on a number of Six Star cruises which explore the French Riviera and the Mediterranean.
Cannes certainly has a long history, with the first settlers in the area being the Oxybii tribe in the second century BC, after which Aegitna, as it was then known, developed into a fishing village. By the 10th century it had become known as Canua and developed into a port, then a Roman outpost and gained independence from the monks who had controlled it for centuries in 1530. It wasn’t until the British statesman Henry Brougham bought land and constructed a villa in the 19th century that Cannes would begin to develop into the luxurious escape we know it as today. The English aristocracy took notice of his endeavours and built winter residences in the area and improved transport links brought more interest and luxury building projects. By the 20th century, Cannes had begun to develop the reputation as a retreat of the rich and famous that it enjoys today.
La Croisette
Why?
Because it’s the most famous street in Cannes.
What will I see?
If you’re lucky, a celebrity or two taking a stroll. This is THE place to soak up the Cannes ambience, with a magnificent view of the Mediterranean on one side and a parade of upscale shops and apartments on the other. It’s the perfect place to people-watch and if you’re lucky enough to visit on July 14 (Bastille Day), you’ll be treated to an amazing fireworks display and of course if you’re in Cannes during the famous film festival, La Croisette will truly come alive.
Palais des Festivals
Why?
It’s here that you can live out your movie star fantasies.
What will I see?
Located on La Croisette, this is the theatre where the Cannes Film Festival takes place. You can climb the famous steps and be a star for the day, as you’ll be able to get your photo taken on the red carpet. Take a look around the grounds and you’ll be able to see casts of celebrities’ hands, much in the style of Mann’s Chinese Theatre in LA.
Rue d’Antibes
Why?
It’s the quintessential high-end Cannes shopping experience.
What will I see?
Lots of eye-catching window displays and expensive stores, frequented by Cannes’ more affluent shoppers. The place to go if you feel like treating yourself but if you’re of slightly more modest means, it’s enough to window-shop, people watch and take a load off in one the cafes to watch the world go by.
Le Suquet
Why?
Because it offers the best view of the town.
What will I see?
A walk up to this area will reveal a charming old church, which is interesting to explore and the perfect place to get away from the crowds and experience a little of the town’s history. The courtyard nearby is the best place from which to view Cannes and you won’t need a car to get up there, as is usually the case with most of the other tourist-heavy vantage points.
Rue Meynadier
Why?
To get a feel for the authentic Cannes shopping experience, as the locals would have it.
What will I see?
A host of traditional shops and a bustling lively atmosphere. Most of the shops here are privately-owned and it’s the perfect place to pick up a beach towel that won’t cost the earth or a souvenir or two to take back home. If you’re feeling peckish, it’s the perfect place in which to sample some delicious French bread and cheese, too.
Something a little different…
Iles de Lerins
These two idyllic islands located a boat ride away from Cannes are actually one of its most popular attractions and firmly tied to its history. Ste Marguerite is famous for Fort Royal, the famous prison where the Man in the Iron Mask was held in the 17th century, while Ste Honorat is an idyllic retreat in every sense and has been the home of a community of monks since the fifth century. You can explore both the fort and the monastery when you visit the islands.
By Simon Brotherton
Google