The razzmatazz of the film festival lingers year-round - not just on the steps of the famous Palais de Festivals venue, where practically every star of the silver screen has been photographed (be sure to do the same). Located at the western end of the palm tree-lined Boulevard de la Croisette, the venue has the Walk of Fame just outside. The Walk is a fascinating footpath of celebrity handprints including those of living legends Sophia Loren, Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood. Elsewhere on Boulevard de la Croisette, admire chic fashion boutiques and palatial hotels. A stroll down this wonderful waterfront promenade offers some of the world’s most fabulous window shopping, from the likes of Gucci, Chanel and Dior. A few roads inland, the Rue d'Antibes boasts shops selling clothes from famous French designers.
Wend your way up the narrow cobbled streets of the city’s old quarter, Le Suquet, and you’ll discover one delight after another. Rustic statues and 17th-century houses will amaze on one stretch, then round the next bend you’ll find quaint cafes and artistic murals. Stop for some classic cuisine at one of the rustic restaurants on Rue Saint Antoine or Rue du Suquet before continuing up the hill for the most breathtaking views in Cannes. The Castre Museum boasts a medieval watchtower that offers a 360-degree panorama of the hillsides, cityscape and ocean, plus displays of primitive artefacts inside the main building. The 500-year-old church, Eglise Notre Dame d'Esperance, also looks out over the town and bay. A quicker way to the top of the hill is on the motorised Petit Train, which boards at La Croisette.
Feeling impulsive? Why not head to the Marche Forville food market, grab some fabulously fresh picnic items and take a short ferry ride to one of the Lérins Islands? Sainte Marguerite is just a couple of miles in length and known for its eucalyptus groves, secluded coves and crisscrossing walking trails. There’s also a small maritime museum that houses relics of a Roman galleon. On the tranquil Saint Honorât is an ancient monastery (still occupied). There are fabulous views from atop a ruined fort, and the monks’ wine - made with grapes from their own vineyards – makes an undeniably unique souvenir.
This magnificent part of the world offers so much to a free spirit; head off in any direction and you’re sure to strike gold in terms of scenery and atmosphere. Nice is just a 30-minute train journey away, with its majestic, fountain-filled town square, a fabulous flower market and unmatched vistas. Closer still to Cannes is the city of Antibes, home to the Picasso Museum and wonderful coastal walks. Or, head west to Saint Raphael, admiring the colourful cliffs along the Golden Corniche road.
Which cruise lines sail to Cannes?
