Cannes, France
What to do in Cannes, France Cruise Port
Cannes, France is known for its stunning beaches, picturesque views, and vibrant nightlife. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the beauty of the French Riviera. Cannes is also known for its many cultural attractions, such as its museums, galleries, and theaters. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities, with a variety of boutiques, markets, and department stores. Additionally, Cannes is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering a range of cuisines from around the world. Finally, Cannes is known for its many festivals, such as the Cannes Film Festival, which draws thousands of visitors each year.
Sightseeing
Cannes is a beautiful city with plenty of sights to explore. The iconic Promenade de la Croisette is a must-see, with its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city's many luxury hotels. Visitors can also explore the Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings, or take a stroll along the beachfront to admire the yachts and boats in the harbor. For a more cultural experience, visitors can visit the many museums and galleries in the area, or take a day trip to nearby towns and villages.
Fishing
If you’re an angler, don’t miss this opportunity to take advantage of some of the best fishing in the world. Lurking just under your boat is a variety of popular game including Marlin, Tuna and Wahoo (appropriately named, because that’s what you’re going to shout when hooking one of those beasts).
Beaches
When in the French Riviera, the beach might be an obvious item on your “things to do” list. Cannes beaches are “nicer” (pun intended) than those you’ll find in France’s competing port, Nice. The beach sand in Cannes is finer and softer on the rear than the rockier surface you’ll find elsewhere. Be sure to note, though, that you’ll likely see a bit more skin at French beaches than you’re used to. It’s not uncommon for beachgoers to shed a few more layers (if not all) while frolicking in the sand. Ooh la la.
Food Markets
France is considered the “gastronomic capital of the world” and the French are not shy about showcasing their talents when it comes to cuisine. You’ll find various markets selling local goods including cheeses (of course), cold meats, veggies, fish and more. Make sure to compare a bite of fresh, French cheese purchased from the markets of Cannes to the slice you grab while walking through your cruise buffet line.
Dining
Cannes is home to a wide variety of restaurants, from traditional French bistros to modern fusion eateries. Seafood lovers will find plenty of options, from casual beachfront restaurants to upscale seafood bistros. For a truly unique experience, visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in the area. There are also plenty of cafes and bars to choose from, offering everything from light snacks to full meals.
Walking Tour
Your cruise ship’s tender service will drop you off right in the heart of the action. You can easily explore Cannes Cruise Port by foot from the terminal area. One popular path is to follow the coastline up and down the beach. Just be aware, you’ll likely see more flesh than you’re used to on your walks. Beach goers in Cannes often like to even out that tan, if you know what we mean.
Shopping
Cannes is a great place to shop for luxury items, souvenirs, and more. The main shopping area is the Rue d'Antibes, which is lined with designer boutiques, jewelry stores, and souvenir shops. The nearby Forville Market is a great place to find fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts. For a more unique shopping experience, visitors can explore the boutiques and galleries of the Old Town, or take a stroll along the Croisette to find high-end stores and designer labels.
Festivals
The most notable event in this port city is obviously the Cannes Film Festival. But, the area serves as host to a number of other annual shows and events. These include the Festival of Creativity, Carnival on the Riviera, International Festival of Games, Yachting Festival, Global Champions Tour, and more. While in port, make sure to ask whether there’s an event to join in on the fun and excitement. A visit to the site of the Cannes Film Festival may leave you wanting, as the site is relatively unimpressive outside of season.
Best DoggyThe Cannes Film Festival is the most well-known and prestigious in the world. Not many are aware, however, that there’s an award given for “Best Canine Performance.”Shopping near Cannes, France Cruise Port
Cannes, France is known for its luxury shopping, with designer boutiques, high-end fashion stores, and exclusive jewelry stores. The city is also home to the famous Cannes Shopping Festival, which takes place every summer and features exclusive discounts and promotions from some of the world's top brands.
Le Suquet des Artistes
Le Suquet des Artistes is a charming souvenir shop located in the heart of Cannes. It offers a wide selection of unique and locally-made items, such as hand-painted pottery, jewelry, and art prints. The shop also has a selection of traditional French souvenirs, including postcards, magnets, and keychains. The friendly staff is always willing to help you find the perfect souvenir to take home with you.
Rue d'Antibes
Like La Croisette, Rue d’Antibes is a super high-end retail corridor consisting of high fashion and designer boutiques. The street runs parallel to La Croisette, but set inland a few blocks (so without the stunning waterfront view). This shopping option is also known to satisfy those with a sweet tooth. You’ll find numerous chocolatiers and delis with rich dessert options.
Cannes Souvenirs
Cannes Souvenirs is a great place to find the perfect souvenir to take home with you. The shop offers a wide selection of items, including t-shirts, hats, mugs, and other apparel. You can also find a variety of traditional French souvenirs, such as postcards, magnets, and keychains. The friendly staff is always willing to help you find the perfect item to take home with you.
La Croisette
This one-mile stretch of shopping paradise runs right along the coastline in Cannes Cruise Port. Not only will you have access to some of the best retail options in the world, but you’ll have a spectacular view while doing so. This is also the street where the Cannes Film Festival is held, so keep your eyes peeled for related activity. Just know, that a shopping excursion along La Croisette could be pretty costly. The shops and restaurants along this strip are known for their extravagant price tags.
La Boutique des Arts
La Boutique des Arts is a great place to find unique and locally-made souvenirs. The shop offers a wide selection of items, including hand-painted pottery, jewelry, and art prints. You can also find a variety of traditional French souvenirs, such as postcards, magnets, and keychains. The friendly staff is always willing to help you find the perfect item to take home with you.
Rue Meynadier
Unlike La Croisette and Rue d’Antibes, this street is better suited to our bargain hunters out there. You’ll find great options if looking to take home a bottle of French wine or a slab of smelly cheese as a souvenir.
Beaches in Cannes, France
Cannes, France is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The beaches are lined with soft white sand and crystal clear waters. The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The most popular beaches near Cannes are La Croisette, Plage du Midi, and Plage de la Bocca. La Croisette is a long stretch of beach that is lined with luxury hotels and restaurants. Plage du Midi is a smaller beach located near the old port of Cannes. Plage de la Bocca is a beach located on the western side of Cannes and is known for its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Plage de la Bocca
Plage de la Bocca is a popular beach near Cannes, France cruise port. Located just west of the city center, this beach is known for its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. It is also home to a variety of restaurants and bars, making it a great place to spend the day.
La Croisette
La Croisette is one of the most popular beaches near Cannes, France cruise port. Located in the heart of Cannes, La Croisette is a long stretch of beach that is lined with palm trees and luxury hotels. It is a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching. The beach is also home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a great place to spend the day.
Plage du Midi
Plage du Midi is another popular beach near Cannes, France cruise port. This beach is located just south of the city center and is known for its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. It is also home to a variety of restaurants and bars, making it a great place to spend the day.
Cannes Film FestivalThe Cannes Film Festival is an annual event held in Cannes, France, which previews new films of all genres, including documentaries from all around the world. It is one of the most prestigious and publicized film festivals in the world and has been held since 1946. The festival is held in May every year and the awards ceremony is known as the 'Palme d'Or'. It is attended by many of the world's most famous actors, directors, and producers.Attractions in Cannes, France
Cannes, France is a popular cruise port destination. Excursions typically include exploring the city's beautiful architecture, taking a stroll along the beach, and visiting the many shops and restaurants. There are also opportunities to explore the nearby countryside, with its picturesque villages and vineyards. Nature lovers can take a boat tour to see the stunning coastline, or take a hike in the nearby hills. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of opportunities to relax in the sun or take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.
Plage de la Batterie (Nude Beach)
It’s likely that this option won’t appeal to many. The nude beach is very popular with gay couples and considered one of the nicest beaches in Southern France. While the beach is filled with naked people, it’s also popular with French families. It’s not at all uncommon to see kids frolicking among the flesh-filled beach.
Marche Forville
As mentioned earlier, the French are very proud of their cuisine. There’s no better place where this is showcased than Marche Forville Food Market. In addition to the expected colds meats and cheeses, you’ll also find fish, veggies, handmade pastas, flowers. For a truly romantic visit to Cannes Cruise Port, stroll through the local market picking up fresh cheese, baguettes and flowers for a picnic lunch in the park. Just note, the one day of the week the food market isn’t open is Mondays. If in Cannes Cruise Port on a Monday, we’re sorry you’ll miss that!
Allee des Stars
This Cannes attraction is what it sounds like. Similar to the “walk of fame” in Hollywood, California (remember, Cannes and Hollywood are sister cities), the strip of stars includes handprints of hundreds of celebrities. All of whom have attended the famous Cannes Film Festival.
Island Fortress Prison
The prison fortress of Ile Sainte-Marguerite is a quick, 15-minute ferry ride from Downtown Cannes. There, you can visit the actual cell that held the “man in the iron mask” for 11 years. You may remember this character from the movie remake in 1998 with Leonardo DiCaprio.
Lerine Islands
If the rich and famous vibe and subsequent price tags are making you feel a bit overwhelmed, this is a great option to escape. Included in the Lerine Islands are two land-masses, Sainte Marguerite and Saint Honorat. On these islands, you’ll find a host of old buildings, monasteries, and shops as well as lush forests and beautiful views.
Auberge Provencale Restaurant
Established in 1860, this is Cannes oldest restaurant. The iconic dining establishment is known for its traditional French cuisine including a duck that you’d miss your cruise ship just to smell. Lunch here is a cruise excursion in and of itself. For our foodies out there, this will be a truly memorable experience.
Best cruise excursions in Cannes, France
We've analyzed tens of thousands of cruise tours to find your ideal attraction while in port. Based on these reviews, here are the Best Cruise Excursions in Cannes, France
Cannes, France cruise port map
The Man in the Iron MaskYou know the guy? They made a movie about him? To this day, nobody knows his true identity since he spent the latter part of his life with a mask covering his face. He died after 34 years in jail, 11 of which he spent on the island belonging to, and just off the coast of, France. You can tour the island of Sainte-Maugerite when in port!Cannes, France Cruise Port Terminals
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Cannes, located on the Boulevard de la Croisette.
Vieux Port
Vieux Port is the main cruise ship terminal in Cannes, located in the heart of the city. It is the oldest port in Cannes, and is the main port for both commercial and recreational vessels. The terminal is well-equipped with modern facilities and services, and is the perfect place to start your cruise holiday.
Port de Cannes
Port de Cannes is the second largest cruise ship terminal in Cannes, located just a few minutes away from the city centre. It is a modern port, with a wide range of facilities and services available. It is the perfect place to start your cruise holiday, with plenty of restaurants, shops and attractions nearby.
Port Pierre Canto
Port Pierre Canto is the third largest cruise ship terminal in Cannes, located just a few minutes away from the city centre. It is a modern port, with a wide range of facilities and services available. It is the perfect place to start your cruise holiday, with plenty of restaurants, shops and attractions nearby.