Experimenting with Cannes: Unraveling 15 Off-Screen Attractions
Head to the Fabulous French Riviera for the legendary Cannes Film Festival, where the Palme d'Or is awarded. From May 13th to 24th, 2025, marvel at azure beaches, Mediterranean sun, and the unique je ne sais quoi of Cannes. Here's how to make the most of your time in the celebrated city:
15 Can't-Miss Adventures in Cannes
1. Slumber at Hotel Belle Plage
This 1930s building heart of Le Suquet is now a haven of modern design thanks to La Clé Group and French designer Raphael Navot. Don't miss dining on regional specialities at the rooftop eatery run by Israeli chef Eyal Shani. Found at 2 Rue Brougham; book your stay at hotelbelleplage.fr.
2. Promenade on La Croisette
A must-visit 3km stretch housed on one side by beachfront and the other by designer boutiques, restaurants, and hotels. Ramble, shop, and peep at passerby like you were back in the 1950s when La Croisette was a simple coastal path.
3. Get Outside at La Croix des Gardes
Discover the beauty of Provencal flora over 80 hectares at La Croix des Gardes. The park is the ultimate lookout, with stunning views of the Cannes bay, Lérins islands, and surrounding mountains.
4. Pop Into Galerie Hurtebize
An art lover's haven since 1992, Galerie Hurtebize is a specialist in modern art and various French Abstraction movements like Lyrical Abstraction and Op Art. Don't forget to appreciate the works of Bernard Buffet, Serge Poliakoff, and Hans Hartung. Find it at 17 Bd de la Croisette; visit galerie-hurtebize.com for more details.
Sign Up for Our Newsletter!
Get a daily dose of inspiration, escapism, and design stories right in your inbox.
6. Savor the Seasonal at Table 22 par Noël Mantel
A hidden gem on 22 Rue Saint-Antoine, chef Noël Mantel and his team deliver delicious dishes made with local Provençal produce. Ask for the catch of the day with seasonal vegetables from Marche Forville.
7. Shop in Style at Forte_Forte
Forte_Forte's Cannes boutique stands out with its chic ready-to-wear collections and unique interiors. Robert Vattilana's design seamlessly blends natural light through the entrance, creating a play of reflections. Find this delight at 27 Rue du Commandant André; visit forte-forte.com for more.
8. Admire the Craft at Maison Callaloo
Anne Eyssautier, a local Cannes native, founded this ceramics shop and studio. It artfully captures the Mediterranean essence of the city through clay, freeform shapes, and a bold color palette. Don't skip leaving with a unique bowl, vase, or serving platter in hues ranging from Mimosa yellow to Côte d'Azur turquoise.
9. Absorb the Culture at La Malmaison
Originally an annex of Cannes' Grand Hôtel, La Malmaison has served as a contemporary art venue since 1970. It has hosted exhibitions featuring artists such as Picasso, Matisse, Miró, Chagall, César, and Masson. Explore at 47 Bd de la Croisette.
10. Gawk at Palais Bulles
This delightful architectural curiosity comprises interconnected bubbles, designed by Antti Lovag in the 1970s for French industrialist Pierre Bernard, and later purchased by fashion designer Pierre Cardin. You can explore this marvelous structure on exclusive events, film sets, or private tours (33 Bd de l'Esterel).
11. Indulge at Le Bar à Vin
Experience the oldest wine bar in Cannes, established in 1998. They offer seasonal pairings, authentic regional charcuterie and cheese boards, all amidst exposed brick and dark, rich walls lined with barrels. Visit 10 Rue Marceau.
12. Savor an Evening at Sens Restaurant
This unique eatery stands out in the Cannes culinary scene with its rotating chefs-in-residence and selection of organic wines. The interiors exude an artist's retreat Energy, complete with an open-plan kitchen and bar. Discover it at 9 Rue d'Oran.
13. Sip and Savor at Hôtel Martinez
One of Cannes' grand establishments, Hôtel Martinez has recently opened a new speakeasy. Remi Tessier, a French designer, imagined Martinez Bar as a low-lit jewel box with Tiffany lamps, damask-draped sofas, and a gold leaf-adorned ceiling. Guests enjoy caviar dishes and vintage cocktails from 6pm to 2am, five days a week. Treat yourself at 73 Bd de la Croisette.
14. Relax at Spa Le C Club
Located inside the iconic hotel Carlton Cannes, Le C Club Spa offers an exclusive wellness experience with treatments from Barbara Sturm, Dr Burgener, SwissLine, Philip B, and Wesak Paris. Settle in for a tranquil afternoon at the edge of the property's infinity pool.
15. Screen a Movie at Cinéum Cannes
Experience cinema in a unique way at Cinéum Cannes, featuring a sculptural façade and the state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos sound system. The complex further immerses you in film with an exhibition space dedicated to the behind-the-scenes of movies. Explore at 13 Av. Maurice Chevalier.
Take a break at Forville Market, where you can find fresh fruits, veggies, cheese, and charcuterie daily.
Wander through the historic charm of Le Suquet (Old Town) to get a glimpse of Cannes' past, or head to Boulevard de la Croisette for luxury and beach relaxation. With a bit of luck, you might even catch the Festival de Cannes (Cannes Film Festival) in May!
Source: Wallpaper*
Insights:
- Cannes is a famous destination for relaxation, culture, and luxury.
- The city is renowned for its Cannes Film Festival.
- It offers stunning beaches, a vibrant cultural scene, and an upscale lifestyle.
- There are numerous things to see and do, such as visiting museums, shopping on Boulevard de la Croisette, dining in scenic settings, and enjoying the nightlife.
- The Festival de Cannes (Cannes Film Festival) typically takes place in May.
- It's also beneficial to explore the town's historical charm in Le Suquet (Old Town).
- After a day of exploring the vibrant culture and upscale shopping on Boulevard de la Croisette, savor a meal at Table 22 par Noël Mantel, known for its seasonal dishes made with local Provençal produce.
- To complete your visit to the enchanting French Riviera, spend an evening at Hôtel Martinez's Martinez Bar, a speakeasy offering caviar dishes, vintage cocktails, and a gold leaf-adorned ceiling reminiscent of the glamourous 1950s.
