What to do in Cannes in a day? Top 10 things you should not miss

The Cannes Film Festival, held annually at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, begins today from May 13-24, 2025. The festival sees attendance from celebrities across the globe representing their film industry and work. Every year, we hear a lot about Cannes and the grounds it provides for film recognition; however, much less is explored by the media in the French city.

Below are 10 things you should not miss out on when visiting Cannes.

Meet some celebrities at Palais des Festivals et des Congrès

If you are a fan of films and movies, then the first stop on your Cannes itinerary should be visiting the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, home to the Cannes Film Festival itself. You can click photos on the iconic red carpet and see the handprints of 400 of the world’s most popular celebrities at the Le Chemin des Etoiles.

Stroll along La Croisette

When visiting the French Riviera, you must explore its stunning beaches with deep blue waters.

On a morning stroll or evening walk, visit the La Croisette, a 2km stretch of seaside promenade lined with haute-couture boutiques such as Dior and Chanel.

Enjoy the sea breeze at the Old Port of Cannes

Walk along the bay of Cannes, by visiting the old port where you can enjoy a spectacular view of luxury yachts and fishermen’s boats lined together by the bay. The area also hosts an array of local bars where you can enjoy some local brews. You can also indulge in the game of Petanque, also known as Boule, which is played here.

Revisit history at Le Sequet

When visiting Cannes, you must explore the ancient Roman settlement of Le Sequet, perched atop a hill. Overlooking the bay and the port, it is referred to as the ‘Old Town of Cannes’ and is filled with signature pastel-coloured buildings. Also in the area is the museum, Musée des Explorations du Monde, which houses antiquities, art and archaeological finds from across the globe. Do not miss visiting the historic watchtower, which has a stunning 360-degree view of the bay of Cannes.

Go shopping at Rue d’Antibes

Parallel to La Croisette is the Rue d’Antibes, an old national road filled with haute couture and ready-to-wear boutiques where you can shop for jewellery, perfume, beauty and more.

Find nature’s best at the Forville Market

Forville Market is one destination in Cannes that is a must-visit for lovers of food. The market enlivens on Tuesday and Saturday with market gardeners, fishermen and other local producers with a range of fresh produce that changes each season.

Dance your heart out at Les Plages Électroniques

For those who love being the life of the party, attend one of Europe’s biggest beach parties at Les Plages Électroniques. You can dance your heart out to music played by popular headliners and artists. In 2025, the Les Plages Électroniques will be held from 8-10 August. Usually, the party is held for three days at 3 stages with more than 40 artists from the early afternoon at the foot of Palais des Festivals.

Enjoy some family time at Boccacabana

For couples and families, a sunny afternoon of fun awaits at Boccacabana, where you can enjoy some sports, walking and relaxation while overlooking the serene bay.

Relish the greenery at La Croix des Gardes

An important area of greenery in the city is the Croix des Gardes forest park, with the most beautiful flora and fauna that will make you never wanna leave. Along 80 hectares of Mediterranean vegetation, the park includes numerous trails, a fitness trail and six viewing points with a 360-degree view of the city.

Sail to Iles de Lérins

You can also plan a day visit to the islands of Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat, where you can explore some stunning natural vegetation and visit the first underwater eco-museum in France. You can also visit the royal fort at Sainte-Honorat, which is popular for imprisoning the Msn in the Iron Mask.