Cannes

Written: April 4th, 2008  Print This Page  Email This Page

Cannes is a city located in the southern coast of France, facing the Gulf de Napoule. Perhaps more associated with its annual film festival, Cannes also boasts of other attractions that often make its visitors want to come back year after year. What used to be a sleepy fishing village is now an urban city that caters primarily to its well-developed tourist industry.

Sights & Activities

As Cannes’ popularity as a premier vacation destination rises, a lot of high end hotels and resorts were established in its waterfront. Visitors often head out to the city’s beaches to soak in the sun and swim in the clear waters. A huge marina was also constructed to cater to those who came with their powerboats and yachts. A short drive along the Boulevard de la Croisette allows one to take in the beauty of the bay and of the coastline.

The boulevard is also where the Palais des Festivals et des Congres is located. This building often hosts the myriad art festivals organized throughout the year and is also the venue for the famous Cannes Film Festival.

Overlooking the bay is the Cannes castle, which has been converted into the Musée de la Castre. The museum houses several artworks collected by the city through the years. Visitors can also climb up its tower to enjoy spectacular views of the bay.

Nearer to the shore is the Musée de la Mer, which showcases varied items related to the prison system of the city. The museum also has collections related to underwater archaeology that visitors will find interesting.

Another way to spend a pleasant day in France is by strolling along the Alles de la Liberte Charles de Gaulle, a short street located right in the middle of the city. The street is where the flower market is located, making this area both colorful and bustling.

Being the playground of the rich and the elite, Cannes also has several high-end shops and boutiques, most of which are concentrated along Rue d’Antibes. Most luxury and upscale fashion brands have branches along this particular street.

Several casinos have also operated in Cannes. There’s the Casino Palm Beach on the eastern end of the city while another one is located within the Hilton Hotel. Across the Palais des Festivals et des Congres is the Casino Croisette. These establishments ensure that there is never a dull moment for those who choose to spend their holidays in this particular French city.

Much of the city’s popularity is owed to its annual Cannes Film Festival, held each spring. This yearly event draws all kinds of filmmakers and actors from all over the world to flock at the Palais des Festivals et des Congres. The participation of Hollywood actors and actresses lend additional glamour to this festival that was established in 1946. Visitors should also look out for handprints of several famous stars that were embedded in the promenade outside the venue.

Weather

The best time to visit Cannes is during its summer season, from May to September. During this time, days are hot with sunshine lasting for an average of 12 hours. However, the breeze from the gulf keeps Cannes cool all summer long. Winter occurs from December to February and is generally described as mild. Spring and autumn experiences slightly improved conditions, ideal for those who can’t stand the heat and are used to temperate climate.