Once a modest fishing village, Cannes has gone through the ultimate makeover and is now firmly established as one of the world's most glamorous resort towns. Its fine dining, beautiful beaches and subtropical Mediterranean climate make it a favourite playground for celebrities who can often be spotted around town, particularly in May when the world-famous Cannes Film Festival takes place.
Arguably one of the most iconic streets in France, La Croisette is the main promenade that runs along the Cannes seafront. Lined with swaying palm trees, it's where you'll find designer shops, casinos and high-end hotels with private beaches. A stroll through the old quarter of Le Suquet will take you to the popular cobbled lane of Rue St Antoine, where you can enjoy a refreshing apéritif before a meal at a neighbouring bistro. If you keep heading uphill, you'll eventually reach the gothic church of Notre-Dame d'Espérance, from where you can enjoy sweeping views over the town. Foodies should pay a visit to Marché Forville, a covered market in the medieval Le Suquet district. Inside, you'll be met with a sensory overload of delicious sights and smells, comprising seasonal vegetables, fresh fish, cheese, meat and takeaway paella.
The French Riviera is well known for its pristine coastline, and Cannes offers plenty of sandy beaches to relax on. Some are privately run by hotels, so they will charge a fee for non-guests, but others like Plage de la Bocca and Plage du Midi are free to enjoy.