Planning to spend 2 days in Cannes France, and looking to see as much as possible? There are so many things to see in Cannes on a weekend. This 2-day itinerary will help you make the most out of your stay in the city.
Cannes is one of my favorite destinations on the French Riviera. And, since moving to Nice, I try to go there at least once a month because I love the city’s charm, beaches, and atmosphere.
This is a guest post from Camila a lifestyle and travel blogger based on the French Riviera
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A Guide to Visiting Cannes in 2 Days
Is Cannes worth visiting?
Cannes is definitely worth visiting if you want to fully experience the French Riviera. This charming city is not super big, but oh so charming.
Also, it is a great place for foodies as it has so many great restaurants and is also the perfect place to stay if you are looking into booking luxury accommodations as Cannes has way more options than Nice in this aspect.
How long to stay in Cannes?
When visiting Cannes, there are two main options I recommend. The first one is using Cannes are your base for your entire trip to the South of France and doing day trips to places like Nice, Monaco, Antibes, and Menton from there. The other option is being based somewhere else (probably Nice) and just visiting Cannes for a day or two.
If you have the time, I definitely think two days is the perfect amount of time because it allows you to visit one of the Lerins Islands – my favorite thing to do in Cannes – or go on a boat tour.
How to Spend 2 Days in Cannes, A Detailed Itinerary
In this post, you will find an itinerary for two perfect days exploring Cannes. This itinerary has not only the best things to do in town but also nice restaurants I really enjoy and that are definitely worth a visit.
Cannes in 2 days: Day 1 – La Suquet, La Croisette and Palais des Festivals
Morning:
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at “Volupté”. Indulge in their freshly baked pastries, croissants, and a selection of coffees and teas.
After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Le Suquet, the Old Town of Cannes. Marvel at the medieval architecture, visit the Musée de la Castre for a panoramic view of Cannes and explore the local shops and boutiques.
Make your way to the Marché Forville, a vibrant market near Le Suquet. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you browse through the stalls offering fresh produce, local delicacies, flowers, and more.
Afternoon:
For a delicious mid-day meal, head to “Aux Bons Enfants,” a cozy and welcoming restaurant situated at 6 Rue Louis Perrissol. They specialize in Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with a focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients. Don’t miss their famous bouillabaisse or grilled fish.
After lunch, enjoy the rest of your afternoon at a beach club in Cannes. One recommended option is “Plage Goeland Beach Club” located on Boulevard de la Croisette. Relax on a sunbed, soak up the sun, and enjoy the beachside atmosphere. The beach club offers amenities like umbrellas, loungers, and beachside service for drinks and snacks.
Check out Palais des Festivals, where the Cannes Film Festival takes place every year.
Evening:
For a delightful dinner, head to “La Table du Chef” at 6 Rue du Suquet. This charming mid-range restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring French and Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and savor the culinary delights created by the talented chef.
After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the famous Promenade de la Croisette. Admire the luxurious hotels, designer boutiques, and enjoy the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea. The promenade is especially enchanting at night when the lights illuminate the palm-lined boulevard.
Cannes in 2 Days: Day 2 – Ile Sainte Marguerite
Morning:
Depart from Cannes to Île Sainte-Marguerite by ferry.
Visit Fort Royal, a historical fortress associated with the Man in the Iron Mask. Explore the fort and enjoy the panoramic views from its ramparts.
Take a leisurely stroll through the island’s scenic trails and appreciate the natural beauty of Île Sainte-Marguerite.
Afternoon:
Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the island’s restaurants, such as La Guérite, known for its Mediterranean cuisine and seaside view.
Visit the Musée de la Mer (Museum of the Sea) to learn about the island’s maritime history, view shipwreck artifacts, and see the prison cell of the Man in the Iron Mask.
Relax on one of the island’s picturesque beaches, swimming in the crystal-clear waters and soaking up the sun.
If you like snorkeling, Ile Sainte Marguerite also has a wonderful underwater museum (Underwater Sculptures by Jason de Caires Taylor) that is super unique and fun to see.
Evening:
Continue to explore the island’s beaches and maybe even have a delightful sunset picnic on the beach, savoring local delicacies, such as cheese, bread, and wine, while watching the sun go down.
Depart from Île Sainte-Marguerite and return to Cannes by ferry.
Have dinner at Cheer Mamma and then explore the vibrant nightlife of Cannes, with plenty of bars, clubs, and casinos to choose from.
Reminder: Remember to check the ferry schedules for your return trip and plan your day accordingly. Also, don’t forget to pack sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun during your day trip to Île Sainte-Marguerite. Enjoy your exploration of this beautiful island!
Tips for Visiting Cannes in 2 Days
1- Book your hotel in advance, especially during the high season
Cannes gets very crowded in the summer months (especially July and August), so make sure to make hotel, tour, and restaurant reservations in advance.
2- Most of the beaches in La Croisette are private
The majority of the beaches in Cannes are private, which means you have to book a lounge chair in a beach club to fully enjoy them, so make sure to consider that in advance.
3- Pack light clothes
Although glamorous, summer in Cannes can get VERY hot. So make sure to pack clothes with light fabrics and sandals.
That’s a wrap! Now you know how to fully enjoy two days in the beautiful city of Cannes. I hope you have a lovely time exploring this iconic place and everything it has to offer.