There are few places on earth that combine natural beauty and cultural sophistication to the level of Cannes. This small city receives the attention of the world thanks to its annual Film Festival and the accompanying influx of international stars and auteur filmmakers, but the glamorous atmosphere is present all year. Located along the French Riviera, Cannes skirts one of the most picturesque coastlines in the world. A favorite destination of A-listers, the city offers private beaches, trendy restaurants, chic hotels, and luxury brands to the knowledgeable traveler. Cannes is hard to resist.
Côte d’Azur Sotheby’s International Realty
The exclusive neighborhood of La Californie is home to this restored Belle Époque villa, where the amenities include a landscaped park, two swimming pools, and a rooftop terrace overlooking the bay. The guest pavillion and caretaker house ensure that you’ll always have room for your guests.
Morning
Sundays are perfect for enjoying Cannes slowly. Start your day with brunch at The Roof at the Five Seas Hotel, where spectacular views and both a buffet and à la carte menu are yours for the savoring. Pick up a croissant and walk to La Croisette, where a stroll along one of the many beaches of Cannes is a blissful way to spend a morning. Whether you decide to jog or to simply sit and enjoy the atmosphere, you won’t have wasted your time.
Marché Forville in Cannes, photo courtesy of Jean-Luc Dalmas
If the morning turns warm, escape the rays and explore the Marché Forville, where you can find a large variety of fruits, vegetables, and fresh fish housed in a charming covered market. One of Cannes’ local institutions, the market offers a milieu for cultural immersion and colorful sampling of the terroir.
Afternoon
Palais du Festival, photo courtesy of Artur Bogacki/ Shutterstock Inc
Lunch along the beach is a must in Cannes, and there are ample opportunities for taking in the view at the many seaside restaurants. L’Ondine is known for its traditional Mediterranean cuisine and seafood dishes, prepared with seasonal ingredients sourced daily from the Marché Forville. For diners feeling the pull of the Palais des Festivals, the convention center is a short walk away: en route, stop in at Armani, Gucci, and Prada for an afternoon’s browsing.
L’Ondine location in Cannes, photo courtesy of L’Ondine
Use the remainder of your afternoon to explore the city’s storied history. For art lovers, there is the Centre D’art La Malmaison, which hosts temporary exhibitions on 20th and 21st century artists including Picasso and Chagall. It’s also worth taking a taxi to the Villa Domergue, a mansion designed in 1926 by the painter Jean Gabriel Domergue and now an official historical monument. The house is also where the Cannes Film Festival jury meets to decide the winners.
Le Suquet in Cannes, photo courtesy ofGala_K/ Shutterstock Inc
Don’t miss a visit to the medieval quarter: in Le Suquet, you can find the Castre Museum, a castle built in the 12th century, as well as a wealth of boutiques and cafés where you can enjoy a glass of wine while admiring the view.
Yachts in the French Riviera, photo courtesy of Neirfy/ Shutterstock Inc
If you prefer an adventure at sea to one on land, book a private yacht tour and explore the Riviera. Watch the sunset with a unique view from the Mediterranean Sea.
Evening
Cannes at night, photo courtesy of Denis Makarenko/ Shutterstock Inc
Dinner in Cannes, like most experiences in the city, is an elegant affair. Try La Môme for a seasonal combination of French and Italian cuisine, with plates including egg-yolk ravioli and lobster paccheri to be had either indoors or on the scenic patio. Overlooking the gardens at Le Grand Hotel Cannes is Le Park 45, its menu of local and seasonal ingredients set by Chef Hervé Busson: the ricotta gnocchi with summer truffle is an excellent option.
For post-dinner drinks, enjoy appetizers and cocktails at Bâoli’s Cloud Nine skybar. With 360° views and inspired greenery, the first mixologist bar in La Croisette is sure to be a hit. And no matter how you decide to end your Sunday, you’ll be hard-pressed to think of anywhere in the world you’d rather be than glamorous Cannes.
After tasting the best of the city, you’ll likely want to retreat to Cannes as often as possible. Take up residence in one of the region’s luxury homes, and ensure the Riviera is always yours to experience.
