A day in Cannes
Cannes: More Than the Red Carpet – A Journey Through History
Today, Cannes is famous as the city of the Film Festival, where the world of actors and celebrities gathers on the red carpet every year. But Cannes has a much older and more fascinating history to offer: its origins actually date back to the 2nd century BC, when the Ligurians founded the settlement Aegitna.
In the 10th century, the town was known as Canua, meaning "reed." What began as a small Ligurian port later became a Roman outpost on the hill of Le Suquet. To this day, an 11th-century tower stands atop this hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the old port, and the Lérins Islands.
Cannes' city center is compact, and the historic Le Suquet district is a completely pedestrian-free zone. A walk through its charming, narrow lanes is a must! Here you will find an amazing variety of small bistros and restaurants for every taste and budget.
A Tip for Your Stroll:
Start in the heart of Le Suquet and let yourself be enchanted by the medieval atmosphere.
Make a stop at the lively Marché Forville – browse the stalls of fresh fruit, vegetables, and fragrant flowers, or marvel at the day's catch at the fish market.
Then, amble down to the Old Port (Vieux Port) and admire the magnificent yachts and sailboats.
From there, continue to the modern landmark: the "Palais des Festivals et des Congrès," where the big stars are awaited every year. In front of the building, you can walk over the handprints of famous artists – a popular photo opportunity!
Now, follow the world-famous La Croisette. On one side, a spacious seafront promenade beckons with views of the sea; on the other, luxury boutiques and legendary grand hotels like the Carlton, Martinez, and Miramar line the street.
You can walk along La Croisette all the way to the Palm Beach Casino at the end of the bay. A comfortable alternative is the tourist train, which offers multilingual commentary and departs right next to the Palais.
This walk charmingly connects the historic Cannes with the glamorous flair of the present.
