A French Riviera Itinerary: 48 Hours In Cannes

Cannes represents many things: the festival, La Croisette, le Palais des Festivals, but above all, visiting Cannes is about getting lost in the streets, and admiring the beauty of a French southern town. Start off by walking along la Rue d’Antibes and la Rue des Etats-Unis, where you can marvel at luxurious boutiques, and delicious chocolateries. Don’t hesitate to pick up a little treat! Next, head to Les Allées de la Liberté where open-air markets take place, and numerous pétanques games. Finally, go in search of the painted walls of Cannes: 16 murals plastered on the front of different façades. You can find murals, such as: Charlie Chaplin (10 Boulevard Vallombrosa,) Marylin Monroe (16 Boulevard d’Alsace,) as well as Cinéma Cannes (La Place Cornut Gentille.)

After walking all morning in the sun, you may want to relax in a refreshing and shaded spot, thus the Antidote. Sheltered by an imposing building and endowed with a garden full of flowers and plants, this restaurant represents the perfect “green break.” Enjoy some local, and home-made dishes basked in a tranquil atmosphere, including: fried gnocchi accompanied by a garlic sauce, roasted fig with creamy polenta, or even gambas flavoured with Pastis. Chef Christophe Ferré wows every client with his culinary skills, creativity, and simplicity. L’Antidote has definitely earned its pristine reputation.

This magnificent palace is a must-see in Cannes! The Rothschild Villa and its gardens, were constructed in 1881 under the supervision of Betty Rothschild after her husband had passed away. With over 40 rooms, 28 bedrooms, a beautiful marble terrace, and a winter garden; you can’t help but feel at peace in such a lovely and secluded spot. The villa is certainly splendid, but the gardens are well worth the detour. Bamboos, magnolias, 12 different varieties of palm trees, and numerous other plant species thrive in this green haven. Also admire the beautiful 12-meter-high araucaria, which had to be transported in a special carriage, drawn by 12 horses. Today, the Rothschild Villa has been transformed into a media center for all, so that everyone can enjoy this enchanting place.

This prestigious lounge bar is a great address both for a drink and dinner! Its amazing reputation is mainly due to the Cannes Festival, as many stars come and relax in this establishment. If you like dining to the sound of piano in a subdued atmosphere, then La Chunga is the perfect spot! For dinner, enjoy some delicious dishes, such as: pasta with cuttlefish ink, scallops a la plancha, and even truffle raviolinis. But do not miss out on their delicious freshly prepared cocktails, and home-made appetizers. La Chunga is a well-known address for organizing regular shows, and concerts, so be sure to check the schedule!

To make a change from the five-star resorts, here is a charming little three-star hotel set in a XIXth century villa. Glamour and simplicity are the order of the day! Fully renovated in 2017, the 18 rooms are practical, while staying chic: soundproofed, air-conditioned, and some even come with a private garden. Pay close attention to the decorations, as photographs of movie legends adorn the walls. The garden is exotic and represents the perfect spot to enjoy a generous buffet breakfast before starting the day. At only a five-minute walk from La Croisette, and set in the center of Cannes, Villa Claudia is the ideal escape when staying in a dense city.

Each morning, from Tuesday to Sunday, saunter around this provincially known market! It is truly a place of learning, as you can meet vegetable farmers, fishermen, and ask them about their work. The market is colorful and vibrant as well as representing the perfect opportunity to buy some local and fresh products, such as: fish, cheese, fruits, vegetables, and numerous more. You might feel a little hungry when wandering around, so we suggest trying the socca, a homegrown delicacy. Located near Old Cannes, behind the town hall, the Forville Market is a Cannes tradition you don’t want to miss out on!

This is a great address if you wish to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine. The modest entrance may give you the wrong idea of what this restaurant holds, but trust us, and if you continue you will be left speechless! As you walk across Le Jardin, a beautiful garden and a winter veranda will be there to greet you; a spot hidden from all, except for you and the regular customers. The setting is refined and calm, which will make you second guess the fact that you are in the center of Cannes. As for the cuisine, the dishes are prepared using only seasonal and fresh products. The personnel are friendly and treat the clients with the best care possible, which makes Le Jardin a comfortable place to eat!

Do you wish to discover Cannes’ noteworthy history by boat? The Lérins Islands await you! Composed of two islands – Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat- where nature and tranquility are king, this territory is a big part of Cannes’ history. The Saint-Honorat Island is the smallest between the two, but certainly not the less interesting one. At the beginning of the 5th century, Saint-Honorat decided to dedicate this island to the spread of the Christian doctrine by building a beautiful monastery. During the wars, it was used to protect the island from invaders, and today, it is home to Cistercian monks. On the other side, the Saint-Marguerite Island is dedicated to both fauna and flora. 3 km long with 22 km of trails through the forest, is certainly the place for wilderness lovers. You also have the chance to visit a bird sanctuary, and the famous Iron Mask Museum. To reach the islands you have two main options: by boat or by kayak (if you are feeling adventurous!)

This establishment is a concept bar/restaurant that is a hit! Located near Le Palais des Festivals, the Zoa Bar is a must-do in Cannes for its creativity and high-quality cuisine. Do you like sushi? And do you like cocktails? I hope that both of those answers are yes, if so then this cozy bar is for you! Enjoy some freshly prepared Japanese cuisine paired with great cocktails in a contemporary lounge. The menu is always changing, and the chef never ceases to amaze with his detail-oriented dishes, including: poke bowls, prawn tempuras, delicious rolls, and many more delicacies. The staff is extremely friendly, and the ambiance is harmonious and serene whether you are on the terrace or inside.

Perfectly located in Cannes’ center between la Rue d’Antibes and Le Palais des Festivals, Le Cavendish is a hotel worth discovering. This charming hotel is a mix between being a historical building while having modern-day amenities, including: access to a private beach, valet parking, and many more. The elevator, and the façade evoke the aristocratic style of the 20th century so be sure to pay attention to the details! Each floor has a different color theme, and the 34 rooms available are spacious, high-ceilinged, and sumptuous. Some rooms even have their own balcony, overlooking the active streets of Cannes. It is also the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee and the delicious and generous breakfast buffet at your disposal. Either with your family or friends, Le Cavendish is a great family-friendly place to stay at.

Bon voyage!

Eve spent two days in Cannes.