Gay Cannes · City Guide

Cannes

A stunning resort town on the French Riviera. Cannes is home to just over 70,000 people (and not all of them are A-Listers).

Populated since antiquity, Cannes' has a varied and fascinating history. The arrival of the railways in the 18th Century brought the first tourists to the city. By the early 20th Century, the luxury casinos and hotels that sprung up here made the city synonymous with opulence.

You probably know the city for its famous film festival, but there is a wealth of attractions all year round. Visitors for conferences mingle with families on vacation, both taken by its beautiful beaches and fantastic shopping opportunities.

Gay Scene

Cannes is an exceptionally popular destination for gay tourists seeking a holiday in the sun. While nearby Nice is the Riviera's main hotspot for gay nightlife, gay visitors will find a modest selection of gay venues.

The few known gay establishments in and around Cannes include Sauna Le Neuf (in Cannet), Le Vogue gay bar and ParadX gay cruise club & shop.

Getting to Cannes

By air

The nearest major airport to Cannes is Nice Cote d'Azur International Airport (NCE) which is only 24km from the city and served by European and Middle Eastern flag carriers. The closer Cannes – Mandelieu Airport (CEQ) is mostly for those with private aircraft.

Aéroport Express number 210 leaves from Nice airport and costs €22 one way. The journey takes around 30-50 minutes (traffic dependant) and leaves every half hour. The last bus is at 8.30pm and tickets can be purchased from both terminals.

A cheaper option, is to take bus 200 (€1.50 one way although you may be charged for heavy items of luggage) although expect journeys around an hour or more. During the day the bus runs every half hour but there is a night bus service on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Taxis are expensive, and you can expect to pay in the region of €100 for a one way journey. This great if money is no object, but if on a tighter budget it is not unusual for passengers to buddy up in the airport to share the cost. Taxis can be pre-ordered or hailed at the airport

If you really want to splash out and arrive in style, there is the option to hire chauffered limousines or even a helicopter taxi service that will take you on to your final destination.

By train

Cannes is well connected to the rest of France and destinations in Europe by Gare de Cannes. Located in the city centre, here you can reach destinations in Belgium, Switzerland, Italy and Luxembourg.

Getting around Cannes

On foot

Cannes is easily navigable by foot due to its compact nature and pedestrianised areas. Getting around the city by walking can be quicker, but it also gives you the perfect chance to take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant seaside town.

By bus

The only public transport system on offer here is bus which takes you to destinations in Cannes and the surrounding villages and towns. Tickets cost €1.50 and can be bought from the driver or in the bus station (also enquire about ten trip tickets).

By taxi

Taxis can be hailed on the street but it can make your life easier to pre-order them. The base far is €2.35 and goes up by around €3 per mile travelled.

Where to Stay in Cannes

Cannes has a wide range of hotels to suit all budgets. Our list of recommended hotels can be found on Gay Cannes Hotels page.

Things to See & Do

Palais de Festivals & Walk of Stars - two of the most iconic locations associated with the Cannes Film Festival. When the festival isn't on, make sure you get a selfie at the 22 steps to the entrance or with your hands in the handprints of a Hollywood A-lister.

Old Town (Le Suquet) - lose yourself in this labyrinth like and stunning part of the city. Here you will be spoilt for choice in terms of dining options and places to buy souvenirs.

Covered Market (Marché Forville) - one of the best locations to grab a bite to eat in the city. Here traditional food venders rub shoulders with purveyors of haute cuisine.

Tour du Masque - you can't help but notice the striking mask on this building's facade. Legend has it the ghost of the mythical Man in the Iron Mask haunts this place.

Molinard - come to this gorgeous villa to discover how some of the world's most beautiful perfumes are made.

La Croisette - if Cannes is a fashion show, La Croisette is the catwalk. Here you will find a wide selection of luxury hotels and the finest boutique shops on offer.

When to Visit

Cannes enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and gorgeous sunny days in the summer. In summer months, the city is bustling with tourists, making the most of temperatures close to the 25°C mark, so it may be worth considering a holiday in spring or the beginning of September.

The iconic Cannes Film Festival takes place in May, during which period it can be very difficult to find accommodation. Other interesting events and festivities in Cannes are also worth visiting, such as the fireworks festival in February.

Money

France is a Euro area country. Cash dispensers are widely available. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Hotels, banks and some local businesses also operate foreign exchange desks.