Finding where to stay in Cannes as a first-time visitor can be overwhelming. That’s why, in today’s article, I will help you to find the safe places to stay in Cannes for first-time visitors.
I will share with you what I believe are the best and safest areas to stay in Cannes for first-timers and tourists, along with a helpful map and areas to avoid. I’ll also share where I stayed in Cannes and recommend some of the best hotels for various budgets.
Cannes is a popular city on the French Riviera of France. It is renowned for its beautiful beaches, luxurious hotels, and the annual Cannes Film Festival, one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world.
During the Cannes Film Festival, held annually in May, the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès becomes the center of attention, hosting film screenings, premieres, and other events.
Apart from its association with the film industry, Cannes is also famous for its upscale shopping along the Boulevard de la Croisette, lined with designer boutiques and high-end shops.
The city’s picturesque Old Town (Le Suquet) offers charming narrow streets, local markets, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Cannes is easily accessible and well-connected, with Nice Côte d’Azur Airport being the nearest major airport. Visitors to Cannes can enjoy a mix of cultural events, beachfront relaxation, and a taste of the glamorous lifestyle that the city is known for.
Is Cannes safe to visit?
Cannes is generally safe for visitors. But, like any other popular tourist destination, it’s important to remain vigilant and take standard safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
It is recommended to be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places such as festivals, markets, and popular tourist attractions. Don’t leave your stuff unattended on the beach, avoid walking alone late at night, stick to well-lit and populated areas.
Where to stay in Cannes for the first time?
The best and safe areas to stay in Cannes for first-timers and tourists are Cannes City Centre, Le Suquet/ Old Town, and Pointe Croisette. These are central locations in Cannes that offer plenty of accommodation options for all budgets and needs.
The City Centre is the most popular choice in Cannes for visitors. It is the heart of Cannes, home to the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, which is lined with luxury hotels, designer boutiques, and restaurants. You’ll be within walking distance of the Palais des Festivals, where the Cannes Film Festival takes place.
Le Suquet is the historic old town of Cannes, known for its charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and the Notre-Dame de l’Espérance church. This area is home to a cruise terminal where you can take a ferry to the beautiful Sainte-Marguerite nearby.
Pointe Croisette is a quieter residential area located to the east of the city center. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere and beautiful views of the Mediterranean.
During my trip to Cannes, I stayed in the City Centre area at Hôtel Cannes Centre Univers. It was a great 4-star mid-range hotel, short walk from Cannes Beach and the Palais de Festivals. There were many bars and restaurants in its surroundings. It was only 5 minutes from the train station. My Room was compact but well decorated and comfortable.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Cannes for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Cannes, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Cannes have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them.
If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
3 Safe areas to stay in Cannes for first-timers and tourists:
1. Cannes City Centre
Cannes City Centre, or Centre Ville in French, is one of the best areas to stay in Cannes for tourists who want to be in the heart of the city. It is also a great location to book your accommodation for the Film Festival as it is home to The Palais des Festivals, where the Cannes Film Festival takes place.
Staying here offers easy access to major sights such as the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, Croisette Beach Cannes, Zamenhof – plage publique de Cannes, and Casino Barriere Le Croisette.
The city center is also home to Cannes train station, serving TGV trains and the TER Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur trains. Easily reachable by trains and Paris and Nice. From here, you can catch a PalmBus and taxi to get around.
You’ll have a wide array of high-end shops, boutiques, and gourmet restaurants to explore. The dining scene is diverse, offering both local and international cuisine.
Best places to stay in Cannes City Centre for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): Hôtel Martinez, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, popular 5-star hotel centrally located on the famous La Croisette Boulevard in Centre Ville. It has a private beach, 2 Michelin star La Palme d’Or restaurant, a secure private car park, an outdoor swimming pool, and spacious rooms.
Luxury ($$$): Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes, 5-star beachfront hotel with a private beach conveniently located on La Croisette in Centre Ville, easy distance from Palais des Festivals and the old port. Close to many shops and bars. The hotel has soundproof rooms, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and very good Breakfast.
Mid-range ($$): Hotel Splendid, 4-star hotel centrally located on Rue Felix Faure, at the beginning of a pedestrian zone, great base for car-free travelers. The hotel is only a short stroll from Croisette beach, Festival Hall, Casino, and Old Town. It has paid airport shuttle service, awesome breakfast, family rooms, and 24-hour front desk.
Mid-range ($$): Hôtel Barrière Le Gray d’Albion, 4-star hotel in the middle of Cannes city center, easy access to the seafront Croisette, Palais des Festivals, the main square, and the main shopping district with many designer boutiques. Easy access to Cannes Train Station, offering covered public parking and paid airport transfer.
Budget ($): Hôtel de Provence, great 3-star hotel in central Cannes, featuring air-conditioned rooms, a garden, a terrace, 24-hour front desk, and paid airport shuttle services. It is in a quiet area, but only a short distance from the railway station, the Croisette, the main beach in Cannes. There is metered parking outside the accommodation most days.
Budget ($): Villa Pruly Hotel Cannes Centre, 3-star accommodation located within a 5-10 mins walk from La Croisette and Palais des Festivals. Cannes Train Station is also nearby. Good base if you have a car as there are many free parking on the street at night and public parking spots nearby.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN CENTRE VILLE2. Le Suquet/ Old Town
Le Suquet, also known as Old Town, is the historic heart of Cannes, characterized by narrow winding streets, medieval buildings, and a charming old-world atmosphere. It offers a more relaxed and authentic experience compared to the modern city center.
You’ll be surrounded by historical sites, including the Notre-Dame de l’Espérance church and the Musée des explorations du monde. Exploring these landmarks provides a glimpse into Cannes’ rich history.
Due to its elevated location, Le Suquet offers panoramic views of Cannes, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Lerins Islands. Climbing the Suquet Tower (Tour du Suquet) provides a stunning vantage point.
The area hosts the Forville Market, where you can immerse yourself in local flavors by exploring fresh produce, regional products, and experiencing the vibrant market atmosphere.
Le Suquet is home to numerous cozy cafés and restaurants serving local cuisine. Dining in this area often offers a more intimate and traditional experience.
Best places to stay in Cannes in Old Town for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): The Originals Boutique, Hôtel des Orangers, Cannes (Inter-Hotel), 5-star hotel located in a quiet location, easy distance from the old town, Train Station, la Croisette, and Palais des Festivals.
Mid-range ($$): Traverse Des Artistes, 4-star condo hotel in a great location of Old Town Cannes, close to harbor. Easy walk to Midi Beach, Plage du Palais des Festivals, and Plage de la Croisette. The rooms are spacious and bright with comfortable beds and high-quality cosmetics in the bathroom.
Mid-range ($$): Hôtel Belle Plage & Villa Spa, great 4-star sea-view hotel located in a central area, a few mins walk from the beach and beach bars. Close to the ferry terminal for services to Île Sainte-Marguerite island. It has a spacious penthouse for big families and groups of friends.
Budget ($): Residence Gameau, 3-star good value for money accommodation in Old Town of Cannes, easy access to the seafront areas and the downtown. 15 mins walk from the train station. There is a square nearby where you can find a children’s playground and facilities for pétanque.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN OLD TOWN3. Pointe Croisette
Pointe Croisette is a great base in Cannes if you prefer a peaceful local environment while being close to the downtown. This is a residential area, located on the eastern edge of Cannes, that offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling city center.
Pointe Croisette is close to Palm Beach, known for its casino and vibrant nightlife. You’ll also be close to Port Pierre Canto for beautiful sunset views and Handiplage de Bijou Plage, a well organized and beautiful sandy beach.
Best places to stay in Cannes in Pointe Croisette for tourists:
Mid-range ($$): Hôtel La Villa Cannes, 4-star hotel in a quiet area close to La Croisette, featuring a heated outdoor pool with a sun terrace. Short distance from Palm Beach Casino, Palais des Festivals, and Cannes Train Station. If you drive, you can find Free public parking nearby.
Mid-range ($$): Juliana Hotel Cannes, 4-star hotel in Pointe Croisette, featuring a sunbathing terrace and an outdoor swimming pool. Short ride from Palais des Festivals, train station, and the ferry terminal to Sainte-Marguerite island. Breakfast has a lot of choices, a great variety of fresh bread and pastries.
Budget ($): Hotel Alexandre III, 3-star nice little hotel, in a great location, easy walk to the promenade and beaches. Safe to walk late at night. Free parking on site is a bonus for those who drive.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN POINTE CROISETTEIn conclusion, Cannes City Centre, Le Suquet/ Old Town, and Pointe Croisette are the best places to stay in Cannes for first-timers and tourists. These safe central neighborhoods in Cannes that provide many accommodations for all budgets and preferences.
You can continue reading other destinations in France in these articles:
- Safe areas to stay in Paris for first time
- Safe areas to stay in Lyon first time
- Safe areas to stay in Bordeaux for first time
- Safe areas to stay in Marseille for first time
- Safe areas to stay in Strasbourg first time
There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to Cannes. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.