Cannes in a day: the Palais, the Croisette and the islands
35 minutes by train and you're on the red carpet. The Palais des Festivals, the Croisette, Le Suquet and the Lérins Islands: a day's itinerary in Cannes.
Cannes plays in a different league from its neighbours: cinema, palaces and yachts. But behind the glitz, there's a real city: the old Suquet perched on its hill, a lively Provençal market and islands to explore by boat. 35 minutes by train from Nice, and a day that's a change from the Niçois coast.
The train: simple and cheap
The TER links Nice to Cannes station, right in the centre, in about 35 minutes — more than 140 return services a day, from 5:31 am to 11:10 pm. Full-fare ticket: €9.70 (less with the Zou ! Malin card). The station is 3-5 minutes' walk from the Palais des Festivals.
The Palais des Festivals and the Walk of Fame
The famous red carpet and its 24 steps are accessible free of charge all year round (climbing forbidden during the Festival and some events). Around the Palais, the Chemin des étoiles lines up the handprints of about a hundred stars — a fun scavenger hunt, kids love looking for the ones they know.
The 2026 Festival ran from 12 to 23 May (80th edition expected in May 2027): if you're passing through then, the red carpet is closed and hotels are packed — unless you're invited, pick another time.
The Croisette, on foot
Three kilometres of promenade between the palaces and the sea, with its famous blue chairs where you sit to watch the world go by. The beaches alternate public (sand, a rarity on this coast!) and private. The walk is at your own pace, from the Palais to Port Canto.
Le Suquet, the real Cannes
Climb to Cannes' oldest district, the Suquet, overlooking the Old Port: cobbled alleys, Notre-Dame-de-l'Espérance church, the Suquet tower and the Explorations du Monde museum. The view over the bay from the gardens at the top is one of the finest in the city — and lunch on Rue Saint-Antoine, under the plane trees, is a must.
The Lérins Islands: the escape
From Quai Saint-Pierre (Old Port), shuttles reach Île Sainte-Marguerite for €18.50 return: 210 hectares of pine forest, Fort Royal and its Iron Mask legend, coves to swim in. Book a departure before 3 pm to have time for a real half-day there.
Another option from Nice: our guide to cruises from Nice, which includes the same island departing from the port.
Forville market: in the morning
At the foot of the Suquet, the Forville Provençal market is in full swing every day from 7 am to 1 pm in July-August (Tuesday-Sunday the rest of the year): fruit, vegetables, fish and, on Mondays, a flea market. The good deal: stock up for a picnic on the island.
FAQ
How long is the Nice-Cannes train journey?
About 35 minutes, with more than 140 trains a day. Full-fare ticket €9.70, station in the centre 5 minutes from the Palais.
Can you climb the Palais des Festivals steps?
Yes, the red carpet and 24 steps are free all year round, except during the Cannes Film Festival (mid-May) and some events.
How do I get to the Lérins Islands from Cannes?
By shuttle from Quai Saint-Pierre (Old Port): €18.50 return to Sainte-Marguerite, short crossing to the islands.
What are the Forville market hours?
7 am-1 pm every day in July-August, Tuesday-Sunday the rest of the year. Flea market on Mondays.
When is the Cannes Film Festival?
Mid-May: 2026 edition 12-23 May, 80th edition announced 11-22 May 2027. The red carpet is closed during the festival.
Is Cannes worth a day trip from Nice?
Yes: the Palais, the Croisette, the Suquet and half a day on Île Sainte-Marguerite fit into a well-paced day.
