Where to Stay in Cannes, France: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

Planning a trip to Cannes and not sure where to stay? You’re in the right place!

Cannes is the heart and soul of the French Riviera, synonymous with glamour, jet-setters, exclusive beach clubs, palatial hotels, and celebrities walking the red carpet during the Cannes Film Festival. It’s every bit as luxurious as you’ve seen in magazines or on TV. But it’s also about quiet beaches, charming boutique villas, narrow cobblestone alleys, and local bakeries filled with everyday people, just like us.

The city may be compact, but each area feels different. To save you the trouble, we’ve rounded up the top four, along with our favorite hotel in each. Ready to find out more? Let’s get right into it!

Where to Stay in Cannes Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Cannes

Cannes is a very compact city, so most attractions are within walking distance. Unless you’re planning lots of day trips to Nice or Monaco, you probably won’t need a car. In fact, after seeing how difficult parking can be, that’s probably a good thing.

But if you need to travel farther than walking can take you, there’s a great train system and bus network that makes day trips easy. And if you prefer a more private ride, Uber and Bolt are both available. As for where to stay, that really depends on the kind of trip you’re after. 

If it’s your first time in Cannes, we’d probably point you toward the Croisette, the famous waterfront promenade lined with luxury hotels, designer boutiques, and beach clubs. Le Suquet is our favorite for romantic evening strolls along cobblestone streets and sunset dinners, while Centre Ville is hard to beat for convenience, with everything you need at your fingertips. Finally, Pointe Croisette is a little quieter and more upscale, with lovely beaches and lots of fun on the water.

The best part is that wherever you stay, you’re never too far from the beach, a good restaurant, a local coffee spot, or your next pain au chocolat!

• Le Suquet – Best for historic charm & local atmosphere – Cannes’ old town is all about cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, medieval architecture, local shops, and stunning views over the bay. Our favorite stay here is Canopy by Hilton Cannes, which blends contemporary design with all the modern comforts you’d expect, including private parking (which is almost impossible to find around here).

• Croisette – Best for first-time & luxury visitors – This prestigious promenade is one of the most recognizable in all of France, and, given the luxury resorts, designer stores, high-end restaurants, and exclusive beach clubs, we can see why. We picked Mondrian Cannes for our stay because it’s every bit as good as it looks, with sea-view rooms and a lovely Japanese restaurant, right in the heart of the promenade.  

• Centre Ville – Best for convenience – The city center has a bit of everything, and since it’s close to the beaches, Old Town, waterfront, and high-end shopping streets, it works well for pretty much anyone looking for a convenient location. One of the best stays in this neighborhood is Hôtel Victoria, a stylish boutique property where breakfast is served right by the pool. 

• Pointe Croisette – Best for beaches & a relaxed upscale stay – If you’re after something a little more upscale, while staying away from the crowds in the city center, this area is a great match. We think Juliana Hotel Cannes is a fantastic mid-range option here, with an outdoor pool and recently renovated interiors that keep everything feeling fresh and modern. 

Where to Stay in Cannes 

Le Suquet 

BEST FOR HISTORIC CHARM & LOCAL ATMOSPHERE 

Pros 

• Historic charm with cobblestone streets and medieval architecture
• Some of the best views in Cannes
• More affordable dining and shopping than the beachfront areas
• Tons of local cafés and restaurants

Cons 

• Can get very busy during peak season
• Steep streets and staircases can be difficult if you have limited mobility
• Parking is very limited, as most streets are pedestrianized

Long before the celebrities arrived, Cannes was little more than a sleepy fishing village, and Le Suquet is where it all started. This is the city’s oldest neighborhood, perched on a hill above the harbor. So if you thought Cannes was all luxury yachts, beach clubs, designer boutiques, and fancy red carpets, you’ll probably be as surprised as we were to find a proper European old town hiding here.

Having fun here means wandering cobblestone streets, peeking into local shops, and trying to find the most authentic breakfast spot. You’ll also probably stop every five minutes because you’ve discovered yet another great photo spot, especially along Rue du Suquet, which was once the main road into Cannes.

This part of Cannes is also great for sightseeing, as you’ll find the 17th-century Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance here and the Musée des Explorations du Monde. What we loved most, though, were the panoramic views over the Bay of Cannes from the highest parts of the area.

Overall, we think Le Suquet is best for couples, culture lovers, photographers, and travelers who prefer a more authentic French Riviera experience over a resort-style stay.

Hôtel & Spa Belle Plage – $$$

Hôtel & Spa Belle Plage is the opposite of flashy Cannes. It’s tranquil, cozy, and more focused on wellness. In fact, the hotel even has an entire villa dedicated to its wellness center. 

At around 740 square meters (8,000 square feet), it’s the largest spa in Cannes. Here, you can enjoy a heated indoor pool, a scented hammam, sauna, and an ice-drop fountain (basically a fancy way to cool down after the sauna), all included with your stay. As for the rooms, expect spacious doubles, suites, and even residences and a penthouse for larger groups.

Dining is another reason to stay here, with a mix of Levantine and Mediterranean dishes and a world-famous chef at the helm, plus it all takes place on the rooftop! And there is no boring evening here either. One night you might be watching a live opera, the next a theatrical performance. Prices start at €200 per night. 

Canopy by Hilton Cannes – $$ 

If you’ve always wanted to stay in Cannes without blowing your entire budget, Canopy by Hilton is worth a look. It sits right at the edge of the historic harbor, so waking up to sea views is pretty much the norm here. Plus, it’s just a 5-minute walk from Boulevard de la Croisette and all the luxury shopping, so heading out at night is also quick and easy.

The highlight has got to be the rooftop area, with cozy seating and DJ sessions around sunset. There’s a spa and an indoor/outdoor adults-only pool, although access costs an extra €20 per day and is limited to 90 minutes. Inside, it’s every bit Hilton, with plenty of luxury and unique details. 

Some rooms have beautiful arched windows and interesting artwork that set them apart from your typical hotel room. Expect to pay from around €140 per night, depending on the room type and season.

Another of our absolute favorite mid-range options is Hôtel Traverse Des Artistes, hidden away on a quiet pedestrian street just a short walk from Midi Beach and the Palais des Festivals. The only real difference here is that you’ll be staying in luxury apartments, or even a penthouse duplex if you want to splurge, which makes everything feel a little more private.

Chanteclair – $ 

Cannes has even more affordable places to stay if you’re trying to keep costs down, and Chanteclair is one of them. It’s simple and feels more like a guesthouse than a hotel, especially since it’s set inside a traditional French house with shutters and all. 

Rooms are on the smaller side but super clean and comfortable, with everything you need for a few nights in Cannes. There’s no air conditioning, but there’s an inner courtyard with enough shade to keep you cool while sipping your morning coffee. They also serve breakfast for a small fee (around €9), which is great if you don’t feel like searching for a café early in the morning. 

Location-wise, it’s also hard to complain. You’re right in the Old Town, and just a short walk from Marché Forville and the Old Port. With prices starting from around €70 per night, it’s a bit of a steal for Cannes.

If Chanteclair is fully booked, Cannes Old Town Suites is another solid option, with large apartments and all the modern comforts you’d expect from a newly renovated space. From here, you’re just a 5-minute walk downhill to Plage du Midi beach. 

Croisette

BEST FOR FIRST TIME & LUXURY VISITORS

Pros 

• Steps from the beach, restaurants, shops, and public transport
• The atmosphere is all about luxury, with upscale hotels on one side and yachts on the other
• Home to high-end hotel bars and Michelin-starred restaurants

Cons 

• Prices are among the highest in Europe
• Can be quite noisy, especially during summer
• Lacks the historic charm 

The Croisette is Cannes’ iconic waterfront boulevard, lined with luxury hotels, flashy cars, designer boutiques, beach clubs, and palm trees overlooking the Mediterranean. No wonder it’s considered one of the most prestigious promenades in all of France and is even recognized as a national cultural heritage site. So if this is your first time in Cannes, the Croisette really hits the spot. 

Be warned, though, driving around can be difficult, and parking is almost impossible. The good news is that once you’re here, you can walk, run, bike, or just sunbathe and barely leave the beach. The promenade itself stretches for 2.8 kilometers (about 1.7 miles) and connects the Old Port and Palais des Festivals with Palm Beach, so it makes for a nice evening stroll. 

There are several attractions here worth checking out, including the Palais des Festivals, home of the Cannes Film Festival, Plage de la Croisette, and plenty of upscale shopping. Most of the hotels along the boulevard are 5-star resorts with their own private beaches, and are also quite impressive to look at. 

We’d say this area is ideal for first-time visitors, luxury travelers, and anyone who wants to be at the center of Cannes’ glamorous Riviera lifestyle.

Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes – $$$$ 

Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes is the Queen Bee of luxury hotels here, so if you’re going to spoil yourself, this is the place to do it. It’s basically a second home for Hollywood A-listers during the Cannes Film Festival, so don’t be surprised if you spot a celeb or two. Some rooms even overlook the red carpet!

As for leisure, there’s a heated outdoor pool and a private beach with loungers stretching right down to the sea. Even better, there’s a children’s club and a small movie theater with a starry ceiling, so there’s something fun for everyone. And when you get hungry, you can choose from four different dining spots.

Rooms feel every bit as luxurious, with options ranging from standard doubles to themed penthouses with private rooftop pools and 24-hour butler service. Expect to pay anywhere between €240 and €1,200+ per night.

For something just as upscale, Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel, could be right up your alley, with a recently restored property, an infinity pool, a private beach club, and an absolutely gorgeous garden courtyard. The hotel sits right in the heart of the beachfront promenade and near Rue d’Antibes, where you’ll find high-end boutiques and lots of local bistros. 

Mondrian Cannes – $$$

If you’re looking for another high-end stay by the sea, Mondrian Cannes is worth checking out. Despite its central location, the hotel sits slightly back from the street, which means it’s nice and quiet (something we started appreciating more and more after long days out).

The garden was definitely our favorite part! It’s probably one of the largest in Cannes, with lots of cozy corners for quiet moments. We particularly loved the Asian-inspired restaurant. The sushi and duck confit bao were a nice change after all the wine and pasta we’d been eating before.

The hotel also has its own art collection, and if you’re staying a few nights, you can get free access to La Malmaison art center, which we obviously had to visit. The staff were some of the best we came across in Cannes and made our stay even more enjoyable. Expect to pay around €200+ per night.

JW Marriott Cannes is a great alternative by the beach, with a rooftop pool, a casino, a shopping arcade, and a massive theater, a bit like a small town with everything you need, really. The location is just as good, with the train station, Old Town, Palais des Festivals, and Rue d’Antibes all within easy walking distance. 

Croisette Palais Miramar Cannes Imperial – $ 

Croisette Palais Miramar Cannes Imperial allows you to enjoy Cannes on a budget, but without sacrificing comfort or the glamour this city is known for. Instead of a typical hotel, here you get independent luxury apartments in one of Cannes’ most historic landmarks, the grand Belle Époque Palais Miramar building. 

What we absolutely love about this place is all the little details inside, from the wallpaper and chandeliers to the flower pots and artwork throughout. You can choose from deluxe studios to large multi-room apartments, though they all share that same old-world charm. The location is another big plus, between the JW Marriott and Mondrian, directly across from Cannes most exclusive beach clubs.

With prices starting around €150 per night, we think it’s one of the best-value stays in the area, especially if you prefer extra space and a quieter atmosphere. 

Centre Ville 

BEST FOR CONVENIENCE

Pros 

• Everything you need is within a short walking distance 
• More affordable than the waterfront promenade 
• Cannes Train Station (Gare de Cannes) is right here

Cons 

• Narrow streets compared to the wide-open spaces of the seaside promenade
• Driving and parking here can be a real struggle
• Less scenic than staying directly on the waterfront

Centre Ville (City Center) is the bustling heart of Cannes, located between the train station, harbor, and Croisette, so staying here gives you easy access to nearly everything in the city. It’s also the most practical base for day trips, with direct train connections to Nice, Antibes, Monaco, and Menton just minutes away.

This area has a bit of everything: medieval history, local charm, lively markets, and all the luxury Cannes is famous for. One minute you’re admiring colorful trompe-l’œil murals (those paintings that make you look twice), the next you’re window-shopping for a Dior bag on Rue d’Antibes.

People also call this neighborhood La Banane, and that’s because its shape on a map curves a bit like a banana. Mornings here start with a coffee and flaky croissant on Rue Hoche before heading to Marché Forville. We particularly enjoyed wandering the market stalls, packed with seafood fresh off the boat, local cheeses, chorizo, and serrano ham. Everything looks so good you’ll want to try it all (we certainly did). 

The beaches are only a short walk away whenever you feel like swimming. And if you enjoy a little gambling, you’ll find plenty of casinos here too. We’d say this neighborhood is perfect for travelers who want a central location, great restaurants, a lively atmosphere, and easy transport without paying premium beachfront prices.

Five Seas by Inwood Hotels – $$$ 

Five Seas by Inwood Hotels is a lovely 5-star boutique hotel located just behind the lively waterfront strip. This means you get all the convenience of being close to the action, but nights are much quieter. Some of the best features here are the heated rooftop pool and bar, which, if you ask us, is the perfect spot for chilled afternoons. 

The rooms have some pretty cool details too, including artwork and beds designed to look like oversized vintage suitcases. If you can, we’d definitely splurge on the suite with a private terrace and hot tub for an extra touch of luxury. 

The restaurant is another highlight, with meals designed for sharing, and you can even rent a private yacht from here. Prices start at around €200 per night, which feels like a pretty great deal for everything you get.

If Five Seas by Inwood Hotels is all sold out for your dates, Hotel Splendid is a great second choice, with harbor views and a traditional breakfast buffet served outdoors. It’s located just down the hill from the historic Old Town district, meaning you’re only a short walk from fine dining, beach clubs, and local street markets. 

Hôtel Barrière Le Gray d’Albion is a modern alternative, with dining on the beach, sunset DJ sets, and free access to Studio by Petit VIP, making it a great option for families. With one entrance leading to Rue d’Antibes and the other to the beachfront promenade, everything is right on your doorstep.

Hôtel Victoria – $$

Hôtel Victoria is a cozy little hotel that has all the comforts of a luxury stay, just in a smaller package, which makes it perfect if you prefer more intimate hotels (it feels a bit like staying in a friend’s villa rather than a hotel). There’s a heated pool open from May to October, and you can enjoy breakfast right beside it (or in the lounge if it’s too hot).

Our favorite part has to be the garden, lined with palm trees, and some rooms even overlook both the pool and garden, which isn’t a bad view to wake up to. And then there’s the complimentary happy hour by the pool, with free wine from the owner’s family vineyard. Despite being just steps from the high street and promenade, the quiet residential location means peaceful nights. Prices start at around €150 per night.

Best Western Premier Le Patio des Artistes is a great backup option, with a jacuzzi and sun loungers on the rooftop terrace, plus a lush courtyard, so you’ll have quite a few spots to relax after a long day out. Even better, the convenient central location, right near Rue d’Antibes and the beachfront Boulevard de la Croisette, makes it easy to pop out whenever you feel like it.

If you want a top location without paying 5-star prices, the charming Hôtel de Provence fits the bill just right, with a lovely garden courtyard and terrace where you get to enjoy a delicious French breakfast. It’s just a few steps off the main streets, so it’s perfect for peaceful nights while still being steps from all the action. 

L’Esterel – $

L’Esterel is one of the few hotels in Cannes that offers a super comfortable stay without blowing your travel budget. What we love most here is the rooftop terrace, so breakfast comes with panoramic views over the city. Rooms are simple but have all the essentials, including AC, free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a work desk, and they’re soundproofed too (which you’ll be thankful for if you’re a light sleeper).

The hotel keeps things simple, focusing on comfort, convenience, and an excellent central location. There’s a cozy café corner with a vending machine and magazines, and the entrance sits on a quiet pedestrian street surrounded by local shops. You’re also just a short walk from the shopping streets and Cannes train station. With prices starting at just €65 per night, your wallet will probably thank you.

Another of our favorite budget stays in the area is Hotel Abrial by Soniho, with private underground parking (which is surprisingly rare in Cannes, although it comes at an extra cost), modern rooms with balconies, an outdoor garden terrace, and a lounge bar if you feel like a drink before heading out. The location is hard to beat, too, just steps from the famous promenade and the high-end shopping street.

For something more modern and slightly smaller, Hotel Molière is a great choice, with a lovely flower garden and a sun terrace where you can enjoy breakfast and coffee while escaping the city crowds for a bit. Even though it feels tucked away, you’re still close to the beaches and shopping streets.

Related Read: Before you zip up your suitcase, check out our Europe summer packing list to make sure you’ve packed everything you’ll need for Cannes and beyond.

Pointe Croisette

BEST FOR BEACHES & A QUIET, UPSCALE STAY

Pros 

• Upscale and safe neighborhood
• Home to Bijou Plage and Gazagnaire, two of Cannes’ best beaches
• Stunning views of the Mediterranean, the Lérins Islands, and the Esterel Mountains

Cons 

• Prices are higher than in other parts of Cannes
• Some late-night noise from beach clubs and nightlife venues
• Winters can feel very quiet as many businesses close for the season

Pointe Croisette, also known as Palm Beach, was once little more than wild sand dunes until the Palm Beach Casino arrived in the 1920s. Today, this is the place to be for pristine beaches, lively nightlife, upscale dining, and some gorgeous views. The area is home to Port Pierre Canto, packed with superyachts, and Bijou Plage, which we think is one of the prettiest beaches in Cannes. 

It occupies the eastern end of the Croisette and feels a lot more relaxed than the city center. You’re still within walking distance of the main attractions, just without quite as many crowds. Since it’s surrounded by water on three sides, it’s a popular spot for swimming and watersports like kitesurfing. One of our favorite things here, besides being on the water, was watching locals play pétanque (a traditional French ball game) near Moure Rouge harbor.

We also couldn’t get enough of the views of the Lérins Islands and the Esterel mountains. Add in the restaurants around Place de l’Étang, and it’s all just hard to leave. All in all, we think that this area is perfect for beach lovers, families, and travelers looking for an upscale but less crowded alternative to the busy central Croisette.

Hôtel Martinez – $$$ 

Hôtel Martinez is one of the most iconic 5-star hotels on the French Riviera, and quite possibly one of the defining luxury hotels in the area. Most rooms overlook the sea, so your views are random cruise ships and luxury yachts on the horizon. And, as if the beach right out front isn’t enough, there’s also a private botanical garden where you can cool off in the shade. 

The outdoor pool is heated year-round, and if you’re into wellness, you’ll find plenty of treatments and relaxation rooms to choose from. One of the highlights has to be The Jetty, which is a pontoon stretching 100 meters (around 330 feet) into the sea. During the day, it’s lined with luxury sunbeds, but come night, this place becomes one of the liveliest spots in Cannes.

Prices start at around €180 per night, which is pretty reasonable for a hotel of this caliber, but we won’t complain.

If Hôtel Martinez is fully booked, Maison Carla Rosa Cannes is another one to consider, with free private parking (which is surprisingly rare in Cannes) and just 12 high-end apartments and suites, making it an even better choice if you prefer a more private stay. You’ll get peaceful nights here without giving up the convenience of being close to the shopping, dining, and all the buzz.

Juliana Hotel Cannes – $$ 

If you’re thinking about the budget, Juliana Hotel Cannes is a great mid-range option right by the beach in central Cannes. It has that 1960s look, which makes a nice change from all the sparkle of the 5-star hotels nearby. Plus, it was renovated in 2020, so everything still feels fresh and modern.

Our favorite thing about this place has to be the outdoor pool and the large sun deck, where you can happily spend your afternoons. As for rooms, you can choose from compact doubles and larger family suites that can comfortably fit up to four guests.

Breakfast is tasty, with fresh pastries, fruit, tarts, and honey harvested directly from hives on the hotel roof. And if you’re short on time but still want to explore the city, the hotel offers electric bike rentals. Nightly rates start at around €95 and vary depending on the season and room type.

Hôtel La Villa Cannes is another great-value stay, with a heated outdoor pool, on-site parking, and a delicious breakfast served in the garden right by the pool. Since it sits on a quiet, dead-end street, it feels more peaceful than most hotels in the area, but you’re still just a quick and easy walk from the beach.

Hotel Alexandre III – $ 

There are not many proper budget stays in Cannes, which is exactly why Hotel Alexandre III stands out. We love it because it has only 11 rooms and suites, so it feels more like staying in a family home than a hotel. Plus, the hosts are extra kind and make you feel welcome from the moment you arrive.

The hotel itself has that classic French charm throughout, but with modern comforts in the rooms, including AC, soundproof windows, a flat-screen TV, and quality mattresses. You even have completely free private parking, which you’ll definitely appreciate in Cannes.

And, if you like to sleep in, you won’t miss breakfast as it’s served until noon on a lovely vine-covered garden terrace. Overall, if you’re looking for somewhere comfortable and well-located without breaking the bank, this is your place. Prices start at around €140 per night.

Top Activities to do in Cannes

Now that you’ve found the perfect area and hotel to stay in, it wasn’t that bad, right? Hopefully, our favorite picks made it a little easier, so you didn’t have to spend hours scrolling through hotel websites.

But now comes the fun part, planning your days! We found some of the best and easiest ways to explore Cannes, and as it turns out, booking a tour can actually work out cheaper than organizing everything yourself. We’ve rounded up the ones we think are actually worth your time, whether you’re into sunset cruises, good food, luxury yachts, or exploring a bit beyond Cannes. 

• Go sailing on a private yacht – A day on the water is always a day well spent, but this 4-hour private sailing tour takes things up a notch. It’s every bit as luxurious as it sounds and gives you the chance to discover hidden beaches, swim, snorkel, dance, and enjoy some delicious food along the way. 

• Relax on a sunset cruise – There’s never enough time on the water, so if you’re water babies like us, you’ll want to make time for this scenic cruise around the Lérins Islands. You’ll swim and snorkel, then refuel with snacks on board while soaking up some pretty gorgeous sunset views. La belle vie indeed! 

• Visit Monaco and Eze – If you’re thinking, “Well, I’m already in Cannes, so I might as well tick Monaco off the bucket list,” this full-day guided tour makes it easy to do just that. By the end of the day, you’ll have visited the hilltop village of Eze, watched the changing of the guard at the Prince’s Palace in Monte Carlo, explored Casino Square, admired luxury yachts, and done a bit of people-watching (which is so much fun in Cannes!). 

• Explore Cannes in a vintage bus – Not sure how to fill the time between the beach and dinner? Spend a couple of hours sightseeing around Cannes in a vintage 1960s bus with a host who looks the part too (striped shirt, beret, and all). Best of all, tours are limited to just 8 people, which makes the whole experience feel a lot more personal. 

• Taste your way around Cannes – Why pick just one restaurant when you can eat your way through Cannes? Come hungry for this food tour because you’ll stop at several spots, enjoy a multi-course lunch, and sample everything from pissaladière (a local onion tart) to wines, coffee, and all sorts of delicious local specialties. 

Thanks for reading!

Cannes is so much more than the glitz and glamour it’s famous for. Whether you’re strolling the Croisette, wandering the charming streets of Le Suquet, relaxing on the beach, or taking day trips along the French Riviera, choosing the right place to stay will make your visit even more memorable. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect base so you can spend less time planning and more time enjoying everything Cannes has to offer.

Before you go, be sure to check out our other France travel guides for more inspiration, itineraries, and helpful planning tips. We’ve also linked some of our favorite articles below to help you plan the rest of your French Riviera adventure. Bon voyage!

Where to Stay on the French Riviera: 6 Best Areas & Hotels

The 15 Best Chateau Hotels in Loire Valley, France

Where to Stay in Bordeaux, France: 4 Best Areas & Hotels