Cannes
Cannes, the charming city on the Côte d'Azur
Categories: Cote dAzur Cannes France
Cannes is famous for its film festival. But this city in the south of France at the Côte d'Azur has more to offer. It is the epitome of the mixture of ethnicity and modern extravagance. Once the red carpet in the Palais des Festivals is rolled up again and the world's cinema stars have retired, the visitor is immersed in a diverse life that is not dominated by the annual cultural event.
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Not far from the promenade, at the foot of the Suquet hill, historic ships and yachts bob up and down in the old harbour. Old monuments and interesting cultural buildings shape the cityscape as well as glamorous promenades, shopping streets, prominent bars, clubs and restaurants. Bathing enthusiasts will find their pleasure on wide, fine sandy beaches.
Ascent to the old town
Those who are not afraid to get over the steep alleyways to the historical centre of Cannes will be rewarded with a picturesque view to the city, the harbour and the promenade Croisette. You circle the old city wall, climb the square tower, enjoy the charming panorama of the Lerins Islands and the bay of Cannes. This quarter of Cannes is a treasure trove for lovers of old cultural monuments. The oldest church of Cannes in Gothic style is located above the old town.
Notre-Dame d'Espérance impresses with its beautiful wooden panelling from the 15th century as well as paintings from the 19th century.
The former castle of the monks of Lerins is also worth seeing. The Musée de la Castre houses a large collection of art treasures. Archaeological finds from Egypt, Greece, Mesopotamia, Syria and Cyprus have their place alongside ethnological documents and primitive art from Africa, Asia and America. Here you will find a collection of the most beautiful landscape paintings from the 19th century, which have shaped the image of Cannes and its surroundings.
Descent from Suquet, the old town of Cannes
At the foot of the old town, the holidaymaker meets the market of Forville. Wine merchants, fishermen, butchers and bakers invite the visitor to stay and enjoy wine, pasta and other culinary delicacies. The two kilometre long promenade along the Croisette leads to the small museum La Malmaison. The private house shows exhibitions of famous works of art by Matisse, Picasso, Miro or Cesar. Below the promenade there is a wide sandy beach.
Visit to the island
Nature lovers will find their paradise on the Île St. Marguerite, which can be reached by boat in 30 minutes. A stroll through the large eucalyptus forest leads to interesting places that offer a magnificent view of Cannes and the Cap dÁntibe. Another island highlight is the Île Saint-Honerat. Witnesses of the historical past are lined up here. Numerous chapels and religious buildings give an insight into the legendary pilgrimage site. The herbal liqueur produced here tempts you to enjoy other local specialities.
Back to shopping in Cannes
Cannes is a mecca for shopping lovers. Here, wealthy visitors find their source of elegant outfits as well as holidaymakers with a small purse. Famous designers give their best at La Croisette. Although Bulgari, Cartier and Gucci, as well as Raph Lauren, Chanel and Armani, open their doors to the well-heeled, window-shopping is always worthwhile. The Marche Forville and La Bocca district is a shopping paradise for every taste and budget. The labyrinth of the surrounding small streets provides many little surprises and should be explored more closely.
The nightlife of Cannes
The pulsating life in Cannes is full of energy. There is no sleeping here. Until the early morning, there is a dazzling night life in all districts of the city. The casinos give a special kind of thrill. In clubs and discos everyone finds his nightly pleasure. The Palais Club offers trendy events, the Disco 7 offers evening travesty art. The Jimmy'z in the Casino Croisette delights with a glittering dance floor. The Zanzibar in the Rue Félix Faure is the oldest gay bar and worth a visit. 
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The Morrison's with its live bands gives Irish flair. Piano lovers love the Bar des Célébrités at the Hotel Carlton or the live music at Le Brumel. The day after
Those who have survived the nightlife sleeplessly will enjoy an excellent breakfast in one of the prominent restaurants. Cannes is not stingy with its charms. The visit to this beautiful city does not remain a uniqueness and attracts those who return at any time back to the diversified life at the Cote d'Azur. Cannes is waiting with always new adventures.
