A Weekend in Cannes: The Perfect Two-Day Itinerary on the French Riviera

By: Alex Lefebvre | Published: 10/15/2026

Famous for its international film festival, high-profile luxury hotels, designer boutiques, and glamorous yachting scene, few destinations capture the glamour of the French Riviera quite like Cannes. The Mediterranean resort city has long attracted A-listers, royalty, and jet-setters drawn to the elegance of the Côte d’Azur.

But Cannes isn't just about the sublime waterfront, celebrated red carpets, and world-famous luxury brands. Beyond the fashionable boulevards and exclusive beachfront establishments, there are plenty of engaging things to do in Cannes. The city offers cultural landmarks, Mediterranean gastronomy, and remarkable island escapes. It's also the ideal city for exploring the Riviera on a private yacht.

So what's the best way to experience Cannes in two days? This itinerary combines waterfront sightseeing, shopping, fine dining, and a private yacht excursion to the nearby Lérins Islands. You'll leave with lasting memories of some of the best of the French Riviera

Arrival Day - Check Into the Carlton Cannes

Your weekend begins with arrival at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, about 30 km from Cannes, followed by a private transfer along the coast with sublime sea views. If you prefer to fly private, Cannes–Mandelieu Airport is more convenient.

Cannes's top luxury hotels are some of the best on the French Riviera. However, none are as iconic as the Carlton Cannes. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks along the coast. Overlooking the Mediterranean, the five-star property combines Belle Époque architecture with contemporary luxury, providing an exceptional base for exploring Cannes.

Its waterfront location puts guests close to the city's main attractions, luxury boutiques, and fine-dining restaurants. Elegant guest rooms and suites, first-class dining, a swimming pool, and a private beach club make the hotel hard to beat.

Day 1 - Red Carpet Glamour, La Croisette, and Luxury Shopping

The first full day should be devoted to discovering the landmarks, boutiques, and dining scene that make Cannes a symbol of glamour.

Morning: Visit the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès

Located at the west end of Boulevard de la Croisette (or simply La Croisette), right next to Vieux-Port de Cannes (Old Port), Palais des Festivals et des Congrès is closely associated with the stars and prestigious premieres that come to mind first when thinking of Cannes. The famous staircase provides one of the city's most recognizable photo opportunities, great for Instagram selfies.

Depending on when you visit, you can also catch major events like MIPCOM, Cannes Lions, Festival International des Jeux or settle for the almost year-round Les Spectacles du Palais.

Late Morning: Walk or Drive Along La Croisette

Stretching along the Mediterranean coastline, La Croisette is lined with prestigious hotels, designer boutiques, and private beach clubs. Its palm-lined promenade is particularly enjoyable on foot, allowing time to appreciate the elegant architecture and sweeping views across the bay.

For a different perspective, consider a drive in a drop-top sports car along the boulevard, taking in the city's grand hotels and waterfront in comfort. But don't overthink it. Whether you explore it on foot or by car, La Croisette embodies Cannes' distinctive appeal: a seamless blend of Mediterranean beauty and cosmopolitan luxury.

Afternoon: Shopping on Rue d'Antibes

After lunch, head to Rue d'Antibes, one of the city's principal shopping streets and a favorite destination for fashion enthusiasts. Running parallel to La Croisette, this lively boulevard offers a broad selection of fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, beauty retailers, and established international brands.

While La Croisette is associated with prestigious luxury fashion houses, Rue d'Antibes offers a more varied shopping experience, making it an excellent place to spend an afternoon browsing boutiques and discovering new additions for your wardrobe.

Late Afternoon: A Scenic Helicopter Flight Over Cannes

For a great perspective on the Bay of Cannes and surrounding towns and villages, take to the skies aboard a helicopter on a 15-minute panoramic flight. Departing from Cannes-Mandelieu Airport, this aerial excursion offers sweeping views of the Mediterranean, the elegant waterfront, and the Lérins Islands.

As the helicopter climbs above the coastline, soak in the beauty of La Croisette, the Bay of Cannes, and the historic Le Suquet district. The flight also reveals the marvelous turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, best viewed from the air.

Evening: Fine Dining at La Palme d'Or

Bring the day to a close with dinner at La Palme d'Or, the Michelin-starred restaurant at Hôtel Martinez on La Croisette.

The restaurant combines refined gastronomy with Cannes' cinematic identity. Its interiors draw inspiration from Hollywood's golden era, while its creative culinary direction, under chef Jean Imbert, places emphasis on the flavors of Provence and the Mediterranean.

Day 2 - Private Yacht Excursion to the Lérins Islands

Day Two reveals the real treat of spending time in Côte d'Azur. The Lérins Islands (also part of Cannes) offer an appealing contrast to the energy of the mainland, with beautiful coastal scenery, wooded landscapes, and clear waters.

Morning: Private Yacht Cruise to the Lérins Islands

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a private yacht cruise to the Lérins Islands. A yacht charter adds an exclusive dimension to the experience, allowing guests to admire the Cannes coastline from the water and discover secluded stretches of the Mediterranean.

The archipelago's two principal islands, Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat, are known for their natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. A leisurely cruise around their coastlines offers views of rocky coves, wooded shores, and inviting turquoise waters.

Arrange the itinerary with the yacht captain to include swimming stops and convenient access to Île Sainte-Marguerite, where the day's next two experiences await.

Late Morning: Snorkeling at the Underwater Museum

One of the most unusual attractions near Cannes is the Écomusée sous-marin, an underwater museum located just off the southern coast of Île Sainte-Marguerite.

Renowned sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor created the museum, which includes six submerged sculptures depicting human faces. Installed 5 m below the surface, they were designed to promote marine biodiversity and highlight the importance of protecting the Mediterranean ecosystem.

The sculptures lie roughly 84 to 132 meters offshore and can be viewed while snorkeling. Unlike conventional museums, this unique attraction unfolds beneath the sea, where sunlight, marine life, and submerged artwork create a distinctive experience.

Lunch: Mediterranean Dining at La Guérite

After the snorkeling excursion, enjoy lunch at La Guérite, a popular waterfront eatery on Île Sainte-Marguerite. Overlooking the Bay of Cannes, La Guérite has welcomed guests since 1902. It is known for its delightful Mediterranean cuisine, beachside dining area, and party atmosphere.

Led by chef Yiannis Kioroglou, the restaurant draws inspiration from Mediterranean cooking traditions, emphasizing fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs. After lunch, spend some time relaxing by the water before returning to your yacht for the afternoon cruise.

Afternoon: A Leisurely Cruise Back to Cannes

Spend the remainder of the afternoon cruising around the Lérins Islands, enjoying the Mediterranean scenery and perhaps taking a tender to the secluded Crique de l'Aiguille pebble beach in Theoule-sur-Mer. As the yacht makes its way back toward Cannes, the city's beachfront hotels gradually return to view, delivering a memorable perspective of the city.

Back at the Carlton Cannes, enjoy seasonal cuisine at the Riviera, the hotel's signature restaurant. Popular menu items include Gambero Rosso (deep-sea Mediterranean red prawns ) and Stracciatella. It's the perfect way to conclude your day. After all the activities, you'll need an early night.