For first-time visitors, the ideal amount of time to spend in Cannes is between 2 and 3 days. This will allow you to experience the best of what this charming city has to offer, visit the main sites, try a few of the many delicious restaurants in town, and maybe even go on a day trip to the nearby towns (there’s a ferry that goes straight from Cannes to St-Tropez!).
However, if Cannes is only a stop on a longer journey (read: Nice vs Cannes: Which is Better to Visit?), one day may be enough to get a good impression of the city. Use that time to take a walking tour or explore the narrow streets and boulevards. And don’t forget to visit one of Cannes’ most iconic attractions – La Croisette.
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How many days in Cannes is enough?
It depends on what you want to see as there are many things to do in Cannes.
One full day is enough to see the main attractions in town, but two days will allow you to enjoy the city at a more relaxed pace or maybe even go on a day trip to Ile Sainte-Marguerite.
For you to have a better idea of how many days you should stay in Cannes, here is a suggestion on how to spend three days in the city:
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Day 1 in Cannes – Old Town and La Croisette
On your first day in Cannes, start your day with a stroll on La Croisette, the famous promenade that stretches along the Mediterranean Sea.
Afterward, visit the old town and explore its winding streets, boutiques, and traditional restaurants like Restaurant Mickaella or L’Assiete Provençale.
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In the evening, head to Suquet Hill for a panoramic view of Cannes and the sea.
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Day 2 in Cannes – Beach, Lerin Islands, or boat tour
On your second day, you can either take a boat trip or a ferry to the Lerins Islands (you can buy the ferry ticket here) and enjoy a day at the beach or you can stay in Cannes and explore the different beaches around town.
→ Read: 22 Perfect Day Trips from Cannes, France
Take a walk along the beach promenade and find a café with amazing views of the sea. At night, enjoy a delicious dinner in one of the many restaurants located around town or party the night away in one of Cannes’ famous clubs.
Day 3 in Cannes – Shopping and Museums
On your last day, head to the old port of Cannes and browse around its many shops. Afterward, visit some of the local museums like Musée Des Explorations Du Monde and Centre d’art La Malmaison at Cannes.
In the evening, take a walk along the shopping streets like Rue Meynadier for even more souvenir shopping opportunities, or enjoy your hotel (read: 15 Best Hotels in Cannes) before you say goodbye to Cannes.
🧳 Still wondering what to pack for your trip? Then check out this guide on what to wear on the French Riviera.
Another option
If you want, another interesting option is to add a day trip to your itinerary. Places like Antibes and Saint-Paul-de-Vence are great destinations for a day trip from Cannes.
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Conclusion
That’s a wrap. We hope this guide has helped clarify how many days in Cannes is enough for you to enjoy this charming city and its attractions. Depending on how much time you have, 2 or 3 days should be enough.
In conclusion, no matter how much time you have in Cannes, it is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Be sure to explore every nook and cranny of this beautiful town.
