MIPIM is one of the most prestigious and influential real estate events in the world and every year, thousands of professionals from all over the world travel to attend the four-day event in the beautiful city of Cannes.
As I live in Nice myself, it is quite interesting to see how this event brings the city of Cannes to life even during the quiet season that is March.
From the glamorous beaches to the Michelin-starred restaurants, there is so much to explore and experience in Cannes and the French Riviera for those fortunate enough to attend!
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious shopping experience, a night of high-end entertainment, or just want to soak in the Mediterranean sun, this insider’s guide to Cannes during MIPIM will help you find the best places to explore, as well as insider advice on how to make the most of your time in Cannes. Let’s go!
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Cannes Essentials
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Where to Stay for MIPIM
The best way to fully experience Cannes is to stay in the city itself.
However, during MIPIM it can be difficult to find vacancies, and booking in advance should definitely be a priority.
These are some of our favorite places to stay in Cannes:
1- Hôtel Martinez, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Grand Hyatt offers luxurious rooms and suites with views over La Croisette, as well as a terrace restaurant and bar.
2- Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes
For an unforgettable stay, book a suite at Hotel Barrière Le Majestic. This 5-star hotel is ideally located on La Croisette and boasts multiple restaurants and bars.
3- B&B Villa Du Roc Fleuri
Villa Du Roc Fleuri is a cozy bed and breakfast located in the hills overlooking Cannes. Here you can enjoy stunning views, an outdoor pool, and a relaxing atmosphere.
For more options, read our guide to the best hotels in Cannes.
Where to Eat
There are dozens of amazing restaurants in Cannes, but if you only have enough time to try a few, these are some of the best places to eat.
Planning a trip to the South of France? Then make sure to join my Facebook group for the best tips, places, and hotels on the French Riviera.
La Palme d’Or
Boasting a Michelin star, La Palme d’Or is the ultimate restaurant to try in Cannes.
Renowned for its high-end cuisine made from the finest seasonal ingredients.
The chef’s tasting menus offer a true culinary experience that you will surely never forget. However, prepare your wallet: the most affordable menu at the restaurant costs 165 euros.
L’Assiette Provencale
This cozy little bistro is located in the heart of Cannes and specializes in traditional Provencal cuisine.
It offers an intimate atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious locally sourced-food.
To try several southern specialties in one meal, you can get the menu saisonnier for only 30€.
La Pizza Cresci
If you’re looking for something more casual, this pizzeria serves up some of the best pies in town, freshly made every day with fresh ingredients (we highly recommend trying their desserts as well!)
L’Affable
The contemporary bistrot L’Affable offers a variety of classic and modern dishes that have been reimagined with French influences.
Make sure to try the souffle for dessert, as it is the house’s specialty, and make reservations in advance.
Bar du Marin
For a local experience, heading to Bar du Marin is a great choice. This hole-in-the-wall joint serves up classic French dishes with a focus on seafood (get the mussels!)
The prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is lively and friendly.
Things to do in Cannes
There are many wonderful things to do in Cannes and you should definitely use your time outside of the conference to do a bit of exploring.
Go for a stroll along La Croisette
La Croissette is the most iconic landmark of Cannes, with its long boulevard stretching alongside the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
As you walk along La Croisette you can admire the yachts floating in the harbor, watch street performers and musicians, or enjoy the numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Book a tour
Guided tours are always a wonderful way of getting to know new places and, lucky for us, Cannes has a lot of good tour options.
→ Read: 22 Perfect Day Trips from Cannes, France
These are the most popular ones:
- Cannes: Round-Trip Ferry to Ste. Marguerite Island
- Half-Day Catamaran Cruise with Lunch
- Round-Trip Boat Transfer to Saint Tropez
- Monaco, Monte Carlo & Eze Half-Day Trip
Visit the beaches
Cannes is home to some of France’s most beautiful beaches. Take a walk along La Croisette or venture out to Plage du Midi for some sunbathing, swimming, or beach volleyball.
Explore La Suquet
La Suquet is the old town of Cannes, and its narrow streets are full of winding passages, quaint restaurants, and shops.
Wander through La Suquet’s cobblestone streets to get a feel for the city’s past.
Go to the market
The Marché Forville in Cannes has been a staple since 1880 and is the perfect place to browse for local produce, fresh seafood, and other delicious treats.
Go on a boat ride
Take an excursion out into the Mediterranean Sea.
Admire the stunning scenery and swim, snorkel or just relax on board and soak up the sun while sipping a glass of wine.
Go on a day trip
Due to its privileged location, Cannes is a great base for exploring the French Riviera.
Nice, St-Tropez, Menton, Antibes, Monaco, and Èze are all located within an hour away from Cannes by train.
Nightlife
For those looking to enjoy a night out in Cannes, here are a few suggestions.
Chrystie: A glamour and sophisticated nightclub, Chrystie plays host to some of the best DJs in Europe.
Morrisons Irish Bar: Morrisons is a lively spot for drinks and great music, with regular live performances.
Le Play: For partying in style and maybe even spotting celebrities, head to Le Play. The chic lounge has an elegant interior and a selection of drinks, cocktails, and snacks.
Baoli: For a glamorous night out, Baoli is the place to go. This nightclub has great music and is perfect for dancing the night away,
Conclusion: The Complete Guide to Visiting Cannes for MIPIM
Visiting Cannes during MIPIM is the perfect opportunity to explore this charming French city and make the most of your time at the world’s largest real estate event.
We hope this guide has helped you plan your visit to Cannes and that you have a wonderful time.
