Cannes Old Town Walking Tour (Self Guided), Cannes
Initially a Roman camp, Le Suquet is Cannes' Old Town quarter and the original site of the city. With its medieval buildings and a castle on top of the hill, it offers an incredible contrast to the glamour of Croisette Boulevard.
One of the central attractions in Cannes Old Town is the Old Port (Vieux Port). This picturesque harbor is lined with colorful fishing boats and yachts, creating a scenic backdrop for leisurely strolls along the waterfront. It's a great place to relax, enjoy a meal at one of the many local seafood restaurants, or simply watch the world go by.
Cannes City Hall, a beautiful historic building, is another notable landmark in the Old Town. Its architecture is a blend of classic French design and Mediterranean influences, making it a delightful sight for visitors interested in history and architecture.
Forville Market (Marche Forville) is a bustling marketplace in the heart of Old Town. Here, you can discover a wide variety of fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal products – a perfect place to immerse yourself in the local food culture and pick up some souvenirs.
Meanwhile, the Painted Walls (Les Murs Peints) are a series of colorful and artistic murals that adorn the streets of Old Town. These beautiful artworks add a touch of creativity and vibrancy to the area.
The historic Our Lady of Hope Church (Notre Dame d'Esperance) is a peaceful sanctuary that catches the eye with its stunning façade (matched by an equally grand interior). Here, you can take a moment to reflect and appreciate the religious and architectural heritage of the region.
For those interested in history and exploration, the Museum of World Explorations (Musée des Explorations du Monde) offers a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits related to global exploration and discovery.
Lastly, don't miss the Mask Tower (Tour du Masque), a unique and well-preserved medieval tower that provides a glimpse into Cannes' past as a fortified town.
To truly experience the charm of Cannes Old Town, take your time wandering through its narrow streets, savoring local cuisine, and soaking in the cultural and historical richness. Make sure to explore its hidden gems and create unforgettable memories in this enchanting part of the city. Our self-guided walking tour will help you with that.
One of the central attractions in Cannes Old Town is the Old Port (Vieux Port). This picturesque harbor is lined with colorful fishing boats and yachts, creating a scenic backdrop for leisurely strolls along the waterfront. It's a great place to relax, enjoy a meal at one of the many local seafood restaurants, or simply watch the world go by.
Cannes City Hall, a beautiful historic building, is another notable landmark in the Old Town. Its architecture is a blend of classic French design and Mediterranean influences, making it a delightful sight for visitors interested in history and architecture.
Forville Market (Marche Forville) is a bustling marketplace in the heart of Old Town. Here, you can discover a wide variety of fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal products – a perfect place to immerse yourself in the local food culture and pick up some souvenirs.
Meanwhile, the Painted Walls (Les Murs Peints) are a series of colorful and artistic murals that adorn the streets of Old Town. These beautiful artworks add a touch of creativity and vibrancy to the area.
The historic Our Lady of Hope Church (Notre Dame d'Esperance) is a peaceful sanctuary that catches the eye with its stunning façade (matched by an equally grand interior). Here, you can take a moment to reflect and appreciate the religious and architectural heritage of the region.
For those interested in history and exploration, the Museum of World Explorations (Musée des Explorations du Monde) offers a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits related to global exploration and discovery.
Lastly, don't miss the Mask Tower (Tour du Masque), a unique and well-preserved medieval tower that provides a glimpse into Cannes' past as a fortified town.
To truly experience the charm of Cannes Old Town, take your time wandering through its narrow streets, savoring local cuisine, and soaking in the cultural and historical richness. Make sure to explore its hidden gems and create unforgettable memories in this enchanting part of the city. Our self-guided walking tour will help you with that.
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Cannes Old Town Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Cannes Old Town Walking Tour
Guide Location: France » Cannes (See other walking tours in Cannes)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 7
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles
Author: Daniel
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: France » Cannes (See other walking tours in Cannes)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 7
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles
Author: Daniel
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Vieux Port (Old Port)
- Cannes City Hall
- Marche Forville (Forville Market)
- Les Murs Peints (Painted Wall)
- Notre Dame d'Esperance (Our Lady of Hope Church)
- Musée des Explorations du Monde (Museum of World Explorations)
- Tour du Masque (Mask Tower)
1) Vieux Port (Old Port)
The Old Port of Cannes offers both a historical site and a modern delight. You'll see classic sailboats at anchor and modern yachts hosting celebrities. Visitors can wander through the marina and admire the luxury yachts.
The port has been an important part of Cannes' history. It was used as a fishing village and a port of call between the Lerins islands millennia ago. First, ancient Italians occupied this area, and then the Romans. As the primary source of transportation was shipping, the port was constantly in use, bringing settlers and providing the economic heart of the area.
The Cannes Ferris Wheel is set up each summer, and visitors can enjoy a relaxing ride while taking in spectacular views.
The Laubeuf and du Large seawalls were renovated in 2018 and re-christened as the Joséphine Baker jetty. Baker was an inspiring artist from the World War II era.
This lovely jetty offers families and walkers a fantastic way to enjoy a 360-degree view of the incomparable Bay of Cannes. Visitors can also see the Lérins Islands. This jetty is accessible so guests with reduced mobility can enjoy this special place.
The Old Port hosts the Yachting Festival each year, which turns this area into an even busier and more vibrant destination. Sparkling new mega yachts, electric boats, and multihulls are displayed in this one-of-a-kind location.
The port has been an important part of Cannes' history. It was used as a fishing village and a port of call between the Lerins islands millennia ago. First, ancient Italians occupied this area, and then the Romans. As the primary source of transportation was shipping, the port was constantly in use, bringing settlers and providing the economic heart of the area.
The Cannes Ferris Wheel is set up each summer, and visitors can enjoy a relaxing ride while taking in spectacular views.
The Laubeuf and du Large seawalls were renovated in 2018 and re-christened as the Joséphine Baker jetty. Baker was an inspiring artist from the World War II era.
This lovely jetty offers families and walkers a fantastic way to enjoy a 360-degree view of the incomparable Bay of Cannes. Visitors can also see the Lérins Islands. This jetty is accessible so guests with reduced mobility can enjoy this special place.
The Old Port hosts the Yachting Festival each year, which turns this area into an even busier and more vibrant destination. Sparkling new mega yachts, electric boats, and multihulls are displayed in this one-of-a-kind location.
2) Cannes City Hall
The neoclassic-style building that houses the City Hall of Cannes looks more like a palace than a City Hall.
The first communal house existed in the area as far back as 1515. However, that original building fell into disrepair after the French Revolution. The current building was completed in 1876. Also known as the Hôtel de Ville, the building was designed by architect Louis Durand.
The majestic building features 16 caryatids and sculpted blazons that embellish the facade. Doric and Ionic columns add to the grandeur of City Hall. An iconic dome with two clocks tops the building.
The building is located right at the port in the old part of Cannes. In front of it, along Pantiero promenade, is the Memorial of the Fallen. This monument to the First World War was erected in 1927 and was created by sculptor Albert Cheuret.
The view of the monument and the city hall behind it is one of the most photographed scenes in Cannes. The stately and sedate monument frames the grand city hall beautifully.
The first communal house existed in the area as far back as 1515. However, that original building fell into disrepair after the French Revolution. The current building was completed in 1876. Also known as the Hôtel de Ville, the building was designed by architect Louis Durand.
The majestic building features 16 caryatids and sculpted blazons that embellish the facade. Doric and Ionic columns add to the grandeur of City Hall. An iconic dome with two clocks tops the building.
The building is located right at the port in the old part of Cannes. In front of it, along Pantiero promenade, is the Memorial of the Fallen. This monument to the First World War was erected in 1927 and was created by sculptor Albert Cheuret.
The view of the monument and the city hall behind it is one of the most photographed scenes in Cannes. The stately and sedate monument frames the grand city hall beautifully.
3) Marche Forville (Forville Market) (must see)
Forville Market is Cannes' favorite market and offers organic vegetables, local wine, fresh fish, and fresh flowers for the table. It's only open in the morning, so stop by before lunch.
The market is pedestrian-only, so it is a safe and easy place to walk through and focus on the goods instead of being distracted by traffic. Locals love to come here and buy up their daily produce.
Forville Market offers single-ingredient and prepared foods, so you can mix and match offerings to come up with a delicious picnic lunch or tasty dinner. If you're looking for cold meats, you'll find tripe sausages, ham, and dried sausage. If you're looking for a ready to eat to heat meal, try takeaway paella.
Visitors craving Italian food will also find plenty to celebrate. Ravioli Niçois and polenta are a few of the Italian foods you'll find. Fresh produce abounds. Shop for strawberries in spring, tomatoes in summer, and leeks in winter.
Tips:
Locals like to arrive early and taste market offerings as they shop. The market opens at 7 am and gets busier and busier as the morning goes on.
On Mondays, the food market is replaced by an all-day flea market.
The market is pedestrian-only, so it is a safe and easy place to walk through and focus on the goods instead of being distracted by traffic. Locals love to come here and buy up their daily produce.
Forville Market offers single-ingredient and prepared foods, so you can mix and match offerings to come up with a delicious picnic lunch or tasty dinner. If you're looking for cold meats, you'll find tripe sausages, ham, and dried sausage. If you're looking for a ready to eat to heat meal, try takeaway paella.
Visitors craving Italian food will also find plenty to celebrate. Ravioli Niçois and polenta are a few of the Italian foods you'll find. Fresh produce abounds. Shop for strawberries in spring, tomatoes in summer, and leeks in winter.
Tips:
Locals like to arrive early and taste market offerings as they shop. The market opens at 7 am and gets busier and busier as the morning goes on.
On Mondays, the food market is replaced by an all-day flea market.
4) Les Murs Peints (Painted Wall) (must see)
The Painted Walls of Cannes offers visitors a unique way to see depictions of their favorite movie stars and movie scenes. Since Cannes began hosting the Cannes Film Festival in 1949, Cannes has been synonymous with movie star glamour. Since 2002, artists have painted various murals to celebrate Cannes' cinema connection. Today, there are 15 different mural frescoes to view.
These inspired murals encourage visitors to stroll through Cannes, searching for the next mural. The Painted Walls offer a unique combination of a free outdoor art gallery and a treasure hunt.
As you stroll through the city, you'll find murals depicting Buster Keaton, James Dean, and Marilyn Monroe. One mural depicts Pulp Fiction and another mural shows The Piano Lesson.
One of the most prominent murals features depictions of 100 years of movie stars. This impressive mural is next to the bus station near City Hall. This artwork celebrates cinematic greats such as Charlie Chaplin, Alfred Hitchcock, Micky Mouse, and even memorable characters like Superman, Batman, and R2-D2.
These inspired murals encourage visitors to stroll through Cannes, searching for the next mural. The Painted Walls offer a unique combination of a free outdoor art gallery and a treasure hunt.
As you stroll through the city, you'll find murals depicting Buster Keaton, James Dean, and Marilyn Monroe. One mural depicts Pulp Fiction and another mural shows The Piano Lesson.
One of the most prominent murals features depictions of 100 years of movie stars. This impressive mural is next to the bus station near City Hall. This artwork celebrates cinematic greats such as Charlie Chaplin, Alfred Hitchcock, Micky Mouse, and even memorable characters like Superman, Batman, and R2-D2.
5) Notre Dame d'Esperance (Our Lady of Hope Church) (must see)
Construction on this historic church began in 1521. After over a hundred years of work, it was completed in 1627 and dedicated to Our Lady of Hope in 1645.
The church's location at the top of Suquet Hill offers beautiful views of the city below.
The church is Gothic, while the porch is Renaissance-style. Our Lady of Hope Church has several chapels, including a chapel dedicated to the patron of Cannes, Saint Nicolas. In the Saint-Pierre chapel, visitors will find an elaborate carved wooden altar.
A beautiful 16th-century gilded wood statue of Our Lady of Hope stands above the high altar. A central stained glass window represents the Annunciation.
Visitors will find a rare Burgundy sculpture dating to the 14th century in the chapel baptismal font. A 15th-century statue represents Saint Anne. The grand Italian organ dates to 1857 and enthralls the faithful with its beautiful tones.
The bell tower features Romanesque architecture. Its five bells were all cast in 1921. Near the entrance to the church, visitors will find a gorgeous small garden, perfect for quiet contemplation.
Why You Should Visit:
Our Lady of Hope Church offers beautiful architecture and a picturesque setting. Looking down to the Riveria, the view is stunning.
Tips:
The climb up the church is steep, so be prepared. In July, the church is a venue for Suquet Music Nights, a magical event featuring classical music, piano players, and singers.
The church's location at the top of Suquet Hill offers beautiful views of the city below.
The church is Gothic, while the porch is Renaissance-style. Our Lady of Hope Church has several chapels, including a chapel dedicated to the patron of Cannes, Saint Nicolas. In the Saint-Pierre chapel, visitors will find an elaborate carved wooden altar.
A beautiful 16th-century gilded wood statue of Our Lady of Hope stands above the high altar. A central stained glass window represents the Annunciation.
Visitors will find a rare Burgundy sculpture dating to the 14th century in the chapel baptismal font. A 15th-century statue represents Saint Anne. The grand Italian organ dates to 1857 and enthralls the faithful with its beautiful tones.
The bell tower features Romanesque architecture. Its five bells were all cast in 1921. Near the entrance to the church, visitors will find a gorgeous small garden, perfect for quiet contemplation.
Why You Should Visit:
Our Lady of Hope Church offers beautiful architecture and a picturesque setting. Looking down to the Riveria, the view is stunning.
Tips:
The climb up the church is steep, so be prepared. In July, the church is a venue for Suquet Music Nights, a magical event featuring classical music, piano players, and singers.
6) Musée des Explorations du Monde (Museum of World Explorations) (must see)
This museum was formerly known as the Castre Museum and re-named the Museum of World Explorations in 2021.
The Museum of World Explorations is situated in the medieval castle formerly used by the monks of Lérins. In 1877, Baron Tinco Martinus Lycklama to Nijeholt bequeathed his collection to the City of Cannes. The collection includes antiques and primitive art.
In 1919, the City of Cannes acquired buildings in Le Suquet to house the collection in the museum. The ancient buildings are the perfect setting to explore this treasured collection.
The collection includes art and artifacts from the Arctic, the Himalayas, and Oceania. Visitors will also find pre-Colombian ceramics and Mediterranean antiques.
Visitors can admire a beautiful Mediterranean garden. Once inside the museum, visitors can access the inner courtyard and the watchtower. Energetic view seekers can climb the 109 steps to the top of the tower. From the top, admire the 360-degree view of Cannes below.
In the 11th century Saint Anne Chapel, guests will find an exquisite collection of musical instruments from around the world. Instruments from Asia, Oceania, Africa, and the Americas are on display. Saint Anne Chapel also contains rooms with Oriental and Iranian art.
The Museum of World Explorations is situated in the medieval castle formerly used by the monks of Lérins. In 1877, Baron Tinco Martinus Lycklama to Nijeholt bequeathed his collection to the City of Cannes. The collection includes antiques and primitive art.
In 1919, the City of Cannes acquired buildings in Le Suquet to house the collection in the museum. The ancient buildings are the perfect setting to explore this treasured collection.
The collection includes art and artifacts from the Arctic, the Himalayas, and Oceania. Visitors will also find pre-Colombian ceramics and Mediterranean antiques.
Visitors can admire a beautiful Mediterranean garden. Once inside the museum, visitors can access the inner courtyard and the watchtower. Energetic view seekers can climb the 109 steps to the top of the tower. From the top, admire the 360-degree view of Cannes below.
In the 11th century Saint Anne Chapel, guests will find an exquisite collection of musical instruments from around the world. Instruments from Asia, Oceania, Africa, and the Americas are on display. Saint Anne Chapel also contains rooms with Oriental and Iranian art.
7) Tour du Masque (Mask Tower)
The Man in the Iron Mask was a prisoner during King Louis XIV region. He was confined to various French prisons--including the infamous Bastille. The man wore a black velvet mask covering his face, and his identity has never been discovered.
It is unknown when the man was born. He was arrested around 1670 and died in 1703.
The Man in the Iron Mask escaped from Sainte-Marguerite Island and found sanctuary in this 12th century "Mask Tower" for the last years of his life. The story was made famous by writers Alexandre Dumas and Voltaire. In Voltaire's retelling, the man wore an iron mask. Historical records show that the man wore a velvet mask, but Voltaire's version has proved popular.
Historians have many guesses over the man's identity, but none of these theories have been definitively proven. Some stories claim that the man was a relative of the King--an older brother, a twin, or his illegitimate father.
Documents from the man's jailer, Saint-Mars, were discovered in 2015. A leading theory supposes that the man was Eustache Dauge, who was involved in political scandals.
One legend says that the unnamed man's host haunts the tower. Whether or not this is true, the legends and speculations concerning the man's identity continue.
Today, a plaque on the 12th-century tower and a nearby dummy mark the location. The plaque reads, "Passer-by, stop to meditate on the sufferings of this torture."
It is unknown when the man was born. He was arrested around 1670 and died in 1703.
The Man in the Iron Mask escaped from Sainte-Marguerite Island and found sanctuary in this 12th century "Mask Tower" for the last years of his life. The story was made famous by writers Alexandre Dumas and Voltaire. In Voltaire's retelling, the man wore an iron mask. Historical records show that the man wore a velvet mask, but Voltaire's version has proved popular.
Historians have many guesses over the man's identity, but none of these theories have been definitively proven. Some stories claim that the man was a relative of the King--an older brother, a twin, or his illegitimate father.
Documents from the man's jailer, Saint-Mars, were discovered in 2015. A leading theory supposes that the man was Eustache Dauge, who was involved in political scandals.
One legend says that the unnamed man's host haunts the tower. Whether or not this is true, the legends and speculations concerning the man's identity continue.
Today, a plaque on the 12th-century tower and a nearby dummy mark the location. The plaque reads, "Passer-by, stop to meditate on the sufferings of this torture."
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
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Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
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