Cannes

Cannes is a city on the French Riviera in the Alpes-Maritimes department of the Provence-Alpes-Couvé-Côte d’Azur region, located along the Mediterranean coast between Antibes and Mandelieu-la-Napoule, northeast of Nice. The commune covers about 19 square kilometers and has a population of around 74,000 residents. The city experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters.

Cannes developed as a resort destination in the 19th century, attracting European aristocracy and becoming a leading center of tourism. The Promenade de la Croisette runs along the seafront, lined with hotels, shops, and beaches. The historic quarter of Le Suquet sits on a hill above the old port, offering narrow streets and panoramic views. Offshore lie the Lérins Islands, notably Île Saint-Honorat and Île Sainte-Marguerite, home to monasteries and Fort Royal.

The city is internationally renowned for the Cannes Film Festival, held annually in May at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès on La Croisette. The festival awards the Palme d’Or and attracts film industry professionals from around the world. Cannes also hosts numerous trade shows and conferences, contributing to its role as a major hub for culture and business on the Côte d’Azur.

Economically, Cannes relies on tourism, services, and events. The city is connected by the Marseille–Ventimiglia railway line, with access to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport and the A8 autoroute. Notable landmarks along the Croisette include famous luxury hotels such as the Carlton and the Martinez, which reflect the city’s historic resort appeal.

Administratively, Cannes is governed by a mayor and municipal council; as of the 2010s and 2020s, the mayor has been David Lisnard.