A rich display of France’s country's cultural heritage, not to mention the next ‘big thing’ in the world of movies, the Cannes Film Festival is an exciting time for every film lover out there. For 12 days each May, the world's most stylish celebrities and movie stars descend upon Cannes for the world's most glittering celebration of film.
If you're also planning to head down for a piece of the limelight, then travel in style with Eurotunnel Le Shuttle. It takes just 35 minutes to get from Folkestone to Calais, then a scenic 10-hour and 30-minute drive down through France to the beautiful Côte d'Azur.
What's happening at the Cannes Film Festival?
The Cannes Film Festival is held in May each year, with plenty of glamorous events packed into 12 days. Around 2,000 films are promoted at the film festival each year, attracting more than 30,000 directors, producers, actors, publicists, distributors, and movie fans, so be prepared for quite the crowd.
Although it is likely that you won't be able to attend any of the main events, which are reserved for industry insiders only, there are a few free screenings and parties around town that will be open to the general public. For full listings of everything that is going on at the festival, head to the official Festival de Cannes website.
Soak up some Hollywood glamour at Cannes Film Festival
The centre of all the glitzy goings-on, and consequently the best location to spot some celebs, is the Palais des Festivals. Crowds tend to gather here shortly after lunchtime in preparation for that evening's film showing, so if you want a good view, get there early.
Exploring more of Cannes
During May, Cannes is buzzing with film buffs and celeb spotters, but this isn't the only time of year worth visiting. The summer months bring long, hot days, with temperatures often reaching well up into the 30s. This makes it the perfect season for sun seekers and beach bums, and the soft, sandy coastline promises not to disappoint!
Take a stroll through Cannes’ cobbled streets
If you prefer it a little cooler, then pay Cannes a visit in either spring or autumn, when it is the perfect climate for walking around and exploring the city or hitting the fabulous shops! The Musée de la Castre near the sea front is well worth a visit with its fascinating assortment of ethnographic collections.
Of course, there’s also a host of restaurants and cafes to enjoy while you’re here, see our guide to the very best restaurants Cannes has to offer.
Visit La Croisette
To see more of the star-studded side of the city, take a stroll down the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, a promenade lined with palms and lit up with twinkling lights at night. Soak up the views of the Baies de Cannes and Estérel mountains here or go window-shopping at any of the numerous boutique and couture shops.
Marché Forville
Marché Forville, Cannes’ large covered market, is right by the La Croisette boardwalk and at the foot of the ancient neighbourhood of Le Suquet. Fresh produce, local treats, and a feast for all the senses, take a wander around the market for a real slice of the local cuisine before it hits the high-end restaurants. You can try samples at some of the stalls, or pick up lunch or dinner ingredients to enjoy later. Get there early to beat the crowds. Market open hours are Tues–Sun, 7 am–1 pm.
Pick up local produce at Marche Forville
Getting to the Cannes Film Festival with Eurotunnel Le Shuttle
With Eurotunnel Le Shuttle, it takes just 35 minutes to cross the Channel, which means you will be on your way in no time! From our Calais terminal, the drive to Cannes will take you roughly 10-hours and 30-minutes, through some of the most scenic regions of France.
There are plenty of beautiful places to stop at for a rest on your way to Cannes, including Reims, Lyon, and close to Marseille, which can make the journey all the more fun! Whichever route you choose, we hope to see you in front of the silver screen soon!