Cannes / Antibes
Are you looking to discover the real French Riviera, far from the beaten track? The area between Cannes and Antibes hides little-known treasures. This region offers a unique blend of hilltop villages, secret beaches and local restaurants where the locals like to meet up. There are also authentic Provençal markets and festivals all year round. Here is your guide to exploring this part of Provence like a local.
The most beautiful towns in the region between Cannes and Antibes
The Cannes must-sees
Forget the clichés of the Festival. Cannes is first and foremost the Suquet district, its oldest neighborhood. Climb its stairs early in the morning, when the streets are still quiet. Fishermen sell their fish directly on the harbor, a tradition that has lasted since 1884.
The Forville market is the beating heart of the city. It opens at 7:30 a.m. Come around 11 a.m. to see the local restaurant chefs choosing their produce. This is also when the shopkeepers start to lower their prices.
A well-kept secret: Palm Beach, at the tip of the Croisette. The locals meet there for picnics at sunset, far from the crowds of the central beaches.
Antibes: between history and modernity
Antibes has the most beautiful ramparts on the coast. To walk around them, start on the coastal path at dawn. You will come across local joggers and have the best light for photos.
The Provençal market on Cours Masséna brings the old town to life every morning. A word of advice: look out for Biot olives and Vallauris honey, two local specialties you won't find anywhere else.
Port Vauban is not just a yacht parking lot. It is also the place where fishermen sell their catch every morning from 6 a.m. The prices are 30% cheaper than at the market.
Valbonne: the soul of the hinterland
Just 20 minutes from the beaches, Valbonne offers a different side to Provence. Its checkerboard layout, unique in the region, dates from the 16th century. On Fridays, the whole village is transformed into a giant market.
The Place des Arcades becomes the village square from 5pm. The locals play pétanque while the children run between the café tables. It's the perfect time to try the local pastis from the Companyo distillery.
Mougins: the artists' village
Picasso spent his final years in Mougins. His house is not open to the public, but you can have lunch at the Place de Mougins, where he used to go. The current chef still offers his favorite dish: Provençal stew.
The former medieval village is now home to more than 30 art galleries. Some of them offer outdoor painting classes. Book at least two weeks in advance in summer.
Le Cannet: the view of the bay
Le Cannet remains unknown to tourists. However, the old town offers the most beautiful views over the bay of Cannes. Climb up to the chapel of Saint-Sauveur at sunset. Local photographers gather there to capture the golden light on the Lérins Islands.
The Musée Bonnard exhibits the works of the painter who lived here. The museum garden reproduces the landscapes of his paintings, with the same species of flowers.
Villeneuve-Loubet: between sea and gastronomy
Villeneuve-Loubet is the birthplace of Auguste Escoffier, the inventor of modern cuisine. His birthplace is now a museum of gastronomy. Cooking classes are given there by local chefs every Saturday morning.
The port of Marina Baie des Anges surprises with its futuristic architecture. The locals call it “the wave”. The fish restaurants are excellent and 30% cheaper than in Antibes.
Mouans-Sartoux: the cultural alternative
The village of Mouans-Sartoux has become an important center for contemporary art. The castle hosts exhibitions all year round. In October, the book festival attracts the greatest French authors.
The gardens of the MIP (International Perfume Museum) are a well-kept secret. The plants used to create Grasse perfumes are grown here. Admission is free on the first Sunday of the month.
Practical advice:
The Pignes train connects all these villages
Parking is free between 12 noon and 2 pm
Avoid August: prices triple and crowds are guaranteed
Night markets from June to September
Where to sleep in the region?
If you are looking for accommodation for your vacation in this beautiful region, don't miss our selection of the best hotels, vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts and campsites in this area! We update this selection every year!
There you have it, we now wish you an excellent vacation in this beautiful region between Cannes and Antibes.