Learn the History of the Cannes Film Festival

The Cannes Film Festival sprang out of a French initiative in the late 1930s. The main motto was to create a film festival free of political pressures (particularly those seen at Venice). The first Cannes Film Festival in France was planned for 1939. However, it was delayed due to the intervention of World War II.

It finally launched in 1946, with the town of Cannes hosting filmmakers and Hollywood stars for a private screening. Since then, it has occurred annually (mostly in May) at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès (pictured above) on the Croisette promenade. Over the decades, Cannes has become the “world’s most prestigious film gathering”, often mentioned alongside Venice and Berlin as Europe’s major festivals. Its origins trace back to 1938-39, with French officials and journalists planning a rival to Venice, but Cannes quickly forged its own identity after the war.

Accommodation Tips for Cannes Festival

Finding a place to stay in Cannes during the festival can be a challenge, but planning helps. Cannes’s usual population (~74,000) almost triples during the festival (to around 210,000 people). All those guests put a strain on lodging, so hotels book up extremely early and rates skyrocket. Many attendees reserve rooms months in advance. In fact, a top Cannes hotel charged about €980 per night during festival week, versus roughly €490 one week earlier. If you want to do budget travelling and save money, you can stay outside the city central.

There are many neighbourhoods around that you can check, for example, La Croisette (right on the beach and festival site) or Le Suquet (the charming old town) are popular, but are a bit expensive. Booking early is wise. Also, remember extra costs: many hotels add local taxes or fees, and parking is very limited near the Croisette. If you do rent a car, plan to use paid lots or park outside town and walk in.

Transportation

Transporting to Cannes will not be a big headache for you if you know the hidden tips. Just remember that the nearest Nice airport is about 30 km (19 mi) away, and here are the transportation options you have:

1. Shuttle bus: Lines like the airport Express 200 or regional buses run directly to Cannes. The trip takes about 35–50 minutes and costs only a few euros. Buses drop you off near the Palais des Festivals.

2. Taxi or rideshare: A taxi from Nice to Cannes takes ~25 minutes, but costs much more (around €60–€90). This is convenient with luggage, but remember, traffic can be heavy in late afternoon.

3. Train: Nice airport’s St-Augustin station has direct regional trains to Cannes (~30 minutes). Fares are typically under €15. You might need to take a short tram ride from the airport terminals to the station.

4. Car rental: Driving is an option (roads are good and there are highway tolls), but parking in Cannes is difficult during the festival. If you rent, plan to park in paid lots or outside town, and use public transit.

As you arrive in Cannes, you will find the city walkable. Most festival venues, beaches, and restaurants on the Croisette are within easy walking distance. There is also a local bus network and even a small coastal tram. Taxis and Ubers operate, though surge pricing often applies during the busy season. In short, expect crowded streets during peak hours and leave extra time for travel.

Dress Code and Style

A key question is “What do I wear?” The answer depends on the timing:

1. Daytime: Dress comfortably, as there are several options where you can bring comfort with chic looks. You can also understand what Cannes locals wear, the majority of whom opt for flowy summer dresses and skirts. They incorporate modern and classy styles to highlight their style and fashion. You can also add flip-flops on the beach, but avoid gym clothes or very casual attire because it deviates from the theme of the Cannes International Film Festival. Think casual-chic with good shoes for walking.

2. Evening: Cannes is much more formal at night, especially for festival events. The festival’s guidelines ask guests to be in tuxedos and evening gowns for gala screenings. In practice, this means full black-tie for the big premieres. For other evening screenings, a cocktail dress or a dark suit is usually fine. If you plan to attend any official evening event, pack at least one dressy outfit (long dress or suit). In short, daytime = relaxed/comfortable, nighttime = elegant/glamorous.

Staying Connected (SIM Cards and eSIMs)

Staying online in Cannes is easy if you plan. Instead of expensive roaming, many travelers use an eSIM or prepaid data plan that covers Europe. With an eSIM, you buy and install a digital SIM on your phone before travel – no swapping physical cards. For example, Airhub offers Europe plans that work in France: the Europe 300GB 5G Internet Data 30 Days plan and the Europe 50GB Data with Calls 30 Days plan. These give you plenty of high-speed data (and calls, in the second plan) across France and neighboring countries. You can activate the eSIM online anytime.

Other Tips for Cannes Travelers

1. Safety: Cannes is generally safe, but be cautious in crowds – pickpockets can occur. Keep valuables secure and carry them discreetly.

2. Documents: Check visa requirements (Schengen rules apply). If you are a first-time visitor, you should remember to carry your passport or ID. You can also get a travel insurance for medical or trip issues in Cannes.

3. Health: Do not stress about the tap water in Cannes because it is safe to drink. The May sun is strong in Cannes, so it is very important to use a good sunscreen and keep yourself away from dehydration. Pharmacies (“pharmacie”) are common for any necessities.

What to Expect at the Cannes International Film Festival

The Cannes International Film Festival is a mind-blowing and dazzling event with stars that are the greatest of all time. Every year in mid-May, Cannes fills with movie lovers, celebrities, and press from around the world. The whole city feels festive – upscale hotels are full, boats crowd the harbor, and stylish crowds mill along the Croisette (the famous palm-lined boulevard of hotels, shops, and beaches).

At the Palais des Festivals on La Croisette, expect film screenings all day long. There are usually just two major Gala premieres each evening. The timings of these events are most of the time around 7:30 pm and 10:30 pm. These are the main red-carpet events that highlight stars in tuxedos and gowns. In this, stars are also posing for photographers on the iconic staircase, which spectators talk about globally. One highlight is the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival: the Palais has just 24 steps, all covered in bright red carpet during the festival. Even if you’re not attending, just being in the crowd outside is thrilling.

Aside from galas, many other screenings happen (Competition, Un Certain Regard, short films, and more) each day. The Marché du Film (film market) runs concurrently, bringing industry professionals into the Palais to network and buy movie rights. You may also see press conferences and private parties in the nearby port and yacht clubs (though many are invite-only). Don’t miss anything to experience the best of Cannes.

FAQ