Cannes - Mediterranean Cruise

Arriving in Cannes

For many large cruise ships, going ashore begins with a tender ride: the ships anchor in the bay and ferry their guests to the Old Port. Smaller ships can also dock in the harbor. The Vieux Port borders the city center, making the main sights easy to reach on foot. A published PONANT itinerary lists Cannes as a port of call on a Mediterranean cruise. Antibes and Nice are also on the Riviera.

This makes it easy to plan your time ashore: start with the sights west of the harbor, then, if time allows, follow the waterfront promenade toward the Croisette. Those who prefer flat routes can opt for the market and boulevard, while the climb to Le Suquet offers a different perspective. All three areas are clustered around the same harbor, so you can combine them to suit your time in port.

Le Suquet and Marché Forville

West of the Vieux Port lies Le Suquet, the city’s oldest district. Narrow lanes climb toward a medieval church and a 12th-century castle complex, which houses the Musée de la Castre. From the hilltop, there are open views over the harbor and bay. If you want to avoid the climb, you can limit your walk to the harbor district and Marché Forville. The covered market lies west of the harbor, at the end of Rue Meynadier, and offers a glimpse of local produce. Depending on how much time you have, you can divide your visit between the market, the old town, and the viewpoint.

The Croisette and city center

East of the harbor, the palm-lined Boulevard de la Croisette begins at the Palais des Festivals. Hotels, cafés, and the coast define this stretch, which offers a flatter walk than the lanes of Le Suquet. Explore the waterfront promenade along the harbor and the Croisette, with views of the Mediterranean. The city center adds shops and cafés to the route. The Old Port lies between these two parts of the city: Le Suquet and Marché Forville are to the west, while the Palais des Festivals and the Croisette are to the east. Landing and tender arrangements depend on the ship and itinerary. For another Mediterranean port, Marseille offers an additional overview of the harbor and going ashore.