The Promenade de la Croisette in Cannes is an important thoroughfare famed for the Palais des Festivals et des Congrés, which hosts the Cannes Film Festival. The road also features numerous hotels, shops and restaurants, many of which are exclusive, upscale and luxurious. It spans the entire coastal shoreline of Cannes. It's listed on France's cultural heritage general inventory for its historical importance. This locale is among the most well-known jewels of Cannes and a beloved destination for visitors and locals alike.
This boulevard offers everything you want from visiting Cannes. It's three kilometres of pine and palm-shaded avenues, sun and sea breeze, luxury shops and hotels, and historic scenery all in one elegant stretch. The walkway is fully pedestrianised and bordered by a sandy beach and a coastal road. Here, families wonder at famous locations, and couples take romantic walks along a Mediterranean paradise.
What are the highlights of La Croisette in Cannes?
The most famous highlights of La Croisette in Cannes begin with the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. In this convention centre, the Cannes Film Festival is held every year along with the NRJ Music Awards and the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. This famed multipurpose venue hosts events all year long. You can also head for Old Town at the eastern end of the Croisette to visit the Marché Forville, a quaint but huge outdoor market. Stop for a bite to eat at the famed Carlton Beach Club. You can also visit the historic landmarks in Le Suquet and walk around the Old Port.
You can visit the beachfront and enjoy the soft sand and clear waters. If you want, you can kick back and enjoy some locals pitching boules, one of France's national pastimes, while you enjoy some ice cream from a local street vendor.
A brief history of La Croisette in Cannes?
The history of La Croisette in Cannes dates back to the 19th century when a small cross was installed, and a local street was created to span the seashore. The street was originally a news boulevard but quickly became a famous thoroughfare for people to enjoy. The promenade of the 1800s is far from the stretch of fancy eateries, boutique shops and upscale luxury hotels it is today. This happened during the 1960s when the street was given an overhaul.
By 1949, the Palais des Festivals et des Congès was built to host the first Cannes Film Festival. In 1960, artificial beaches were created to establish a double lane for auto traffic, and these provided an extra 10 metres of space for the pedestrian walkway that serves as the promenade today. It was during this process that La Croisette took on its current form.
What else is good to know about La Croisette in Cannes?
La Croisette in Cannes is a pedestrian-friendly boulevard where you won't have to worry about cars or vehicle traffic. It's also largely accessible to people with disabilities, as are many of the local luxury hotels, restaurants, and shops. In fact, this destination is frequently a part of local tours that are specifically designed for travellers with limited mobility.
Many of the businesses here are upscale and luxurious, but others are quite affordable, and it's very popular as a destination for families and couples. The beach is open for public use and can be a great way to catch some rays or just relax between excursions into the city. The boulevard spans a full 3 kilometres and runs the entire shoreline of the city, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.
La Croisette in Cannes
Location: Cannes, France
