Cannes is renowned for its glitz and glamour, thanks to its world-famous annual film festival. It’s also known as a playground for the wealthy and a prime destination for yacht enthusiasts. But Cannes is more than just that—what was once a fishing village is now a cultural crossroads where French tradition seamlessly blends with global influences. Le Suquet, the old quarter, invites you to wander past pastel-colored buildings and savor local delicacies, offering an atmosphere that feels worlds apart from the Hollywood glam. The azure coastline calls for serene moments or adventurous water sports, while world-class art galleries and boutiques provide endless inspiration for culture vultures.

If you’re looking to experience the city through an LGBTQ+ lens, you’re in for a treat. While it may not rival the expansive gay scenes of larger metropolitan areas, the LGBTQ+ community in this French Riviera gem is vibrant, alive, and as charmingly intimate as the French men themselves. Here’s your essential LGBTQ+ guide to Cannes.

Table of Contents

1. General Tips
2. Transportation & Airport Transfer
3. Gay Hotels in Cannes
4. Sightseeing & Activities in Cannes
5. Restaurants and Cafes
6. Cannes Gay Bars and Clubs
7. Cannes Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars
8. Gay Beaches in Cannes
9. Gay Events in Cannes
10. Day Trips from Cannes

General Tips

Before diving into specifics, it’s important to understand the overall atmosphere of Cannes. It’s a stylish town, yet very welcoming. While Cannes doesn’t have a designated gay district, the spirit of acceptance is evident throughout its streets and avenues. LGBTQ+ visitors can explore and engage with confidence, knowing they’ll find a receptive environment. Like the rest of France, respect and courtesy are highly valued. Be sure to greet people with a warm “Bonjour!” to set the tone for friendly interactions.

Cannes is a shopper’s paradise, reflecting the city’s haute culture and eclectic soul. The Boulevard de La Croisette is Cannes’s crowning jewel, offering not only breathtaking scenery but also a haven of luxury establishments and flagship stores. Nearby, Rue d’Antibes features international retail chains alongside family-owned boutiques, many of which have been around for generations. For a taste of local flavor, visit Marché Forville, a bustling market filled with fresh produce, locally made cheeses and wines, herbs, antiques, and handmade crafts. In the historic heart of Cannes, Le Suquet, you’ll find art and antique boutiques tucked along its narrow alleyways, often run by families with deep local roots.

As for the best time to visit, the shoulder seasons offer the perfect balance of smaller crowds and pleasant beach weather. However, May is the busiest month due to the film festival. It’s an incredible experience, but make sure to book well in advance if you want to claim your place in the spotlight!

Transportation & Airport Transfer

Nice Côte d'Azur is the closest airport to Cannes and only 12 miles away. Nice is itself a nice place to visit if you want to kill two birds with one stone on your visit.  You can get to Cannes by bus, taxi, tram, or train very easily.

Once you arrive, public buses, taxis, and even boats offer convenient options for getting around this well-connected city. Many areas of Cannes are pedestrian-friendly, making walking an excellent way to fully immerse yourself in the Cannes experience. Evening strolls are particularly enjoyable, as the streets come alive with vibrant nightlife and an electric energy.

Gay Hotels in Cannes

If you’re visiting Cannes, finding the right place to stay is essential. While there aren’t any exclusively gay-specific hotels in the city, Cannes is incredibly gay-friendly. Whether you’re seeking luxurious accommodations or a more budget-friendly option, the city offers a range of inclusive and welcoming places to stay for guests of all backgrounds.

Luxury

Hotel Barriere Le Majestic Cannes – Situated in the heart of Cannes on the famous Boulevard de La Croisette, this hotel epitomizes luxury with a gay-friendly vibe and a history of hosting numerous celebrities. Hotel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes is 110 meters from the Palais des Festivals and the old port, and 400 meters from the Cannes train station. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the hotel features a heated outdoor swimming pool, a spa, and a private beach. Guests have free access to the wellness area, Spa Diane Barrière (using Biologique Recherche products), and a 24-hour gym. The hotel offers three restaurants: Fouquet's, a traditional French brasserie; Paradiso Nicole & Pierre, serving Italian cuisine influenced by the Mediterranean; and The BFire by Mauro Colagreco, located on the private beach. The hotel also offers a children’s club, Le Studio by Petit VIP, free for children aged 4 to 12.

Carlton Cannes – A historic icon built in 1911 with a Belle Époque façade, Carlton Cannes is located in the “real” heart of Cannes, overlooking the bay on Boulevard de La Croisette. This hotel offers luxury with its own private beach and pier. Rooms provide guests with views of central Cannes or the bay, with certain rooms and suites featuring private balconies. The Carlton Beach Restaurant is open during the summer, and Rüya serves a sophisticated and contemporary range of Anatolian classics. Carlton Cannes is a 5-minute walk from the Cannes train station and 25 minutes by car from Nice Côte d’Azur Airport.

Okko Cannes – OKKO Hotels Cannes Centre is another choice for a centrally located stay. It’s only 100 meters from the Cannes train station, 350 meters from La Croisette, and a short walk to the Palais des Festivals de Cannes. Only a 2-minute walk from the shops and restaurants along Rue d’Antibes, a variety of culinary delights surrounds the hotel. OKKO Hotels Cannes Centre includes a sun terrace, a sauna, a fitness room, and a gift shop. Pets are also welcome upon request with no extra charge.

Mid-range

BW Premier Collection Mondial – A modern establishment in an Art Deco-style building, this hotel is located on the famous shopping street of Rue d’Antibes, only 250 meters from the Boulevard de La Croisette beaches and 450 meters from the Cannes train station. The Palais des Festivals is also just a 5-minute walk away. Certain rooms include balconies with views of Rue d’Antibes or the Mediterranean Sea.

Hotel Univers – Hotel Cannes Centre Univers lives up to its name, located only two streets from La Croisette, where the Cannes Film Festival is held. It is also a mere 200 meters from the beaches, the Palais des Festivals, and the Congrès de Cannes. The hotel features a fitness room, a dry sauna, access to a private beach, and a bar-lounge dedicated to relaxation. There is also a shaded terrace with a wonderful view of the bay of Cannes.

Budget

Ibis budget Cannes Centre Ville – This hotel is right in the heart of Cannes, 400 meters from the Cannes train station and 700 meters from the beach and the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. Restaurants pepper the area surrounding the hotel, all within walking distance.

Hôtel Amirauté – Hôtel Amirauté boasts a central location at a budget price. It’s only 150 meters from the shops and sandy beaches along La Croisette and a mere 50 meters from the Cannes train station. The Palais des Festivals is also only a 5-minute walk away. Nearby public parking is available with negotiated rates for guests, and an express airport shuttle is even closer to the hotel. Staff members are fluent in French, Italian, and English.

Sightseeing & Activities in Cannes

Le Suquet – Cannes’s old town was once a humble fishing village before the glitz and glamour of Cannes took over. However, it still stands as a testament to those earlier times, with 400-year-old cobblestone lanes that wind uphill, lined with old fishermen’s houses. Highlights include traditional French restaurants, a clocktower, and a picturesque church. Book tour →

The Castre Museum – Perched on the hill of Le Suquet, this museum houses a treasure trove of Mediterranean artifacts, surrounded by lush green gardens and pine trees. The museum’s tower offers panoramic views of Cannes, which are especially stunning at sunset.

Palais des Festivals et des Congrès – This iconic venue is the gathering place for the world’s elite during the Cannes Film Festival. Outside the Palais, the Allée des Étoiles—Cannes’s version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame—lets visitors trace the handprints of international film legends.

La Croisette – Cannes's palm-lined promenade stretches for miles along the coastline, bustling with luxury boutiques and cafés. It’s a favorite spot for morning joggers, evening performers, couples, and families alike. The Malmaison gallery  , once a grand hotel along La Croisette, now hosts contemporary art exhibitions. Additionally, Théâtre Croisette and Théâtre Alexandre III offer a wide range of performances year-round. Book tour →

Restaurants and Cafes

Le Speakeasy – Located in the heart of Cannes, Le Speakeasy offers an atmosphere reminiscent of Prohibition-era America. As its name suggests, the restaurant exudes clandestine charm with dimly lit interiors, vintage décor, and soft jazz. The menu showcases a fusion of traditional French cuisine with modern twists, featuring a variety of seafood dishes made from the freshest catches of the day. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available.

Marea – Perched high above the bustling streets, Marea offers breathtaking panoramic views of Cannes. This contemporary establishment is known for its innovative menu, blending Mediterranean flavors with international influences. The open-air terrace is a prime spot, especially during breakfast hours, to watch the city come alive.

Mademoiselle Gray Plage Barriere – Situated on the pristine shores of Cannes, Mademoiselle Gray Plage Barrière offers the quintessential beachfront dining experience. As waves lap the shoreline, diners are treated to a menu celebrating the bounty of the sea. The restaurant also boasts an extensive wine list, perfect for complementing its marine-inspired dishes.

Le Bistrot Gourmand – For an authentic French feel, Le Bistrot Gourmand is tucked away in a quaint side alley, hidden from the usual tourist trails. This charming restaurant is a tribute to traditional French bistro dining, with rustic wooden tables, chalkboard menus, and an intimate ambiance. A favorite among locals and tourists alike, the menu features timeless classics made with locally sourced ingredients, resonating with authentic Provençal flavors.

Le Pompon – Located near the bustling Rue d’Antibes, Le Pompon is a chic café perfect for a mid-shopping meal. It boasts an expansive outdoor seating area and an eclectic menu ranging from gourmet sandwiches to pasta and salads. Le Pompon also serves a selection of artisanal coffee and sweet desserts.

La Meissounière –La Meissounière’s menu blends Mediterranean and French cuisines, offering a mix of seafood, meat dishes, pastas, and salads. Their extensive wine list is the perfect accompaniment to the meals, enhancing the dining experience.

Uva –Situated close to the Palais des Festivals, Uva is an urban wine bar with a twist. In addition to its impressive selection of wines from around the world, its food menu is designed for sharing and features a variety of vegetable, meat, and seafood dishes.

La Table du Chef –As the name suggests, dining at La Table du Chef feels like being personally hosted by a chef. This intimate eatery, with limited seating, offers a daily changing menu inspired by the chef’s creativity. Located in the city center, La Table du Chef has garnered acclaim for its innovative approach to French cuisine.

L'Angle des Saveur –Tucked away in a quiet corner of Cannes, just steps from La Croisette, L’Angle des Saveurs celebrates the fusion of flavors by modernizing traditional French techniques. With a focus on fresh, regional produce, it delivers an authentic Mediterranean taste. Reservations are recommended for this sought-after dining experience.

Cannes Gay Bars and Clubs

Skyfall –This upscale cocktail lounge and club exemplifies world-class mixology in a glitzy setting, perfectly fitting for a city like Cannes. Just a 5-minute walk from La Croisette, Skyfall offers patrons panoramic views of the French Riviera. The venue is open Thursday to Monday.

Coco Lounge –This “bar club” boasts the unique claim of being the only 100% Latino club on the French Riviera. Despite its central location, it’s slightly hidden away but well worth the search for those looking to dance the night away until the early morning hours.

Charlys Wine Bar – Located in a picturesque part of Cannes, Charly's Wine Bar is open every day and offers a blend of daily live DJ music alongside a selection of wines, cocktails, and tapas, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Le BeFirst –Adding to Cannes's nightlife scene, Le BeFirst is a nightclub that combines great music with tapas and themed evenings. Open daily, the club features a DJ from Thursday to Saturday and is particularly popular with the LGBTQ+ community, especially on weekends.

Le Divan – Known for its eclectic music and lively crowd, Le Divan is a bar-club offering plenty of space for drinks and dancing. Situated in the old town of Cannes, it’s described as a “buzzy” and vibrant venue, just a 3-minute walk from La Croisette.

Cannes Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars

ParadX – ParadX is a gay sex shop and cruise club for men, featuring a playroom in the back with a cinema, private cabins, a sling, glory holes, and fetish areas. As the only gay sex shop along the French Riviera, it offers a wide range of adult products, including sex toys, lubricants, DVDs, men’s underwear, and accessories. ParadX is open seven days a week.

Le Neuf Sauna – Le Neuf Sauna (or Sauna Le 9) is a popular gay/mixed sauna located just 10 minutes by car from the center of Cannes in Le Cannet. It features a steam bath, jacuzzi, dry sauna, dark room, sling, movie theater, and private cabins, along with a bar for socializing. Guests can also enjoy the outdoor terrace and smoking area. The sauna is exclusively for men from Monday to Wednesday, with themed nights on Friday and Saturday.

Gay Events in Cannes

Queer Palm – The Queer Palm is a prestigious award established in 2010 at the Cannes Film Festival to honor LGBTQ+ cinema. It recognizes a short film or feature that addresses LGBTQ+ themes, feminist topics, or challenges gender norms, selected from the festival's official selection and its parallel sections. In 2023, the Queer Palm was awarded to Hirokazu Kore-eda's Monster, and the Queer Palm for Best Short Film went to Nans Laborde-Jourdàa's Bolero.

Queer Night – An annual LGBTQ+ dance party that began in 2006, held on the first Sunday of the Cannes Film Festival at the American Pavilion (AmPav). This event celebrates the LGBTQ+ community within the heart of the American Pavilion, a central hub for the American film community during the festival. Notably, in 2012, director Lee Daniels hosted Queer Night, adding to its prominence.

Gay Beaches in Cannes

Plage de la Paloma – A beautiful beach known for its gay-friendly environment, Plage de la Paloma is a semi-public beach located near the lighthouse tip of the peninsula. Access to the beach is via a hiking trail with steep steps that provide stunning views of the beach and its visitors. Once on the cove, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the cliffs of Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Eze. The beach offers showers, toilets, and street parking above.

Plage de la Batterie – While nudity is prohibited on the beaches of Cannes, Plage de la Batterie remains a naturist-friendly bastion just outside the city. This small yet stunning beach is popular as a gay hangout and cruising area, particularly on its western side.

Day Trips from Cannes

French Riviera (Nice, Monaco, Monte Carlo, Eze, 7H from Cannes port) – The French Riviera offers much more than just Cannes, and this tour provides a “best of” in just seven hours. Perfect for cruise ship visitors with limited time, it’s also great for anyone looking to explore the region. Travel by minivan through classy Monaco, the charming seaside commune of Eze, and Nice, the capital of the region. From the Monte Carlo Casino to the Nice Cathedral, this round trip from Cannes lets you experience the French Riviera with time to reflect over drinks at the end of the day. Book tour →

Monaco -For a touch of opulence, a day trip to Monaco is the perfect choice, especially for fans of Grand Prix or casinos. Explore iconic sights like the Monte Carlo Casino, the Prince's Palace, and the Oceanographic Museum, all within this glamorous city-state. Book tour →

Îles de Lérins – these two islands are a short boat ride from Cannes' bustling shores.  Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat, both offer a respite from the urban frenzy. Beyond their natural beauty and serene beaches, Sainte-Marguerite offers the Fort Royal, which once housed the infamous Man in the Iron Mask. Saint-Honorat’s popular stops include Lérins Abbey, a medieval, fortified monastery for Cistercian monks. Explore (and taste!) the monastery’s history of winemaking while you’re there! Book tour →

St Tropez – another aquatic option is the round-trip ferry tour (about 75 minutes each way) from Cannes to St Tropez, another glittering gem of the French Riviera south along the coast. Popular spots to visit include the renowned Pampelonne Beach, the historic fishing quarter of La Ponche with its narrow alleys and pastel-colored houses, and the 17th-century Citadel offering panoramic views of the town. Art enthusiasts can explore the Musée de l'Annonciade, which houses masterpieces by Matisse and Signac. The Place des Lices market is perfect for picking up local produce and artisan crafts. The vibrant Vieux Port comes alive in the evening, while plenty of waterfront restaurants, bars, and clubs. Book tour →

Parc Naturel Forestier de la Croix-des-Gardes – If you’re seeking an incredible hiking experience, take a short trip to the Parc Naturel Forestier de la Croix-des-Gardes in Alpes-Maritimes. The nature park offers excellent views and endless hand-crafted hiking trails, allowing you to ultimately stretch your legs and see the wild of Southern France. The La Croix des Gardes Loop is a famous, short walk through the forest with views of Cannes and the Mediterranean Sea. The La Croix des Gardes – Belvédère du Maquis trail offers a more challenging hike, taking you to a higher elevation overseeing the Cannes cityscape.

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