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Visit the Palais des Festivals during the Cannes Film Festival to experience the glamour and excitement of the world-renowned event. Outside of the festival, enjoy the iconic red carpet, explore the exhibition halls, or attend one of the various events hosted throughout the year. Don't miss the panoramic views of the Mediterranean from the venue's terraces.
The Palais des Festivals in Cannes is a familiar venue for the Cannes Film Festival, where the Palme d'Or is presented. You might even stumble across your favorite celebrities here, and witness the brilliance of art on the red carpet. The Palais des Festivals in Cannes covers 28,000 square meters and can accommodate over 30,000 people for the festival. Besides the festival venue, it also houses a casino, a nightclub, and several conference rooms. Whether out of curiosity or hoping for a chance encounter, why not take a look inside this world-renowned Palais?
Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters;
Suitable for all seasons
Nearby attractions: Rue Ménardier, the Castle Museum, Cannes Old Town, Malmaison Exhibition Hall, Croisette Promenade, Martinez Beach, Grand Jas Cemetery
Recommended 1-day tour
The interior is not open to the public, but the exterior is open all day.
The Palais des Festivals was inaugurated in 1982 and is the centerpiece of the Cannes Film Festival, one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. It has hosted countless cinematic premieres and significant global cultural events. Beyond its role in the festival, the Palais hosts conferences, concerts, and exhibitions.
Located in the heart of Cannes on the Boulevard de la Croisette, the Palais des Festivals is easily accessible by foot from the city center. You can also take a bus or taxi from other parts of the city or surrounding areas. The nearest train station is Cannes Train Station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the Palais.
The Palais is open throughout the year, though its availability depends on the events taking place. For the best experience, visit during the Cannes Film Festival (usually in May) or during one of the other major events. Outside of major events, it's still possible to visit the venue and take guided tours.
Entrance fees vary depending on the event. For the Cannes Film Festival, tickets are typically available to invited guests, with some public screenings offering tickets for sale. For other events, such as exhibitions and conferences, tickets can usually be purchased online in advance or at the venue.
For major events like the Cannes Film Festival, it's essential to book tickets well in advance. For smaller exhibitions and events, booking tickets a few weeks ahead is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
If you are attending a festival or event, you could spend anywhere from a few hours to a full day at the Palais. For those visiting during off-season, a guided tour can take around 1–2 hours, depending on the level of detail you're interested in.
The main highlights of the Palais include the famous red carpet, the grand auditorium where the Cannes Film Festival premieres take place, and the panoramic terraces offering stunning views of the Mediterranean. The exhibition halls are also worth a visit during special events.
Yes, guided tours are available in several languages, including English, French, and Italian. Audio guides are also provided for self-guided tours and are available in multiple languages. It is advisable to book these tours in advance, especially during high seasons.
The best photography spots are the red carpet area, where you can capture the glamour of the festival, and the panoramic terraces overlooking the Croisette and the Mediterranean. The interior spaces of the Palais during events also offer dynamic opportunities for photography.
If you are visiting during an event, it’s best to follow the guided tour route, starting from the main hall, proceeding to the exhibition areas, and ending with a visit to the panoramic terraces. For independent visitors, exploring the venue at your own pace is perfectly feasible.
Night visits and special tours are generally not available; however, during the Cannes Film Festival and other events, the Palais is illuminated and offers an unforgettable evening atmosphere. You can also enjoy the ambiance along the Croisette, where many of the festival's activities unfold at night.
The Palais des Festivals can get crowded during the Cannes Film Festival and other major events (May and October). The least crowded times to visit are outside of festival periods, particularly in the winter months (November through March).
There are public restrooms and water fountains throughout the Palais. Several cafés and restaurants are located inside and around the venue, offering a variety of meals and snacks. A few shops are also available, selling souvenirs, festival memorabilia, and local products.
The Palais des Festivals is accessible to all visitors, including those with disabilities. Wheelchair access is available throughout the building, including the main auditorium and exhibition halls. Services for elderly visitors and families with children are also provided during major events.
Most venues, cafés, and shops within the Palais accept credit cards and mobile payments. However, it's always good to carry some cash, especially when buying from street vendors or at smaller kiosks.
Inside the Palais, you'll find several cafés and restaurants, including casual dining spots and more upscale options. Nearby, the Boulevard de la Croisette offers a variety of dining options, from beach clubs and bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants like Le Park 45.
Many restaurants in Cannes, including those near the Palais des Festivals, offer vegetarian and vegan options. Some restaurants also cater to halal diets, particularly those in the more multicultural parts of the city.
There are several luxury hotels near the Palais des Festivals, including the Hotel Martinez, the InterContinental Carlton Cannes, and the JW Marriott Cannes. For more budget-friendly options, there are numerous guesthouses and smaller hotels located within walking distance of the venue.
Other nearby attractions include the stunning beaches along the Croisette, the Old Town (Le Suquet) with its charming narrow streets and panoramic views, and the Lerins Islands, which are just a short boat ride away and are perfect for nature walks and exploration.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in the Palais des Festivals and around Cannes. Typical souvenirs include festival memorabilia, local products like lavender and olive oil, and luxury items from the high-end boutiques along the Croisette.
After visiting the Palais, you can easily take a bus or taxi to other parts of Cannes or nearby towns. The Cannes Train Station is a short walk away, offering connections to cities like Nice, Monaco, and even further across the French Riviera. Renting a bike or scooter is also a great option to explore the area further.
