Cannes is famous for its film festival, its glamorous Croisette boulevard, and its luxury yachts. But beyond the red carpet and the beach clubs lies a city that rewards exploration — and the best way to explore is by car. Here's everything you need to know.
Do You Even Need a Car in Cannes?
Within the city centre, Cannes is walkable and served by buses. But if you want to visit the nearby hill villages (Mougins, Valbonne, Grasse), drive the Esterel coast, day-trip to Monaco, or simply have the freedom to stop wherever the mood takes you — a car is essential.
Where to Pick Up Your Car
Major rental companies have desks at Cannes train station (Gare de Cannes). Alternatively — and our preferred recommendation — is having your car delivered directly to your hotel on the Croisette or wherever you're staying. 12GO delivers to any address in Cannes free of charge, saving you the hassle of queues and shuttle buses.
Parking in Cannes: What You Need to Know
Parking in central Cannes can be challenging, especially during the Film Festival (mid-May) and summer. Key options:
- Parking Laubeuf — underground, near the old port (Vieux Port). Best for overnight stays.
- Parking des Îles — convenient for the Croisette and Palais des Festivals.
- Rue d'Antibes — several surface car parks along the main shopping street.
Blue zones on-street parking require a disque de stationnement (parking disc), available from tabacs. Maximum stay is usually 1.5 hours. Always check signage — rules vary by zone and time of day.
Best Day Trips from Cannes by Car
- Grasse (30 min): World perfume capital. Visit the Fragonard or Molinard factories for free.
- Mougins (15 min): Hilltop village beloved by Picasso. Incredible restaurants.
- Antibes & Juan-les-Pins (20 min): Picasso Museum, the finest market on the Riviera, and a huge beach.
- Monaco (45 min via A8): The Principality is an easy half-day trip.
- Esterel coast (30 min to Agay): The red-rock corniche — stunning.
During the Film Festival
If you're visiting during the Cannes Film Festival (typically mid-May), book your car rental well in advance — demand surges and prices rise sharply. Road closures around the Palais des Festivals and the Croisette are common during screenings. Our team knows the city intimately and can advise on optimal delivery times and locations during event week.
Fuel & Motorway Tips
The A8 motorway (La Provençale) connects Cannes to Nice, Monaco, and the Italian border. It's a toll road — keep cash or a card handy. The Esterel viaduct section towards Fréjus is particularly scenic but can be slow in summer. For fuel, supermarket stations (Leclerc, Intermarché) are significantly cheaper than motorway service areas.
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