Safar Travel Journal: Cannes, France

First Impressions
Landing at Nice Airport, it was a swift yet scenic drive to Cannes. The transformation was instant: from airport bustle to the serenity of the Mediterranean. As I stepped onto the promenade, I was greeted by the soft breeze mingling with the scent of sea salt and pine. Cannes doesn’t shout; it whispers elegance in every detail. Even the wind at the beach felt poetic, brushing gently against sun-warmed skin.

The Atmosphere
There’s a particular kind of magic here, cast by the golden light and shimmering sea. The rhythm of Cannes is slower, more deliberate – an invitation to savor rather than rush. Whether sipping espresso at a street-side café or wandering sunlit alleys, time seems to stretch, bend and relax. Even the rain feels cinematic. Cannes blends old-world charm with a quiet, enduring glamour. Its coastline is defined by the timeless elegance of La Croisette, a coastal promenade flanked by Belle Époque architecture, luxury boutiques and iconic hotels such as the Carlton Cannes and the Martinez. Walking here feels like drifting through an old film set.

The People
One of the things that touched me most was the kindness and warmth of the people Locals offered directions with a smile, and each conversation felt unhurried, sincere. I struck up a friendship with a charming kiosk owner while browsing for souvenirs; she gifted me a few extras, just because. Although my French is far from perfect, everyone I met listened patiently and let me practice. Each compliment and kind word was a refreshing contrast to the hurried pace of Paris. In Cannes, hospitality feels effortless.

My Favorite Place
If I had to choose one favorite place in Cannes, it would be the walk along La Croisette. With the sea on one side and architectural elegance on the other, every step offers something beautiful — from the gentle lapping of waves to the grand facades of historic hotels. The atmosphere is both glamorous and relaxed. It’s the heartbeat of the city — where film history, Riviera style and daily life meet in perfect harmony.

Best Views in the City
For the best views in Cannes, two places stand out. Climb to the top of Le Suquet, the city’s oldest quarter, where cobbled streets and 12th-century ramparts lead to the Musée de la Castre. From here, you’re rewarded with sweeping panoramas of red-tiled rooftops, winding alleys and the endless blue of the Côte d’Azur. It’s a view steeped in history and charm. On the other end of the spectrum, the highest suite at the Carlton offers a luxurious vantage point over the same coastline – elegant, serene and framed by five-star comfort. Whether you’re drawn to heritage or high-end, both spots offer unforgettable perspectives of Cannes.

Must-Do Experience
One must-do experience in Cannes is taking a boat ride along the French Riviera. From the water, you gain a new perspective of the Côte d’Azur – where glamorous towns, sun-drenched cliffs and elegant villas stretch along the coastline. As you glide across the turquoise Mediterranean, the sea breeze and gentle motion of the boat offer a sense of calm that’s both scenic and restorative. It’s a simple, enriching way to take in the coastal beauty up close – and a truly memorable part of any trip to Cannes.

A Place to Enjoy a Drink or Coffee
At the iconic Carlton Cannes, the Carlton Beach Club offers a uniquely relaxing experience. Established in 1930, it was the first private beach in Cannes, created after the hotel was granted the concession for a plot of land on the famous “Bains de la Croisette.” Now, with sand-drenched feet, visitors can sink into comfortable beachside couches, drink in hand and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, with the Mediterranean breeze and scenic views adding to the charm.

Culinary Delights You Can’t Miss
Among the many excellent dining spots, one restaurant stood out: Anna Cannes, a charming Greek restaurant where each dish felt as it was made with heart. We enjoyed a delightful dinner there – warm lighting, elegant simplicity and an inviting ambiance that made the evening feel instantly intimate. The food was fresh, vibrant and full of Mediterranean soul. My favorite dish – and one I absolutely recommend – was “Feta se filo kai meli”. This Greek classic features feta wrapped in crisp filo pastry, fried to golden perfection, then drizzled with honey and finished with toasted sesame seeds. Salty, sweet, crisp and creamy – it was unforgettable. Overall, Anna Cannes offers a memorable dining experience.

What I Would Do Again
If I could return to one moment, it would be walking along La Croisette at golden hour, then enjoying a drink with sand-dusted feet at the Carlton Beach Club – laid-back yet indulgent, the Riviera at its best.

Picture-Perfect Places
Cannes offers no shortage of cinematic backdrops. Head to the celebrity handprints outside the Palais des Festivals for a touch of film history or capture the golden hour along the beach – each photo feels like a scene from a timeless Riviera romance. From the Musée de la Castre’s panoramic terrace to lounging seaside with a cool drink and warm sand between your toes, the city delivers postcard moments at every turn.

What I Regret
Not staying longer – and not exploring more of the nearby gems like Nice and Monaco, each with their own Riviera enchantment.

Don’t Miss

• The cobbled charm of Le Suquet
• The panoramic views from the Musée de la Castre
• A sunset stroll along La Croisette
• A coffee or cocktail at the Carlton Cannes
• Celebrity handprints near the Palais des Festivals

Safar means journey – and Cannes is a place that reminds you that not all journeys move quickly. Some are meant to be savored, moment by elegant moment.