The Cannes Film Festival is the biggest annual celebration in the film industry, where the best new movies and documentaries are exhibited on the world stage. Here’s what to do (and where to stay) in Cannes – both during the festival and beyond.
Since its founding in 1946, Cannes Film Festival has become about so much more than the movies. It is also a hub for fabulous fashion, joy-inspiring premieres and experiences, and A-list attended industry parties. That means not only is it a place to see new films but a place to see and be seen, too.
If you are heading to the Cannes Film Festival this year, these are the events and experiences not to miss, including where to stay, drink, relax and of course, watch movies.
Stay at Hotel Martinez
Located just steps away from the heart of the film festival on the iconic palm-tree lined seaside promenade, booking your stay at Hotel Martinez allows you to soak up the very best of the atmosphere. Its modern twist on 1930s Art Deco-inspired design guarantees you’ll feel suitably transported back to the Golden Age of Hollywood, and you’re likely to be joined by more modern celebrities when checking in too – the lobby is basically a who’s-who of the year’s nominees. New for 2025, there’s the March-opened Martinez Bar to unwind in after a busy day, which features live music and an intimate vinyl speakeasy vibe, and the hotel’s restaurant – La Palme d’Or – has just been awarded its first Michelin Star. For more rest and relaxation, book a treatment in one of the massage cabins at L’Oasis du Martinez – Spa by Carita.
Eat at La Palme d'Or
Less than a year after its reopening under chef Jean Imbert’s leadership, La Palme d’Or – the host of the annual jury dinner at Cannes Film Festival – has received its first Michelin Star, making it the ultimate hotspot for dining at during this year’s film festival. Located within Hôtel Martinez, on a terrace with panoramic views of the French Riviera, cinematic influences are woven throughout the restaurant experience, including the menu resembling a film script, dishes presented like storyboards, and decorative features such as old movie posters and handwritten notes from silver-screen legends. As for the food, expect exceptional fresh seafood and lots of locally sourced ingredients to tantalise your tastebuds.
Watch Movies Under the Stars
Whether you’ve managed to source a golden ticket to the biggest premieres, or not, there are plenty of ways to take in a film during Cannes Film Festival. And frankly, it would feel wrong not to. A particular highlight is the open-air screenings offered on the Cinéma de la Plage every evening during the festival. Book a deckchair or cosy up on the sand with a bottle of wine to watch some of the festival’s most classic films; a fabulous and accessible way to really soak in the atmosphere, especially when the weather is warm. Keep an eye on the official Cannes festival guide for all the screening details.
Celebrity Spot at the Spa
The iconic Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc has always been a hub of activity during the festival, and is another hotel of choice for celebrities. Tucked away in the serene town of Antibes, just a short drive from the Cannes red carpet, one of the hotel’s crown jewels is the Dior Spa Eden-Roc. With treatments crafted by Dior’s beauty experts, including the Dioriginels Rituals inspired by the four elements, the spa is a pampering retreat of private wellness cabins. Unwind in Dior robes, sip rosé under the Riviera sun, and prepare for Cannes nights in absolute elegance. Who knows, you may even end up bumping into Leonardo DiCaprio or Emily Ratajkowski coming out of one of the suites.
Charter A Yacht
The marinas of the French Riviera will be dotted with yachts throughout the festival, and taking to the water yourself is one of the best ways to experience Cannes’ stunning bay, especially when the weather holds. Luxury operator Riva offers a daily charter service from moorings at Port Pierre Canto, meaning you can take a moment away from celebrity spotting at the Palais des Festivals, and almost immediately be reclining on your boat of choice. Another option is to take a private boat tour to the stunning Saint-Honorat island, complete with a charming picnic on the island’s shores.
Embrace Film History At The Carlton
Alfred Hitchcock’s favourite playground and the location for Grace Kelly and Cary Grant’s famous kiss in To Catch A Thief, The Carlton is an icon that now has even more to offer after renovations in 2023. The hotel boasts a private beach and infinity pool, as well as opulent suites which provide panoramic views of the Mediterranean. For those looking for the best places to satisfy their stomachs, you’ll discover a whole host of bars and restaurants. The Carlton Beach Club serves sun-kissed Mediterranean fare, such as lobster rolls and lamb chops, right by the water, while Rüya brings the taste of Anatolian cuisine to Cannes for the first time.
Lead image: Shot from the Hidden Bar at the Campari Lounge
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