Hotels, transport, dress code… All our tips to make the most of the Festival.
The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious cultural events in the world. Every year in May, the city transforms into the global capital of cinema, welcoming stars, directors, journalists and industry professionals for twelve days of cinematic celebration. Whether you are attending professionally or simply soaking up the atmosphere, careful preparation is essential to make the most of it.
For accommodation, book your hotel several months in advance. Properties closest to the Palais des Festivals — the Martinez, the Carlton, the Majestic — fill up as early as January for Festival dates. If your budget is tighter, consider hotels in neighbouring towns such as Antibes or Mandelieu, provided you plan your transfers accordingly. Rental apartments are also highly popular for week-long stays.
For getting around during the Festival, forget about driving yourself: parking becomes a nightmare, the Croisette is partially pedestrianised and traffic grinds to a standstill. Opt for a private chauffeur service that will drop you directly at VIP entrances, hotels or restaurants. Our drivers know the Festival logistics inside out and the best alternative routes to avoid congestion hotspots.
Dress code is a non-negotiable aspect of the Festival. For evening screenings, formal attire is required: floor-length gowns for women, black tie or dark suits for men. During the day, smart-casual works well for the Film Market alleys and Village International events. Pack outfits suited to the Mediterranean warmth of May while maintaining an elegant style.
Finally, a few unmissable highlights: watching the red carpet arrivals even as an outside spectator, catching a Sélection Officielle screening if you have accreditation, the free beach concerts held on the Croisette each evening, and the artisan market in Le Suquet. For restaurant bookings, plan equally far ahead — tables at starred restaurants and trendy brasseries get snapped up weeks in advance.