The Vieux Port, or Old Port, of Cannes lies on the French Riviera in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France, between the hill of Le Suquet and the Palais des Festivals. It is the historic fishing harbour of the city, and today it combines working boats, a forest of masts, and a line of restaurants and cafes along the Quai Saint-Pierre. The quay is open to everyone at all hours, and the harbour is best enjoyed on foot, taking about 45 to 60 minutes at an easy pace.
Visitors see small traditional fishing boats moored among sailing yachts and motor cruisers. On the Quai Saint-Pierre, the restaurants specialise in seafood, bouillabaisse and Provençal dishes, and prices are higher on the waterfront than in the lanes behind it. The Quai Laubeuf at the western end of the harbour is the departure point for ferries to the Lérins Islands, so the area is also a natural starting point for an island day trip. Behind the quay, the old streets of Le Suquet climb the hill, and Marché Forville is a short walk away.
The best photograph angles are from the Quai Saint-Pierre looking up toward the tower of Le Suquet, especially in late afternoon when the golden light catches the facades, and from the western breakwater looking back at the Palais des Festivals and the Croisette. The harbour lights at dusk make for good evening photographs.
Crowds are heaviest on summer evenings and during the Cannes Film Festival in May, when the quay fills with diners and onlookers. Early morning is calm, with fishermen and joggers, while midday and early evening are the busiest times for lunch and dinner. The site is a short walk, about ten minutes, from Cannes station, so no transport is needed. The port is free to visit and has no gates or opening hours, although individual restaurants keep their own schedules.
| Admission | Free (~$0) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open access, daily |
| Typical visit | 45-60 minutes |
| Best time | Late afternoon, golden hour |
| Getting there | On foot; 10 minutes from Cannes station |
| Address | Quai Saint-Pierre, 06400 Cannes, France |
Location
Quai Saint-Pierre, 06400 Cannes, France
43.5502, 7.0121 View on map
Highlights
- Stroll along Quai Saint-Pierre beside fishing boats and yachts
- Waterfront seafood restaurants with views of Le Suquet
- Golden-hour photographs toward the tower of Le Suquet
- Ferry departures to the Lérins Islands from Quai Laubeuf
- Short walk to Marché Forville and the Palais des Festivals
Tips for visiting
- Eat one street back from the quay for lower prices than on the waterfront.
- Visit at golden hour for the best photographs of the hill and harbour.
- Reserve ahead for dinner in July, August and festival week.
- Use the Quai Laubeuf end for ferry tickets to the islands and arrive early in summer.
- Walk the western breakwater for a view back toward the Croisette.
When to visit
Late afternoon and golden hour give the best light and atmosphere. Early morning is quiet, while summer evenings and festival week are the busiest.
Accessibility
The quay is flat and paved, making it suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Some cobbled sections and kerbs exist near the restaurants and slipways.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
About 45 to 60 minutes for a walk along the quay and the breakwater. A seafood lunch or dinner adds one to two hours.
Is it worth it for kids?
Yes, children usually enjoy watching the boats and the harbour activity, and the flat quay is easy for pushchairs. Supervise them near the water's edge.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography is freely allowed in the public harbour area. Privacy rules apply to private yachts and the people on board.
Is there an entry fee?
No. The Old Port is a public waterfront and free to visit at any time.