The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès stands on Boulevard de la Croisette in Cannes. The first Cannes Film Festival was planned for September 1939 and cancelled by the outbreak of war, then held for the first time in September 1946 in the old Casino Municipal. A first Palais was built in 1949 on Boulevard de la Croisette, and the current building, completed in 1982 by architects Hugh Bennett and Jean-Pierre Brun and nicknamed 'the bunker', opened in 1983. It hosts the annual Film Festival in May as well as MIPIM, MIPCOM and Cannes Lions. The red-carpet steps, the Allée des Étoiles with its hand-prints of film stars and the nearby Forville and Old Port offer free opportunities for photographs. Guided tours of the Palais are offered by the tourist office on selected dates outside the big events.
| Admission | Free esplanade; guided tour about EUR 10-15 (~$11.50-17) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Esplanade open daily; interior by event or guided visit |
| Address | 1 Boulevard de la Croisette, 06400 Cannes, France |
Why it matters
Home of the Cannes Film Festival since the 1983 building, the Palais is the modern symbol of the city and the site of the red-carpet steps.
Site facts
- Built
- 1982-1983
- Architect
- Hugh Bennett and Jean-Pierre Brun
- Style
- Modernist
- UNESCO listing
- No
Location
1 Boulevard de la Croisette, 06400 Cannes, France
43.5509, 7.0176 View on map
Highlights
- Red-carpet steps
- Allée des Étoiles hand-prints
- Film Festival headquarters
- Congress hall interiors on guided visits
Tips for visiting
- Check the tourist office for guided tours outside major events
- Arrive early on festival days; security checks apply
- Public access to the esplanade is free except during closed events
When to visit
May for the Festival atmosphere; outside May for quiet visits.
Accessibility
The esplanade and main entrances are step-free; accessible entrances are signed.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
When is the Cannes Film Festival?
It is held in May, usually in the second and third week.
Can the public enter the Palais?
Only with a ticket or accreditation during events; guided tours are available at other times.