Palais des Festivals et des Congrès
Iconic convention center, heart of the Cannes Film Festival, blending modern architecture with Riviera glamour.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Palais des Festivals et des Congrès
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic convention center, heart of the Cannes Film Festival, blending modern architecture with Riviera glamour.
"Standing at the top of the red carpet stairs feels surreal – like stepping into a scene from the famous film festival."
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the crowds and secure a basement parking spot by arriving around 9 am. :car:
✨ Catch Rare Public Openings
The Palais is not always open to tourists; check schedules for rare opportunities to visit. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Red Carpet Stairs
Main entrance
Walk in the footsteps of movie stars and feel the glamour of the Cannes Film Festival. A must-do for any visitor!
Behind-the-Scenes Access
Interior tours (when available)
Explore theaters, backstage areas, and press zones for a glimpse into the festival's inner workings.
Promenade des Festivals
Exterior promenade
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, sea breeze, and stunning views of the marina and beach. Perfect for photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Red Carpet
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the crowds and secure a basement parking spot by arriving around 9 am. :car:
✨ Catch Rare Public Openings
The Palais is not always open to tourists; check schedules for rare opportunities to visit. :ticket:
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
The building and surrounding promenade offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially the red carpet stairs. :camerawithflash:
🎶 Check Event Calendar
Discover concerts, exhibitions, and festivals happening during your visit for a richer experience. :microphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the crowds and secure a basement parking spot by arriving around 9 am. :car:
✨ Catch Rare Public Openings
The Palais is not always open to tourists; check schedules for rare opportunities to visit. :ticket:
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
The building and surrounding promenade offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially the red carpet stairs. :camerawithflash:
🎶 Check Event Calendar
Discover concerts, exhibitions, and festivals happening during your visit for a richer experience. :microphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès for its iconic status and the glamorous atmosphere, especially its connection to the world-renowned Cannes Film Festival. The red carpet stairs and promenade are highlighted as prime photo opportunities. While the building itself is modern, its location and the vibrant energy of the surrounding area, including nearby markets and the beach, are significant draws. Some visitors note that public access can be limited, making it important to check schedules for specific visiting opportunities.
"Had been there during last September. The Palace of Festival & Congress was under renovation. But the atmosphere around the area is lovely. Try to reach early, say around 9 am. Getting a parking slot in the parking lot of the basement is easier if you reach that time. The crowd also is less. We were able to see a nice market set up around the Prom de La Pantiero. The marina situated in the area is also really good. There are enough eateries in the area where you get lovely croissant and pastries. If the market has been set up you can even get very fresh fruits."
P Suresh
"If you ever get the chance to visit The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in Cannes, don’t miss it! There are not many days in a year when the palace is open to tourists, so when it is - take that rare opportunity!
This is not just a building - it’s where world-famous movie stars walk the red carpet. You get to see behind the scenes of the Cannes Film Festival and visit places you’d never normally be allowed to enter… unless, of course, you’re on your way to becoming a world-famous actor or director!
Walking through the backstage areas, the theaters, and the press zones is truly exciting. You’ll feel the energy, the history, and maybe even a bit of the stardust left behind by celebrities."
Alexei Kiritchenko
"Iconic and full of energy — a must-see in Cannes 🎬✨
The Palace of Festivals and Congresses is one of the most iconic spots in Cannes. Standing at the top of the red carpet stairs feels surreal — like stepping into a scene from the famous film festival. Even outside of festival season, there’s a vibrant atmosphere around the building, with people taking photos, exploring the promenade, or enjoying the sea breeze.
The modern architecture contrasts beautifully with the historic charm of the city. In summer, the whole area comes alive with events, markets, and street performers. It’s also perfectly located — right by the beach and close to great restaurants and shops.
If you’re visiting Cannes, this is more than just a landmark — it’s a symbol of creativity, glamour, and the spirit of the Riviera."
Jenny T.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès is centrally located in Cannes, easily accessible by public transport. Numerous bus lines stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from the train station. If driving, there's an underground parking lot available, though it can fill up quickly during peak times.
Yes, there is a large underground parking lot directly beneath the Palais des Festivals. Arriving early in the morning, around 9 am, is recommended for easier parking availability.
Absolutely! The Palais des Festivals is a short and scenic walk from the Cannes train station, making it very convenient for travelers arriving by train. It's a great way to start soaking in the Riviera atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Palais des Festivals is not always open to the public for general tourism. Visits are often tied to specific events or rare guided tours. It's best to check the official website or local tourism information for any available tour dates or public access periods.
Guided tours of the Palais des Festivals are sometimes available, offering a unique opportunity to see behind the scenes of the Cannes Film Festival. These tours are not always advertised, so inquire locally or check the official website for any scheduled openings.
Opening hours for the Palais des Festivals vary greatly depending on whether there is an event scheduled. For general tourist access, it's best to consult their official calendar or contact them directly, as public visiting hours are limited.
You don't need tickets to see the exterior of the Palais des Festivals and walk along the promenade. However, to attend specific events held within the Palais or to participate in any available guided tours, tickets or passes will be required.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic red carpet stairs are a prime spot for photos, allowing you to mimic movie stars. The promenade offers great views of the building and the bay. Don't forget to capture the modern architecture against the blue sky.
Photography rules inside the Palais des Festivals can vary depending on the event or area. During public tours or when events are open to general attendees, photos are often permitted, but it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the grandeur of the Palais without crowds. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide beautiful lighting for stunning shots.
🎫 🎬 Cannes Film Festival Experience
During the festival, the Palais des Festivals buzzes with an electric atmosphere. You'll see stars on the red carpet, fans hoping for glimpses, and a general sense of cinematic excitement. It's a truly vibrant and glamorous experience.
While you can certainly walk up the famous red carpet stairs, it's typically reserved for film premieres and official festival events. However, walking up them still gives you a taste of the festival's glamour!
If attending the festival, dress codes can be formal, especially for evening events. Arriving early is key for navigating crowds. Be prepared for a high-energy environment and enjoy the unique cinematic atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The surrounding promenade and beach offer plenty of space for children to play and explore. The general atmosphere of Cannes is family-friendly, with many eateries offering accessible options. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to ensure a more relaxed experience for younger children. 🎬 Film Buffs & Cinephiles
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of the Cannes Film Festival
Beyond its film festival fame, the Palais is a versatile convention center hosting a wide array of international events. From major trade shows and conferences to concerts and cultural exhibitions, it plays a significant role in Cannes' year-round calendar. This means that depending on when you visit, you might experience anything from a high-tech AI conference to a captivating orchestral performance.
For visitors, experiencing the Palais offers a dual perspective: the thrill of its cinematic legacy and the insight into its function as a modern event hub. Whether you're walking the red carpet, attending a public exhibition, or simply admiring the architecture from the promenade, the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès is an unmissable landmark in Cannes, embodying the spirit of creativity and international allure.
Experiencing the Palais Beyond the Festival
Exploring the area around the Palais is also a key part of the experience. The Promenade de la Pantiero offers lovely views and often hosts markets, providing a chance to find fresh produce and local goods. The adjacent marina is picturesque, and the proximity to the beach and numerous eateries means you can easily combine a visit to the Palais with a relaxing stroll, a delicious pastry, or a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean.
Practical Tip: If you're interested in seeing the Palais from the inside, it's crucial to check its event schedule. While not always open for general tourism, specific dates might allow public access, offering a rare chance to step behind the scenes and feel the energy of this iconic venue.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit