Is Cannes expensive to visit?
Cannes is a well-liked resort city that lures countless visitors with differing travel preferences and spending habits. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
If you choose to make it so, Cannes can be very pricey, but you can reduce your expenses by eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $82 (€75) per day, mid-range travelers spend $185 (€170) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $353 (€324) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Cannes.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Cannes is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Bilbao or Strasbourg.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Cannes Expensive?
The Port of Cannes, France
How much money do I need for a trip to Cannes?
The average Cannes trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Cannes travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Cannes cost?
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
To manage your travel budget, it's important to set realistic expectations. Many people think they can visit Cannes on a cheap budget, but most don't enjoy the limitations of a tight shoestring budget. Consider how you like to travel. Do you enjoy hostels, resorts, hotels, or vacation rentals? Do you want to dine out and explore the major attractions? These decisions will determine your budget and itinerary.
What is a budget traveler, anyway?
You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $82 daily average that backpackers get away with.
Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.
Cannes is home to plenty of hostels, including Banana's Camp. In hostels like these, you can snag budget-friendly dorm beds and enjoy a social environment, but be prepared for basic amenities. Dining is a highlight for all types of visitors in Cannes, but budget travelers typically settle for street food or hostel meals, meaning they may not fully enjoy the delightful local cuisine.
Are You Considered an Average Traveler?
If you're a couple or a family traveling for fun, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the major museums and attractions which have entry fees. Most visitors to Cannes will want to visit the Beaches, Le Suquet (Old Town), or Marché Forville. Most activities cost money, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be closer to $185 per person, per day.
In Cannes, you can find a variety of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with others, you can share the costs of your hotel with a partner, friend, or children, which can help you save money. Families will want to seek out hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Villa Garbo Cannes is a great choice for families, and Hotel de Provence Cannes is another great option. To discover more family- and couple-oriented hotels, visit our hotel guide for Cannes.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you're looking for an all-encompassing vacation filled with luxurious amenities and higher-level service, prepare your budget for around $353 per day. Selecting nicer hotels, savoring meals at award-winning establishments, indulging in lavish adventures, and traveling around the resort city with taxis or private drivers will call for a luxury budget. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Prestige Perfume Workshop in Grasse - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Cannes
In Cannes, hotel prices can swing drastically. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury, but come at a cost, especially in peak summer season when prices are higher. Off-season prices are more reasonable, averaging $152, but during peak season they jump to an average of $284. You can find budget options starting at $81 up to luxury rates at $606. Hostels are typically cheaper, especially dorms. Book early and avoid peak season to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Cannes for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $163 (€150). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $82 (€75) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Cannes? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Cannes include:
- Villa Garbo Cannes starting at $248
- Hotel Belle Plage starting at $274
- Golf Park Hotel starting at $109
- Best Western Premier Mondial starting at $162
- Le Cavendish starting at $167
While Cannes has a good public transit system, staying outside the resort city to save on accommodation could mean higher transportation costs and less convenience if you're short on time.
There are multiple resorts available in this resort city. You might be able to find one that includes meals or at least breakfast, and many have onsite restaurants.
By traveling in the low or shoulder season (and avoiding summer), you can benefit from cheaper accommodations and fewer crowds.
Many enjoy discovering Cannes by walking, so it's beneficial to stay in a central spot. However, this convenience could lead to increased costs.
The resort city's intriguing old town is a top draw for tourists. While hotels in the area might be more expensive, they often offer a lot of charm and easy access to local attractions.
Transportation Budget in Cannes
Cannes offers a decent public transit system that reaches many must-see spots. There are buses that travel around the city. For a cheaper and quicker way to explore, public transit is a solid option when it's nearby. Taxis and rideshares are also plentiful in the city.
For those who enjoy foot exploration, this destination is perfect. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $18 (€16) per person, per day, on local transportation in Cannes. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Cannes is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$18
€16
If you're driving, it's essential to check if your hotel offers convenient parking.
Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:
- Private Direct Transfer From Cannes to Nice for $100 details
- Cannes Private Transfer from Cannes city centre to Nice Airport for $290 details
- Private Transfer from Cannes Port to Nice Cote Airport (NCE) for $81 details
How much does it cost to go to Cannes? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Cannes will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Cannes
You won't want to overlook the world-class cuisine in Cannes. Take the time to dine at local eateries and indulge in their unique specialties. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Cannes can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Cannes is $85 (€78) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$85
€78
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Cannes is around $85 (€78) per person, with previous travelers spending from $37 to $163. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Cannes are as follows:
- Breakfast: $9 to $26
- Lunch: $13 to $34
- Dinner: $26 to $60
- Coffee: $7
- Fast Food or Street Food: $13
Food in Cannes, although delicious, is often very expensive. Particularly by the riverfront area you will find expensive restaurants of variable quality. If you're looking for good food that is not unreasonably overpriced, head to the Rue Meynadier in the Le Suquet area. Here you can enjoy a meal outdoors overlooking the town without breaking the bank. Another option is to head to Rue de Antibes for a meal. In general, traditional French cuisine is very expensive, so Italian restaurants may offer a better deal. You will miss out on trying some interesting local specialties though. You can also purchase fresh, local produce at any of the markets and enjoy a meal of your own making at a very affordable price.
Countless hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, but some will add it as an additional fee. The price and quality can change based on the hotel. Being informed ahead of time can aid in deciding whether to budget extra funds. You might enjoy the delightful buffet offered at the hotel, or perhaps a more economical option would be a nearby bakery or cafe.
You can save money and appreciate the scenery by enjoying a picnic. Stop by a local grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and find a lovely park or scenic area to enjoy your meal.
Choose to carry a water bottle instead of buying drinks all day. It's a good choice for the environment.
When planning your tour, don't forget to check what meals are included. You might have to pay for some of your own food, which could add to your expenses.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Cannes. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Cannes Ooh La La Croissant Tasting Food Tour for $82 details
- Cannes Food Tour with Full Meal - Do Eat Better Experience for $113 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Cannes
The allure of Cannes is undeniable, especially since it offers food, music, resorts, and romance.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Cannes typically cost an average of $33 (€30) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$33
€30
Here are a few of the most popular sights with their prices:
- The Beaches (Free)
- Le Suquet (Old Town) (Free)
- Marché Forville (Free)
- La Croix-des-Gardes (Free)
- The Promenade de la Croisette (Free)
Some of the top sights around town include the Old Town, with castle ruins, the Covered Market, which is a great place to grab a bite to eat, the port, where you can check out yachts that belong to the rich and famous, and the nearby beaches, most of which are private and will set you back about thirty euros for a single day's use. Iles de Lerins, the islands in the bay, are also worth a visit. The smaller, St Honorat, has a monastery and the ruins of a castle. The larger, Ste Marguerite, has a castle as well as restaurants and shops.
Part of the experience in Cannes is to people watch. From the yachts to the high end restaurants, there's no shortage of things to see. There are also cruises available to a variety of locations including Monaco, St Tropez, Ile Sainte Marguerite and more. These are a great way to see the area and have an experience on a luxury ship. Some cruise ships offer lunch or dinner tours that last just a few hours.
Music:
The music scene here in Cannes is buzzing and pulls in a lot of visitors. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.
Beaches:
Many visitors are drawn to Cannes for its inviting beach atmosphere. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.
Historical Sights:
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Countless travelers are captivated by the old town's history. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.
Shopping:
The shopping experience here is something you have to do. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Cannes. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Lerins Islands- sailboat tour for $150 details
- Cannes Private Tour: Film Festival, Secrets & Stunning views for $134 details
- Explore Cannes Countryside in Style with our Classic Bus Tours! For $81 details
Nightlife Budget in Cannes
Active and entertaining, the nightlife in Cannes is a hit with visitors who love spending time at local bars, clubs, and parties. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $19 (€18) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Cannes per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
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Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$19
€18
The nightlife scene is a lot of fun, but reducing how much you drink can go a long way in keeping your budget on track.
If you're out drinking at night, keep an eye on your surroundings. You could be a target for pickpockets, so it's wise to stay in a group and with people you trust.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Cannes. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Grasse, Gourdon, Valbonne and Wine Tasting Full-day from Cannes for $140 details
- St Paul de Vence, Antibes & Wine Tasting from Cannes for $128 details
- Wine Tasting, Cannes, Famous Designers & Perfume Factory for $1,254 details
The Port of Cannes, France
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.