What to do in Cannes when it’s very hot? Cannes Tourism

Seeking shade in the great outdoors

La Croix-des-Gardes: Cannes’ magnificent natural sanctuary

A true green lung of the city, Croix-des-Gardes Park offers over 80 hectares of natural surroundings and numerous shaded paths beneath pine trees and Mediterranean vegetation.

It’s one of the best places to:

go for a walk in the shade, even at the height of summer

enjoy views over the Bay of Cannes

escape the heat of the city centre

The Croix des Gardes

Shaded squares and gardens in the city

Cannes has plenty of local parks and gardens, perfect for a refreshing break in the shade of the trees.

Square Mistral: an oasis by the sea

Located on Boulevard du Midi, Square Mistral is a particularly popular spot during hot weather.

Here you’ll find:

plenty of benches in the shade

lush greenery that keeps the area cool

a pond and water features

an ideal location just a stone’s throw from the Midi beaches

It’s the perfect spot to take a break between swims or to relax away from the hustle and bustle.

🌳 Other lovely squares in summer

Square Méro, with its ponds and lush greenery

Mont Chevalier Square, in the historic district of Suquet

Stéphane Mallarmé Square, in the Petit Juas neighbourhood

The small neighbourhood gardens scattered throughout the city

These spaces all offer shade and benches where you can sit comfortably during the hottest part of the day.

The water features on the Allées de la Liberté

Chilling out with the family

Right in the city centre, the water features on the Allées de la Liberté are a big hit with children during the summer.

It’s the perfect place to:

cool off whilst having fun

take a break in the city centre

💡 Remember to bring a towel and a change of clothes for the children.

🏖️ Enjoy the beaches at the right times

For a pleasant swim without suffering from the heat, head to the beach before 10 am or after 6 pm: the water is just as lovely, the sand is less scorching, and the atmosphere is much more pleasant.

❄️ Make the most of air-conditioned places during the hottest part of the day

When the sun is at its highest, head for cool, air-conditioned places to do some sightseeing.

🖼️ Museums and exhibitions

Malmaison, a contemporary art centre at Croisette
Musée des Explorations du Monde, in the Suquet
Musée du Masque de Fer and Fort Royal on the island Sainte-Marguerite
These venues offer a chance to explore Cannes whilst staying cool.

🎬 The cinema: the perfect break

Cinéum Cannes and its city-centre cinemas offer the perfect alternative during the hottest part of the day.

Forville Market

A refreshing and indulgent treat

Situated at the foot of the Suquet, Forville Market is fully covered and makes for a pleasant spot on hot days. You can enjoy the lively atmosphere whilst staying out of the sun.

It’s the perfect place to discover local produce, do your shopping or simply take a leisurely stroll in the cool of the morning.

🍦 A refreshing treat

For a delicious way to cool down:

- - Artisanal ice cream: Cannes has several ice-cream parlours offering high-quality ice cream and sorbets

- - Air-conditioned bars or cafés, for a cool drink

- - Restaurants with shaded terraces or those fitted with misting systems, so you can enjoy lunch without suffering from the heat

The sea naturally brings a gentle breeze and a welcome break.

Water sports with Cannes Jeunesse

Cannes Jeunesse offers hire and activities to suit everyone: pedalos, kayaks and stand-up paddleboarding, with evening slots available so you can enjoy the sea in the cool of the evening.

All water sports

Enjoying Cannes in the evening

Evenings in Cannes are particularly enjoyable in summer.

Here are a few ideas to make the most of them:

A stroll along the Croisette s at sunset.

The golden light over the bay, the sea breeze, the bustling terraces… in the evening, the Croisette takes on a gentle, festive atmosphere.

Cannes night markets

🗓️ Tuesday evenings — Esplanade Pantiero

🗓️ Wednesday evenings — Cannes La Bocca market square

🗓️ Thursday evenings — Boulevard Jean Hibert

These markets are the perfect opportunity to take a leisurely stroll in the cool evening air, discover local artisans and producers, and soak up the summer atmosphere of Cannes.

🕒 What to do during a heatwave

To enjoy Cannes safely:

try to do things before 11 am and after 5 pm

stay hydrated regularly

wear a hat, sunglasses and light clothing

apply sun cream

look for shaded areas to take a break

avoid physical exertion during the hottest part of the day

📍 A guide to good habits for keeping food fresh

🌳 Nature: Croix-des-Gardes, îles de Lérins, local parks
💦 Refreshments: Allées de la Liberté
❄️ Air-conditioned: museums, cinemas, cultural venues
🌊 Sea: beaches and boat trips
🌙 Evening: Croisette, night markets, outdoor cafés

Cannes

A pleasant town, even at the height of summer

Cannes has the advantage of offering a wide variety of atmospheres: shady natural settings, breezy seaside spots, bustling urban areas and air-conditioned cultural venues. Even during periods of intense heat, it is possible to enjoy the destination to the full simply by adjusting the pace of your visit.

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