This seaside sensation has transformed from a tiny fishing village into one of Europe's most unabashedly glamorous towns. The beautiful historical hotels, chic shopping and palm-shaded boulevards blend with artisanal French markets and shabby winding streetsto create one of the most unique spots in the world.Visit between now and the end of summer and youwill - no doubt - spot a socialite or two strolling downLa Croisette promenade or taking tea in one of the fancy hotels. And, if you manage to visit this month during the Cannes Film Festival, you're likely to spot so many stars you'll find yourself so fame fatigued that you'll just nod to Brangelina and carry on walking.
Celeb spotting
Yes, the world's most extravagant and yet well-respected celebration of cinema, Cannes Film Festival, lands in this shiny town every year. This month's instalment runs from May 16-27, and will feature celebs like Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart, Zac Efron, Nicole Kidman, Edward Norton, Bruce Willis and Ewan McGregor, plus dozens of others. The most obvious - and most surefire - place to see the celebs is at one of the Palais Des Festivals screenings where you'll spy theA-listers getting out of their cars and heading down the red carpet before entering the screenings. Opt fora spot on the road that looks straight up the famous red steps. The only problem with this is that many revellers have the same idea, and you'll have to start queuing up in the early afternoon for a chance to meet the celebs that night.
Another option is to book a lazy but lavish drink at the Carlton InterContinental, as this beautiful 1911 building is the base of choice for celebs - Brad and Ange stayed there last year, and it's a favourite of Madonna's. So while it's near impossible to get a booking to stay at this time of year, the legendary Carlton Bar and Terrace that looks over La Croisette promenade is the perfect spot for some sun, a long cocktail and star spotting (all major nominees are almost guaranteed to be staying here).
Promenades and cobbled streets
After you've finished your drink at the famous Carlton - and maybe chatted to Berenice about the pros and cons of silent film - spend the afternoon just strolling around La Croisette - which is Cannes' corniche. The stretch of seaside pavement is a people watcher's dream, flanked by azure sea and supermodel-shaped palm trees - park up in one of the cafés for an ice cream and watch the stars and high rollers stroll past, while JBR-worthy cars vroom by. If crowds aren't your thing then wake up early and catch the kaleidoscopic sunrise - your only companions will be a few keen dog walkers (and partiers heading home).
After you're all promenaded out head inland just above the old port to the Le Suquet suburb, which boasts a bustling morning fruit and vegetable market, narrow historical streets and a range of restaurants serving unpretentious Gallic and Mediterranean food - just go to one without pictures on the menu and where most of the clientele look French. When there most definitely climb the 150 steps or so up to the suburb's pinnacle, where you'll find a clock tower and breathtaking views out to the city.
The third area that's a must-explore is Rue Meynadier,a pedestrian-only street just one block from the sea. It's a foodie's dream thanks to a gorgeous covered market, but it's also known for its one-off shops (many that just sell one item, but do it very well), restaurants, souvenir spots and artisanal bakeries.
A whole holiday in Cannes could quite blissfully be spent wandering the charming streets - and the best bit is that, at this time of year, you may just end up rubbing shoulders with Scarlett Johansson or Carey Mulligan while doing so, maybe when you're mulling over which lavender soap to buy in that one-off boutique on Rue Meynadier.
Tripnotes
Celebrity handprints at Palais Des Festivals
Outside the famous base of the Cannes Film Festival you'll find a collection of celeb handprints, including those of Julie Andrews, Clint Eastwood, Angelina Jolie, Sharon Stone and Bruce Willis. Pass by to see whose hands you share similarities with.
Iles de Lerins
Less than a 30-minute boat ride from Cannes you'll find two islands - Ste-Marguerite and St-Honorat, which are covered in eucalyptus and pine forests and boast beaches with the clearest water you're likely to ever see. Stop for lunch at La Tonnelle on St Honorat, which serves up Meditteranean fare - the caprese salad is one that will linger in your memory for all the right reasons.
Notre-Dame d'Esperance
This Gothic church dates back to the 14th century. Its wood panelling houses a beautiful al fresco and a great collection of 19th century paintings. Also, with it being on the top of Suquet Hill, it's worth visiting just for the view of Cannes.
Ryan Gosling sported a decidedly nautical look while promoting his indie hit Drive at Cannes last year.
Budget: Ideal Sejour Hotel
This cute little hotel is only 10 minutes walk from the waterfront but still feels out of the hustle and bustle. Sit on your tiny balcony in the morning and try the famous fresh croissants - which are flaky, moreish perfection. Rooms from Dh300 a night.
www.hotel-ideal-sejoour.com
Mid Range: Hotel 7 Art
This tiny three-star boutique hotel is only one minute walk from the Palais Des Festivals, two minutes to the train station and three minutes to La Croisette. While the rooms are small, they have an arty feel and fresh design. Rooms from Dh400 a night.
hotel-7art.com
Luxury: InterContinental Carlton
This beautiful seaside hotel has impeccable service - they'd have to with all the A-listers that flock there every summer - beautiful food, a lovely beach and opulent interiors. There really is nowhere more luxurious in Cannes, and while you won't be able to get a room during the festival, you can get great deals during the low season. Rooms from Dh1,900 a night.
www.ichotelsgroup.com
Filmed there
Diamonds Are Forever, Femme Fatale, Ronan, To Catch A Thief, The Transporter, W.E.
Fly there
Fly to Nice with Emirates from Dh5,150 return and then catch a train from St Augustine station to Cannes. Trains run every30 minutes and the trip takes only 30 minutes.
www.emirates.com
