Cannes, France is my all-time favorite summer destination, and I’m always telling people it’s much more affordable than they think. While it’s famous for its film festival and super yachts, Cannes is actually a fantastic spot for young travelers on a budget. (I actually did a semester abroad there in college, so I learned first-hand how to enjoy everything the South of France had to offer at a 20-year-old’s price point!) The key is knowing where to save and where to splurge. You can enjoy the glitz and glam of the French Riviera without the high prices by taking advantage of free beaches, inexpensive local food, and budget-friendly accommodations.
Why I love Cannes so much
I go as often as I can (At least twice a year)! What I love most about Cannes is how effortlessly chic yet approachable it is. The Marché Forville is a must-visit for fresh produce and picnic supplies, and a sunset stroll along La Croisette never gets old. Hop on a quick ferry to the Îles de Lérins, a beautiful and quiet escape from the mainland. Cannes has so much to offer, stunning beaches, fun nightlife and charming Mediterranean lifestyle, it is truly such a special place.
How to get there
Flying into Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is the easiest option, and from there, Cannes is just a 30-minute train ride away (Train tickets are under $10). If you plan ahead, you can find flights from Boston to Nice via most major airlines with one stop for this summer for around $700 round trip (in June, July or August!). And when it comes to hotels, there are options at every budget and also a ton of cool Airbnbs as well.
Can’t-miss activities or restaurants in Cannes
Food is shockingly affordable in Cannes if you know where to go. There are tons of local spots where a dinner for two, including house wine, can be under $50—almost unheard of even here at home in Boston! Some of my go to restaurants for affordable meals in Cannes are: La Pizza Cresci, Le Bistrot Gourmand, Caveau 30 & Astoux et Brun. And in a pinch, for a cheap but amazing meal, grab a baguette, some cheese, and rosé from a local market and picnic on the beach—just like the French do (This will all cost you probably around $10, yes including a bottle of wine!)
If you were going to splurge on one thing on this trip, what would it be?
A day at a trendy beach club like La Môme Plage or Lucia Cannes. While public beaches are free (and you should absolutely take advantage of them most days), spending one day at a private beach club with sunbeds, cocktails, and table service is worth the splurge. Beach chairs cost anywhere from $50-$100/each and food is pricier than the other restaurants in town, but this is definitely a treat worth doing at least once on your trip. Otherwise, Cannes is the perfect place to BYOB and a picnic lunch to the beach and live that Riviera lifestyle without the price tag.
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