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Palais des Festivals et des Congrès: Cannes' Iconic Landmark

Home to the Cannes Film Festival, this iconic venue hosts world-class events and offers stunning views of the French Riviera.

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The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès is the epicenter of Cannes, most famously known as the home of the annual Cannes Film Festival. This modern structure hosts a variety of events throughout the year and offers stunning views of the Croisette and the Mediterranean Sea.

A brief summary to Palace of Festivals and Congresses of Cannes

Local tips

  • Take a stroll along the Chemin des Étoiles to find your favorite celebrity's handprints.
  • Access to the steps of the Palais des Festivals is free, so be sure to take a selfie on the famous red carpet steps.
  • Check the Palais des Festivals' event calendar to see if there are any shows, concerts, or exhibitions during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Cannes train station, walk east along Rue Jean Jaurès towards the sea. Turn left onto Boulevard de la Croisette. The Palais des Festivals will be on your right, about a 15-minute walk. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    The Palm Bus network serves Cannes and the surrounding area. Several bus lines stop near the Palais des Festivals. Check the Palm Bus website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. A single ticket costs €1.70.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Cannes. A short taxi ride from the train station or most hotels along the Croisette to the Palais des Festivals will typically cost between €10-€15. Be aware that prices may increase during peak season and events.

  • Driving

    If driving, several parking garages are located near the Palais des Festivals. The closest options include Parking Palais and Parking Coeur Croisette-Gray d'Albion. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around €3.60 per hour or €28 per day. Some car parks offer discounted rates for advance booking or longer stays. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during events.

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Discover more about Palace of Festivals and Congresses of Cannes

The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, located on the Boulevard de la Croisette in Cannes, is a landmark renowned for hosting the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. However, it's more than just a movie palace; it's a versatile venue that hosts a wide array of international events, including trade shows, conferences, and live performances. The original Palais des Festivals was built in 1949, but as the Film Festival grew in popularity, a new, larger venue was needed. The current six-story Palais opened in 1982, designed in the modernist style by architects Sir Hubert Bennett and François Druet. Often referred to as “the bunker” by journalists due to its stark architecture, the Palais has since undergone renovations and expansions to modernize its appearance and functionality. The Espace Riviera, adding 10,000 square meters of space, was constructed in 1999. Inside, the Palais boasts numerous halls and auditoriums, the largest of which, the Grand Auditorium Louis Lumière, seats 2,300. The Chemin des Étoiles, Cannes' version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, surrounds the Palais, showcasing the handprints of over 150 stars. The famous 24 steps leading up to the entrance are covered with a red carpet each year for the Cannes Film Festival, providing a backdrop for celebrity photographs. Throughout the year, the Palais hosts events such as the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, MIPIM, and the NRJ Music Awards. The building also houses the Casino Barrière le Croisette. Visitors can take guided tours of the Palais to learn about its history and see its key spaces.

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