While the year-end holidays have just finished, January is often wrongly considered a gloomy month without much interest. What if we proved you wrong? Indeed, it is during this period that Cannes reveals a quieter side, with its walks and cultural monuments free from summer crowds and more affordable rates than in high season.
If you love luxury, tranquility, and delight, Cannes in January seems like a good compromise. Still don’t believe us? Then discover all you can do there in January to fully enjoy your holidays!
The Climate and Best Activities in Cannes in January
The weather in Cannes in January is often perfect for travelers who enjoy cooler, rainier climates, due to its proximity to the sea, with less sun and the typical southern calm during winter. With temperatures ranging between 5°C and 13°C, much shorter days than in summer, and a colder sea, whose temperature never drops below 13 degrees, everything is set to enjoy Cannes from a different perspective. If you want to learn more about the weather in Cannes, click here.
As for activities, one might think there are fewer than in summer… Think again! Cannes adapts to the different seasons of the year and offers tourists diverse and varied activities thanks to its cultural diversity and lesser-known attractions. See for yourself:
- Go for walks and visit Cannes’ heritage: if you plan to walk around Cannes in January, head to the old quarter of Le Suquet: discover its cobbled streets, colorful houses, and panoramic views of the bay from the heights. Also take the time to discover Notre-Dame d’Espérance Church, an emblematic monument of Cannes’ old town. Furthermore, take the opportunity to stroll along the Croisette, which remains elegant even in January, with its palm trees, luxury boutiques, and legendary palaces, in a much more relaxed atmosphere than in mid-summer.
- Go hiking in the Esterel Massif: January is ideal for hiking enthusiasts, especially in the south of France; if you want to walk and enjoy the snow, put on your best shoes and head to the Esterel Massif! In addition to its breathtaking panoramas of the French Riviera, the trails are marked and will allow you to exercise while discovering the nature surrounding Cannes. We still advise you to equip yourself well before your departure: due to low temperatures and the climate, good shoes and warm clothes are essential if you don’t want the experience to be disappointing.
- Take a boat and go to the Lérins Islands: just 15 minutes from Cannes, the Lérins Islands are a must-visit during your January stay in Cannes. During this period, you’ll mostly encounter locals there, which adds to their charm. In addition, visit Sainte-Marguerite Island, known for its sumptuous royal fort and discreet nature, or Saint-Honorat Island, famous for its monastery and wines produced by the monks.
- Visit Cannes’ museums and cultural sites: due to the cold, January is conducive to indoor cultural activities; furthermore, if it rains or snows, explore the Museum of World Explorations (formerly the Musée de la Castre) or La Malmaison, a space dedicated to contemporary art on the Croisette.
Restaurants and Cafes to Discover in Cannes
No matter the season, you’ll always find great places to eat in Cannes! Depending on what you’re looking for, whether it’s a meal by the sea or a gourmet dinner, you’ll be spoiled for choice!
Several establishments offer their guests the chance to savor delights facing the Mediterranean Sea, both outdoors (for the bravest) and indoors, such as the Bella Rooftop: located atop Hôtel Belle Plage, this rooftop allows you to enjoy a delicious meal while overlooking the sea.
For those who want to truly indulge without looking at the price, head to the Croisette and try the various restaurants there, such as Restaurant Bella, an establishment offering gourmet Israeli cuisine facing the sea; near the Vieux-Port, at the end of the Croisette, you’ll find the bistro Aux Bons Enfants, an establishment open for three generations that offers traditional cuisine based on grilled Angus beef rib, cod with Niçoise sauce, candied lemons, or spinach shoots.
To discover the best spots in Cannes, we recommend this article that will make your mouth water!
Events and Cultural Life in January
Besides Cannes’ legendary cultural sites like the Palais des Congrès or the Croisette, the city remains attractive in terms of cultural events: for example, at the end of January, you can attend the Human and Medical Genetics Conference, an event that constitutes the largest gathering of French-speaking geneticists. Another anticipated event for early next year: the 39th edition of the Cannes Games Festival, a must-attend event promising three days rich in discoveries, entertainment, and tournaments.
To learn more about Cannes’ cultural agenda, visit the city’s official website.
Tips for Fully Enjoying Your January Stay
If you plan to visit Cannes in January and fully enjoy the city and its surroundings, here are some tips before your arrival:
- Book in advance… but not too early : even if January is obviously less touristy than summer, some places remain very popular throughout the year, such as the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. Furthermore, it is advisable to book your accommodation a few weeks in advance to have a choice, at very affordable prices. Click here to take a look at the accommodations IMMOSOL offers.
- Dress warmly and equip yourself accordingly: during the day, temperatures are rather pleasant, though cool when it rains or is windy, but evenings are much colder, especially if you go to the seaside. Remember to pack a cardigan or windbreaker, a raincoat, or even a scarf, in your suitcase.
Experience Cannes in January and Discover a Different Side of the French Riviera
Do you want to spend a winter seaside holiday and enjoy the French Riviera? Then head to Cannes in January! Whether for a weekend or a week-long stay, you will return from your holidays captivated by this city that remains elegant, warm, and lively… even in January.
Our team remains at your disposal for any questions and inquiries when booking on our site.