A historic site in Cannes, the Old Port is a must-see, offering an authentic and friendly atmosphere. It bears witness to the evolution of the city, as it marks its origins. Historically, the Old Port is a remnant of the small fishing village that Cannes once was, and much has changed since then. Located at the foot of Le Suquet and open to the Croisette, the Old Port hosts all kinds of boats, such as yachts, shuttles, and more. Between history and authenticity, let’s look at what makes the Old Port of Cannes attractive.
Location and access to the Port
The Old Port of Cannes is ideally located, closely connected to Le Suquet, the city’s historical district, known for its winding, cobbled streets in which gastronomy and souvenirs jostle side by side.
Le Suquet also offers a breathtaking view of Cannes from its promontory.
At the top of the medieval streets lies Place de la Castre, with its historical treasures. You can visit its castle, the square tower, and Notre-Dame-d’Espérance church to immerse yourself in the medieval era of the city. Finally, the Old Port is just 100 metres from Forville Hall, a market that represents a true culinary adventure for the curious, where you can buy fish from local fishermen every morning.
Features and facilities of the Old Port of Cannes
Nothing beats dining at a seaside restaurant to savor local flavours and fresh seafood. Near the Old Port of Cannes, you’ll find Quai Saint-Pierre, a true culinary delight for fans of Mediterranean cuisine and fresh fish. Here, you can dine on the terrace at one of the restaurants, enjoying views of the port and the sea.
For the curious, by the port opposite the town hall, early risers can discover the world of fishing by watching the fishermen setting out with their nets, whose purples hues add a special charm to the port atmosphere.
During the summer season, in July and August, the Old Port comes alive one evening a week with the “Nocturnes Cannoises,” an open-air market on Quai Saint-Pierre offering local products, decorative items, and costume jewelry.
The Old Port's capacity
Aside from its picturesque aspect, restaurants, shops, and the Palais des Festivals, the Old Port of Cannes has a capacity of 700 mooring spots, not counting 100 spaces reserved for super-yachts, which can reach a maximum length of 140 metres. This makes the Old Port the largest port in the city, ahead of Port Pierre-Canto, located at the other end of the Croisette, which is the second largest marina in Cannes with around 530 mooring spots.
The Marina and surrounding areas of the Old Port
Where there’s a port, boat trips are a must: from the Old Port, you can see the magnificent Lérins Islands waiting to be explored. You can reach them in just a few minutes on the shuttle from the Old Port and visit them at your own pace.
The Old Port is an ideal spot for tourists who also wish to travel to another city along the Côte d’Azur: if you want to take a shuttle to Saint-Tropez or Monaco, contact IGY Marinas, who manage the cruises and stopovers from the Old Port.
Finally, if you prefer to relax in the sun and lie on the sand, you can walk up the Croisette, indulging in a little shopping on the way, and settle on one of the many beaches running alongside it.
Regattas and nautical events in the Old Port of Cannes
The Old Port of Cannes hosts nautical events throughout the year, particularly in classic sailing and yachts, which are a true institution in this region, contributing to Cannes’ prestige. Since 1929, during September, the Royal Regattas have brought together the world’s most beautiful sailboats to compete in the bay of Cannes. This event also gathers the most beautiful yachts in the world, delighting all boating enthusiasts.
Additionally, the Cannes Yachting Festival takes place during the same month, marking the first boat show of the season and the most significant floating nautical event in Europe. At the Old Port, you will have the chance to admire about 450 motorboats, including catamarans and yachts. Around 430 exhibitors showcase their boats, highlighting the latest innovations in the nautical market.
Lastly, to delight both young and old, the Old Port hosts traditional Provençal jousting in the summer. Tourists and locals alike gather along Quai Saint-Pierre to watch nautical battles and impressive dives.
Take advantage of your stay in Cannes to visit the Old Port
In conclusion, the Old Port of Cannes offers much more than a mooring spot for passing boats: it is a convivial and gastronomic place near a historical district full of events and encounters, all in a Mediterranean ambiance. To make the most of this experience and in the best possible conditions, go to IMMOSOL to choose the accommodation that best suits your requirements.
