Located on a hill to the west of the bay, and the true historical centre of Cannes, it is in Le Suquet that it all began. This small neighbourhood with its Provençal charm is situated on the slopes of a small rocky outcrop, overlooking the sea and the Croisette. With its rich history, cultural sites, and breathtaking views, discover what the oldest district of Cannes has to offer.
Cultural insight into the history of Le Suquet
Sometimes referred to as Mont-Chevalier by those in the know, Le Suquet in Cannes is the origin of the city famous for its cinema and luxury boutiques. Traces of civilization on the site date back to Antiquity, when Ligurian tribes, originally from northern Italy, settled here because, at 66m high, the site offered a strategic advantage. In the Middle Ages, Le Suquet enabled the various counts of Provence to dominate the surrounding and fortify the place, while asserting their control over the bay. It was from this period that the neighbourhood began to expand via the construction of churches – such as Notre-Dame-du-Puy – markets, and houses, giving it the status of a fortified village.
It was especially from the 15th century that, in order to escape the influence of the abbots of Lérins, the inhabitants of Le Suquet began to spread out around the fortress, giving rise to the city of Cannes.
This historical past is, of course, reflected in Le Suquet’s architecture and medieval alleys. Indeed, it is here that you will find the oldest street in Cannes: Rue Saint-Antoine. Follow it all the way to Place du Suquet, where you can then explore all the mythical spots that constitute Le Suquet’s charm.
Panoramic views of Cannes from Le Suquet
Rising to 66 metres, Le Suquet offers tourists various viewpoints from which to enjoy the bay of Cannes. Here are two must-see places that will allow you to take beautiful souvenir photos from this legendary district:
- From the heights of old Cannes, in the remains of the old monks’ castle, you can admire the bay, the Croisette, and the Lérins Islands. Tip: The view is even better at dusk with evening lighting.
- We mentioned the Château de la Castre and its gardens: note that this site offers a 360º panoramic view of the bay of Cannes from the top of the 109 steps of the nearby medieval tower. Ideal for climbing even higher!
Gastronomy and local cuisine in Le Suquet
The Le Suquet neighbourhood is full of restaurants and grocery stores worth visiting for the typical products they offer. At the foot of Le Suquet, take Rue Meynadier: you will find fine grocery stores, as well as shops selling canned goods and preserves or confectionery. At the end of this street is the city’s best-known market: Forville Market. In this picturesque building, each morning, market gardeners, local producers, and fishermen offer a plethora of fresh products over more than 3000 m². Note that this emblematic place is a real source of inspiration and supply for the Michelin-starred chefs of various restaurants in Cannes.
Leaving the market and heading towards Le Suquet, you will quickly come across Rue du Suquet and discover what makes this neighbourhood so charming: a lively atmosphere, small shops, and restaurants the length of the road. You’ll be spoilt for choice!
Cultural events and life in Le Suquet
In addition to its cobbled streets and sensational panoramas, Le Suquet is a vibrant cultural place that will delight budding artists. Art lovers should head to Le Suquet des Art(iste)s. Located in an old morgue, you will find atypical paintings, collages, engravings, and sculptures created by four contemporary artists: Olivia Paroldi, Olivier Domin, Richard Ferri-Pisani, and Grégory Berben. Thanks to the corridors, rounded alcoves and play of light, you will find yourself directly immersed in a unique and whimsical artistic atmosphere.
If you like castles and museums, we suggest you visit Château de la Castre. Known as the Museum of World Explorations since 1919, it offers visitors various collections of primitive arts, paintings, musical instruments, and outdoor gardens.
Not far from the museum is also the oldest church in Cannes: Notre-Dame d’Espérance. Built in 1642, this Gothic-style historical monument will delight lovers of architecture in general.
Le Suquet is a lively area day and night: besides its numerous restaurants, you can stop for a drink in this historic neighbourhood and enjoy the evening coolness to relax and chat with the greeters, who are locals who mostly grew up in this historic district. If you want to learn more about the history of Le Suquet, hear anecdotes, or simply get the best addresses in the area, these people are a real wealth of information!
Discover the historic heart of Cannes
People tend to overlook Le Suquet in favor of the Croisette or the Palais des Festivals, but as you will by now have understood, this district is rich in history, culture, and tourist sites, making it a very popular place for visitors seeking authenticity. Do you want to visit this legendary neighbourhood, or simply stay nearby to explore the city of Cannes in peace? With Immosol, choose the right accommodation and set off to discover this city full of surprises.
