What I Love About Cannes in Winter

“I love Cannes in the Winter!” Sure, it’s not what you generally hear, but then that’s what seems to make it one of the city’s best kept secrets. It’s the chance to bask in all the glitzy candour without the usual hefty prices, take in the stunning views without the crowds getting in the way, be admitted into the most exclusive clubs without the wait. And yet do it all, whilst enjoying a climate that, let’s face it, is still a lot warmer than the place you probably call home. So, here’s the low down for places to see and be seen in Cannes during this year’s winter season.

December

Christmas in Cannes is beautiful! Colourful christmas lights are put up wonderfully decorating the whole city, along with christmas trees and holly interspersed with bells and tinsel. This normally hyper trendy city, takes on a warmer glow, particularly around the harbour and the Old Town, that’s very endearing. Visit the nearby towns and villages along the French Riviera, as each will have their own Christmas market open throughout December. With stalls selling scented candles and wonderfully aromatic soaps, take the time to enjoy a mulled wine or fresh crepes generously spread with a creamy nutella.

In December the International Luxury Travel Market takes place over three days where you get to see the best and most exciting offerings in the luxury travel market at the Palais des Festivals. With delegates from over 50 countries, this is a great opportunity to get some ideas of where to spend your next holiday. Boasting many new vacation trends, be the first to take the plunge, for the rest of your friends to follow.

January

While January marks the end of the festive season, it also marks the beginning of Epiphany where all those thoroughly tempting Galettes des Rois are indulged in. These legendary cakes literally mean “The King’s Cake”. They are based on a 300 year old French recipe that despite its many variations is made of a cinnamon flavoured dough and a glazed topping sprinkled with coloured sugar.

The popular Midem Music Festival is held in Cannes every January. It offers a lively and vibrant atmosphere as new artists get the chance to be introduced to the hard-to-break European market. The NRJ Music Awards are also held, where more established names are attracted to the Croisette.

The January sales in Cannes is a major highlight. While, by any account Cannes is an excellent place to shop, it is admittedly on the pricey side for most of us. Yet Cannes in the winter allows you to have your cake and eat it too. Take full advantage scooping up all the latest fashions just hot off the catwalk, all at more affordable prices. There is a great atmosphere that floats through the shopping districts of Rue des Antibes and La Croisette as big names show off their latest collections while many a fashionista take the opportunity to pick up designer labels at discount prices. 

February

In February things start to get busy as the crowds flock in for the many annual festivals taking place all along the Côte d’Azur. Some of the highlights are the Nice Carnival along with the Brazilian and Venetian Carnivals. Streets and promenades come to life over three weeks of partying that includes parades, outdoor music, dance festivals, street theatre, amazing fireworks displays and all in all just riotous celebration.

Cannes for Christmas. While it might not be the typical vacation holiday that springs to mind this time of year, try it out.Hire a luxury Ferrari in Cannes, or a Lamborghini or Porsche to get around and we promise. You certainly won’t go home disappointed.