Each spring, the international film industry turns its attention to the French Riviera for the most anticipated event on the cinematic calendar.
The Cannes Film Festival returns from Tuesday 13 May to Saturday 24 May 2025, bringing with it an energetic mix of world premieres, red carpet fashion, and global attention. For visitors staying in the South of France during this period, Cannes offers a unique atmosphere that blends serious cinema with seaside glamour – but what actually happens during the festival, and what can guests expect if they are in the region?
A world-class event in a coastal setting
Held annually since 1946, the Festival de Cannes is one of the oldest and most influential film festivals in the world. For almost eighty years, it has been the place where auteurs, actors, and producers debut films that often go on to dominate the awards season. The festival takes place at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, a sleek seafront complex located at the western end of the iconic Boulevard de la Croisette. For twelve days in May, this stretch of Cannes is transformed into a playground for the global film industry.
The event is strictly invitation-only, with screenings and official events reserved for accredited professionals. However, that does not mean casual visitors are excluded from the experience. Red carpet arrivals can be seen from designated viewing areas near the Palais, and giant outdoor screens are often erected across the city for public showings. The buzz spills into the nearby bars, beach clubs, and boutiques – with many hosting their own events and late-night gatherings. This is Cannes in full show mode.
Key highlights to keep an eye on
While the official film selection is the heart of the festival, several fringe events run alongside it. The Directors’ Fortnight, Critics’ Week, and ACID Cannes all showcase independent or emerging talent. These parallel sections are generally more accessible and often a favourite with serious cinephiles. Visitors may also catch a glimpse of major film stars attending press events, interviews, and private receptions in and around Cannes. Hotels such as the Martinez, Majestic, and Carlton become temporary homes for international celebrities, and their waterfront terraces are known to host impromptu photo shoots and pop-up parties.
Another favourite feature is the Cinéma de la Plage - a public beach screening held each evening during the festival. Films are shown on a large screen directly on the beach, with deckchairs available for early arrivals. These screenings are free and open to the public, offering an inclusive way to enjoy the festival’s spirit under the night sky.
How to enjoy Cannes without accreditation
Although access to the main screenings is limited to professionals, there are still several ways to enjoy the atmosphere in Cannes during the festival:
> Stroll the Croisette and watch as film crews and photographers set up outside the grand hotels.
> Visit the Palais des Festivals area in the afternoon or early evening to see red carpet arrivals from a distance.
> Book a table at one of the beach restaurants such as La Môme Plage or L’Ondine, both known for their terrace views and people-watching opportunities during the event.
> Spend an evening at the Cinéma de la Plage, where film classics or out-of-competition selections are screened by the sea.
It is worth noting that accommodation prices in Cannes and the surrounding area tend to spike during the festival, and restaurants are often fully booked weeks in advance. For a more relaxed experience, staying just outside the city - in Antibes, Mougins, or even further along the coast in Saint-Raphaël - allows for day trips into Cannes without the intensity of staying in the centre.
Travelling to Cannes during the festival
Reaching Cannes is straightforward from anywhere in Provence or the Côte d’Azur. The town is well connected by regional trains, and the station is only a short walk from the Palais des Festivals. From Aix-en-Provence or Avignon, expect a journey time of around two and a half hours by car or train. Those flying in can use Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, which is under an hour’s drive from Cannes. Traffic in and around the city becomes particularly congested during the festival period, so it is advisable to travel by train or plan routes carefully if driving. Many streets close to the Croisette are restricted or pedestrianised to accommodate the event.
A brief look at the 2025 line-up
The full list of selected films for Cannes 2025 will not be announced until mid-April. However, industry speculation always starts early. With 2024 having been a strong year for global cinema, expectations are high for what this year’s jury will choose. The competition typically includes a mix of international premieres, auteur-led features, and occasional high-profile studio projects. The Palme d’Or, awarded to the best film in the Official Selection, remains the most coveted prize. Past winners include directors such as Ruben Östlund, Jane Campion, and Bong Joon-ho. The 2025 jury president has yet to be confirmed at the time of writing, but this announcement alone will generate international press and set the tone for the edition.
Tips for visitors during festival week
If you are planning to visit Cannes during the festival, preparation is key. Parking is limited and expensive, so train travel is often the easiest way to arrive. Comfortable footwear is recommended – you may find yourself walking more than expected as some streets are closed to traffic. It is also advisable to reserve restaurants and beach clubs well in advance, especially if you want to dine along the Croisette.
Security in the city is heightened during this period, so be prepared for bag checks and limited access in certain areas. Despite the crowds, many still describe the atmosphere as surprisingly good-natured and festive. For those willing to navigate the logistics, there is nothing quite like experiencing Cannes during the festival.
The film festival may only last twelve days, but its presence in Cannes has left a lasting impression on the city. Outside of the event, visitors can explore its museums, galleries, markets, and quiet coves. The surrounding region - from Grasse to Théoule-sur-Mer – is home to scenic drives, charming hilltop villages, and fine dining establishments worth discovering in their own right. For guests staying in Provence or along the coast during May, a day trip to Cannes is a chance to witness cinema history in the making. The city is alive with conversation, fashion, and celebration - an unforgettable snapshot of the South of France at its most glamorous. Will you spot someone you recognise on the red carpet?
À bientôt,
The Provence Holidays Team
