When we think about Cannes, the world-famous International Film Festival immediately comes to mind. As a bastion of the silver screen, there is an inevitable prestige attached to this glamorous city. However, despite its celebrity-playground status, the glitz doesn’t end there.
Once upon a time, Cannes was a charming fishing village, yet has evolved into a vibrant hub of designer bars, trendy shops, and chic sun lounger-striped beaches.
With sleek super yachts dotting the jaw-dropping promenade, and verdant nature gleaming around the metropolis, Cannes’s hotels are graced by a majestic backdrop. In my many trips here, I have stayed in accommodations ranging from peaceful spa boutiques to luxury beachfront resorts. Here are my favourite cool and unusual hotels in Cannes, France (in no particular order)...
1. Mondrian Cannes – a gorgeous and very Instagrammable paradise that boasts panoramic sea views set in a prime location
This brand-new luxury lifestyle hotel features a much-coveted oceanfront location, as well as 50,000 feet of gardens, and direct access to the rue d’Antibes shopping district.
The Mondrian brand is rooted in culture, design, and artistry, which can be felt in the hotel’s airy interiors. Set against bountiful natural light, the simple wood and marble décor throughout the property exude a timeless elegance that combines tradition and modernity.
On-site there is also a stunning terrace, where you can relish Croisette views from a unique vantage point. The rooms and suites, inspired by the trends of the sixties, also open onto private sleek terraces graced by unending Mediterranean vistas.
- To book, check prices or availability for Mondrian Cannes
2. Cézanne Hôtel Spa – a cool and very naturalist boutique hotel spa where pets are welcome
Centred around a beautiful garden in the heart of the Cannes action, this modern four-star boutique is adorned with sleek, clean lines and bright pops of colour.
As I entered through the wooden walkway and through the palm and sculpture-laden garden, I felt the hotel’s peaceful ambience and its wellness-orientated outlook. I thought the breakfast was a standout feature, set in an opulent room with fluffy rugs and bright patterned velvet chairs.
The guestrooms, divided into three categories, are all set within walls that sparkle subtly, and flaunt luxurious tapestries which ooze homely comforts. To unwind you can head to the spa and indulge in a pampering wellness experience.
- To book, check prices or availability for Cézanne Hôtel Spa
3. Hôtel Belle Plage – a beautiful modern hotel that offers guests Insta-worthy panoramic sea views
This elegant hotel shares a nod to the serene charm of the Côte d’Azur, and is set at the foot of the Suquet district with a unique view of the sea.
Facing the horizon and the Estérel mountains, yet shaded by palm trees, the hotel’s effervescence set a majestic tone during my stay. The guestrooms pay homage to Cannes’s graceful flair, with pastel colours and natural materials conveying vibrancy and eclecticism.
If you want to experience the spirit of the French Riviera at your own pace, you can also choose to book an apartment, which boasts two bedrooms, a kitchen, and an open-plan living room.
The scents of the Mediterranean suffuse the rooftop restaurant, which also offers an up-beat brunch accompanied by an in-house DJ.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hôtel Belle Plage
4. Hotel Croisette Beach Cannes Mgallery – a refined, trendy and chic place to stay in beautiful Cannes
This chic and bohemian hotel is a unique cocoon providing an outdoor pool & garden, a private beach, a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness area.
It is an unspoilt and intimate haven situated just a few steps from the mythical beaches of the Croisette, and close to many quaint hinterland villages. Gentleness and elegance reign in the refined, design-led guestrooms, which are draped in soft natural hues and bespoke décor.
I didn’t have to go far to experience the ultimate serenity, given that the private white sand beach is dotted with comfy sun loungers, parasols, and a vibrant bar serving delicious snacks.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Croisette Beach Cannes Mgallery
5. Hôtel Martinez, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt – one of the most Instagrammable upscale hotels in Cannes
Prepare to be treated like royalty upon entrance to this elegant hotel. Brimming with Art Deco glamour, the Martinez welcomes visitors through an undulating white façade into a light-infused lobby.
The hotel felt like a contemporary take on 1920s style, with a beach-house feel created by the blue and white tones, yet high ceilings, chandeliers, and old-fashioned artworks evoking a historic flair.
In the guestrooms, you will find many high-end complimentary touches, as well as gorgeous lacquered furniture, jaw-dropping views, and state-of-the-art amenities.
You can take a refreshing dip at the hotel’s private beach, soothe the soul with a peaceful walk through the gardens, or rejuvenate mind and body in the sumptuous spa.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hôtel Martinez, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
6. Hôtel de Provence – a charming and peaceful hotel that boasts a gorgeous garden and outdoor dining
Hôtel de Provence flaunts an impressive location allowing you to discover the city on foot. Within a few minutes you can reach the luxury shops of the famous Croisette, as well as pristine beaches.
It was clear to me that the hotel is driven by maintaining a high standard of hospitality, with a highly attentive staff presence always on hand to provide first rate assistance. The property is graced by serene gardens shaded by towering palms, providing a resplendent backdrop for the luxury guestrooms and suites.
Inviting you to fully decompress, you can indulge in a pampering experience by booking a massage in the comfort of your room.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hôtel de Provence
7. Hôtel Château de la Tour – a unique, elegant and sophisticated hotel housed in an 18th-century terracotta mansion
Nestled in the heart of a 5000 m2 park surrounded by lavender, this charming boutique hotel dates back to the 19th century. It has been eloquently restored to resemble a traditional Provencal bastide, and has housed many extravagant events over the years.
I felt an immediate sense of human connection when I entered through the neo-gothic style doors, and throughout my stay I was greeted with an impeccable service.
The guestrooms exude a romantic flair, and are backdropped by either the sea, the pool, the Massif de l’Estérel, or the park. The on-site restaurant is a hub of refined cuisine, where each dish has been dexterously prepared using seasonal produce grown locally.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hôtel Château de la Tour
8. Hôtel Colette Cannes Centre – an ultra-creative and swanky hotel based in the heart of Cannes
Hôtel Colette was the perfect spot for me to combine work and leisure, nestled in the heart of the shopping district of rue d’Antibes and a 5-minute walk from the Croisette.
With ultra-high-velocity Wi-Fi, flat-screen HDTVs with international channels, and a mini-bar, my guestroom was the ultimate cocoon to discover a deep sense of serenity.
Each morning, stepping out onto my private balcony and witnessing the cityscape pulsate with energy provided a great start to my day, and the daily breakfast on the hotel’s veranda was delicious.
Every visual frame in the property contains an eclectic mix of old-meets-new, topped with vibrant colours and soft wooden elements.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hôtel Colette Cannes Centre
9. Hôtel Simone Cannes Centre – a cool and trendy property near major boutique shops and great restaurants
Situated in the heart of rue d’Antibes and a 5-minute walk from Croisette beach, Hôtel Simone welcomes you to the French Riviera in style.
A predominantly white-on-white interior has given this traditional building a modern aesthetic, with bright pops of colour adding a touch of eccentricity.
During my 5-day stay, I was able to fully combine leisure and business, owing to the cosy in-room elements, the ultra-high-velocity Wi-Fi, and the state-of-the-art amenities.
For romantic couples, with a simple message to the property you can arrange your bed to be strewn with rose petals, accompanying complimentary Champagne and chocolates.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hôtel Simone Cannes Centre
10. Hotel Le Fouquet’s – a modern and stylish boutique hotel that offers a romantic setting
Here we have an upscale urban retreat which brings a prestigious atmosphere to your stay. Its soothing 4-star service and its supreme location combine to fuel a city break like no other, where an infinite feeling of well-being is an ever-present reality
Each room and suite is dressed in elegant and refined décor, and is equipped with a stunning terrace overlooking the city streets.
To begin your day in Cannes in the best possible way, you can order a delicious room service breakfast to savour in a sumptuous setting, or head down to the lounge where an opulent ambiance awaits.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Le Fouquet’s
11. Hôtel Le Canberra – an ultra-chic and relaxed hotel that is within walking distance from the beach
Teeming with boutique charm, this graceful hotel manages to maintain a tranquil feel despite being nestled in a central location, making it the perfect spot to return to after a day’s shopping.
An outdoor pool, a restaurant, a sauna, and a fitness centre are at your disposal here, as well as a lounge area dressed in a soft, white-washed tone. I truly enjoyed spending peaceful afternoons on the sunny veranda, where neat rows of wooden tables, light fabric curtains, and comfortable leather armchairs embody peace and serenity.
My room was commodious and modern, yet minimalistic in style, and came with a beautiful balcony overlooking the pool. Mornings are a buzzy affair with breakfast served in the sunny conservatory, and in the evening, the daily changing menu served in Le Café Blanc restaurant offers classic, local culinary delights.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hôtel Le Canberra
12. Hôtel Cannes Centre Univers – a stylish and laid-back hotel that is the perfect home away from home
Get ready for a true Art Deco welcome at this peaceful city centre retreat, where the communal spaces and restaurant invite a gorgeous coastal backdrop to fill your heart with joy and vitality.
The 72 guestrooms feature old-fashioned artwork and furniture, which suffuse the space with the charm of a bygone era. Meanwhile, the plush linens and quirky boutique décor grace the in-room experience with an elegant charm.
A fitness room, a dry sauna, and a bar-lounge dedicated to relaxation also feature here, allowing you to combine an action-fuelled urban day out with a peaceful reprieve at the end.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hôtel Cannes Centre Univers
13. Idéal Séjour – Hôtel de Charme et Atypique – a colourful, kitsch, and fun party hotel to stay in Cannes
Boasting a privileged location a short walk from the port, this exclusive masterpiece comprises its own landscaped garden designed to transport you to a sensation of pure bliss.
The 16 individually themed rooms have been styled by the visual artist-creator Romain Gouot, and offer a true cocooning experience for couples and families. Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s electric bikes, which make exploring the pulsating city easier than ever.
As a lover of books, I was pleasantly captivated by the cosy library, which brings together more than 3000 works into a peaceful space. To kickstart your day, a delicious homemade breakfast is served each morning in either the flower garden or the lounge.
- To book, check prices or availability for Idéal Séjour – Hôtel de Charme et Atypique
14. Cannes Villa St Barth – a tropical and spacious guest house that boasts an exotic garden setting
Facing the bay of Cannes, this modern accommodation complex is nestled within 2000 m2 of tropical gardens, where palms, hibiscus, and bamboo define the exterior aesthetic.
By far and away my favourite feature here was the palm-fringed turquoise infinity pool with submerged beach, where I spent many a dreamy afternoon. You can also pamper the senses in the spa, which comes with a Hammam and Jacuzzi, as well as a whole host of bespoke wellness rituals.
The on-site restaurant offers tailor-made cuisine with exotic Mediterranean flavours. The food can also be ordered to your private terrace, the lounge, or the solarium.
- To book, check prices or availability for Cannes Villa St Barth
15. Cristal Hôtel & Spa – a bright one-of-a-kind property recently renovated that offers soundproofed rooms and great views
Embodying the beauty and bounty of the French Riviera, Cristal Hôtel & Spa combines plenty of outdoor space and a luxury modern design to form the most idyllic vacation experience.
With the beaches and the designer shops on your doorstep, this peaceful retreat is a great base from which to enjoy and explore Cannes. Some parts of the hotel have been refurbished to exude a modern boutique aesthetic, while others retain a traditional look.
The lobby brings together elements of both, with beautiful antique décor sitting alongside contemporary artworks and colourful wicker chairs. The two outdoor terraces offer a charming atmosphere to enjoy a breakfast buffet – perfect for balmy mornings in the summer months.
- To book, check prices or availability for Cristal Hôtel & Spa
16. Traverse Des Artistes – a polished and modern aparthotel set in the stunning historic centre of Cannes
I thought this stunning hotel was the perfect refuge for a vibrant Cannes welcome. Nestled in the historic centre, a contemporary and bright interior aesthetic reflects a minimalist design, and the atmosphere is both timelessly elegant and idyllically relaxing.
My apartment was graced by beautiful potted plants and lavish furniture, and came with an open-air space overlooking the city’s gleaming rooftops.
This offered me the perfect spot for breakfast and a morning coffee. Additionally, a charming inner courtyard girdled by traditional stone walls sets you up for a moment of refinement, where opulence and tranquillity coexist in perfect harmony.
- To book, check prices or availability for Traverse Des Artistes
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My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my rescued Greek street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Laos, California and the surreally beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.