A long layover in Cannes is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Cannes-Mandelieu Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 40 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of CEQ:
- Can you legally enter France? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 40-minute journey each way by Local Bus / Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Cannes-Mandelieu Airport to Downtown
The most straightforward way into Cannes is the Local Bus / Taxi, which takes about 40 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 60 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Local Bus / Taxi is usually the smarter call.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Cannes might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$11 USD
- A meal: ~$22 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$43 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at CEQ aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Cannes itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Cannes, here are two things worth checking out:
La Croisette Promenade is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
Le Suquet (Old Town) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CEQ, check out Aircraft Spotting & Photography or General Aviation Terminal Relaxation Area to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: La Mome Cannes and Le Mesclun are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Cannes.
- At the airport: Bar Restaurant Le Cannes-Mandelieu and Le P’tit Cageot will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at CEQ include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in France also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at CEQ for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Cannes or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Cannes is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Cannes.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.