Cannes Film Festival: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide

So, you've heard the name dropped in conversation, seen the red carpet photos flood your Instagram feed every May, and thought — what exactly IS the Cannes Film Festival and why does everyone lose their mind over it? Don't worry, we've got you. Whether you're a movie buff, a travel dreamer, or someone who just wants to understand what all the fuss is about, this is your no-fluff, all-fun guide to one of the world's most iconic events.

Buckle up, because Cannes is not just a film festival. It's an experience.

What Is the Cannes Film Festival?

Let's start from the top. The Cannes Film Festival — officially called the Festival de Cannes — is an annual international film festival held in Cannes, a sun-drenched city on the French Riviera in southern France. It's been running since 1946 (yes, it's that old), and over the decades it has transformed from a modest European cinema gathering into the single most prestigious film event on the planet.

Every year, for about 12 days in May, Cannes, a small city that transforms every spring from a charming beach resort town to the most glamorous place on earth — swells from a population of about 74,000 to 200,000, as filmmakers, actors, critics, journalists, and fans descend upon its famous coastline. Think of it as the Oscars, but stretchier, sunnier, and somehow even more dramatic.

Why Does It Matter So Much?

Great question. Here's the thing, Cannes isn't just about glitter and gowns (though there's plenty of that). It's where the world's most important films get their first audience. The festival is the best global launchpad for top movies, offering the world's most exclusive premieres attended by the who's who of the movie business. 

And here's the part that makes it genuinely powerful: over the past few years, Cannes has also become a great predictor of Academy Award acclaim, with festival winners usually faring well come Oscars night.So when a film wins big at Cannes, the entire entertainment industry takes note.

The Big Prize: What Is the Palme d'Or?

The Palme d'Or (pronounced "Palm Door" if you want to sound fancy at parties) is the highest award at the festival — think of it as the Best Picture Oscar, but even more coveted in certain circles. Past winners like Parasite, Titane, and Triangle of Sadness went on to achieve global acclaim, making Cannes a barometer for films that will dominate awards season worldwide. 

At the 2025 edition, Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi won the Palme d'Or for the thriller film It Was Just an Accident. A huge deal — and the kind of moment that defines careers.

The Fast Facts You Need to Know

• When: Every year in May, typically spanning 10–12 days

• Where: Primarily at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, Cannes, France

• How big: More than 35,000 professionals and festival-goers attend each year across 12 days of the event 

• Screenings: 35–40,000 attendees are welcomed each year with 5–6 screenings each day across 9 theatres 

• Press: Over 5,000 journalists cover the event annually

• Who attends: Filmmakers, A-list celebrities, producers, distributors, critics, industry professionals, and passionate cinephiles from every corner of the globe

What Actually Happens at Cannes?

This is where it gets fun. There are many things happening simultaneously. Here's a breakdown:

Film Screenings & Competitions The heart of the festival. Films are screened across several categories — the main Competition (where the Palme d'Or is awarded), Un Certain Regard (for bold and original voices), and several other parallel sections. A jury of esteemed directors, actors, and industry figures deliberates and hands out awards on the final day.

The Red Carpet Possibly the most photographed stretch of carpet in the world. Cannes is a global fashion stage — expect a parade of celebrities wearing couture creations from the world's top designers, with photographers lining the iconic red carpet capturing every glamorous moment. There's also a strict dress code (black tie for evening screenings — they will turn you away at the door, flat shoes and all).

The Marché du Film While the celebrities hog the headlines, the real business of cinema happens at the Marché du Film — the film market that runs alongside the festival. It's one of the world's largest film markets where rights are bought, deals are struck, and the next generation of films gets funded.

Parties, Yachts & Soirées Let's be honest — the parties are legendary. From beach clubs to private yacht gatherings to villa soirées up in the hills, the social scene during Cannes week is its own universe. You don't need an invite to the official parties to feel the energy — the entire city is electric.

Where Is Cannes, and How Do You Get There?

Cannes sits on the French Riviera (Côte d'Azur) in southeastern France, about 30 minutes from Nice. Nice Côte d'Azur Airport is the nearest major airport, with convenient transfers to Cannes. From there, you can take a train, taxi, or shuttle directly into the city. The drive is stunning — turquoise sea on one side, terracotta rooftops on the other. You're already winning.

Things to Do in Cannes Beyond the Festival

Even if you're not here for the films, Cannes is worth the trip. Here's what to add to your itinerary:

• La Croisette — The iconic beachfront promenade lined with palm trees, luxury boutiques, grand hotels, and café terraces. This is where the magic happens.

  

• Le Suquet — The charming old town of Cannes perched on a hill, offering winding cobblestone streets and panoramic views over the harbour.

• Île Sainte-Marguerite — A 15-minute boat ride from the port brings you to this forested island where the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask was supposedly imprisoned. History and beaches? Yes please.

• Plage de la Croisette — The main beach, perfect for people-watching and pretending you're in a French film.

• Forville Market — A beautiful covered market in the old town where locals shop for fresh produce, cheese, olives, and flowers every morning.

Where to Stay in Cannes: Our Top Picks via CuddlyNest

Now for the question everyone actually Googles: where do I stay? Cannes fills up FAST during festival season (and honestly, during most of summer too). The good news? CuddlyNest has a great selection of hotels across different budgets so you can find your perfect Cannes base without the stress.

Here are five solid picks, all bookable directly on CuddlyNest:

1. Le Grand Hotel A timeless classic right on La Croisette. If you want to feel like you're living the full Cannes experience — sea views, grand interiors, the works — this is your spot. Perfect for when you want to lean fully into the glamour.

2. Hotel Cannes Montfleury Tucked away in lush gardens yet close to everything, this hotel is an elegant escape from the hustle of the festival. A favourite for those who want comfort and calm without being far from the action.

3. OKKO Hotels Cannes Centre Modern, stylish, and centrally located, OKKO is a brilliant mid-range option that doesn't compromise on design or comfort. Great for travellers who want something sleek and contemporary.

4. Cannes-Palace Hotel Right in the heart of the city, this one puts you walking distance from La Croisette, the Palais des Festivals, and all the restaurant action. Practical, well-rated, and great value for central Cannes.

5. Campanile – Cannes Mandelieu If you're watching the budget (smart move during festival season when prices can go a little wild), this is a solid, comfortable stay just outside the city centre. Staying in a nearby town is a recommended tip for more budget-friendly options, and CuddlyNest makes it easy to compare and book without any surprises.

Pro Tips for First-Timers

A few things nobody tells you before you show up in Cannes for the first time:

• Book early. Like, embarrassingly early. Accommodation during the festival sells out months in advance. CuddlyNest is your best friend here — the search filters make it easy to lock in the right option before the panic sets in.

• You don't need accreditation to enjoy Cannes. The red carpet, the atmosphere, La Croisette in full swing — it's all visible and glorious from the outside. Only people with accreditation for the festival or parallel sections can access the online ticket office but the city itself is entirely open and utterly electric.

• Dress the part. Even as a visitor, Cannes has a vibe. People dress up here. Lean into it.

• Learn a few French phrases. S'il vous plaît, merci, and une table pour deux will go a long way. The French appreciate the effort.

• Walk La Croisette at night. There is genuinely nothing like it, the lights, the yachts, the sea breeze. Do it at least once.

The Bottom Line

The Cannes Film Festival is one of those events that you hear about your whole life and then, when you finally experience it, whether in person or as a devoted follower from afar, you completely understand why the world goes a little crazy for it every May. It's cinema at its most powerful, glamour at its most unapologetic, and the French Riviera at its absolute best.

If you're even slightly considering making the trip, start planning now. Sort your flights, scroll through CuddlyNest for the best hotel deals in Cannes, and get ready for an experience that's equal parts culture, chaos, and cinematic magic.

See you on La Croisette. 🎬