7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Cannes

As a digital nomad living in Cannes, you're perfectly positioned to explore the stunning Côte d'Azur and beyond. While Cannes itself offers a glamorous lifestyle with its famous film festival and beautiful beaches, the surrounding area is rich with diverse destinations for weekend getaways. From the glitz and glam of Monaco to the tranquil beauty of Île Saint-Honorat, there's something for every type of traveler. Here are seven fun weekend getaway destinations, including some popular spots as well as hidden gems, all within reach of your Cannes home base.

Monaco

Monaco is the epitome of luxury and a must-visit for anyone staying in Cannes. This tiny principality boasts opulent casinos, the famous Formula 1 Grand Prix, and the stunning Prince's Palace. Stroll through the exotic gardens, visit the Oceanographic Museum, or simply enjoy the high-end shopping and dining experiences. Monaco's blend of culture, history, and modern indulgence makes it an ideal weekend destination.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Monaco from Cannes is by train, which takes about an hour. Trains run frequently throughout the day from Cannes' main station.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the changing of the guard ceremony at the Prince's Palace, which takes place daily at 11:55 am. It's a traditional spectacle that's both free and fascinating to watch.

Where to Stay: Consider the Hotel Hermitage for its Belle Époque elegance and stunning views of the harbor. For a more modern luxury experience, the Fairmont Monte Carlo offers an amazing rooftop pool overlooking the Mediterranean.

Where to Eat: Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse à l'Hôtel de Paris is an exquisite dining experience, famous for its haute cuisine and impressive wine cellar.

Èze

Perched high above the sea, the medieval village of Èze is a breathtaking escape from the hustle and bustle of Cannes. Wander the cobblestone streets, explore the exotic gardens, and enjoy panoramic views of the French Riviera. The village's artisan shops and art galleries provide a unique cultural experience, while the Fragonard Perfumery offers a fragrant journey into the world of scent.

How to Get There: Èze is accessible by train from Cannes, followed by a short bus ride up to the village. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit the Jardin Exotique d'Èze at the top of the village for some of the best views of the coast and an impressive collection of cacti and succulents.

Where to Stay: Château de la Chèvre d'Or offers luxurious accommodations with stunning sea views and a renowned restaurant.

Where to Eat: La Taverne d'Antan provides a cozy atmosphere and serves traditional French cuisine with a modern twist.

Saint-Paul de Vence

Saint-Paul de Vence is a charming hilltop village known for its art galleries, boutiques, and the famous Fondation Maeght, a modern art museum. The well-preserved medieval walls and narrow streets offer a step back in time, while the local artists provide a contemporary touch. It's a perfect blend of history and creativity for a relaxing weekend away.

How to Get There: The village is best reached by car or bus from Cannes, taking around 45 minutes to an hour.

Travel Tip: Make sure to catch the sunset from the village ramparts, which offer a stunning view of the surrounding countryside.

Where to Stay: Le Saint Paul hotel is nestled within the village walls and offers a romantic setting with beautiful artwork throughout the property.

Where to Eat: La Colombe d'Or is not only famous for its exquisite Provençal cuisine but also for its impressive collection of art from renowned artists who have stayed there.

Île Saint-Honorat

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, take a short boat trip to the serene Île Saint-Honorat. This island has been home to Cistercian monks for centuries, who continue to produce wine and liqueurs. Visitors can explore the ancient monastery, taste the monks' produce, and enjoy the peaceful beaches and walking paths.

How to Get There: Ferries to Île Saint-Honorat depart from Cannes and the crossing takes about 15 minutes.

Travel Tip: Participate in a guided tour of the monastery to learn about the monks' way of life and the island's history.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited on the island, but for a unique experience, you can stay at the monastery itself, which offers simple rooms for retreats.

Where to Eat: The island has a small café, La Tonnelle, which serves fresh, locally-sourced dishes with a view of the sea.

Gorges du Verdon

Often referred to as France's Grand Canyon, the Gorges du Verdon is a spectacular natural wonder. The turquoise Verdon River cuts through the high limestone cliffs, creating a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing are popular activities, and the scenic drive along the gorge's rim is breathtaking.

How to Get There: The Gorges du Verdon is best reached by car from Cannes, taking about 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Rent a paddleboat or kayak to explore the calm waters of the Sainte-Croix Lake at the end of the gorge.

Where to Stay: Hotel des Gorges du Verdon offers comfortable rooms with stunning views and a lovely outdoor pool.

Where to Eat: The restaurant at Hotel Grand Canyon du Verdon provides hearty local cuisine with a view of the dramatic landscape.

Menton

Menton, known as the "Pearl of France," is a colorful town near the Italian border with a mild microclimate that supports lush gardens and lemon groves. The town's annual Lemon Festival is a vibrant event not to be missed. Stroll along the beach promenade, visit the Jean Cocteau Museum, and enjoy the blend of French and Italian influences in the architecture and cuisine.

How to Get There: Menton is easily accessible by train from Cannes, with the journey taking around an hour and a half.

Travel Tip: Explore the Val Rahmeh-Menton Botanical Garden to see exotic plants and rare species not found elsewhere in France.

Where to Stay: Hôtel Napoléon offers modern amenities and a beachfront location, perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean sun.

Where to Eat: Mirazur, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience with dishes that highlight the region's bountiful produce.

Porquerolles Island

Porquerolles Island is the largest of the Îles d'Hyères and a hidden gem with crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and a national park. The island is mostly car-free, making it an idyllic spot for cycling and hiking. With its protected marine areas, it's also a fantastic destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

How to Get There: To reach Porquerolles, take a train from Cannes to Hyères, then a short bus ride to the Tour Fondue ferry terminal, followed by a 15-minute ferry ride to the island.

Travel Tip: Rent a bike to explore the island's diverse landscapes, from vineyards to secluded coves.

Where to Stay: L'Arche de Porquerolles offers charming accommodations and is conveniently located near the village center and beaches.

Where to Eat: L'Oustaou is a delightful spot for fresh seafood and local dishes, enjoyed on a terrace with a view of the marina.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, from the glitz of Monaco to the tranquility of Porquerolles Island. As a digital nomad in Cannes, you have the luxury of exploring these diverse locales, each providing a refreshing break from your work routine and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty of the French Riviera and beyond.