The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès is perhaps the most famous building in Cannes, and with good reason. This striking six-story structure at number 1 Boulevard de la Croisette is home of the world-famous International Film Festival, the annual event that takes place in May and sees stars from the silver screen descend upon the red carpeted steps of the Palais. But this is not the only high-profile event hosted by the venue, and there’s much more to the unique-looking building than meets the eye.
Whether you’re staying in Cannes for business or pleasure, you’ll want to know all the key information about the top attraction in the area to help you prepare for your visit. So we’ve put together a little guide to all things Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, featuring insider insights and interesting background information about this historic venue.
what is the palais des festivals et des congrès?
The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès is a convention centre hosting world-renowned business events and festivals. The original building was established in 1947 on the present site of the five-star hotel The JW Marriott Cannes. Due to the success of the International Film Festival and the growing demand for business conventions in Cannes, work for a new Palais des Festivals at the Western end of Boulevard de la Croisette began in 1979. Opened in 1982, the new Modernist glass-fronted building was designed by architects Sir Hubert Bennett and François Drue. Expansion to the new building took place in 1999, when 10,000 square metres were added to the complex.
what’s on at the palais des festivals et des congrès?
Today the 380,000 square foot exhibition floor is capable of hosting huge events, which attract visitors from all over the world in their hoards. Within the creative and entertainment industries, the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès hosts The Cannes International Film Festival in May, The Global TV and Digital Content Market in March/April, The International Festival of Creativity in June and The World’s Entertainment Content Market in October.
Beyond the realm of entertainment, the convention centre also holds large business market events such as The World’s Property Market in March, Tax Free World Exhibition in September/October, The International Market for Retail Real Estate in November, and The International Luxury Travel Market in December. In between the festivals and exhibitions, the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès has a full calendar of concerts, operas and theatre performances too – check out the latest Cannes Palais des Festivals programme of events here. Delegates, professionals and tourists are welcomed to the Boulevard de la Croisette area year-round and will find plenty of things to do in Cannes during their stay.
is there accommodation near the palais des festivals et des congrès?
There are plenty of hotels near Palais des Festivals Cannes, but for a great deal on accommodation in Cannes, the convenience and privacy of your own apartment can’t be beaten. We have a number of comfortable and contemporary apartments on Boulevard de la Croisette, many including beautiful sea views.
If you are a busy professional in Cannes for a business event, proximity to the Palais is paramount. Cannes Rental Apartments has luxury apartments available just yards from the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, and within two minutes’ walk from the venue. Other superbly located accommodation options include this lovely 2 bedroom apartment opposite the convention centre, or this 2 bedroom apartment with sea view terrace on the Croisette Cannes.
For groups staying in Cannes, we have larger accommodation options like this deluxe 3 bedroom apartment opposite the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, or this stunning and conveniently-located 4 bedroom apartment with panoramic sea views.
is there parking near the palais des festivals et des congrès?
If you’re planning to hire a car or use a chauffeur during your stay in Cannes, we recommend choosing accommodation with parking, such as this luxury apartment with parking close to the Palais des Festivals Cannes, or this fabulous 3 bedroom apartment with garage, pool and fitness room in residence. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information about which of our apartments come complete with parking facilities.
where is the best place to go shopping near the palais des festivals et des congrès?
Without a doubt the best place to shop in Cannes is Rue d’Antibes – the road running behind and parallel to Boulevard de la Croisette. You’ll find it all here: premium boutiques, high-fashion brands, perfumeries and upmarket high street shops. Don your sunglasses and browse the rails of fabulous clothing at your leisure in between events or relax over a latte at one of the many cafés located on the Rue d’Antibes.
So you don’t have far to transport your new purchases, you might like to consider choosing accommodation ideally located for the best of Cannes shopping, such as this 3 bedroom apartment in an attractive period building with sea views, or this beautiful 2 bedroom apartment in the heart of the Boulevard de la Croisette, just behind the Dior boutique.
booking your cannes accommodation
Since many Cannes Rental Apartments are so conveniently located for the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, those visiting Cannes for events such as The Cannes International Film Festival, The International Festival of Creativity or The World’s Property Market will want to book their accommodation in advance in order to avoid disappointment.
Contact us today by using our booking form or by calling +44 1843 639 193 and we can help you to arrange your event accommodation, including any airport transfer or concierge services you may require.