Cannes Lions is the world’s premier event for the creative and marketing industries, bringing together top professionals, brands, and thought leaders to celebrate innovation and excellence in advertising. Held annually in the glamorous city of Cannes, France, this prestigious festival is not just about awards; it’s a hub for networking, business development, and inspiration.

For international attendees, planning starts with paperwork. Visitors from outside the EU/EEA will need to check visa requirements through the French Embassy’s online portal, while those from visa-exempt countries should note the new ETIAS travel authorization rolling out in 2025. The festival provides Visa Invitation Letters for registered attendees: simply download yours from your Cannes Lions account after purchasing your pass.

With thousands of attendees flocking to the French Riviera, planning your trip effectively is crucial to making the most of your Cannes Lions experience. From securing the right accommodation to finding the best venues for meetings and events, every detail matters. This guide will help you navigate the essentials, offering expert insights into where to stay, where to network, and how to maximize your time at Cannes Lions.

Accommodations for Cannes Lions attendees

Finding the perfect place to stay during Cannes Lions is essential for a seamless and productive experience. With thousands of professionals attending the festival each year, accommodations range from luxurious five-star hotels to budget-friendly alternatives, catering to different preferences and needs. Whether you’re looking for proximity to the Palais des Festivals, exclusive networking opportunities, or a cost-effective stay, Cannes offers a variety of options. Planning ahead is key, as demand for accommodations skyrockets during the event, making early reservations crucial for securing the best spots.

Luxury hotels near the venue

For those seeking a premium stay, Cannes boasts an array of five-star hotels offering world-class service, stunning sea views, and unmatched convenience. Many of these luxury hotels are located along the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, just steps away from the Palais des Festivals. Staying at these hotels not only provides a lavish experience but also puts you in the heart of the action, where high-profile industry executives and celebrities gather for exclusive networking events.

Some of the most sought-after luxury hotels include:

• Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes – A prestigious hotel renowned for its impeccable service, stylish rooms, and prime location directly opposite the festival venue.
• InterContinental Carlton Cannes – An iconic hotel known for its historic charm, beachfront setting, and celebrity appeal during Cannes Lions.
• Hôtel Martinez – The Unbound Collection by Hyatt – A favorite among industry elites, offering elegant Art Deco interiors and a private beach club for high-end networking.

While these hotels offer unparalleled comfort and access, availability is limited due to high demand. Early booking, often months in advance, is highly recommended.

Budget-friendly options

For attendees looking to experience Cannes Lions without breaking the bank, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodations available. While options within Cannes itself can be pricey, staying slightly outside the city or exploring alternative lodging can help reduce costs while still offering easy access to the event.

Some cost-effective choices include:

• Mid-range hotels – Properties like Hôtel Colette and Okko Hotels Cannes offer modern amenities at more affordable rates while being within walking distance of the festival.
• Serviced apartments and vacation rentals – Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide comfortable alternatives for those traveling in groups, offering the added benefit of shared costs.
• Neighboring towns – Staying in nearby areas such as Antibes, Juan-les-Pins, or Mandelieu-la-Napoule can offer more reasonable pricing, with quick train or taxi access to Cannes.

Regardless of your choice, booking well in advance is crucial, as even budget accommodations fill up quickly in the months leading up to Cannes Lions.

Booking tips and timelines

With Cannes Lions being one of the most prestigious events in the creative industry, securing accommodations early is key to ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. Here are some essential booking tips to keep in mind:

• Book at least 6–12 months in advance – Luxury hotels and prime locations are often reserved a year ahead, so early planning is essential.
• Consider corporate housing solutions – Companies like Executive Accommodation and Services (EAS) specialize in securing high-quality accommodations tailored to business travelers attending Cannes Lions.
• Look for flexible cancellation policies – With event schedules and business commitments subject to change, choosing accommodations with adaptable booking terms can provide peace of mind.
• Opt for accommodations with networking potential – Staying in a hotel or residence known for hosting industry leaders can provide additional opportunities to connect with key players outside the official event schedule.

By carefully selecting and booking accommodations well in advance, attendees can focus on making the most of their Cannes Lions experience without the added stress of last-minute lodging concerns.

Top venues for Cannes Lions events

Cannes Lions isn’t just about the main festival, it’s also a hotspot for exclusive networking events, brand activations, and private gatherings. The city offers a diverse selection of venues that cater to different event styles, whether you’re hosting a high-profile conference, an intimate client dinner, or a large-scale brand experience. From iconic conference halls to luxurious beach clubs and hidden gems, choosing the right venue can elevate your presence at Cannes Lions and create unforgettable experiences for your guests.

Beyond the official venues, Cannes transforms into a networking paradise during the festival. First-time attendees should make a beeline for the Welcome Reception at the Creators Rooftop on Monday afternoon – it’s the perfect icebreaker with fellow newcomers. The festival app also offers guided tours in eight languages, which double as both orientation sessions and casual networking opportunities. Keep an eye out for pop-up gatherings along Cabana Row, where brands showcase their work in relaxed beachfront settings.

Main conference venues

At the heart of Cannes Lions is the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, the iconic venue where the festival’s key events, award ceremonies, and major presentations take place. Located on the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, this world-class conference center features large auditoriums, exhibition halls, and meeting rooms designed to accommodate high-profile industry discussions and groundbreaking creative showcases.

In addition to the Palais, several nearby hotels and event spaces host official and unofficial sessions, workshops, and brand activations. Some notable venues include:

• Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes – A frequent host of Cannes Lions-related talks and VIP gatherings, offering elegant conference rooms and beachfront spaces.
• InterContinental Carlton Cannes – Known for its historic grandeur, this hotel often serves as a venue for panel discussions and private industry meetups.
• JW Marriott Cannes – Featuring modern event spaces and a rooftop terrace, this venue provides a sophisticated setting for business discussions and brand showcases.

Securing space at these prime venues requires early planning, as they book up quickly due to high demand from major brands and agencies.

Exclusive networking locations

Beyond the official conference venues, Cannes is home to some of the most sought-after networking spots, where industry leaders, creatives, and decision-makers connect over cocktails, dinners, and invite-only parties.

Top networking locations include:

• La Plage du Martinez – A stylish beachfront venue known for hosting private receptions and industry celebrations, offering a relaxed yet exclusive setting.
• Baoli Cannes – One of the most famous nightlife destinations in Cannes, Baoli is a prime spot for high-energy networking events and private parties.
• Annex Beach – A sophisticated beach club where brands host VIP gatherings, panel discussions, and after-hours meetups.
• The Terrace at Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic – Overlooking the Croisette, this terrace is a favorite for intimate networking sessions and brand-sponsored social hours.

Many of these venues require advance reservations and often operate on an invitation-only basis during Cannes Lions, making strategic planning essential for securing access to key industry events.

Offsite venue options

For brands and companies looking to host private events away from the bustling festival center, Cannes offers an array of offsite venues that provide a more personalized and immersive experience. Whether it’s a corporate retreat, a private client dinner, or a unique brand activation, these venues offer exclusivity and a memorable ambiance.

Some standout offsite venues include:

• Château de la Napoule – A historic castle located just outside Cannes, perfect for elegant dinners, luxury brand launches, and VIP receptions.
• Superyachts in the Cannes Marina – Chartering a private yacht is a popular option for high-end networking and intimate client gatherings with stunning views of the Mediterranean.
• Vineyards in Provence – For a truly unique experience, hosting an event at a nearby vineyard allows guests to enjoy wine tastings, gourmet dining, and a picturesque setting.
• Private Villas in the Cannes Hills – Luxury villas offer a more intimate and customizable venue option, ideal for private meetings, cocktail receptions, and influencer gatherings.

Choosing an offsite venue provides an opportunity to escape the festival crowds while offering a bespoke experience tailored to a select group of attendees.

Insider tips for maximizing your experience

Attending Cannes Lions is an incredible opportunity to connect with industry leaders, gain insights from top creatives, and showcase your brand. However, with a packed schedule and high demand for accommodations, venues, and networking opportunities, it’s important to plan strategically. Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your time at the festival.

Cannes Lions features a diverse lineup of keynote sessions, panel discussions, workshops, and brand activations. With so much happening simultaneously, having a well-structured agenda and plan your schedule in advance will ensure you don’t miss key moments. Make use of the official Cannes Lions app to track events, bookmark must-attend sessions, and schedule meetings.

Some of the best networking opportunities happen at private parties, beachside gatherings, and yacht events hosted by major brands and agencies. Be sure to secure invitations to exclusive events. Many of these are invite-only, so start reaching out to industry connections well in advance to secure a spot. Following Cannes Lions’ official social media channels and event hashtags can also help you stay updated on last-minute invitations and pop-up experiences.

For rising talent, Cannes Lions offers life-changing opportunities through programs like See It Be It for women and non-binary leaders, or the ERA Pass initiative supporting underrepresented creatives. These provide mentorship, networking, and sometimes even fully-funded passes – worth investigating well before registration deadlines.

Your choice of accommodation can greatly impact your experience, so it is very important you choose the right accommodation for your needs. If you want to be in the heart of the action, staying near the Palais des Festivals is ideal. However, if you prefer a quieter retreat after a long day of networking, consider private villas or accommodations in nearby areas like Antibes or Mougins. Booking early is crucial, as demand for prime locations skyrockets months in advance.

While scheduled meetings are important, some of the best connections happen organically: make time for unplanned networking. Whether it’s striking up a conversation while waiting in line for a panel or joining an impromptu beachside gathering, staying open to spontaneous opportunities can lead to valuable relationships. Be sure to explore the Croisette, attend casual meetups, and engage in social spaces where creatives and executives gather.

Accessibility is woven into every aspect of Cannes Lions. The festival offers reserved seating, line-skip access, and live captioning across main stages – simply update your badge preferences online. Those needing mobility assistance can book Palm Bus’s on-demand service in advance, though note that some partner venues like LinkedIn’s Rooftop Stage have limited access (alternative viewing areas are always provided).

Cannes Lions is a mix of formal business meetings, beachside events, and evening galas. Pack versatile outfits that transition seamlessly from day to night. Dress smart and stay comfortable. When packing, prioritize comfort without sacrificing style. The Riviera sun demands high-SPF sunscreen and sunglasses, while evening events by the water call for a light jacket. A portable charger will keep you connected as you navigate between venues, and a reusable water bottle helps stay hydrated at the many refill stations. Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable: you’ll easily clock 10,000 steps daily between the Palais and beachside events.

While Cannes Lions is a business-focused event, it’s also about celebrating creativity and innovation. Balance work and leisure by taking advantage of the beautiful Mediterranean setting, whether that means enjoying a networking lunch with a sea view, taking a break at the beach, or attending one of the festival’s live music performances. A well-balanced approach will keep you energized and make your experience more enjoyable.

Navigating Cannes Lions can be overwhelming, with high demand for premium accommodations, exclusive venues, and top-tier networking opportunities. That’s where Executive Accommodation and Services (EAS) comes in, offering seamless, tailor-made solutions to ensure a stress-free and productive experience at one of the industry’s most prestigious events.

With extensive expertise in corporate accommodations, event planning, and luxury hospitality, EAS helps businesses secure the best stays, whether in high-end hotels, private villas, or fully serviced apartments. Our deep local knowledge and industry connections also provide access to exclusive networking venues, private meeting spaces, and offsite event locations that align with your brand’s goals.

Beyond accommodations, EAS manages VIP transportation, concierge services, and customized event logistics, allowing attendees to focus on what truly matters: building relationships, engaging with thought leaders, and maximizing their presence at Cannes Lions. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a returning industry leader, EAS ensures that every aspect of your festival experience is smooth, efficient, and unforgettable.

For a hassle-free Cannes Lions experience with top-tier accommodations and event planning support, trust EAS to handle the details, so you can focus on making the right connections and leaving a lasting impression.

EAS is a Barcelona-based DMC offering premium MICE services with over 35 years of combined industry experience, consistently delivering unparalleled event experiences. EAS delivers custom solutions for corporate accommodation and events in Barcelona, Cannes and other select European locations.