The French Riviera shimmers a little brighter every May as the Cannes Film Festival turns the glamorous seaside town into a cinematic playground – replete with red carpet moments, champagne toasts, and designer gowns that are matched only by the equally dazzling places the A-list chooses to call their temporary abode. From storied grande dames to exclusive hillside hideaways, here’s where the world’s most celebrated stars retreat when the camera flashes fade.

Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc – Cap d’Antibes

For over a century, Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc has been the Riviera’s most mythical retreat. Just a 30-minute drive from Cannes, this iconic Oetker Collection hotel offers discreet luxury far from the buzz of La Croisette. Featuring pine-shaded grounds and a cliffside saltwater pool, the estate’s private villas and 22-acre gardens create a serene, paparazzi-proof escape, making it a perennial favourite for power players seeking peace and privacy.

Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc
167-165 Bd J. F. Kennedy, 06160 Antibes, France
Website

Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic – Cannes

There’s no address closer to the action than Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic. Located directly opposite the Palais des Festivals, it’s the preferred stay for jury members, producers, and stars needing to slip seamlessly from suite to spotlight. Rooms facing the Mediterranean offer sweeping views, while the Dior Spa and private beach club ensure downtime is just as divine. The hotel’s Penthouse Suite – with a rooftop pool and private cinema – is often reserved for the crème de la crème of Cannes.

Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic
10 Bd de la Croisette, 06400 Cannes, France
Website

Carlton Cannes

Reopened in 2024 after a multi-year renovation, Carlton Cannes is back to reclaim its spot as the grande dame of La Croisette. The Belle Époque façade and sparkling chandeliers have long hosted names like Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren, and Sharon Stone. With its new suites, a lush garden extension, and a level of elegance only old-world charm can deliver, the Carlton fuses nostalgia with modern luxury in a way few others can.

Carlton Cannes
58 Bd de la Croisette Cs 40052, 06400 Cannes, France
Website

Château Saint-Martin & Spa – Vence

For stars who prefer to admire the festival from afar, the Château Saint-Martin extends ultimate seclusion and soul-soothing scenery. Set in the hills above Nice, this former 12th-century Knights Templar stronghold is now a refined getaway featuring panoramic views of the Côte d’Azur. Loved by discreet creatives and fashion icons alike, its spa, Michelin-starred dining, and rustic-chic suites feel worlds away and yet Cannes remains within an hour’s reach.

Château Saint-Martin & Spa
2490 Av. des Templiers, 06140 Vence, France
Website

Hotel Martinez – The Unbound Collection by Hyatt – Cannes

Another La Croisette institution, Hotel Martinez is as much a symbol of the Festival as the Palme d’Or itself. With its Art Deco interiors, buzzing terrace bar, and iconic private beach, it’s been the backdrop for countless interviews, photocalls, and exclusive soirées. Stars like Marion Cotillard and Quentin Tarantino have checked in, while the newly renovated Prestige Sea View Suites are now among the most coveted crash pads during festival week.

Hotel Martinez
73 Bd de la Croisette, 06400 Cannes, France
Website

Villa Alang Alang – Super Cannes

When a hotel just won’t do, the ultra-elite turn to the seclusion of private villas – none more spectacular than Villa Alang Alang in the hills of Super Cannes. A Balinese-style estate with panoramic views, a helipad, infinity pool, cinema, and enough space to host an entourage (or two), it’s a favourite among billionaires and boldfaced names alike. Though technically off the hotel grid, it’s as much a part of the Cannes circuit as any five-star palace.

Villa Alang Alang
7-29 Av. de l’Estérel, 06400 Cannes, France
Website

Featured image: Sahu