With 300 sunny days a year, crystal-clear seas, charming hinterlands, and many idyllic towns, the Cannes region continues to attract individuals seeking a sunnier, sweeter life. However, instead of choosing Cannes itself, why not consider the more affordable and less crowded towns nearby? In this article, we'll discuss 9 towns located between 15 and 40 minutes from Cannes, either by the sea or in the Provençal hinterland!
Situated between Cannes and Nice, Antibes is much more than just a seaside resort and summer destination. Since the establishment of Sophia Antipolis (the famous technology hub of the French Riviera) 50 years ago, Antibes has become a developed and dynamic city... without losing its charm as a historic and port city! The town is also known for its beautiful seafront ramparts, picturesque Provençal houses, and the famous Port Vauban built by Vauban.
Antibes is thus a captivating town, modern, historic, port-oriented, and pleasant to live in, lacking neither dynamism nor employment opportunities (especially if you work in tech!). Numerous artistic events and sports competitions take place each year for residents of all ages!
Antibes offers a variety of real estate options, from apartments in old Antibes to large villas on the hills. The market is dynamic, attracting both international investors and local residents.
As with any town in the southeast, it’s worth noting that in Antibes, the population almost triples during the summer: from 80,000 inhabitants to over 200,000 during the summer period! This influx contributes to the economy of Antibes, but also causes congestion and saturation in certain areas.
Théoule-sur-Mer is a quaint town located west of Cannes, nestled at the foot of the Estérel massif and along the Mediterranean. This hidden gem is renowned for its red sand beaches and secluded coves, offering spectacular sea views and an exceptional natural environment. Théoule is a quiet town, perfectly suited for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities while remaining close to urban amenities.
The real estate market in Théoule-sur-Mer is rather upscale, with an offering of exclusive properties such as luxury villas with private sea access and apartments with panoramic views of the coast. Prices are generally high but justified by the exceptional quality of the environment and the relative scarcity of available properties.
Mandelieu-la-Napoule is a commune located just west of Cannes, along the Mediterranean coast. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches and the historic Napoule castle, this town offers a relaxing living environment with stunning views of the sea and the red mountains of the Estérel. The atmosphere is more peaceful than in larger neighboring cities, making it a popular choice for those looking to escape urban bustle.
Mandelieu-la-Napoule offers a diverse real estate market, from modern apartments with terraces overlooking the sea to more traditional villas in quiet residential neighborhoods. Prices are generally more affordable than in central Cannes, making this town attractive to a broader range of buyers, including young families and retirees.
Located just fifteen minutes from Cannes, Mougins is among the perched towns that have made the region famous! Its small downtown area, composed of winding alleys and historic houses, overlooks the region and offers a beautiful panorama of the sea and mountains.
But Mougins is much more than a pretty old town; it is a large, dynamic commune, rich in facilities for all ages. Schools, gyms, clinics, senior services, tennis clubs, municipal swimming pools, sports and cultural activities, as well as renowned gourmet restaurants, luxury hotels, and numerous art galleries make life particularly pleasant for the residents of Mougins.
The town is known for its beautiful properties with gardens and pools and a relatively high standard of living, which explains the price per square meter, relatively expensive compared to the French average! The real estate market here targets an international clientele looking for both privacy and exclusivity. Residences often located in secure domains offer tranquility and security, with easy access to Cannes' facilities while being nestled in a peaceful, green environment.
Le Cannet is a picturesque residential town perched on the hills just north of Cannes. It offers panoramic views of the Bay of Cannes and the Lérins Islands. Known for its flower-lined alleys and lush gardens, Le Cannet combines the charm of an old village with the amenities of a modern town. The atmosphere is calm and artistic, having attracted many painters over the centuries, including the famous Pierre Bonnard.
The real estate market in Le Cannet is varied, with modern apartments, villas with pools, and traditional Provençal houses! The town is particularly popular among those seeking a primary residence rather than just a secondary home.
Vallauris is a town situated in the hills between Cannes and Antibes, known primarily for its ceramics industry and historical association with Pablo Picasso. Despite its illustrious past, Vallauris retains a working-town ambiance, with a diverse population and a daily life animated by local traditions.
The real estate market in Vallauris offers more affordable options than in neighboring coastal towns, with a variety of properties from renovated apartments in the historic center to more spacious villas in the outskirts. This accessibility makes Vallauris attractive to buyers on a more moderate budget and investors looking for potential good deals.
Mouans-Sartoux is a charming and dynamic town situated between Cannes and Grasse. It combines a tranquil living environment with a rich cultural and community fabric. The town is renowned for its numerous cultural events, including its famous book festival, and its commitment to sustainable development, particularly through its organic farming initiatives and environmental preservation efforts.
The town attracts a diverse population consisting of local families, expatriates, and retirees, creating a dynamic and resilient market. Properties here are more affordable than in the neighboring coastal towns.
Le Tignet is an authentic and charming Provencal village that enjoys breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and the Mediterranean Sea. Populated with villas and pavilions built on the hillside, it’s the ideal place for those looking to settle in the region without moving into a large city.
Living in the Provençal hinterland has several advantages:
Valbonne is a charming town close to Sophia Antipolis and Cannes, known for its perfectly preserved historical village built in a unique rectangular plan during the 16th century. The picturesque streets lined with colorful houses and bougainvillea, the Place des Arcades at the village center, and the multiple cafes and artisanal shops contribute to Valbonne’s welcoming and lively atmosphere.
Valbonne offers a varied range of properties, from traditional village houses to modern villas on the outskirts. Proximity to Sophia Antipolis attracts many technology sector professionals, stimulating real estate demand and maintaining solid property values. New constructions around the town offer contemporary options for those seeking modern amenities, while the historic center offers homes full of character and history.
The towns around Cannes, each with its distinct character and advantages, offer fascinating alternatives to life in a big city while remaining accessible to the vibrant heart of the French Riviera. Whether you are drawn to the artistic ambiance of Mougins, the seaside tranquility of Théoule-sur-Mer, the rich history of Antibes, or the quiet atmosphere of Valbonne, there is a multitude of options to suit all tastes and needs. Investing in a residence in one of these towns not only allows you to enjoy proximity to Cannes but also to embrace a lifestyle that reflects your personal and family preferences. We encourage you to visit these towns, immerse yourself in their unique atmosphere, and choose the one that will make you feel at home while enjoying the splendors of the French Riviera.
