While it may not look or seem like it, Cannes is still an urban metropolis just like any other city. Even though this coastal town mainly focuses on the beaches, yachts, and whatnot, not all of its residents are as affluent as many might think. There are still those who don't own their own cars, can't afford yachts, and don't even think about the helicopters. Fortunately, there's still public transport here in Cannes. From buses to even toy trains, there are loads of options for public transportation in this city. Here's what you need to know about them.
Renting A Car in Cannes
Although luxury cars practically reign supreme in Cannes, they're not the be-all and end-all for transportation here. In fact, a common way for tourists and new residents alike to get around this coastal city is to rent their own cars. With a number of rental services on offer, such as
Europcar and
Avis France, among many others, you'll have no trouble getting a hold of a brand new vehicle here. Just remember that they're rentals so you need to take extra good care of them. Also, there are a ton of parking areas, both above and underground, in the city. Choose those you feel will be safe for your rental.
The Palm Bus Network
Now, let's talk about buses! Here in Cannes, there's really only one bus system that goes around all the
major districts of the city: the
Palm Bus Network. It currently runs on 30 different lines, 6 separate on-demand lines, and 4 more that run at night. They're the most affordable and arguably the most efficient modes of public transportation for those who can't afford to rent cars in the city. Furthermore, there's the City Palm Shuttle, a special service that takes passengers from City Hall straight to the SNCF train station. Subscribers of the Palm Bus Network get first dibs on this service.
The Toy Trains in Cannes
Yes, you read that right! Though Cannes doesn't have its own underground metro system unlike
Paris, it still has a unique type of transit system many can use to get around. It's namely the 'Toy Train,' motorized white-painted vehicle that's designed to look like old-school carts from back in the day. Just as its name suggests, they look like overgrown toy trains that can hold actual passengers. Running from 9:30 am to 11:00 pm, the toy trains have two different routes. Both starting at the Palais des Festivals, one takes you around Le Suquet (Old Cannes) and the other in Croisette. Each ride lasts 35 minutes.
Cannes Taxis
Of course, there's also the option of taking a taxi. However, unlike in other cities, taxis in Cannes are rather limited. There are only around 150 taxis that run in the coastal city right now. You'll know one when you read 'Cannes' right below the 'Taxi' sign above the vehicles. Other than that, though other taxis may still run in the city, they're not as official, therefore, you might want to stay away from them. Nevertheless, you'll have better chances of getting an official Cannes taxi if you hail one in some of the busier areas in the city.
Cycling Around Cannes
Since Cannes is located by the beautiful coast of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, why not cycle your way around the city instead? It's coastal cities like this that are perfect for taking your bike out for a spin. And if you don't have one yourself, you don't need to worry! Just like care rentals, bike rentals in the city are a dime a dozen. Many of them even have various stations situated all throughout the city. For the most part, all you need to do is to download and open their respective apps (or websites), rent your bike, and go to said stations to pick them up. Easy peasy!
In many ways, all these aforementioned public transport systems in Cannes are easier navigated through transportation apps. Seeing as there's a limited number of taxis in the city, for instance, you're better off getting one through a ride-hailing program. At least, through such apps, you'll have an option of either getting an official taxi or a private luxury vehicle to take you around Cannes. Taking the bus instead? Various journey-planning apps have proven to be helpful in letting you know the different routes of the buses, what time they'll reach the station, your estimated time of arrival, and the like.
Cannes is the sort of city where getting to where you need to be is a piece of cake. It offers a myriad of ways to get around, ranging from renting luxury cars to even taking a toy train around the tourist hotspots in the city.
Mastering Canne's public transport systems will help you get back to your
luxury home here quicker and sooner!
