Key Facts about Cagnes-sur-Mer, France

Blending medieval charm, seaside relaxation, and artistic heritage, Cagnes-sur-Mer is a hidden gem on the French Riviera. Visitors can explore the cobbled lanes of Haut-de-Cagnes, discover Renoir’s legacy at his hillside estate, or unwind on sandy beaches along the Mediterranean. With its rich culture, beautiful coastline, and proximity to Nice, Cagnes-sur-Mer offers a perfect mix of history, art, and Riviera lifestyle.

9/13/20251 min read

Location

Cagnes-sur-Mer is a seaside town on the French Riviera, located between Nice and Antibes, about 10 km from Nice Côte d’Azur Airport.

Known for

Its charming medieval hilltop village (Haut-de-Cagnes), seaside promenade, beaches, and strong artistic heritage, including Renoir’s home and museum.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June): Pleasant temperatures and blooming gardens.
Summer (July–August): Lively atmosphere with beach activities and festivals.
Autumn (September–October): Warm seas and fewer crowds.
Winter (December–February): Mild climate, ideal for exploring cultural sites.

Local Language

French. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Currency

Euro (€).

Getting There

By air: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is just 10 minutes away.
By train: Regional TER trains connect Cagnes-sur-Mer with Nice, Antibes, and Cannes.
By car: Easily accessible via the A8 motorway.
By bus: Local buses run frequently along the Riviera coast.

Top Attractions

Haut-de-Cagnes (Old Town): A medieval quarter with narrow cobblestone streets and panoramic views.
Château Grimaldi: A fortress-turned-museum showcasing local history and art.
Renoir Museum: The former estate of painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir, surrounded by olive groves.
Promenade de la Plage: A lively waterfront with cafés, restaurants, and beaches.
Hippodrome de la Côte d’Azur: One of France’s most important horse racing tracks.
Polygone Riviera: An open-air shopping and lifestyle center with modern architecture.

Local Specialties

Bouillabaisse: Traditional Provençal fish stew.
Socca: A savory chickpea pancake typical of Nice and the region.
Pissaladière: Caramelized onion tart with anchovies and olives.
Rosé wines from Provence: Perfect with Mediterranean cuisine.

Notable Events

Medieval Festival of Haut-de-Cagnes (summer): Reenactments, music, and crafts.
Horse Races at Hippodrome (year-round): Highlighting equestrian culture.
Renoir Cultural Events: Exhibitions and art festivals inspired by the painter.
Christmas Markets: Festive celebrations along the Riviera.