Two excellent self-guided options await budget-conscious travelers in Cannes.
We love the Île Sainte-Marguerite ferry excursion – a quick 15-minute boat ride whisks you to a pristine island loaded with hiking trails, local wildlife, and a fascinating fortress.
The Cannes Scavenger Hunt app is another winner, cleverly mixing city highlights with fun challenges and historical tidbits.
Both tours put you in control of your schedule and keep costs down.
Let’s check out our favorite self-guided tours of this glamorous French Riviera gem.
Key Points
- The Île Sainte-Marguerite ferry excursion offers a budget-friendly, self-guided exploration of the island’s hiking trails, bird-watching, and historic Fort Royal.
- The Cannes Scavenger Hunt app provides an affordable, self-guided walking tour to discover the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
- Both tours cater to budget-conscious travelers and offer flexible scheduling, with options for wheelchair users, stroller owners, and service animal owners.
- The Île Sainte-Marguerite ferry operates year-round, while the Cannes Scavenger Hunt is available from April 2022 to December 2025, allowing for convenient planning.
- Advance planning is recommended, especially for dining options on the Île Sainte-Marguerite, to enhance the overall self-guided tour experience in Cannes.
Ile Sainte-Marguerite From Cannes: Self-Guided Tour and Ferry
From the Lauberf carpark in Cannes, France, travelers can embark on a 15-minute ferry ride to the captivating Île Sainte-Marguerite. The round-trip ferry service departs every half hour and can accommodate up to 200 travelers.
The island is accessible for wheelchair users, strollers, and service animals, though onboard amenities are limited to beverage purchases, and there are no bathroom facilities.
Upon arrival, visitors can explore the island’s hiking trails, bird-watch at Batéguier lake, and tour the historic Fort Royal, which is closed on Mondays during the off-season.
Restaurants on the island are only open from May to October, so travelers should plan accordingly.
Booking is flexible, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and a “reserve now, pay later” option.
With an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 182 reviews, this self-guided tour offers stunning views, an efficient ferry service, and an opportunity to take in the natural beauty of Île Sainte-Marguerite.
Read our full review: Ile Sainte-Marguerite From Cannes: Self-Guided Tour and Ferry Review
Book now: Check availability
Cannes Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour
Travelers seeking a more independent exploration of Cannes can embark on the Cannes Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour, available through the Explorial App. This private activity allows visitors to discover the city at their own pace, following a self-guided walking route that takes them to iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
The tour starts and ends at the Carlton Beach Club, offering flexibility in your sightseeing. While not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers, the hunt is accessible to service animals and public transportation users.
Priced at $10.36 per person, the tour provides a budget-friendly way to experience Cannes, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance. Reviewers have praised the fun games and informative facts encountered during the scavenger hunt, making it a great choice for those who prefer a less structured city exploration.
With availability from April 2022 to December 2025, this self-guided tour offers a unique and flexible way to discover the charms of Cannes.
Read our full review: Cannes Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Cannes offers visitors a chance to explore the city’s top sights at their own pace with self-guided tours. From the scenic Île Sainte-Marguerite to a fun scavenger hunt through the city’s main attractions, these budget-friendly options allow travelers to discover Cannes’ beauty and history without the added cost of a guide. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these self-guided tours are a great way to experience the best of Cannes.