Long associated with the glamour of its annual film festival and the Cote d'Azur jet set, Cannes is a small, pleasant city with an active arts scene, ample sunshine, and access to beautiful beaches. Cannes remained a small fishing village until the 19th century, when it developed into a resort town under the influence of British politicians. Many visitors find Cannes more agreeable than its larger neighbor, Nice, particularly when it comes to its wide, sandy beaches and ritzy shopping streets. Tourists come to stroll down La Croisette, shop on the Rue d'Antibes, and explore the charming and historic old port.
