Since 2014, through a special accreditation granted by the Festival, Smithsonian offers access to the world’s premier film festival, an exclusive event reserved for industry professionals. Explore the world of film as you attend screenings and gain access to restricted areas including the American Pavilion. Experience legendary Cannes alongside loyal Smithsonian travelers who join us year after year on this unique program.

Evening scene, Cannes harbor. Credit: Atout France/Robert Palomba

The Cinema de la Plage

The port area of Cannes

The Cinema de la Plage has screenings every evening

Each country pavilion at the Cannes Film Festival has a seaside terrace

The cameras flash in a frenzy when stars approach the Red Carpet

Private parties take place along the Croisette during the Festival

Smithsonian at the Cannes Film Festival

8 days from $6,995

Tour Details

WHAT OUR TRAVELERS SAY

This was a "once in a lifetime" experience. I could not have participated in the festival without the Smithsonian's program and I am very grateful to have had this wonderful opportunity.

- Lorraine M.

JOURNEYS DISPATCHES

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Overview

Since 1946, the Cannes Film Festival has celebrated the art of filmmaking around the globe, becoming one of the most prestigious—and exclusive—annual film events in the world. The Festival has long held a reputation for showcasing a diverse range of independent films and thrusting little-known filmmakers onto the world stage.

Through special accreditation granted to Smithsonian Journeys by the Festival, enjoy access to dozens of screenings of some of the most daring, promising, and topical films of the year. Stay a at a hotel and spa just a short walk from the famous red carpet of the Palais des Festivals and enjoy six days to attend as many screenings as you wish. With your Festival badge, you’ll have access to restricted areas and hear from emerging filmmakers about their craft.

Highlights Include

Special Festival Pass: Equipped with a coveted Festival badge, you’ll be able to join industry professionals to view films from the “Official Competition” as well as those by lesser-known filmmakers in the Un Certain Regard competition. Watch directors introduce their short films, and hear from an actor, director, or producer about a newly restored Cannes Classic.
Restricted Access Areas: Visit the Film Market where the business of film is conducted and tour the American Pavilion and the International Village—possible only through your Festival badge.
Private Reception: Gather at a festive private reception with an industry insider—exclusively for Smithsonian Journeys travelers.
Morning Briefings: Attend briefings with your Smithsonian Journeys Expert to learn what goes on behind the scenes, discuss the previous day’s films, and hear suggestions for other screenings.

This was a "once in a lifetime" experience. I could not have participated in the festival without the Smithsonian's program and I am very grateful to have had this wonderful opportunity.

- Lorraine M.

To see itinerary, please click on an option below.

Itinerary

Days 1 & 2 – Depart U.S. for Cannes, France

Fly from the U.S. to Nice and transfer to Cannes, your home for the next six nights. Check in to your hotel, just a short walk from the Palais des Festivals and the seaside promenade known as the Boulevard de la Croisette. This evening, meet your fellow cinephiles at a welcome reception and dinner. You’ll receive your accreditation badge, giving you access to the Festival—beginning with a screening tonight, if you wish! (R,D)

Hôtel Montaigne & Spa

Day 3 – Cannes: Introduction and Palais des Festivals

After breakfast this morning, your Smithsonian Journeys Expert will offer an introduction to the history and organization of the Cannes Film Festival as well as an overview of the schedule and the featured films. Then head to the Palais des Festivals for a walking orientation of the various Festival venues with your Expert. Following the tour, you are free to pursue films of your choice for the rest of the day. The last showing is at midnight! (B)

Hôtel Montaigne & Spa

Day 4 – Cannes Film Festival Screenings

Review today’s screenings with your Smithsonian Journeys Expert during breakfast, then set out for the Palais des Festivals to watch as many films as you wish throughout the day. Early in the evening, gather for a presentation by a film professional and private reception exclusively for Smithsonian Journeys travelers. Later, return to the theaters to catch an evening screening. (B,R)

Hôtel Montaigne & Spa

Day 5-6 – Cannes Film Festival Screenings

Enjoy two more full days filled with the screenings of your choice, including those from the Cannes Classics, Un Certain Regard categories, or a series of short films. Between screenings, attend information sessions with industry professionals or emerging filmmakers at the American Pavilion. In your free time, stroll past the elegant Art Deco hotels and haute couture boutiques along La Croisette, or find a prime people-watching spot to grab a coffee or lunch. Take a walk through the narrow lanes of Le Suquet, Cannes’ historic district or, if you wish, grab a taxi to the Musée Bonnard just outside of town to see the works of post-Impressionist Pierre Bonnard. (B)

Hôtel Montaigne & Spa

Day 7 – Final Wrap-Up and Le Palmarès

During a leisurely last day in Cannes, gather for a final session with your Smithsonian Journeys Expert to share your thoughts, experiences, and film critiques. Celebrate your cinematic discoveries this evening at a farewell dinner followed by a viewing party at the hotel bar for Le Palmarès, the Festival’s awards ceremony. (B,R,D)

Hôtel Montaigne & Spa

Day 8 – Depart Cannes for U.S.

Depart Cannes early this morning for Nice and individual return flights home. (B)

Included meals are denoted as follows: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Reception (R), Dinner (D)