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.
Smithsonian at the Cannes Film Festival
8 days from $6,995
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.
Tour Details
WHAT OUR TRAVELERS SAY
- Lorraine M.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.
JOURNEYS DISPATCHES
Overview
The Cannes Film Festival has transitioned to an online ticketing system for film screenings. This allows participants to review and select their preferred screenings days in advance—even before the Smithsonian Journeys program begins. While the Palais des Festivals usually has online booking terminals available, we highly recommend bringing a laptop or tablet so that you can review the options and book your screenings at your convenience. You may also be able to use your mobile phone, though functionality and visibility are not optimal. To maximize your ability to secure the screenings you desire, we have scheduled this program during the later part of the festival when the crowds thin and there is more availability. Please note that access to your preferred screenings is not guaranteed, but there are always alternatives.
- Lorraine M.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.
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)