Cannes

Every May, Cannes is transformed into a giant film set, as the cream of the film industry gathers on the red carpet of the Palais des Festivals. The Hotel Carlton's manicured lawns fizz with the sound of champagne corks, and the Old Town's backstreet bars buzz with Hollywood gossip.

Situated on France's south-eastern coast, Cannes' origins as a fishing community are still evident in its old port, where traditional working boats vie for moorings with expensive yachts. Discover the delights of the Mediterranean diet in a pretty harbour-side restaurant, serving up the day's catch accompanied by local rosé wine.