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About the city
Cagnes-sur-Mer is a commune of the Alpes-Maritimes department in the Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur region in southeastern France. It is a part of the metropolitan area of Nice Cote d’Azur and the largest suburb of the city of Nice, and lies to the west-southwest of it, about 15 km from the center.
City areas
Cagnes is a wonderful blend of old and new. In fact the city is divided into three parts, Haut de Cagnes, the old city, Le Cros de Cagnes, the seaport, and the center of town, Cagnes-Ville. Each has its own distinctive flair and importance.
Attractions
The orange groves and fields of carnations of the upper village provide a beautiful setting for the narrow cobblestone streets and 17th- and 18th-century homes. Drive your car to the top, where you can enjoy the view from place du Château and have lunch or a drink at a sidewalk cafe.
Transportation
Cagnes is easily reachable by train. Of course if you live outside Europe you should take a plane to Nice first and then travel by either train or bus. Another popular transportation method is by own vehicle.
Events
There is only one event in Cagnes that is popular with tourists and locals alike. The Medieval Festival in Cagnes is a real worthwhile experience, as it is one of the most successful events of such sort in France.
Restaurants & Nightlife
There aren’t many restaurants in Cagnes, but that shouldn’t discourage you to eat out. The few restaurants that operate in Cagnes are exquisite and offer dishes that will simply melt in your mouth.
History & Civilisation
Cagnes-sur-Mer seems to have appeared in the 11th century. Because of its proximity to the Var river which serves as a border between the County of Provence and that of Savoy, in 1388 it became an important border post.
Chateau Grimaldi in Cagnes
One of the many Grimaldi Castles, the Cagnes Chateau Grimaldi is built on the site of an earlier fortress occupied by the Greeks and then the Romans. The castle, built upon a hill top around a triangular courtyard, towers over the town, and along with Renoir’s house is one of the best known landmarks in the area.