Palais des festivals et des congrès

The current convention centre was inaugurated in 1982. It replaced the old structure, which had become too cramped in light of the Cannes Film Festival’s success and rise in business tourism. Even though the legendary red-carpeted steps are the annual gathering place of those who make movies and those who love them, the building is primarily a convention centre – the country’s second in importance. For a backstage look at the festival, from the pathway of the stars to the Louis Lumière auditorium where the Palme d’Or is awarded, enquire about the guided tours held two to three times each month.