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Your Quick Route to Island Paradise
Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Cannes, the Lerins Islands offer a peaceful escape from the French Riviera’s bustling coast. This guide covers everything you need to know about how to take a day trip from Nice to the Lerins Islands, including ferry options, what to see on each island, and practical tips for a smooth visit.
Getting from Nice to Cannes: The First Step
Since ferries to the Lerins Islands depart from Cannes, your journey starts with a trip from Nice to Cannes. Here are your options:
- Train: The TER train from Nice-Ville to Cannes takes 25–35 minutes and costs around €7. Trains run frequently (every 15–30 minutes).
- Bus: Bus 200 runs along the coast (1 hour, €1.50). Slower but scenic.
- Car: Drive via A8 or the coastal road (30–50 minutes depending on traffic). Parking in Cannes is expensive; consider parking at the station.
Once in Cannes, head to the Quai Laubeuf near the old port, where ferries depart for both Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat.
Ferry Options and Schedules
Two main companies operate ferries to the islands: Trans Côte d’Azur (for Sainte-Marguerite) and Planaria or Compagnie des Bateaux for Saint-Honorat. Both offer frequent departures from April to October, with reduced service in winter.
| Island | Ferry Company | Travel Time | Round-Trip Fare (approx.) | Frequency (summer) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sainte-Marguerite | Trans Côte d’Azur | 15 min | €16.50 | Every 30 min |
| Saint-Honorat | Planaria | 15 min | €14 | Every 30–60 min |
Tip: Buy tickets online in advance during peak season (July–August) to avoid long queues. You can also purchase at the booth, but be prepared to wait.
Which Island Should You Visit? Sainte-Marguerite vs. Saint-Honorat
Both islands are beautiful, but they offer different experiences. If you have time, you can visit both in one day, but most people choose one to explore in depth.
Sainte-Marguerite: History and Nature
This is the larger of the two islands (about 3 km long). It’s famous for the Fort Royal, where the Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned. Key highlights:
- Fort Royal and the Prison Museum: Explore the fortress and learn about its most famous prisoner. Entry is about €6.
- Plage de la Baigneuse: A lovely sandy beach on the north side, perfect for a swim.
- Walking trails: A 3.5 km path circles the island, passing through pine forests and offering stunning sea views.
- Restaurants and cafés: A few options near the port, but prices are high. Bring a picnic.
Saint-Honorat: Tranquility and Wine
This smaller island is home to a working Cistercian monastery (Abbaye de Lérins). The monks produce wine, honey, and lavender products. Key highlights:
- Abbaye de Lérins: Visit the monastery church and shop for monastic products. The monks still live there, so respect their privacy.
- Vineyards and olive groves: The island is covered in terraced vineyards. You can walk through them.
- Beaches: There are several small coves, but no sandy beach like Sainte-Marguerite.
- Restaurant: La Tonnelle offers simple Provençal food, but it’s wise to book ahead.
How to Visit Both Islands in One Day
It’s possible but requires careful timing. Here’s a sample itinerary:
- Morning (8:30–12:00): Take the first ferry (around 8:30) from Cannes to Sainte-Marguerite. Explore Fort Royal and take a short walk.
- Midday (12:00–13:30): Return to Cannes and have a quick lunch at the port.
- Afternoon (13:30–17:00): Take the ferry to Saint-Honorat. Visit the monastery and enjoy a peaceful walk.
- Late afternoon (17:00–18:00): Return to Cannes. From there, take the train or bus back to Nice.
Note: Check the last ferry times carefully—they vary by season. In summer, the last ferry from Sainte-Marguerite is around 18:00, and from Saint-Honorat around 17:30.
Packing Checklist for Your Day Trip
- Comfortable walking shoes – The islands have dirt paths and rocky terrain.
- Swimsuit and towel – If you plan to swim, especially on Sainte-Marguerite.
- Sunscreen and hat – Shade is limited on trails.
- Water and snacks – Restaurants are expensive; bring a picnic.
- Cash – Some shops and ferry ticket booths may not accept cards.
- Camera – The views are spectacular.
When to Go: Best Season and Time of Day
The islands are most accessible from May to October. July and August are crowded and hot. For a quieter experience, visit in June or September. Early morning ferries (before 10:00) help you avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not checking ferry schedules in advance: Timetables change seasonally. Always verify online or at the port.
- Underestimating walking distances: Sainte-Marguerite’s loop is about 3.5 km; Saint-Honorat’s trails are shorter but uneven.
- Forgetting to bring cash: Some small shops and the monastery shop on Saint-Honorat may not accept cards.
- Assuming all beaches are sandy: Saint-Honorat has mostly rocky coves. Bring water shoes if you plan to swim there.
- Missing the last ferry: The consequences are expensive—you’d have to wait for the next day or arrange a water taxi.
FAQs About Day Trips to the Lerins Islands
Can I take a direct ferry from Nice to the Lerins Islands?
No, all ferries depart from Cannes. You must first travel from Nice to Cannes by train, bus, or car.
How much time should I spend on each island?
For Sainte-Marguerite, allow at least 3–4 hours to explore the fort and walk the loop. For Saint-Honorat, 2–3 hours is enough to see the monastery and stroll.
Are the islands wheelchair accessible?
Partially. The ferries are accessible, but the islands have unpaved paths and steep sections. Fort Royal has ramps, but some areas are difficult.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs are allowed on both islands but must be kept on a leash. They are not allowed inside the monastery on Saint-Honorat.
Is there accommodation on the islands?
No overnight stays are permitted on Sainte-Marguerite (except for a few private residences). Saint-Honorat’s monastery offers retreats, but advance booking is required and it’s not a typical hotel.
What if the weather is bad?
Ferries may be canceled in strong winds or storms. Check the forecast and have a backup plan, such as exploring Cannes or visiting the Musée de la Castre.
Make the Most of Your Island Escape
A day trip from Nice to the Lerins Islands is a rewarding addition to any French Riviera itinerary. By taking the train to Cannes early, choosing your island wisely, and packing smartly, you’ll enjoy a memorable day of history, nature, and Mediterranean beauty. Whether you explore the fortress of Sainte-Marguerite or the peaceful monastery of Saint-Honorat, the islands offer a refreshing contrast to the city’s glamour. Start planning early, check ferry times, and savor every moment of your journey.
Photo by Defrino Maasy on Pexels
Can you visit both islands in one day, or is that too rushed?
Yes, it’s possible if you start early. Ferries run frequently, and each island is small. Allow 2–3 hours per island. Consider visiting Sainte-Marguerite in the morning and Saint-Honorat in the afternoon.
Thanks for the tip about buying tickets online! We’ll be there in August.
You’re welcome! August is peak season, so online purchase is highly recommended. Also consider arriving at Cannes early to avoid the longest queues.
Is the ferry from Cannes wheelchair accessible?
Most ferries are accessible, but it’s best to check with the specific company (Trans Côte d’Azur or Planaria) in advance. The islands have some accessible paths, though Fort Royal may have stairs.
Great guide! One thing: is there a place to buy food on Saint-Honorat, or should I bring a picnic?
There is a small shop at the monastery selling snacks and drinks, but options are limited. A picnic is a good idea. On Sainte-Marguerite, there are a few restaurants but they can be pricey.
Where exactly in Cannes do the ferries depart? I want to make sure I’m at the right spot.
Ferries depart from Quai Laubeuf near the old port (Vieux Port). It’s a short walk from Cannes train station. Look for the ticket booths along the quay.
Are there any luggage restrictions on the ferry? I’ll have a small backpack.
Small backpacks and daypacks are fine. Large suitcases are not recommended as the islands are for day trips. The crew may ask you to store bags in designated areas.