Navigating Cannes with Accessibility in Mind: Tips from Abbie
- ABBIE HILLS
- May 7
- 3 min read
Hi! I’m Abbie – Talent Agent at The Dazey Hills Company, Writer, Access Coordinator, and unapologetic champion of good shoes and good vibes. I have cerebral palsy that presents as non visible, and this will be my 4th year at Cannes Film Festival.
Navigating Cannes with a disability can be challenging, but doable, with a bit of prep and patience.
Accessibility First: Know Your Tools
The Cannes Film Festival has a brilliant resource called ‘Festival For All’ – it’s the holy grail of accessibility info.From adapted screenings to transport routes (including the bus and shuttle services), it’s all in there.
You can also declare your disability on your application, or by emailing hospitality afterwards, and they can share information with you on how to bring an accompanying person along with you for support to screenings and other events.
The hospitality room is in the Palais and is accessible by lift.
How to get it:
Email the Hospitality team directly.
Or head to the official Cannes website and search for “Festival For All.”
Map It
Cannes is a walking festival. Long days, lots of bouncing between venues, and often a bit chaotic. If, like me, you deal with mobility or energy dips, keeping hold of a map is key. Plan your route before heading out and avoid detours that will steal your steps and your stamina. Your future self will thank you. I learned this the hard way last year.
Find Your Festival Safe Space
Trust me, you need a base camp. Somewhere comfy and central to rest, recharge, or just breathe. The pavilions get packed fast, and seats are gold dust.
My go-to? [New York, New York] – it’s right by the Palais and the tents, perfect for people-watching, caffeine, and regrouping. Also they have a great tuna burger that I love.
Many of the bathrooms in restaurants and cafes are up/downstairs due to the nature of the old buildings. There are accessible bathrooms in the Palais, and you may also be able to use bathrooms in the hotels if you are having a drink in the cafe/bar.
Croisette, But Make It Comfy
Every year, I get myself worked up that I can’t find shoes that are stylish and comfy, and sometimes I wish that I could wear the same glam shoes as everyone else, but then I remember, looking after future me.
Daytime favs: White canvas trainers from M&S – chic, simple, and my feet don’t scream at me.
Evening stars:
Heavenly Feet – chunky heels that feel like clouds.
Simply Be – cushioned, supportive, and still glam https://www.simplybe.co.uk/shop/p/jm007
Comfort is not a compromise – it’s the secret weapon.
If you need to bring extra shoes with you but don’t have the handbag space, you can make use of the storage lockers within the festival.
Final Word from Me
Accessibility looks different for everyone. Honour your limits, build in rest, and don’t feel bad about ducking out ea
rly. You’re not there to prove anything – you’re there to shine, connect, and celebrate stories. Cannes is a festival that lasts 11 days, so you will need to keep your energy up.
So whether you’re rolling, strolling, or sitting down between screenings with a spritz in hand, just know: You belong here. ✨
With love & comfy shoes,
Abbie x
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