Saint-Tropez is one of the best-known destinations on the Côte d'Azur. This town in the Var region, which attracts international stars in summer and has been featured in numerous films, is as chic and glamorous as it gets. But it's also a city with a Mediterranean soul, where you can enjoy strolling through its narrow streets to admire its heritage, lazing on its beaches and walking along its coastline, not forgetting its local delicacies and museums. Want to discover the famous Saint-Tropez soon? Here are 13 must-sees to help you plan your stay.
1. Lounging in the port of Saint-Tropez
The port is undoubtedly the first place to visit when you arrive in Saint-Tropez. One of the Côte d'Azur's must-sees. As both a fishing port and a yachting harbor, the first thing you notice is the sheer size of the yachts and sailboats. Strolling along the quays, you can admire the colorful facades of the buildings, before stopping for a coffee or a drink in the sunshine. Early risers should be aware that fishermen sell their catch every morning at the fish market. It's located in the small passageway linking the port to Place aux Herbes. And the port is also full of little boutiques where you can treat yourself during the vacations.
2. Stroll through the narrow streets of Saint-Tropez
Don't expect Saint-Tropez to be all glitz and glamour. Although it's a trendy destination, it's first and foremost a small coastal town with Provencal charm. The streets and alleyways boast pretty ochre facades. Stores, café terraces and restaurants await strollers with local produce. It's always a pleasure to get lost in the center of Saint-Tropez. Of course, walking can be a little tricky in summer when the crowds are thick. A visit to the town in June or September is recommended to escape the crowds.
3. Visit the Provencal market
While the Place des Lices regularly plays host to pétanque enthusiasts, on Tuesday and Saturday mornings it is transformed into a large, colorful market. In the shade of the plane trees, locals and visitors alike discover stalls selling fruit and vegetables, cheeses and other local produce. You'll also find clothes, scented soaps, straw baskets and hats, and a smattering of second-hand goods. The atmosphere is typical of Côte d'Azur markets. A true moment of pleasure!
4. See the towers of Saint-Tropez
Architecture and history buffs should know that Saint-Tropez boasts 4 towers: Tour du Portalet, Tour Jarlier, Tour Vieille and Tour de Suffren. Built in the past by Tropezians to protect themselves from attack, the Tour de Suffren is the oldest, dating back to the 11th century. It is also the oldest building in the town. The Portalet and Vieille towers date from the 15th century, and the Jarlier tower from the 16th century. The latter is available for private events.
5. Entering Notre-Dame de l'Assomption church
Theparish church of Notre-Dame de l'Assomption was built in the 18th century, and the ochre and sienna-colored steeple was erected in 1634. It's the town's emblem, a nugget of the Var region. It's the monument that stands out from the rest, and can be seen from all sides. The building's main façade is very sober. Once inside, you'll discover a formidable Italianate décor in the late 18th century style. The church was restored between 1988 and 1990. It is also listed on the Inventaire Supplémentaire des Monuments Historiques. How can you imagine a visit to Saint-Tropez without seeing its symbol?
6. Getting to the citadel
Holidaymakers looking for a nice stroll from the town center can head for the citadel, which dominates the town and dates back to the early 17th century. It was built to protect the town from attack. Its ramparts offer a panoramic view of the town and the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Today, the citadel houses the town's Maritime History Museum. The Citadelle de Saint-Tropez remains one of the most visited sites in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region.
7. Sunbathing on the beaches of Saint-Tropez
Vacations in Saint-Tropez are, of course, an opportunity to enjoy the Grande Bleue. There are a number of small beaches in the town center, such as Plage de la Glaye and Plage de la Ponche, where you can cool off. Pampelonne beach is a favorite destination, the city's most famous stretch of sand. 5 km of fine white sand and turquoise Mediterranean. One of the places where you're most likely to see celebrities sunbathing. Tahiti beach is also very popular, with beach clubs, bars and restaurants. Alternatively, you can rent a deckchair on the Bouillabaisse beach, with the added bonus of a beautiful view of the boats moored offshore.
You can also discover the beauty of Saint-Tropez by kayaking in the Mediterranean by booking here.
8. Follow the Sentier du Littoral
The Sentier du Littoral, also known as the Sentier des Douaniers, is a great walk around Saint-Tropez. It takes you all the way around the peninsula, but there are several variations, depending on your fitness and ability to walk for long distances. After putting on good shoes and taking enough water with you, for example, you can follow the loop that takes in the Baie des Canebiers, as well as the beaches of La Moutte and Les Salins. The advantage of following the Sentier des Douaniers, in addition to enjoying the steep coastline, is that there are plenty of opportunities to take to the water on the beaches or in secret coves.
9. Take a boat trip in the Gulf
It's immediately obvious when you arrive in Saint-Tropez: boats occupy a special place. Holidaymakers wishing to enjoy the beauty of the Gulf can rent a boat, with or without a skipper depending on whether or not they have a driving license, or opt for group outings. Guided sea excursions, for example, allow you to learn more about the city's long history and contemplate its historic districts from the water. Along the way, you'll discover the locations of legendary films such as "Et Dieu Créa la Femme" and "Le Gendarme de Saint-Tropez".
Embark on a sailing adventure aboard a catamaran to discover the Saint-Tropez coastline by booking right here !
10. Discover the Gendarmerie Nationale
Some generations can't help but think of the films "Le Gendarme de Saint-Tropez", starring Louis de Funès and Michel Galabru, when they wander the streets of the Var town. Well, the famous gendarmerie seen in the various films, located on Place Blanqui , is now a museum. The Musée de la Gendarmerie Nationale et du Cinéma focuses on the history of the building, which was also home to the Saint-Tropez brigade from 1879 to 2003, and on the portrayal of the gendarme in the movies. It also looks at the history of cinema in Saint-Tropez.
11. Taste the mythical tarte Tropézienne
Food lovers beware! The tarte Tropézienne can be found in many bakeries and pastry shops in France, but it has a very special flavor when savored in Saint-Tropez. Created in 1955, this tart is a local specialty, a delicacy made with cream and brioche, sprinkled with large grains of sugar. It can be eaten in various places around town. Today, it comes in many different recipes, but in Saint-Tropez, no fuss, no muss - you're guaranteed to taste the real thing!
Click here to book your culinary tour of Saint-Tropez!
12. Coming to Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez
Travelers who decide to visit the town in late September, early October, have the chance to take part in the "Voiles de Saint-Tropez". A great idea for a weekend in France. This event, held annually since 1981, features a mix of modern boats, maxi yachts and traditional boats. In the morning, you can admire the boats in the harbor and chat with the participants. Then it's off to the harbour breakwater to watch the races in the distance. There's always a lot of fervor at this event, and what's more, the weather is often mild. This is the Côte d'Azur!
Book now to enjoy the famous Voiles de Saint Tropez aboard a catamaran and follow the various starts that take place in the Gulf, opposite Saint-Tropez.
13. Partying in Saint-Tropez
It would be a shame to stay in Saint-Tropez without experiencing the excitement of the Tropezian parties. Especially in summer, when everyone wants to let loose and enjoy themselves. The town's legendary clubs have earned it a worldwide reputation. These include Caves du Roy, Nikki Beach and VIP Room. These are just some of the places where it's common to bump into stars. Saint-Tropez is a favorite summer destination for celebrities. DJ sets and other shows liven up the place every evening in July and August. Be careful, proper attire is required, and we'd like to warn you that prices can skyrocket!
Where to stay in Saint-Tropez?
A must on the Côte d'Azur, there's a wide choice of hotels in and around Saint-Tropez.
- Hôtel La Mandarine, for its garden and swimming pool
Located just outside town, this hotel can be booked here is a magnificent, large Provencal property with finely decorated rooms. Some have their own terrace. The setting is sublime, with a large garden, swimming pool and vineyards nearby. A restaurant features Mediterranean flavors.
- Hôtel Le Sube, for its position on the port
One of the town's oldest hotels, with 27 rooms. Some offer a view of the sea and the boats. Located right on the port, you couldn't ask for better access to the city's heritage, museums, market and lively quayside, with its many stores and restaurants. The hotel also boasts a bar, ideal for aperitifs and tapas. Click here to find out more!
- L'Hôtel des Lices, for the family feel
Another magnificent residence in Saint-Tropez, a stone's throw from Place des Lices. The rooms are bright and warmly colored. Some have small balconies. The swimming pool is magnificent, as are the deckchairs for sunbathing. A very elegant place, which also houses a bar and restaurant and which you can book right here.
What to do in Saint-Tropez when it rains?
Is it raining while you're in Saint-Tropez? Don't panic! Although it rarely rains in the Var, it can still happen, even in summer. Now's the time tovisit the Gendarmerie Nationale and learn more about cinema. Or go shopping in the luxury and designer boutiques, then comfort yourself with a good Tropezian tart. Alternatively, you can drive to the vineyards, stopping off at the producers to buy a bottle of wine. But don't drive too fast!
What to do in Saint-Tropez with your family?
Saint-Tropez is an ideal destination for families. In fine weather, there's plenty of choice for spending time at the beach, with some of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the Var. You can also visit the citadel's Maritime History Museum and enjoy a wide range of water sports: sailing, diving, stand-up paddling... A number of attractions await parents and children in the vicinity. Azur Park and its roller coasters, Aqualand in Sainte-Maxime or Grimaud Aventure and its amusing aerial obstacles.
Did you enjoy your stay in Saint-Tropez? Discover the 21 most beautiful places on the Côte d' Azur and the 15 most beautiful villages in the PACA region.
Book in advance below the trendiest activities to do during your stay in Saint Tropez:
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