11 Amazing Things to Do in Saint Tropez—No Yacht Required!

Everybody’s heard of St Tropez, the legendary hotspot of the French Riviera. This once-tiny fishing village transformed into a playground for the rich and famous after Brigitte Bardot put it on the map. Some say it’s just for celebrities and millionaires. Others claim it’s overrated. Beyond its glamour, this Provencal town surprises you with historic narrow cobblestone streets where you can enjoy its authentic side. No matter how many times you visit, there are always new things to do in Saint Tropez—beyond the champagne lifestyle.

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Spend one day here, and you’ll understand why it’s more than just a celebrity hotspot.

 

This famous French town may have a reputation for wealth and luxury, but there’s something for everyone here. Yes, the rich and famous dock their mega yachts in the harbour and visit glitzy beach clubs like Club 55. But just a few steps away, you’ll find charming pastel cottages shaded by grapevines, historic markets, and cafes where locals gather.

 

 

Where is it?

This glamorous French Riviera hotspot lies between Cannes and Saint-Raphaël, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of southeastern France. Saint Tropez is 68 km (42 miles) from Nice and 100 km (62 miles) from Marseille. It enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters, and boasts some of the world’s most famous beaches.

 

How to get from Nice to Saint Tropez

This famous coastal town may be one of the most glamorous destinations on the French Riviera, but getting there? That’s where the real challenge begins.

WHY DRIVING IS A BAD IDEA

The idea of driving from Nice might seem convenient—until you actually do it. Many assume driving is the best option, but few realize the reality of summer traffic. The summer rush turns the coastal road into a nightmare. Expect endless summer traffic jams, frustrating delays, and almost non-existent parking. A simple drive can become an exhausting ordeal, turning your dream getaway into a test of patience. And once you arrive? Finding parking is a nightmare. Most parking areas are full before midday, leaving many visitors circling for hours or walking long distances under the hot sun.

 

NO DIRECT TRAIN, ONLY HASSLE

If you hope to avoid driving by taking the train, think again. Unlike other French Riviera towns, Saint-Tropez has no train station. The closest station is in Saint-Raphaël, 39 km away. From there, you’ll need to take a bus or a boat to continue your journey. This adds unnecessary complications and even more hassle to your trip. By the time you arrive, you’ll already be exhausted.

 

FERRY FROM NICE TO SAINT TROPEZ

For a hassle-free, scenic, and enjoyable trip, take the ferry from Nice to Saint Tropez. Instead of fighting traffic or dealing with multiple connections, you’ll sail along the Côte d’Azur, enjoying breathtaking Mediterranean views. The 2.5-hour ferry ride isn’t just the easiest way—it’s the most beautiful. Enjoy the turquoise waters and fresh sea air as you cruise along the Côte d’Azur. The ferry departs Nice in the morning at 9 AM. Once you arrive, you have five hours to explore the town before heading back. No driving, no delays—just pure relaxation.

 

Instead of dealing with stress, why not turn your journey into a scenic adventure? We chose this option for a reason: it’s effortless and comfortable – just sit back, relax, and soak in the views. The fresh sea air, the turquoise waters, and the stunning coastal scenery make the journey part of the adventure.

 

RESERVE YOUR SEATS BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE

As of March 2025, a return ticket for a ferry from Nice to Saint Tropez costs 80 euros for adults. Children (4-10 years) pay 66 euros for a return ticket. Ferries operate from the middle of May to the end of October, but tickets sell out fast, especially in summer. With only one ferry per day, tickets are in high demand. If you wait too long, you may miss out!

Reserve your spot online without upfront payment and pay at the harbour 24 hours before departure. Alternatively, secure your seat through Get Your Guide. Their ferry tickets might be slightly more expensive, but they have an easier cancellation and refund process.

 

2025 FERRY SCHEDULE:

• May–June & September: Tues, Thurs, Sat, Sun
• July–August: Every day (except Mondays)
• October: Tues, Sat

 

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The Best things to do in Saint Tropez

 

1. Saint-Tropez’s Old Town

Long before this French town became a magnet for artists and filmmakers, it was a simple fishing village built around the sea. Traders exported wine and olive oil, fishermen brought in their daily catch, and their cottages stood side by side with lively markets.

Today, despite its exclusivity, Saint-Tropez’s Old Town is incredibly walkable and welcoming. As you leave the busy marina behind, the streets narrow and the noise fades. Stroll through the maze of cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where time slows down. The charm lies in the details—rustic shutters, hidden courtyards, and tiny boutiques tucked between centuries-old buildings. The streets, shaded by houses in soft shades of cream and terracotta, lead towards the citadel, offering glimpses of a simpler life. Here, locals still gather in tiny squares, artists find inspiration, and every street corner holds a story. Explore without a plan, let the streets guide you, and discover a place that has captivated travellers for centuries.

 

It’s not just about what you see—it’s about what you feel. There’s a reason why artists and writers once flocked here. Wander these streets, breathe in the sea air, and let the town’s past reveal itself.

 

2. Old Port of St Tropez

To understand the town, you must start at its Old Port.

 

The Old Port is more than a scenic spot—it’s the reason this town exists. For over 500 years, this harbour has shaped the town’s destiny. The Greeks and Romans once used it as a trading post. The 15th century brought prosperity and turned it into a vital fishing and shipbuilding centre. By the 18th century, the port was home to one of France’s most powerful merchant fleets. The town’s shipyards built some of the greatest vessels of the time, including La Reine des Anges in 1860. This famous ship was a testament to the port’s shipbuilding mastery and symbolized an era. But history took a turn—trade declined, and World War II nearly erased this history. Thankfully, it was painstakingly rebuilt, and today, it thrives as one of the world’s most exclusive marinas.

Although its commercial role faded, Vieux Port remains the heart of the town. The rebuilt marina, expanded with an additional basin after World War II can now take in 734 vessels. It welcomes luxury yachts and hosts prestigious sail regattas and travellers from around the world.

 

 

A MARINA LIKE NO OTHER

But it’s not just about boats. The pastel-coloured waterfront, lively promenade, and elegant cafés make this a perfect place to soak up the town’s atmosphere. The Môle Jean-Réveille promenade offers some of the best views of the port, while the legendary Café Sénéquier, with its striking red façade, is the place for celebrity spotting and relaxing under the Riviera sun.

 

3. Citadel of St Tropez

Too many visitors come to this French town for its luxury without realizing how much history is hiding just a short climb above the port. For anyone searching for the best things to do in Saint-Tropez, this historic gem should be at the top of the list.

 

The short but steep walk from the port to the citadel is a journey back in time. Step through its grand entrance, and you’ll immediately feel its rich history. For over 400 years, this fortress has watched over the town and its sturdy walls once a shield against foreign invaders. Built in 1602, by order of King Henry IV, it was a crucial part of France’s coastal defence, protecting against the Spanish attacks. The massive stone tower, known as the donjon, was a powerful defensive structure designed by the king’s own engineer, Raymond de Bonefons. The fortress is beautifully preserved, with massive stone walls and bastions that once held back enemy forces. But by 1873, it lost its military purpose—modern artillery had made its walls obsolete.

Today, the old cannons still sit along the ramparts, a reminder of the fortress’s past.

 

THE BEST VIEW WITH A SIDE OF HISTORY

But war is long over, and today the Citadel has a new purpose. Inside, the Museum of Maritime History tells the story of Saint-Tropez’s deep connection with the sea. The museum brings the town’s naval heritage to life. The former dungeon holds exhibits on fishing, trade, and seafaring traditions.

Beyond its rich history, the Citadel offers something else—a view that will take your breath away. From its walls, you can see the best view of the French Riviera’s coastline and the terracotta rooftops of the town.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

• ADMISSION FEE (as of March 2025) €5 per adult, free for children under 12
• OPENING TIMES: Open daily from 10 AM – 6:30 PM (April – September), or 10 AM – 5:30 PM (October – March).
• The last entry to the Citadel is 30 minutes before closing, as of March 2025.
• CLOSED: January 1, May 1, November 11, December 25
• Guided tours are available from April to September.

 

 

4. La Ponche

Nowhere is that past more alive than in La Ponche, the town’s most historic neighbourhood. This is where St Trop began, a former fishing village that grew into the glamorous hotspot it is today. Located northeast of the Vieux Port, between the waterfront promenade and Place des Lices, it feels untouched by time. The narrow streets, warm-coloured buildings, and peaceful atmosphere transport you back to the town’s past.

Writers and painters, including Colette and Picasso, found inspiration in these alleyways. Today, you can stroll past exclusive boutiques, overpriced (but charming) cafés, and intimate seafood restaurants. Don’t miss the 18th century Eglise de Notre-Dame de l’Assomption with an iconic Italian Baroque bell tower which defines the skyline. Inside, the bust of Saint Tropez, the town’s patron, watches over this gorgeous fishing neighbourhood. If you want an authentic experience, wandering through La Ponche is one of the best things to do in Saint Tropez. Just steps away, the Place aux Herbes and the Halle aux Poissons (the town’s daily fish market) offer a true taste of Provence.

 

5. Place des Lices

Just a few minutes from the Old Port, this historic square, lined with towering plane trees, has been the town’s meeting place for generations. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, the 19th-century square comes alive with an open-air Provençal market. This is no ordinary market—it’s one of the most authentic in the South of France. Locals and chefs arrive early, selecting the finest fruit, fresh vegetables, and seafood for their kitchens. The smell of warm pastries and lavender drifts through the air, and stalls overflow with olives, flowers, and handmade soaps.

But it’s not just about food. Antique stalls offer rare vintage finds, from elegant mirrors to hand-painted ceramics. No plastic souvenirs here—only pieces with a story. Even if you don’t buy anything, strolling through the market is a feast for the senses. Visiting this market is more than shopping—it’s stepping into the rhythm of Provence. If you’re looking for a truly local experience, shopping at Place des Lices is one of the best things to do in Saint Tropez.

 

6. National Gendarmerie Museum

Hidden just minutes from the Old Port is the most photographed building in town, the National Gendarmerie Museum.

 

The town became a global sensation in the 1960s thanks to one unexpected thing—not its beaches, not its luxury yachts, but a comedy film about local police officers. The comedy movie ‘Le Gendarme de Saint-Tropez’, starring Louis de Funès, turned this quiet fishing town into an international hotspot.

Originally a real police station, from 1879 to 2003, this historic building even appeared in scenes from the famous movie series. But in 2016, it was transformed into a museum celebrating Saint Tropez’s connection to cinema.

The first floor brings history to life with a faithful reconstruction of the police station’s offices, including lockers and uniforms. Further exhibits take visitors through the history of the French gendarmerie, displaying historical weapons, archives, and police artefacts. Fans of Funès will love the museum’s dedicated exhibition, which includes a life-sized bronze sculpture of the actor and original film props. But the museum isn’t just about one film. It’s a tribute to all the cinema that has been made in Saint Tropez, from the legendary Brigitte Bardot films to modern productions.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

• OPENING TIMES (as of March 2025): Daily, 10 AM – 6 PM
• ADMISSION FEE: €5 (adults), €3 (teens), free for kids under 12, as of March 2025

 

7. Maison des Papillons

The Maison des Papillons is unlike any museum you have ever seen. Inside a traditional Provençal house, painter Dany Lartigue created a one-of-a-kind butterfly collection. The museum features over 35,000 butterflies, including rare species from Africa and South America. Each one is arranged like a living artwork, blending science and beauty.

GOOD TO KNOW:

• ADMISSION FEE (As of March 2025): €2 for adults, and children under 12 get in for free.
• OPENING TIMES: Closed on Thursdays and Fridays

 

8. Annonciade Museum

For those who love fine art, the Annonciade Museum is a treasure inside a 16th-century chapel. It holds masterpieces by the world’s greatest artists – Matisse, Derain, and Marquet, proving that Saint-Tropez was once a hub of artistic creativity. Their paintings, inspired by the town’s stunning coastline, make this museum one of the best modern art galleries in the French Riviera.

GOOD TO KNOW:

ADMISSION FEE (As of March 2025): Entry costs €5 to €6 for adults (depending on whether there is a major temporary exhibition). Discounts are available for groups and kids.

 

Best things to do in Saint Tropez for beach lovers

 Did you know Saint-Tropez enjoys nearly 3,000 hours of sunshine every year? That makes it one of the sunniest spots in France and an ideal destination for anyone who loves the beach. But here’s something most first-time visitors don’t realize—Saint-Tropez’s beaches aren’t right in the town centre. You’ll need a short drive or bus ride to get to the most famous ones but trust us, they are worth it.

 

9. Pampelonne Beach

If there’s one beach you can’t miss, it’s Pampelonne Beach. Spending a day on Pampelonne Beach is one of the best things to do in Saint Tropez. This breathtaking 4.5-kilometre stretch of fine white sand and turquoise water has been an icon of the French Riviera for decades. Just 6 km south of the town, Pampelonne is known for its glamorous beach clubs. Club 55, Nikki Beach, and 21 others are just some iconic beach clubs where you can sip rosé, lounge in luxury, and spot celebrities.

But here’s something you may not know. Pampelonne isn’t just for the rich and famous. Thanks to new environmental regulations, 80% of the beach is now public and free to enjoy. The remaining 20% is reserved for beach clubs, and these are dismantled every winter to allow the sand and plants to recover. With excellent facilities, including public showers, restrooms, and lifeguards on duty from June to September, Pampelonne Beach is a perfect spot for families.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

A bus from town takes 15 minutes, or you can drive and park at one of the six access points.

 

10. Bouillabaisse Beach

For a more relaxed, easy-to-reach option, head to Bouillabaisse Beach. Just outside the town centre, this is a low-key alternative to Pampelonne Beach. The water is calm, the sand is golden, and the atmosphere is relaxed and local. A few great restaurants sit right by the shore, serving fresh seafood and pizzas. Plus, there’s free parking and no need to book a sunbed in advance.

 

11. La Ponche Beach

If you prefer history over sunbathing, La Ponche Beach is perfect. Tucked away in the oldest part of the town, this small beach is more about atmosphere than swimming. Writers and photographers often gather here, inspired by the quaint setting and views of the fishing boats. Since it’s right by the yacht entrance, swimming is not ideal, but it’s a perfect place for a peaceful break or a scenic photo. It’s also the starting point for the Sentier Littoral hiking trail, which offers stunning views of the Mediterranean.

 

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Now you know what to do in St Tropez!

Thank you for staying with us until the end! If you’ve enjoyed this article, please consider sharing this post to extend its reach.

 

Have you visited St Trop? What would you add to the list?

 

 

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