beyondblessedblog Saint Tropez, France

What to Do in Saint Tropez, France

Saint Tropez was every bit as picturesque as you imagine! Saint Tropez is known for its glamour, beach clubs, shopping and iconic energy, but what surprised me most was how charming and relaxed it can feel, especially earlier in the day. I loved the quiet streets, pastel buildings, fishermen & sailors in the harbor, and the gatorade blue water.

Having said that, if you are looking for an authentic French experience, this probably isn’t it. I was surprised at how overly touristy the city felt. But it was so gorgeous, the food was so divine and the shopping so incredible- I still loved it and would go back in a heart beat. Just set your expectation accordingly.

Itinerary

Saint Tropez could be a day trip or your entire vacation. For our next trip, I would plan at least 2 nights here. You can see the highlights in a day, but you can’t really experience it fully. When planning, try to make it when the market is open- it’s worth it!

Airport / Train Stations

Airport – Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) Closest major airport, about 1.5–2 hours away by car depending on traffic.
Train – There is no direct train into Saint-Tropez. The closest station is Saint-Raphaël, and from there you can take a taxi, drive, or even take a ferry into Saint-Tropez, which is a beautiful option.
Boat – You can either take the ferry or charter a private boat

Transportation

Car – If you’re not staying in Saint Tropez proper, you will probably want a car or car service
Ferry/Boat – One of the most scenic ways to arrive, especially from nearby towns like Nice or Cannes
Taxi / Uber – Available but can be limited and more expensive in peak season. This was our go-to form of transportation in Saint Tropez
Walk – Once you’re in town, everything in the center is very walkable. But you cannot walk to the beach clubs from the city. You need a car.

Top Things to Do in Saint-Tropez

Walk through the Old Port (Vieux Port): the pastel buildings, boats, and cafés feel straight out of a postcard.
Explore La Ponche (Old Town): This is the quieter, more charming side of Saint-Tropez. Narrow streets, soft pastel buildings, and little corners that feel untouched. It’s a nice contrast to the energy of the port.
Visit Place des Lices Market: if you’re there on a Tuesday or Saturday (8am-1pm), it’s such a fun way to experience! Try to get there early!
Spend the afternoon at a beach club: this is part of the Saint-Tropez experience. Many are surprisingly family-friendly during the day.
Relax at Pampelonne Beach: one of the most well-known beaches in the area, with plenty of space and beautiful water.
Walk up to the Citadel of Saint-Tropez
The views over the town and coastline are beautiful, and it gives you a different perspective of Saint-Tropez beyond the harbor.
Visit the Place des Lices
A shaded square where locals gather, especially in the mornings. You’ll often see people playing pétanque under the trees, which feels very authentic and local.
Have tarte tropézienne at La Tarte Tropézienne
This is the dessert Saint-Tropez is known for. Light, sweet, and something you kind of have to try at least once while you’re there.
Go shopping in town
From local boutiques to high-end designers, the shopping here is beautiful but still feels relaxed. It’s more about strolling and discovering than rushing from store to store.
Charter a boat for the day or take a coastal cruise
Seeing the coastline from the water is one of the best ways to experience this area. It feels peaceful and a little removed from the crowds.
Take a sunset walk along the port
The light reflecting on the boats, the warm air, the soft buzz of the town… it’s one of the most beautiful times of day.
Stop for gelato or pastries: always a must.
Take all the photos: between the harbor, soft colors, and light, it’s effortlessly stunning.

Tip

If you’re doing a day trip, get there as early as possible. Midday can feel crowded, especially in peak season!
If you want to visit a beach club or specific restaurant, make reservations in advance!