Travel to St Tropez in the South of France to see the best places of French Riviera and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the Mediterranean coast.
St Tropez is small port city, which became popular due to the cinematography in the 20th century.
Find out more from the history of St Tropez
Till the end of the XIXth century Saint Tropez was a small village of fishermen and wine producers. It acquired its name from St Tropez, who was killed during Neron times for following Christianity. His boat was found at the beach, and he was buried in a Chapel, erected locally in his honor.
In 1637 Fleet of only 4 boats of St Tropez defeated Spanish Fleet, which consisted of 20 boats. This historical event is commemorated by a procession passing by in the streets of Saint Tropez every year on the 15th of July.
Today, St Tropez is a popular travel destination, also, thanks to the world known artist, Paul Signac, who started living here in 1892. Since then the city became more popular and turned into an art center, visited by Matisse, Bonnar and others.
In 1956 Saint Tropez entered into another period of glory due to the world known masterpiece with participation of Bridgette Bardot – And God Created Woman. This was not the first movie with participation of Bridgette Bardot, but the film became a starting point for her publicity and tremendous popularity.
Nowadays St Tropez is considered to be a luxury spot of French Riviera. This is a favorite destination for holidays of celebrities. Some of them also have built villas in this beautiful part of France.
Sand beaches, night clubs, bars, restaurants, great services in the hotels attract thousands of new tourists to travel to St Tropez.
In summer season the city is overcrowded, that’s why if you have an opportunity and prefer calm holidays, plan travel to Saint Tropez during low season.
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Best way to travel to St Tropez
Most of tourists visiting Saint Tropez fly to Nice or Marseilles airports, then hire a car or take a train.
In summer, especially in July and August traffic in Cote-d’Azur becomes more tensed and may be the reason to spoil your vacations. The road which usually takes 1 hour driving in summer season may turn into 2-3 hours of slow traffic in French Riviera.
That’s why if you intend to travel to St Tropez and want to avoid roads – take a boat trip from Nice to St Tropez. Boats are running from May till the end of September. Exact schedule for departs and arrivals can be checked at the port of Nice, where the you can also buy the tickets. Boat trip from Nice to St Tropez will take about 2,5 hours one way.
Traveling to Saint Tropez by boat will save you a lot of time and you will have an opportunity to enjoy the coast during your trip.
Also you can go to St Tropez by train, arriving to St Rafael and then catching the express boat.
Two way ticket will cost about 15 EUR.
Don’t get surprised if you come across celebrities in St Tropez during your stay ;).
FAQs
What are the top attractions to visit in Saint-Tropez?
Saint-Tropez is famous for its stunning beaches, including Pampelonne Beach and Tahiti Beach, where you can enjoy the sun and the vibrant beach club scene. Don’t miss the picturesque Old Port, bustling with yachts and waterfront cafés. The Citadel of Saint-Tropez offers panoramic views of the town and the Mediterranean Sea. Art lovers should visit the Musée de l’Annonciade, which showcases an impressive collection of modern art.
What is the best time of year to visit Saint-Tropez?
The best time to visit Saint-Tropez is during the late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more reasonable accommodation prices than the peak summer months. If you want to experience the lively atmosphere and exclusive events, visit during the summer, but be prepared for larger crowds and higher costs.
How can I get around Saint-Tropez and explore the surrounding area?
Saint-Tropez is best explored on foot, allowing you to wander its charming streets and discover hidden gems. To explore the surrounding area, consider renting a car or using public transportation like buses and boats. Bikes and scooters are popular for exploring the scenic coastline, and boat tours are available for those looking to discover nearby islands and beaches.
What are some local dishes and culinary experiences I should try in Saint-Tropez?
Saint-Tropez offers a delightful culinary scene with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Don’t miss trying Bouillabaisse, a traditional Provençal fish stew, or Ratatouille, a vegetable medley originating from the region. For a sweet treat, indulge in a slice of Tarte Tropézienne, a creamy, brioche dessert. Visit local markets to sample regional cheeses, olives, and wines, and dine at seaside restaurants for fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes.
Are there any special events or festivals in Saint-Tropez that I should know about?
Saint-Tropez hosts several notable events and festivals throughout the year. The Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez, held in late September, is a prestigious sailing regatta that attracts sailors and spectators worldwide. The Bravades de Saint-Tropez in May is a traditional festival celebrating the town’s patron saint with parades, music, and historical reenactments. The Festival de Ramatuelle, a summer arts festival, offers performances in music, theater, and comedy.
What are some recommended day trips from Saint-Tropez to explore the French Riviera?
From Saint-Tropez, you can take a day trip to explore the glamorous city of Cannes, known for its film festival and luxurious shopping. Nice, with its stunning Promenade des Anglais and vibrant Old Town, is another excellent option. For a more relaxed experience, visit the picturesque village of Eze, perched on a cliff with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. You can also explore the natural beauty of the Port-Cros National Park, known for its hiking trails and marine biodiversity.