Few destinations capture the imagination quite like Saint-Tropez. Once a quiet Provençal fishing village, it has grown into one of the world’s most glamorous holiday destinations, attracting celebrities, artists, sailors and travellers looking to experience the unique atmosphere of the French Riviera. Yet despite its international reputation, Saint-Tropez has managed to preserve much of the charm that made it famous in the first place.

Visitors quickly discover there’s far more to Saint-Tropez than expensive yachts and designer boutiques. Wander through the colourful streets of La Ponche, browse bustling Provençal markets, climb to the historic Citadel, relax on golden beaches or sail across the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez aboard a luxury catamaran. Whether you’re interested in history, food, photography or simply enjoying spectacular Mediterranean scenery, there’s something here for every type of traveller.

The town itself is surprisingly compact and easy to explore on foot. Many of the main attractions sit within a few minutes of one another, while ferries and boat trips make it easy to discover nearby beaches and coastal villages without ever needing a car.

This guide brings together the very best things to do in Saint-Tropez, helping you discover both the iconic landmarks and the lesser-known corners that continue to make this one of the most desirable destinations in southern France.

Attraction	Time Needed	Admission	Best For
Old Port (Vieux Port)	30-60 minutes	Free to explore	Photography, cafés & yacht-watching
La Ponche	About 1 hour	Free	Historic lanes & seafood lunch
Citadel & Maritime History Museum	1-2 hours (15-20 min climb)	Paid entry	History & panoramic views
Place des Lices Market	1-2 hours (Tue & Sat mornings)	Free to browse	Local produce & souvenirs
Pampelonne Beach	Half a day	Free (public sections)	Swimming & watersports
Musée de l’Annonciade	About 1 hour	Paid entry	Art lovers
Sentier du Littoral (coastal path)	1-3 hours	Free	Walkers & nature lovers
Port Grimaud (boat trip)	Half a day	Free to wander (ferry fare applies)	Canal-side exploring

Explore the Iconic Old Port

The Vieux Port (Old Port) is the beating heart of Saint-Tropez and the place where almost every visit begins. Once home to humble fishing boats, the harbour is now one of the world’s most famous marinas, where traditional Provençal vessels sit alongside spectacular superyachts worth hundreds of millions of euros.

Walking around the harbour is an attraction in itself. Elegant cafés line the waterfront, their terraces offering front-row seats to watch luxury yachts arrive throughout the day. Ferries, sailing boats and fishing vessels constantly move in and out of the marina, creating an ever-changing scene that’s perfect for photography or simply relaxing with a coffee.

Behind the harbour you’ll find colourful eighteenth-century buildings painted in warm shades of ochre, yellow, pink and orange, giving Saint-Tropez its instantly recognisable appearance. These beautiful façades have inspired countless artists over the years and continue to provide one of the most photographed waterfronts on the French Riviera.

The harbour also acts as the main departure point for boat excursions, catamaran cruises, ferries to Port Grimaud, and seasonal services to neighbouring Riviera resorts. Whether you’re beginning a sightseeing tour or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, the Old Port perfectly captures the spirit of Saint-Tropez.

Wander Through the Charming Streets of La Ponche

Hidden just behind the harbour lies La Ponche, the historic heart of Saint-Tropez and one of the town’s most enchanting neighbourhoods. Long before luxury hotels and international celebrities arrived, this maze of narrow streets formed the original fishing village, and much of that authentic atmosphere still survives today.

The cobbled lanes twist between pastel-coloured houses draped with flowering balconies, traditional restaurants and small independent boutiques selling everything from local artwork to handmade soaps and Provençal gifts. Every corner reveals another postcard-worthy scene, making La Ponche one of the most rewarding places in Saint-Tropez simply to wander without a plan.

Unlike the lively waterfront, the atmosphere here feels calm and intimate. Small squares provide quiet places to sit beneath shady trees, while tiny chapels and hidden courtyards remind visitors that Saint-Tropez has a history stretching back centuries. It’s easy to understand why artists, writers and filmmakers fell in love with this picturesque corner of the Riviera.

Several excellent seafood restaurants can also be found within La Ponche, making it an ideal place to stop for lunch before continuing your exploration. Whether you’re searching for history, photography or authentic Provençal character, this beautiful quarter shouldn’t be missed.

Visit the Citadel of Saint-Tropez

Standing high above the town, the impressive Citadel of Saint-Tropez has protected the harbour since the early seventeenth century and remains one of the most important historic landmarks on the French Riviera. The climb to the top takes around 15 to 20 minutes from the harbour and rewards visitors with some of the finest panoramic views anywhere in Saint-Tropez.

Inside the fortress you’ll find the excellent Maritime History Museum, which explains the town’s rich seafaring heritage through fascinating exhibitions covering exploration, naval history and the lives of local sailors who travelled the world’s oceans. Interactive displays and carefully restored artefacts bring Saint-Tropez’s maritime past vividly to life.

Outside, the ancient ramparts provide spectacular viewpoints overlooking the Old Port, the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, the surrounding hills and the endless blue waters of the Mediterranean. On a clear day it’s possible to see for miles along the coastline, making this one of the town’s very best photography locations.

Many visitors spend an hour or two exploring the museum before relaxing beneath the shady pine trees surrounding the fortress. Combining history, culture, architecture and breathtaking scenery, the Citadel is an essential stop for anyone wanting to discover the story behind one of France’s most famous coastal towns.

Browse the Bustling Place des Lices Market

Twice a week, Place des Lices transforms into one of the most vibrant and authentic markets on the French Riviera. Every Tuesday and Saturday morning, more than a hundred traders fill the square with colourful stalls selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to artisan cheeses, lavender products, Provençal fabrics, antiques, jewellery and locally produced olive oils.

Even when the market isn’t taking place, Place des Lices remains one of the liveliest areas in Saint-Tropez. The tree-lined square is surrounded by inviting cafés and restaurants where locals gather beneath the shade of ancient plane trees. It’s also famous for its traditional pétanque courts, where residents can often be seen enjoying friendly games throughout the day, offering visitors a glimpse into everyday Provençal life away from the luxury yachts.

The market is an excellent place to pick up authentic souvenirs, regional delicacies or ingredients for a picnic. Compared with the designer boutiques around the harbour, Place des Lices offers a far more traditional shopping experience and provides a fascinating contrast to Saint-Tropez’s glamorous reputation.

Arriving early in the morning gives you the best opportunity to browse before the busiest crowds arrive, while also allowing plenty of time to continue exploring the town afterwards.

Relax on the Famous Pampelonne Beach

Although often referred to simply as Saint-Tropez Beach, Pampelonne Beach actually lies just outside the town near Ramatuelle, around 5 kilometres from the centre. Stretching for almost five kilometres, it’s one of the most famous beaches in Europe and has become synonymous with the glamour of the French Riviera.

The beach offers something for everyone. Exclusive beach clubs such as Club 55 have attracted celebrities for decades, while large sections remain public beaches where visitors can simply lay down a towel and enjoy the golden sand without paying for sunbeds.

The crystal-clear Mediterranean is ideal for swimming, while calm conditions make it a popular destination for paddleboarding, jet skiing, parasailing and other watersports during the summer months. Numerous restaurants and beach bars line the shoreline, making it easy to spend an entire day relaxing beside the sea.

Despite its worldwide reputation, Pampelonne is large enough that it’s usually possible to find a quieter spot by walking a little further away from the busiest beach clubs. Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly beautiful, when the softer light creates spectacular views across the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

Whether you’re looking for luxury beach clubs, family-friendly swimming, or simply one of the most iconic beaches on the French Riviera, Pampelonne Beach is well worth the short journey from Saint-Tropez.

Enjoy an Evening Catamaran Cruise Across the Gulf of Saint-Tropez

As the afternoon heat begins to fade, few experiences capture the atmosphere of the French Riviera better than an evening catamaran cruise across the beautiful Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Combining spectacular coastal scenery, music, drinks and sunset views, this is one of the town’s most memorable experiences and a wonderful way to end a day of sightseeing.

After boarding the spacious catamaran, you’ll be welcomed with a complimentary drink before setting sail across the calm Mediterranean waters. The modern vessel features generous deck space, comfortable seating, underwater lighting, a professional sound system and a fully stocked onboard bar, creating a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere from the moment you leave the harbour.

As the boat cruises across the gulf, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of Saint-Tropez, golden beaches, luxury villas and the surrounding coastline while a live DJ provides the soundtrack for the evening. Guests are free to dance, unwind on deck or simply sit back and admire the constantly changing colours of the Mediterranean as the sun begins to set.

Additional cocktails, wine, soft drinks and sharing platters featuring French cheeses, charcuterie or vegetarian options can be purchased onboard, making it easy to turn the cruise into a relaxed evening meal on the water.

Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with friends or simply looking for a memorable evening activity, this cruise offers a completely different perspective of Saint-Tropez. Watching the coastline glow in the evening light while sailing across the Gulf of Saint-Tropez is an experience that’s difficult to forget.

Discover the Musée de l’Annonciade

Housed inside a beautiful sixteenth-century chapel overlooking the harbour, the Musée de l’Annonciade is one of the finest small art museums on the French Riviera. Although modest in size, its collection is exceptional and tells the story of how Saint-Tropez became one of France’s most important artistic centres.

During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, painters were drawn here by the remarkable Mediterranean light, colourful harbour and relaxed atmosphere. Their work helped establish Saint-Tropez as a destination for artists long before it became famous with celebrities and the international jet set.

Inside the museum you’ll find paintings by renowned artists including Paul Signac, Henri Matisse, Albert Marquet, Raoul Dufy and other leading figures associated with Pointillism, Fauvism and early modern French art. The galleries are thoughtfully arranged and easy to explore in around an hour.

The museum’s location beside the Old Port makes it particularly easy to include during a day exploring the town. After admiring the artwork, simply step back outside and compare the scenes painted more than a century ago with the harbour as it appears today. Although the yachts have become considerably larger, much of the colourful waterfront that inspired generations of artists remains instantly recognisable.

Walk the Spectacular Sentier du Littoral

If you’d like to experience the natural beauty of the Saint-Tropez Peninsula, make time for a walk along the Sentier du Littoral. This spectacular coastal path hugs the shoreline, passing hidden coves, rocky headlands and quiet beaches while offering uninterrupted views across the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

Unlike the busy streets around the harbour, the coastal path feels wonderfully peaceful. The route takes you through fragrant pine woodland, Mediterranean shrubs and wildflowers, with the sea never far from view. Along the way you’ll discover secluded swimming spots, dramatic cliffs and countless viewpoints where it’s worth stopping to admire the scenery.

You don’t need to complete the entire trail to enjoy it. Many visitors simply walk a section before returning to the town, while more energetic walkers continue further around the peninsula to discover quieter stretches of coastline that many tourists never see.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, carry plenty of water, and don’t forget your camera. The combination of turquoise water, rugged coastline and elegant villas makes this one of the most beautiful coastal walks on the French Riviera and a refreshing change from the glamorous atmosphere of the harbour.

Admire the Luxury Yachts Around the Harbour

One of the great pleasures of visiting Saint-Tropez is simply wandering around the marina and admiring the extraordinary collection of yachts moored along the quays. The harbour has become one of the most famous playgrounds for the international jet set, and it’s not unusual to see vessels belonging to celebrities, entrepreneurs and royalty tied up just metres from the cafés.

Some of these floating palaces are longer than football pitches and feature helicopter pads, swimming pools, cinemas and even submarines, making them fascinating to admire even from the quayside. Every visit is different, with new arrivals constantly changing the appearance of the harbour.

The best place to enjoy the spectacle is from one of the cafés lining the waterfront. Order a coffee or a glass of chilled rosé, find a table overlooking the marina and watch the constant parade of boats, classic sailing yachts and gleaming superyachts arriving throughout the day.

While the luxury yachts often attract the headlines, don’t overlook the smaller traditional Provençal fishing boats that still operate from the harbour. Together they create a wonderful contrast between old Saint-Tropez and the glamorous resort it has become today.

Visit the Gendarmerie and Cinema Museum

Fans of French cinema should make time for the Gendarmerie and Cinema Museum, one of Saint-Tropez’s most entertaining attractions. Housed inside the former gendarmerie building made famous by the hugely successful “Le Gendarme de Saint-Tropez” films starring Louis de Funès, the museum celebrates both the popular comedy series and the town’s long relationship with the film industry.

Inside you’ll discover original film memorabilia, costumes, photographs, interactive displays and fascinating exhibits explaining how Saint-Tropez became one of Europe’s best-known filming locations. Even visitors unfamiliar with the famous French films will find the museum interesting, thanks to its broader exploration of the town’s cinematic history.

The museum also highlights Saint-Tropez’s connection with international stars including Brigitte Bardot, whose arrival in the 1950s transformed the once-sleepy fishing village into one of the world’s most fashionable holiday destinations.

Located just a short walk from the Old Port, the museum is easy to include in any itinerary and provides an enjoyable insight into how cinema helped shape the global image of Saint-Tropez.

Discover the Peaceful Chapelle Sainte-Anne

Perched on a hillside overlooking Saint-Tropez, the Chapelle Sainte-Anne offers one of the most peaceful escapes in the area. Built in 1618, this small chapel is surrounded by cypress trees, pine woodland and open countryside, providing a complete contrast to the lively harbour below.

The chapel is perhaps best known as the venue where Mick Jagger married Bianca Pérez-Mora Macias in 1971, adding another chapter to Saint-Tropez’s long association with celebrities. Despite its glamorous history, the setting remains wonderfully tranquil and feels far removed from the bustle of the town centre.

The walk up to the chapel takes around 20 to 30 minutes from the harbour and gradually reveals increasingly impressive views across the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, the surrounding vineyards and the rolling hills of Provence. It’s an especially rewarding walk during the cooler morning hours or in the early evening when the light over the Mediterranean is at its most beautiful.

Although the chapel itself has limited opening hours, the surrounding viewpoint is worth visiting at any time. If you’re looking for a quieter side of Saint-Tropez, away from the boutiques and beach clubs, Chapelle Sainte-Anne is one of the town’s most rewarding hidden gems.

Visit the Butterfly Museum

One of Saint-Tropez’s most unexpected attractions is the charming Maison des Papillons (Butterfly Museum). Tucked away in a traditional Provençal house close to the centre of town, this fascinating museum is home to an extraordinary collection of more than 35,000 butterflies gathered from around the world.

Created by the artist Dany Lartigue, the museum combines art with natural history, displaying butterflies from every continent in carefully arranged exhibits. The collection includes many rare and colourful species, while informative displays explain their habitats, life cycles and remarkable diversity.

Although relatively small, the museum is beautifully presented and makes an excellent stop if you’re looking for something a little different. Most visitors spend around 45 minutes to an hour exploring the exhibits, making it easy to include alongside a visit to the harbour or Place des Lices.

Families, photographers and nature lovers will particularly enjoy the museum, but even casual visitors often leave pleasantly surprised by the beauty and variety of the collection. It proves that Saint-Tropez offers far more than beaches and luxury yachts.

Take a Boat to the Beautiful Port Grimaud

Just across the Gulf of Saint-Tropez lies one of the Riviera’s most picturesque villages, Port Grimaud. Often referred to as the “Venice of Provence,” this colourful waterside community is built around an intricate network of canals where boats are moored directly outside charming pastel-coloured houses.

The easiest and most enjoyable way to reach Port Grimaud is aboard one of the regular Les Bateaux Verts ferries departing from the Old Port in Saint-Tropez. The crossing takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes, allowing you to avoid the often heavy road traffic while enjoying beautiful views back towards Saint-Tropez and the surrounding coastline.

Once you arrive, spend time wandering beside the canals, crossing elegant little bridges and exploring the peaceful streets lined with cafés, boutiques and waterside restaurants. Unlike many purpose-built resorts, Port Grimaud has a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere that encourages visitors to slow down and simply enjoy the surroundings.

Boat hire is also available if you’d like to explore the canals from the water, while several waterfront restaurants provide excellent opportunities to enjoy fresh seafood overlooking the marina.

Whether you’re visiting for a couple of hours or spending most of the day there, Port Grimaud makes one of the most rewarding excursions from Saint-Tropez and offers a completely different perspective on life along the French Riviera.

Watch the Sunset from Môle Jean-Réveille

As evening approaches, one of the very best places to be in Saint-Tropez is Môle Jean-Réveille, the long harbour breakwater extending out into the Mediterranean Sea. While many visitors gather at waterfront cafés, those who walk to the end of the pier are rewarded with some of the finest panoramic views in the town.

Looking back towards the shore, you’ll see the Old Port, the colourful waterfront buildings, the Citadel, luxury yachts and the church towers rising above the rooftops. As the sun begins to set, the warm golden light transforms the entire harbour, creating a spectacular scene that photographers absolutely love.

The breakwater is also an excellent place to watch the constant movement of boats entering and leaving the harbour. Luxury yachts return after a day cruising the Riviera, sailing boats glide quietly across the bay and ferries make their final crossings before darkness falls.

If you’re visiting during the summer months, arrive a little before sunset to secure the best viewpoint. Watching the sky change from brilliant blue to shades of gold, orange, pink and deep purple while the lights of Saint-Tropez begin to sparkle is a wonderful way to end the day.

Best of all, this is an experience that costs absolutely nothing, proving that one of the most memorable things to do in Saint-Tropez is also one of its simplest.

Enjoy Provençal Cuisine Beside the Harbour

After a day exploring Saint-Tropez, there’s no better way to finish than by sitting down to enjoy the flavours of Provence. The town’s restaurants combine Mediterranean seafood, locally grown produce and traditional southern French recipes, creating a dining scene that’s every bit as memorable as the scenery itself.

Restaurants around the Old Port specialise in freshly caught fish, grilled sea bass, red mullet, mussels, oysters and seasonal shellfish, while Provençal favourites such as bouillabaisse, ratatouille, tapenade and pissaladière feature on menus throughout the town. Local rosé wines from the surrounding vineyards pair perfectly with the region’s cuisine and are an essential part of the experience.

For a quieter and more traditional atmosphere, head into the narrow streets of La Ponche, where small family-run restaurants serve authentic regional dishes beneath vine-covered terraces and historic stone buildings. Dining here feels worlds away from the glamour of the waterfront, offering a glimpse of the fishing village Saint-Tropez once was.

Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch overlooking the harbour or a candlelit dinner as the yachts sparkle beneath the evening sky, dining in Saint-Tropez is about far more than the food. It’s an opportunity to slow down, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy one of the French Riviera’s most iconic destinations exactly as it was meant to be experienced.

Rupert’s Handy Travel Tips

Saint-Tropez rewards a little planning, especially in peak season when the harbour gets busy and roads into town can grind to a halt.

Skip the car if you can: Roads into Saint-Tropez are notoriously congested in summer, so arriving by ferry or boat from nearby ports is often faster and far less stressful than driving.
Visit the market early: The Place des Lices market on Tuesday and Saturday mornings gets crowded fast, so arrive early to browse comfortably and beat the midday heat.
Book beach clubs ahead: Popular spots on Pampelonne Beach like Club 55 fill up quickly in summer, but large public sections nearby are free if you just want a towel and the sea.
Time your Citadel visit: Head up in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun on the 15-20 minute climb, and enjoy cooler conditions for the panoramic views.
Catch the sunset for free: Walking out to Môle Jean-Réveille costs nothing and offers one of the best views of the harbour as the light fades.

Want to meet the reindeer behind our travel tips? Find out more in our page Who is Rupert?.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best thing to do in Saint-Tropez?
Many visitors consider exploring the Old Port, wandering through La Ponche, visiting the Citadel and enjoying a catamaran cruise across the Gulf of Saint-Tropez to be the highlights of any visit.

Is Saint-Tropez worth visiting?
Absolutely. Beyond its glamorous reputation, Saint-Tropez offers historic streets, beautiful beaches, fascinating museums, scenic coastal walks and excellent Provençal cuisine, making it one of the most rewarding destinations on the French Riviera.

How many days do you need in Saint-Tropez?
A full day is enough to experience the town’s main attractions, but two or three days allows you to enjoy the beaches, boat trips, museums, coastal walks and nearby destinations such as Port Grimaud at a much more relaxed pace.

Can you walk around Saint-Tropez?
Yes. The town centre is compact and most attractions are within easy walking distance. The harbour, La Ponche, Place des Lices and the Citadel can all be explored comfortably on foot.

What is Saint-Tropez famous for?
Saint-Tropez is famous for its luxury yachts, celebrity visitors, Pampelonne Beach, glamorous nightlife and its role in making the French Riviera one of the world’s most desirable holiday destinations.

Is Pampelonne Beach free to visit?
Yes. While the beach is home to several famous private beach clubs, there are also large public sections where you can enjoy the sand and sea free of charge.

Can you visit Port Grimaud from Saint-Tropez?
Yes. Regular Les Bateaux Verts ferries connect Saint-Tropez with Port Grimaud in approximately 15 to 20 minutes, making it one of the easiest and most enjoyable excursions in the area.

When is the best time to visit Saint-Tropez?
Late May, June and September offer warm weather with fewer crowds. July and August provide the liveliest atmosphere but are also the busiest months, while spring and early autumn are ideal for sightseeing and coastal walks.

Last Updated

August 2026

We regularly review this guide to ensure opening times, attraction information, ferry services and ticket prices remain accurate and up to date. As tours, seasonal activities and operating hours can change, we recommend checking the latest information before visiting.

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Tagged:Europe - Western France French Riviera & Provence

Rupert

Globetrotter (60+ countries) & Bow-Tie enthusiast. Hotel pillow connoisseur, breakfast buffet enthusiast, and firm believer in the window seat. Loves exploring off the beaten track followed by a decent slice of cake.