The yellow & red clock tower in Saint Tropez

Saint Tropez, Golfe de Saint Tropez

Mingle with the rich and famous in this glamorous and lively beach resort

featured in Towns & Villages Updated 19 June 2023

The most glamorous town in the Var is undoubtedly Saint-Tropez. In early spring the tourists start to flock to this old fishing village to catch a glimpse of a movie star, shop at the beautiful boutiques, sip a pastis at one of the cafés on the port or just people watch and enjoy the towns flamboyant residents.

In summer the place is just sizzling. The 10km access route is a stop-and-go, and stop again, affair. At the end of the afternoon it could take you two hours to get there, while out of season, or in the early morning, you can zip into town in less than 15 minutes. Every summer images of movies stars, athletes and models enjoying champagne on yachts and beach parties adorn the pages of celebrity magazines, all with the same caption “…spotted in St Tropez”.

With no star in sight, no serious author scribbling away on a café terrace, no famous artist painting the fishing boats, should you still visit Saint-Tropez? We think so.

It's easy to see the attraction of this once tiny fishing village; beautiful beaches, luxury yachts, expensive boutiques, cafés, bars and nightclubs, all the trappings of a millionaire lifestyle with French Riviera chic.

Venture into the old part of the town, La Ponche, where the narrow streets are lined with colourful fishermen houses. There you can find a surprising quiet after the bustle on the markets. The tiny restaurants are beginning to open their doors and set out their tables.

In la Ponche you will find the church with its pastel-coloured bell tower, the landmark of Saint Tropez. You may also see a striking bougainvillea, already in bloom in May.

After your wanderings in this old part of town, descend to the port for some people-watching and above all the mega yachts, tied stern-to to the quay. The crew will be busy cleaning, setting up the gigantic floral arrangements in the cockpit and preparing for the late awakening of the occupants.

History & Culture in Saint Tropez

Until the beginning of the 20th century, Saint Tropez was a sleepy fishing village, unknown to tourists. Then Paul Signac discovered the village, fell under its charm and spread the word. Other painters followed (Matisse, Bonnard) and later writers (Colette, Jean Cocteau) and finally the world of film, beginning with Roger Vadim's 'And God Created Woman', set in Saint Tropez.

Today, you can admire the works of Signac, Matisse and others in the charming museum L'Annonciade on the old port. The writers have moved on and the few movie stars that still live in the area keep well out of sight. Brigitte Bardot has a house in the next bay, but you won't chance on a glimpse of her in town.

See our History

Sights & Attractions in Saint Tropez

Sights to see include one of Saint Tropez’s most impressive constructions by far which is La Citadelle.

Head up the steep hill to the 16th century citadel, where there's a museum and beautiful views over the sea. (This is a lovely place for a picnic and enjoying the afternoon breeze.)

There's also the House of Butterflies with thousands of papillon on display, and the Annonciade museum, one of the longest established modern art galleries in France where you can see works on display by Matisse, Bonnard and Signac, among others.

La Maison des Papillons - Butterfly Museum

Located in Saint Tropez

The Butterfly Museum is located in the old town, spread across two floors, the collection houses an enormous quantity of different species. There are over 35,000 specimens, including rare types from Africa and South America.
La Citadelle

Located in Saint Tropez

As you climb uphill past all the restaurant lined streets, you get to the impressive 17th century Citadel overlooking the village of Saint-Tropez.
Musee de l'Annonciade - Art Museum

Located in Saint Tropez

The Annonciade museum was created in 1922 and holds impressive art work dating from 1890 to 1950, including some of the greatest French masterminds such as Matisse, Derain and Marquet.
Musee d'Histoire Maritime

Located in Saint Tropez

Recently renovated, this modern museum is located in the dungeon of the village's Citadel, allowing visitors to discover the true identity of Saint-Tropez as a maritime city through its last 500 years of history.
Place des Lices

Located in Saint Tropez

A great place to go for a walk under the shadows of the 100-year old plane trees, it seems like time has stopped at the Place des Lices. Here you can still watch the locals play a game of boules every morning, before going for a Pastis at the time of apéritif.
Chapelle Sainte-Anne, Ramatuelle

Located in Ramatuelle

La Chapelle Sainte-Anne was built in 1618 to thank God for sparing Saint-Tropez from the plague. Located on the hill of Mont Pécoulet, this simple building boasts a traditional Provençal style and is surrounded by cypress and pine trees.

Events in Saint Tropez

The town has so much to offer, from its daily fish market in the covered alley off the port to the lively open-air market on Place de Lices (Tuesday and Saturday mornings). Plus annual events such as the Bravades or the magnificent Les Voiles de Saint Tropez.

Things to do in Saint Tropez

If you fancy some designer shopping, Saint Tropez has some seriously exclusive boutiques, or you can visit the lovely Provençal market in the Place des Lices every Saturday and Tuesday morning for a more low-key spend.

Walk up to the Citadel for some of the best sunset views or go for a coastal walk and enjoy the amazing natural heritage of the region. Or just pass the time in a café watching the locals play petanque in the square under the plane trees.

For a day dripping in Riviera glamour you should really dress up and head to the Saint Tropez Polo Club, or head out on the water with the superyachts by chartering a boat for the day.

Kids will adore the Azure Park at nearby Gassin, with a rollercoaster, ferris wheel and waterslides.

Finally, watersports enthusiasts will find a second home on Pampelonne Beach as well as those who like to make themselves comfortable on sun loungers, with a glass of champagne or a cocktail.

One Week Yacht Charter Itineraries

Experience the French Riviera your way with 212 yachts, using one of their sample itineraries or with a specialised itinerary created just for you, based on what you like and don't like, as well as their own expertise.
Pampelonne & Cap Camarat Boat Trip

Located in Saint Tropez

Running every Wednesday, this trip departs from St Tropez, taking you on a tour to discover the beautiful landscapes and beaches along the coast.
Regatta Boat Trip

Located in Saint Tropez

This is a great way to come and discover the beautiful village of Saint Tropez. Sit back and relax aboard the Brigantin II boat as the experienced crew takes you on a memorable one hour guided boat tour.
Gulf of Saint Tropez Boat Trip

Located in Saint Tropez

Running every Saturday, this trip departs from St Tropez, taking you on a tour to discover the beautiful landscapes around the Gulf of St Tropez.
Coastal Boat Trip

Located in Saint Tropez

This is a great way to come and discover the beautiful village of Saint Tropez. Sit back and relax aboard the Brigantin II boat as the experienced crew takes you on a memorable one hour guided boat tour. During the cruise you will be shown the old village, the famous beaches and the spectacular millionaire's bay. A full commentary is available in English.
Private Coastal Boat Trip

Located in Saint Tropez

This is a great way to come and discover the beautiful village of Saint Tropez. Sit back and relax aboard the Brigantin II boat as the experienced crew takes you on a memorable trip around the Bay of Canoubiers.

Dining in Saint Tropez

B Lounve-Bar and Restaurant

Located in Saint Tropez

At the heart of the hotel, next to the pool, le "B" evolves in keeping with your whims. Breakfast in the shade of lemon trees, lunch by the pool, cocktails at sunset, dinner on the terrace, a hunger pang during the night, whatever time, day or night, le "B" will grant your slightest whim.
Les Toits Lounge

Located in Saint Tropez

A magical place that gives you the feeling of being suspended between sky and sea, overlooking the sunbaked rooftops of Saint-Tropez and the wonderful Mediterranean Sea.
La Ponche Restaurant

Located in Saint Tropez

The gourmet restaurant’s secluded dining room offers a splendid view on Saint-Tropez’s bay. In total secrecy, the hosts can dream along as they admire beautiful landscapes that resemble works of art.
L'Isoletta Restaurant

Located in Saint Tropez

The restaurant of the Bastide de Saint-Tropez hotel is run by Sardinian chef, Alessandro Caria, and his team.
Matsuhisa Restaurant

Located in Saint Tropez

Discover pan-Asian cuisine in all its splendour, with breathtaking views of the Pampelonne Bay.
Cucina at Byblos Restaurant

Located in Saint Tropez

The restaurant Cucina Byblos, welcomes guests warmly to a colourful and resolutely contemporary setting, in which a relaxed atmosphere reigns supreme.

Nightlife in Saint Tropez

There are some of the finest clubs on earth in Saint Tropez. When it’s time to get your dancing shoes on, there are three main options, all fairly guaranteed to provide a glimpse of celebrities, if you like that kind of thing, for full details see our St Tropez nightlife guide.

White 1921 Bar

Located in Saint Tropez

Offering a delightful garden, the corner bar is open every evening from 20:00. A cellar of superior champagnes can be tasted by the glass.
The Atrium Bar

Located in Saint Tropez

This modern bar is situated within the famous Hotel de Paris which was once graced by stars such Coco Chanel, Jean Cocteau and Clarke Gable.
Les Caves du Roy Nightclub

Located in Saint Tropez

Set within the chic 5 star Byblos hotel is one of the most exclusive night spots in Saint Tropez.
Bar du Sube

Located in Saint Tropez

Old fashioned style bar with leather seats and a comforting fireplace, situated right on the port side overlooking the super yachts in St Tropez.
VIP Room Bar & Nightclub

Located in Saint Tropez

Expect glitz, glamour, champagne, celebrities and one wild party at the VIP room. Located in the centre of the Saint Tropez this restaurant/club attracts some of the most famous guests in the world.
Gaïo Restaurant, Bar & Nightclub

Located in Saint Tropez

Formerly the Papagayo nightclub, this is another of the legendary nightclubs in Saint Tropez where you can expect to have a wild night and party with the stars.

Hotels in Saint Tropez

Saint Tropez remains a favourite spot for the famous as well as lovers of the seaside, history and heritage. From luxury hotels to rooms for rent, Saint Tropez offers a rich and varied choice of accommodation to suit all tastes.

Saint Tropez has more hotels per head of permanent population than almost anywhere else in France. The prices are relatively expensive, even so, it's essential to book in advance for the summer months. The surrounding villages other alternative accommodations, in general, the further you are from Saint Tropez, the better value you will find.

It is also essential to call ahead during the low season as the town pretty much shuts down for winter; many of the hotels close from October to April each year.

La Villa Dune Hotel

Located in Saint Tropez

You will find that this boutique 5-star luxury hotel offers peace and tranquillity in a stunning setting on the St Tropez peninsula.
Domaine de L'Astragale Hotel

Located in Saint Tropez

Enjoy a holiday in one of the most enchanting places on the French Riviera. This resort is perfect for tourists who want to experience a Provence tour or simply enjoy relaxation and comfort in a tranquil and peaceful environment.

26 July 20257 Nights
Price: €11,494
White 1921 Hotel

Located in Saint Tropez

This hotel recreates the luxury of a 20th-century villa with sparse design and romantic minimalism.
Le Yaca Hotel

Located in Saint Tropez

This hotel welcomes you in a warm atmosphere in the heart of Saint-Tropez village and offers a refined setting and stylish rooms and suites.
Le Pre de la Mer Hotel

This four-star hotel is ideally located and offers a luxurious and serene setting for your holiday in Saint Tropez.
Kube Hotel

Located in Saint Tropez

The Hotel is a design and luxury technological resort in Saint Tropez.

26 July 20257 Nights
Price: €10,457