Fréjus was the first naval base in the Mediterranean for the Romans back in the first century BC, with ruins including an amphitheatre, theatre and aqueduct.
Fréjus
A once coastal port town that is steeped in history
The harbour still has an ancient tower that enabled protection of the fleet and the town itself is filled with Roman ruins and artefacts. An impressive 10,000 seater amphitheatre still hosts events in the 21st century - bullfighting and theatre are amongst the spectacles that are featured. Roman walls, baths, gates and an aqueduct can also be explored by visitors. A fine Roman theatre hosts concerts during the summer.
Arts and culture are further represented in the town with plenty of decent shops and galleries.
The port offers all things nautical from windsurfing to Scuba diving, and there are several beaches along the seven mile coastline.
Events in Frejus
With numerous festivals and events taking place in this small town there will always be some spectacle to hold your interest or to be the reason for a visit to this charming port town.
Perhaps one of the better known events in the area is the Bravades de Fréjus. This takes place each year on the third weekend after Easter and is a feast day in honour of Saint Francois de Paule.
Events in Frejus
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Beaujolais Nouveau
The new Beaujolais has arrived!
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
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Fête de la Musique
Music festival celebrated across France on the summer solstice
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
History & Culture in Frejus
The history of this medieval city is very similar to that of Provence.
It was destroyed many times in spite of the presence of the Roman Legions. After the Roman emperor, Julius Cesar gave the port its prosperity it went on to become one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean, however the decay of Rome led to similar decay of the great Roman cities, including Fréjus.
Between the 7th and 9th centuries, Muslim invaders repeatedly raided the city leaving many monuments in ruins, whilst the sea was encroaching more and more on the land thereby eroding the coastline. By the 10th century there was very little left of the colony, and sea-borne silt clogged up the port and led to the formation of a huge swampy plain, which then separated the village from the sea.
In more recent times, Napoleon Bonaparte landed at Frejus on October 9, 1799, returning from Egypt in order to ostensibly defend the French Directory in Paris. During the First World War Fréjus became the main centre for hivernage (wintering) for the Senegalese Tirailleurs, (French Army infantry who were recruited from Senegal).
Sights & Attractions in Frejus
The baptistery of Fréjus Cathedral was built in the 5th century, making it the oldest in the Provence region and one of the oldest in France. The cathedral square itself is a great place to sit, relax and watch the world go by, plus you can enjoy the markets here on a Saturday.
The Archaeology Museum is a good starting point to discover the Roman heritage in the area. They will be able to provide you with details of the main sites to visit, although a walk around town should reveal them all.
- In the south east of the old city is the 3rd century Porte d’Orée, the only remaining arcade of monumental Roman thermal baths
- North of the old town are the ruins of a Théâtre Romain. Part of the stage and the theatre’s outer walls are all that remain
- Similarly, crumbling outer walls are all that are left of the 1st-century arènes (amphitheatre), which once sat 10,000 and has now been entirely renovated as a modern outdoor venue
- North east, towards La Tour de Mare, you'll pass a section of a 40km long aqueduct, which once carried water to Roman Fréjus
As well as the numerous Roman ruins to explore, it's also worth taking a hike up to the ruins of the Malpasset dam.
Sights in Frejus
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Archaeology Museum, Fréjus
Displaying Fréjus’s archaeological heritage, mainly from the Roman period
Situated right next to the cloisters of the Cathedral in Fréjus, the museum houses some great examples of Roman artefacts from the ongoing excavations in the city.
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Parc Zoologique de Frejus (Frejus Zoo)
Zoo where you can see animals from all around the world as well as Mediterranean plants
Established in 1971, the Zoological Park Frejus is located in a typical Mediterranean natural landscape and enjoys the mild climate of the Riviera.
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Les Calanques de l'Esterel, Saint-Raphael
Dramatic scenery, imposing cliffs and secluded coves near Saint-Raphael
Les Calanques de l'Esterel are rocky inlets and coves that expand from Saint-Raphael to Mandelieu-la-Napoule and drop steeply into the limpid waters of the Mediterranean.
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Fréjus Cathedral, Fréjus
This cathedral in central Fréjus is part of a larger fortified medieval complex
Dating back to the 5th century when the baptistery was built makes it the oldest in the Provence region and one of the oldest in France. At this ancient, Merovingian style baptistery you can still see a 5th century baptismal basin for full immersion, as well as Roman columns.
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Basilique Notre-Dame de la Victoire, Saint Raphael
Beautiful church built at the end of 19th century inspired by the church of Saint Sophie in Istanbul
This beautiful church was built as part of the plans by Mayor Felix Martin to "transform" St Raphael into a more attractive town for people to live in and tourist resort. Abbot Bernard commissioned the project to architect Pierre Aublé.
Beaches in Frejus
Fréjus is situated next to the coast, so it has its own beach which leads to the popular coastal resort of San-Raphaël. Scuba diving and windsurfing are just two of the many watersports on offer, and there are miles of wide sandy beaches and calm waters for the family to enjoy.
Beaches in Saint-Tropez
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La Ponche Beach
Small beach fronting the oldest part of Saint-Tropez village
Plage de la Ponche and its neighbour Plage de la Fontanette are two lovely beaches which you can access directly from the heart of the village.
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Salins Beach
Beautiful shingle beach shaded by huge pine trees north of Pampelonne beach
Located north of the infamous stretch known as Pampelonne beach and about 7km from the town of Saint-Tropez, Plage des Salins is a little slice of wilderness.
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Graniers Beach
Small cove which has retained all of its natural wild side
Plage des Graniers is a beautiful, small sandy bay surrounded by greenery and a few Provençal villas.
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Canoubiers Beach
Wide sandy beach that is the local's favourite destination
This beach is situated around the coastline from Plage des Graniers, and sits close to the main road of Route des Salins, so access from St-Tropez town is fairly easy.
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Bouillabaisse Beach
Delightful fine sandy beach at the entrance of Saint-Tropez
La Bouillabaisse is a more low-key option to the swanky beach clubs on Pampelonne beach and is situated closer to the town of Saint Tropez.
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Pampelonne Beach
Longest, most famous and most popular beach in Saint-Tropez
Pampelonne Beach is the beach most people associate with Saint-Tropez. This is where you will find the A-listers, the famous beach clubs, and the super yachts resting in the bay.
Dining in Frejus
Restaurants in Frejus
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Barco Beach Beach Club, Sainte Maxime
On the beautiful sandy beach La Nartelle
Barco Beach has unique "A la Plancha" eating. This is everybodys favourite with beautiful fish, seafood and meats literally grilled at your table.
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La Badiane Restaurant, Sainte Maxime
Gourmet restaurant at the heart of Sainte Maxime
This restaurant boasts an elegant dining room where you can enjoy a seasonal balanced menu based on regional produce with simple but very imaginative dishes.
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La PeSQuiere Restaurant
Family-run restaurant offering simple & traditional cuisine
This family business created by Jacques Cadel and now run by his daughter Marie-Anne, offers a simple and traditional Provencal cuisine. It has managed to stay clear of fashions and to preserve its conviviality.
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La Ponche Restaurant
Restaurant with sea view terrace 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.
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Les Graniers Restaurant & Beach Club
Beautiful surroundings, a quiet beach & good food at this small restaurant
A good ambience and the ability to dine with your feet in the sand on the stunning Golfe of Saint Tropez, this beach club is situated on a small beach close to the town of Saint Tropez.
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Le Patio Restaurant
Romantic Italian dining around the swimming pool at Le Yaca Hotel
This Italian restaurant remains one of the most popular in Saint Tropez. Nestled in the garden of the Le Yaca hotel with large umbrellas, reflections on the outdoor pool and a peaceful environment.
Nightlife in Frejus
Bars & Clubs in Frejus
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L'Esqui Nightclub
The not to be missed, a gay-friendly nightclub of the Old Town
The only official Gay Club in Saint Tropez is located near the port, in the heart of the old town. Entertaining locals and visitors since 1998.
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Kelly's Pub La Grotte
Every town has an Irish bar...and this is it in St Tropez!
If all the glitz and glamour is getting a bit much, retreat to the Irish pub, where casual clothes are welcomed and you’ll look a bit of a prat in a dress made of glitter.
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Le Quai Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
Trendy restaurant & cocktail bar on St Tropez port
It’s the hottest bar scene in town from April through the summer. This modern and upscale restaurant attracts Cristal-chugging yacht owners and stiletto-strutting beach club models.
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Senequier Restaurant
One of the most popular & famous cafes in the St Tropez port
A favourite with former president Jacques Chirac this café is the perfect place from which to people watch, and the coffee is pretty excellent too.
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Bar du Port
Beautifully renovated bar & restaurant fronting the Old Port
One of the trendiest bars in Saint Tropez, the Bar du Port has been in the Chaix family since 1963, and with the architect Chrisophe Pillet, the owners have recently updated the decor.
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Les Caves du Roy Nightclub
Most prestigious nightclub in France located within the Hotel Byblos
Set within the chic 5 star Byblos hotel is one of the most exclusive night spots in Saint Tropez.
Things to do in Frejus
The park of the ancient Roman aqueduct is a wonderful place for walking, picnicking and bike riding.
There is also a safari park near the city (Parc Zoologique de Frejus), and for family entertainment you can also visit the water park Aqualand Frejus, the biggest waterpark along the Riviera.
It's worth taking the 7km hike up to the ruins of the Malpasset dam, which broke in the floods of 1959, killing more than 400 people in Fréjus. For longer hikes, both the Esterel Mountains and the Maures range have wonderful hikes (including the GR51), but they are not easily acccessed from Fréjus town by foot as the area is very built up.
Things To Do in Frejus
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Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
19 super water slides on one site, with toboggans & the black hole
With numerous slides, including the King Cobra - unique is western Europe - this is the largest waterpark on the Cote d'Azur! Inludes a rest area, show area, clockroom, fast food, grill and pizzeria, ice creams, drinks, and shop.
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Luxury Jack III Yacht Trip
Luxury private yacht trip along the French Riviera for up to ten people
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Club Sous l'Eau Diving School, Saint Raphael
Friendly diving centre for enthusiasts & newcomers to the sport
Discover more than 30 dive sites with the help of this diving school, located on the Port Santa Lucia in St Raphael.
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Valescure Golf Course, Saint Raphael
A joint golf & tennis club situated to the north of Saint Raphael
The course was designed by the renowned architect Harry Colt.
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Blue Green l'Esterel Golf Course, Saint Raphael
18 hole golf course designed by Trent Jones Snr
The golf course is situated near the famous Riviera resort of Saint Raphael on the outskirts of Cap Esterel.
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Golf Course De Roquebrune Resort, Roquebrune-Sur-Argens
Luxury 5* golf resort between Cannes & Saint Tropez
Enjoy the best of both worlds at this stunning golf course, with the sparkling waters of the Riviera on one side and the wild Maure mountains on the other.
Yachts & Sailing in Frejus
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Jack III Motor Yacht - 20m Motor Yacht for up to 10 people
Motor yacht in Saint-Raphaël for up to ten people (sleeps four)
Jack III is a sleek and sophisticated 19.76m Riva 63 Vertigo built in 2015, offering an exceptional blend of Italian design, luxury and performance. Based in Saint-Raphaël, she is the ideal yacht for stylish day charters and overnight escapes along the French Riviera, delivering the unmistakable elegance and craftsmanship for which Riva is renowned.
Watersports in Frejus
Watersports in Frejus
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Club Sous l'Eau Diving School, Saint Raphael
Friendly diving centre for enthusiasts & newcomers to the sport
Discover more than 30 dive sites with the help of this diving school, located on the Port Santa Lucia in St Raphael.
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Aventure Sous Marine Diving School, Saint Raphael
Diving school situated in the old port of Saint Raphael
Since 1994, the team at this diving school have been located in Saint Raphael in the Var department.
Where to stay in Frejus
Accommodation is not a problem in Fréjus, there is a good selection of budget hotels, mainly aimed at the business traveller. There is also an abundance of French Riviera style campsites close by.
Holiday Rentals in Frejus
Holiday Rentals in Frejus
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Bleu Azur Villa, Les Issambres
5 bedroom Villa in Les Issambres. Sleeps 10
Contemporary villa with swimming pool and double view of the sea and the hill, located in Les Issambres not far from the Gulf of Saint Tropez.
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Paola Villa
4 bedroom Villa in Saint-Tropez. Sleeps 8
Superb Villa for Rent 300m from the Beaches of Saint-Tropez
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L'heure Bleue Villa, Sainte-Maxime
4 bedroom Villa in Sainte-Maxime. Sleeps 8
In a sumptuous environment, this exceptional property located in Sainte-Maxime enjoys a breathtaking panoramic view of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.
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Chaza Villa, Sainte-Maxime
5 bedroom Villa in Sainte-Maxime. Sleeps 10
Seasonal rental villa with swimming pool - Villa Chaza
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Émeraude Villa
12 bedroom Villa in Saint-Tropez. Sleeps 24
Villa for Rent for 24 People Near the Parcs de Saint-Tropez
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Tropez Villa
9 bedroom Villa in Saint-Tropez. Sleeps 20
The Villa Tropez, a 5-star rated property, spans an area of 775 m² and is situated on a 13,000 m² estate in Saint-Tropez.
Hotels in Frejus
Hotels in Frejus
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La Villa Dune Hotel
Luxury villa hotel close to both the town centre & the beach
You will find that this boutique 5-star luxury hotel offers peace and tranquillity in a stunning setting on the St Tropez peninsula.
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Le Yaca Hotel
5 star hotel set in beautiful 18th-century Provencal houses
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.
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La Mandarine Hotel
Charming luxury hotel set within a traditional Provencal building
This charming and elegant Provencal style hotel offers a rare moment of intimacy in Saint Tropez, enjoy the quiet yet close to the city-centre.
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Le Y Boutique Hotel
4* boutique hotel in central Saint Tropez
Hidden amongst the narrow streets of the old village, this discrete hotel is right at the foot of the Citadel and only 2 minutes from the Port and La Ponche beach.
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La Ferme d'Augustin Hotel
Family-run 4 star hotel with sea views & direct acess to the beach
This four star hotel is an authentic hotel situated in front of the Pampelonne bay, steps away from Tahiti beach and a few minutes away from Saint Tropez.
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Chateau de la Messardiere Spa Hotel
Restored castle tucked away in magnificent grounds with sea views
The exclusive palace-style hotel is Saint Tropez' largest hotel, situated in the middle of a park with amazing scents and breath-taking views.
How to get to Frejus
Often associated with St Raphaël, both towns are located in the east of the Var department of Provence.
If travelling by air the closest airport is Nice Côte d'Azur International, around 45 minutes away. Other smaller airports near by include, Cannes and Saint Tropez. Travelling by car along the A8 motorway, you can take the 'Fréjus & Saint Raphaël' exit and follow signs to the town centre.
Transfers for Saint-Tropez
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Private Airport Transfers
Effortless and reliable transfers from Nice Airport to Saint-Tropez
From Nice airport to Saint-Tropez, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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Private Airport Transfers
Top-of-the-range transportation service
For more than 10 years, Millenium Transport has been the leading firm in terms of top-of-the-range transports with driver and provides a high quality of service in order to satisfy the needs and expectations of international clients who make the French Riviera so famous.
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Private Airport Transfers
Reliable private airport transfer & taxi service
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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Private Jet & Helicopter Transfers
Aircraft & helicopter charter company based at Nice Airport in the South of France
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Helicopter Charter Flights
Luxury helicopter transfers to the French Riviera & the French Alps
Heli Securite offer transfers on a helicopter from the airport to your yacht or various destinations in and around the Cannes area, St Tropez and Monaco. In addition to this they also service all of the main French ski resorts from their base in Courchevel.
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Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Helicopter charter company based in Monaco with over 25 years experience
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
Property For Sale in Frejus
Property for Sale in Frejus
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Villa for Sale | STZ250296
4 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 147m² Villa in Var
Waterfront Villa in Sainte-Maxime
Villa for Sale | STZ250296
€3,300,000 -
Villa for Sale | STZ250332
4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 134.77m² Villa in Var
Unique waterfront location for this villa, just minutes from the center of Sainte-Maxime.
Villa for Sale | STZ250332
€2,400,000 -
Villa for Sale | stz260388
2 bathrooms, 450m², Villa in Sainte-Maxime
A rare private estate near Saint-Tropez, this exceptional 19th-century Provençal property embodies all the charm and authenticity of Provence across nearly 9 hectares of land.
Villa for Sale | stz260388
€3,490,000 -
Hotel for Sale | STZ250294
12 bedroom, 614.69m² hotel in Var
Located just 100 meters from the sea, this unique property, currently operated as a charming 4-star hotel, enjoys a spectacular view of the sea and Saint-Tropez.
Hotel for Sale | STZ250294
€6,600,000 -
Villa for Sale | STZ240169
7 bedroom, 7 bathroom, 571.19m² New luxury estate in Saint-Tropez, moments from the beach in Var
New luxury estate in Saint-Tropez, moments from the beach
Villa for Sale | STZ240169
€8,700,000 -
Villa for Sale | stz260386
5 bedroom bathroom, 220m² Villa in Saint Tropez
Just a few minutes’ walk from the heart of Saint-Tropez and the iconic beaches of Les Canebiers and Les Graniers, this exceptional property perfectly embodies the Tropezian art of living: a subtle balance between vibrancy and tranquility, comfort and authenticity.
Villa for Sale | stz260386
€5,500,000
