THINGS TO DO IN St Tropez: 1-DAY ITINERARY

St Tropez is associated with glamour and A-list celebrities and yes, people do go there to rub shoulders with the stars, eat at expensive restaurants and party the night away at beach clubs. However, there is another side to this small town. Wander down the cobblestone alleyways, visit an art gallery or museum, take a boat tour, or mix with the locals at the market.

We have prepared a one-day itinerary for you so that you can see the highlights of the town and have suggested other things to do during your stay both in town and as day trips.

Day 1

Morning: Musée De La Gendarmerie Et Du Cinéma

Start your tour of St Tropez at this museum which you may have heard of as the facade was used in several cult 1960s French films about the police which Jean Girault directed. The first of these films was “God Created Women’ starring the iconic Brigitte Bardot.

The museum is on three floors with the ground floor hosting temporary exhibitions. On the first floor, you will learn about the history of the St Tropez police force (the gendarmerie) and see a reconstruction of their offices, as well as some service weapons. There is also a cinema which shows extracts from some of the films as well as interviews with the actors. On the next floor, there is an exhibition about festivities in St Tropez from the 1950s until the present day. The dressing rooms of Brigitte Bardot and Romy Schneider have also been reconstructed..

L’Annonciade

A four-minute walk takes you to the art gallery, L'Annonciade, which is in a converted 16th-century chapel, the Chapelle Notre-Dame de l’Annonciade. It houses a magnificent collection of post-impressionist paintings, a time which lasted from 1886 until 1905. You can see artwork by such painters as Braque, Vallotton, and Delaunay. There are even six works by Matisse. From time to time, temporary exhibitions are held at the museum. A bonus is that you get picturesque views of the port from the museum.

Port De Saint Tropez

A three-minute walk takes you to the famous St Tropez port where you will see luxury yachts belonging to the rich and famous. Take a stroll along the waterfront and admire the yachts as well as the spectacular coastline. There are usually artists at work so take a look and perhaps buy a painting to take home as a souvenir or gift.

This is the perfect spot to stop for lunch at a waterside cafe and people-watch while enjoying a leisurely meal.

Day 1, morning - st tropez Tour Map

Afternoon: Maison Des Papillons

After lunch, head to the Maison des Papillons (Butterfly Museum) which is a four-minute walk. It was set up by Dany Lartigue, grandson of Andre Messager, a French composer, pianist and conductor. Dany had a great interest in lepidopterology and collected around 35,000 butterfly specimens throughout his life and opened this museum. Every species of French butterfly is on show as well as exotic species from places like the Amazon rainforest and the Solomon Islands. The butterflies are beautifully presented and look like pieces of art.

Citadelle De Saint-Tropez

Take an 11-minute walk to the 17th-century fortress, the Citadelle de Saint-Tropez. Built after the French Wars of Religion, the fortress was called into use quickly when there was an attack by 21 Spanish galleons in 1637.

Now the fortress houses the Maritime Museum in the dungeons. Here, you can learn about the maritime history of St Tropez, covering 500 years. On display are antique globes, model ships, cannons, and maps. You can also read accounts written by officers and sailors from the 17th century. The museum also tells you about traditional fishing techniques, allowing you to understand the daily lives of the St Tropez fishermen.

Be warned, however, that the walk from the Old Town to the fortress is up a long staircase so it is not suitable for the disabled or people with health issues. However, if you are fit and healthy, it is well worth the climb for the fantastic views.

Place Des Lices

Take a stroll to the Place des Lices which takes approximately 12 minutes. Here you can discover the old appeal of St Tropez. The luxurious atmosphere and A-list celebrities seem a world away and here you will see the locals relaxing in the cafes and playing pétanque, a type of boules originating in the south of France.

Day 1, afternoon - St Tropez Tour Map

Other Things To Do In St Tropez

• Beaches: You can’t think of St Tropez without mentioning the beaches. The rich and famous head to the sands to show off their immaculate figures and to take advantage of the beach clubs. It isn’t surprising that the beaches are so popular as they are mainly sandy, the water is warm and a beautiful turquoise colour, and the drinks and food served in the clubs and restaurants are top-notch. If you want to go to a beach that you can reach on foot, try the Plage de la Bouillabaisse which is right next to the harbour, or the Plage des Graniers. However, the two most famous beaches are a car ride away. One is Tahiti Beach, which is 4 km south of the town centre, and the other is Pampelonne Beach, which is 5.4 km south of town. Pampelonne Beach is the longest beach close to St Tropez, stretching for five km. It is a perfect beach as it is all sand and the waters are warm. There is a shuttle bus which will take you to different parts of the beach which saves you from walking in the heat. You will have to reserve a sun lounger in advance, especially in the summer. Another beach that is worth visiting is Plage de l’Escalet which is 15 km to the south. It is nestled between Cap Camarat and Cap Taillat and is a mix of sand and pebbles. However, you will find that it is, in fact, three beaches separated by rocks. The beach near the car park fills up quickly so walk around the bay to one of the others which will be quieter. Because of their position, these beaches aren’t affected by sea currents or the fierce Mistral wind. It’s a great place for both swimming and snorkelling.

• Beach Clubs: There are many beach clubs next to the St Tropez beaches, many frequented by celebrities and some having been around since the 1950s. The most famous ones are by the Plage de Pampelonne, and, because of their popularity, you need to make a booking and be seated by 2 p.m. as that’s when things get going with live music and DJs. It isn’t cheap, however, so expect to pay around 20 euros for a small glass of wine. Most clubs are private so you have to pay them if you want to rent sunbeds and they can be between 50 and 150 euros a day for two sunbeds and an umbrella.

• Nightclubs: The nightclubs in St Tropez are luxurious and again frequented by the rich and famous. If you enjoy clubs, you should go, but be prepared to pay high prices to get in and for drinks. One of the best nightclubs is L’Opera which has a restaurant serving traditional French dishes with a modern twist. It features DJs who play a wide range of music genres from pop to house to jazz. Another popular club is Les Caves du Roy, which is in the stunning Byblos Hotel, favoured by celebrities. It offers a mix of pop and house as well as light shows and fireworks.

• Sentier du Littoral is a coastal hiking trail that lets you explore the stunning Mediterranean shoreline while staying close to the sea. If you aren’t interested in sunbathing or dancing the night away, you may want to explore the undeveloped parts of the coastline. One section of the trail runs from Saint-Tropez to Plage de Salins, a small but beautiful hidden beach. The five-kilometer route takes between one and two hours to complete, depending on your fitness level, as some parts are hilly and follow rocky seaside paths. However, the views are exceptional. Along the way, you’ll find rock pools perfect for a refreshing dip, so don’t forget your swimsuit. The trail is well-marked, so there’s no risk of getting lost, but there isn’t much shade, so bring a sunhat and sunscreen.

• Take A Boat Tour Or Hire A Boat: How do you fancy a boat trip around the French coastline? It will be relaxing and the views wonderful so if you have a boating licence get down to the port early in the morning so that you can enjoy a full day at sea. If you haven’t got any experience in navigating a boat at sea, you can hire a yacht with a skipper which will, of course, be pricey. There are also one-hour boat tours which you can take so that you get a flavour of the sea. There are tours giving commentary in English so that you can learn more about St Tropez. The boat sails past the Citadelle, the old town, and the La Glaye beaches before going to Millionaire’s Bay where many celebrities own property.

• Marché De St Tropez: On Tuesday and Saturday mornings, there is a big market in Place des Lices. In the summer, you will find around 120 stallholders selling a wide variety of goods. If you are staying in self-catering accommodation, this is the place to go for fresh local fruit and vegetables, charcuterie, fish, seafood, and herbs. However, you can also find clothes, artisanal products, and souvenirs. Not only might you be able to grab a gift, but you will also be able to experience what everyday life is like for the locals. If you are hungry, there are food stalls with lovely smells wafting in the air. The market is still held in the winter but there aren’t quite as many stalls.

• The Pierre de Suffren Monument is a tribute to one of Saint-Tropez’s most famous historical figures, Admiral Pierre André de Suffren. Located in the heart of the old town, just a short walk from the harbor, the statue honors the 18th-century naval officer known for his bravery and strategic skills. The monument stands in a charming square, making it a great spot to take a break while exploring the town’s historic streets.

• Hyères Islands: If you’re looking for crystal-clear waters and unspoiled nature, the Hyères Islands are the perfect day trip. A short ferry ride from the mainland takes you to a paradise of white sand beaches, pine forests, and scenic walking trails. Porquerolles, the most popular island, is great for cycling, swimming, and snorkeling. With no cars allowed, it’s an escape into nature at its best. Pack a picnic or stop at a beachside café before heading back.

Day Trips From St Tropez

• Chapelle Saint-Anne: The chapel was built in 1618, and is situated on Mont Picoulet, a hill 1 km south of the centre of St Tropez. It was built to thank God for allowing St Tropez to escape the plague. It is a plain building constructed in the Provencal style, but it has spectacular views of both the town and the Mediterranean Sea. It is only open a few days a year, but it is worth coming for just the views. If you are a fan of the Rolling Stones, you will want to come to this spot as it is where Mick and Bianca Jagger got married in 1971. Guests included Paul and Linda McCartney, Ringo Starr, and Eric Clapton.

• Gassin: Gassin, 8 km from St Tropez, is 200 metres above sea level, so it has beautiful views. The best place for the views is the orientation table near the highest car park. You can see many of the resorts from here, including St Tropez. The village is small, with a tiny square and what is probably the narrowest street in the world, L’Androuno. Take a stroll around the beautiful Le Hardy-Devonian garden, which contains many Provencal plants. There is a church and a cathedral to visit and then you can go to the new town which has been built in the style of the historic village and is below it.

• Saint Maxime: Take a boat ride with Les Bateaux Verts ferries across the Gulf to this lovely village and resort. It is much more down-to-earth than St Tropez, with a quaint harbour and a historic part of town where you can wander to take in the atmosphere. Because of the large resident population, you can see how the French live. There is 10 km of coastline here, with the Plage de la Nartelle being the best of the beaches. The sand is golden and the sea is clear and it doesn’t get as crowded as St Tropez which is a bonus.

• Château de la Moutte: Situated just 10 km from Saint-Tropez, Château de la Moutte is a beautiful estate offering a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the coast. This 19th-century château is set within lush gardens and offers a charming blend of history and nature. Visitors can explore the romantic park designed by Jean-Baptiste de Brémond, with its picturesque Mediterranean vegetation and mature trees. The château also has a fascinating connection to the famous writer François-René de Chateaubriand, who spent time here. 

• Cap Camarat: The St Tropez peninsula has three capes, and this one is the furthest to the east. It is worth visiting to see the tallest lighthouse in the country, which is 129. 8 metres high. From here, you get fantastic views of the Bay of Pampelonne. You get there by going down a single-track road which travels through forests of pine and oak trees. Here you may see wildlife, such as lizards, snakes, the Hermann tortoise, peregrine falcons, and the Northern gannet.

• Port Grimaud: Like Sainte Maxime, Port Grimaud can be reached with Les Bateaux Verts ferries. It is by the coast and has only existed since the 1960s. It is called ‘Little Venice’ because it has many waterways. Some of the houses have been built to resemble the fishermen’s houses of St Tropez. Others are luxury homes for the wealthy. Each house is next to a waterway and there is a berth for a boat at each so you might see some luxury yachts. You will notice how colourful the houses are and the lack of cars in the village, as only an elite few are allowed to drive here. There are cafes along the waterfront so have a drink while admiring the yachts and do a bit of people-watching.

• Saint Raphael: Saint Raphael is 39 km north of St Tropez and has a 36 km coastline with 30 beaches, so you have plenty of choice. However, you don’t have to go far as there is a sandy beach in town, Plage de Veillat. There is plenty to see here if you don’t want to lie in the sun or swim. The Basilica of Notre Dame de la Victoire is a spectacular Neo-Byzantine church which has beautiful mosaics inside. The Museum of Prehistory and Underwater Archaeology is worth a visit as is the tower which gives panoramic views from the top. Head to the old port for lunch where you will see luxury yachts sitting beside fishing boats.

• Ramatuelle: Ramatuelle is 10.3 km southwest of St Tropez and is a lovely place to go for lunch as the restaurants have a good reputation. Head to Rue Victor Leon where restaurants and cafes line each side of the street. However, this is not the only reason to visit this village. There are narrow winding streets and traditional stone houses which allow you to take a step back into the past. The Notre Dame Church, which was built in the 16th century, has an imposing wooden door and interesting pieces inside, including two gilded wooden statues and a memorial plaque for the crews of four submarines that went missing off Cap Camarat.

• Sainte-Maxime is just a short 20-minute drive from Saint-Tropez and is well worth a visit. This charming town offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with beautiful Mediterranean beaches and a quaint town centre. Stroll through the narrow streets, explore the local shops and cafés, or take a walk along the picturesque promenade with views of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. For a peaceful retreat, visit the Jardin Botanique des Myrtes, or simply enjoy the calm surroundings.

• Massif Des Maures: The Massif Des Maures is a mountain range covering 135,165 hectares and rising to a top altitude of 780 metres. It is 32 km from St Tropez, and you can tour the mountain range by car though there is also a footpath where you can hike to the top for magnificent views. Lovely traditional villages surround the mountains so stop at one to get a taste of Provencal life. The mountains are home to many species of wildlife such as the Hermann Tortoise, wild boars, badgers, martens, hares, and bats.

• Bormes-les-Mimosas: This postcard-perfect medieval village is known for its colorful flowers, narrow cobbled streets, and stunning sea views. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic center, explore the charming little boutiques, and stop for a coffee in a shaded square. If you visit in early spring, the village is covered in bright yellow mimosa blossoms, making it even more beautiful.

• Antibes and Cap d'Antibes: Just 1 hour from Saint-Tropez, Antibes is a delightful coastal town with its medieval old town, cobbled streets, and local markets. Visit the Musée Picasso, housed in the Château Grimaldi, and stroll through the narrow lanes to admire the town’s historic charm. Just a short distance away, Cap d'Antibes offers peaceful walks with sweeping views of the Mediterranean. The area is home to luxurious villas, shaded paths, and hidden beaches, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.

• Cannes: Only 1.5 hours from Saint-Tropez, Cannes is renowned for its glamorous atmosphere. Walk along La Croisette, a seaside promenade lined with luxury boutiques, hotels, and restaurants. The old town, Le Suquet, offers a taste of history with its charming streets, the Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance, and the impressive Castel de Cannes. The city’s vibrant mix of culture and luxury provides a perfect getaway.

• Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Around 1.5 hours from Saint-Tropez, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is one of the most picturesque hilltop villages in the region, renowned for its medieval streets and vibrant art scene. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, visit galleries featuring works from local and international artists, and take in the views over the surrounding hills. Don’t miss the Fondation Maeght, an open-air museum dedicated to modern art.

• Lac de Sainte-Croix and Gorges du Verdon: Situated around 2.5 hours from Saint-Tropez, the Gorges du Verdon, often called the "Grand Canyon of Europe," is a striking natural wonder. The Lac de Sainte-Croix, with its sparkling turquoise waters, is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. For those seeking adventure, the Sentier Blanc-Martel and Sentier de l’Imbut trails offer breathtaking views of the gorge.  Visit Point Sublime, one of the finest viewpoints in the region, offering stunning views of the gorge and surrounding landscape. Thrill-seekers can enjoy activities like rafting, canyoning, or paragliding. To complete your visit, take a stroll through the charming village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, renowned for its beautiful ceramics and narrow, winding streets.

Things To Do With Kids In And Around St Tropez

• Azur Park, Gassin: Azur Park is 7.9 km southwest of St Tropez and is an amusement park which will enthral the whole family. It has 35 attractions ranging from tranquil rides to roller coasters, a golf course, a mini golf course, and a restaurant, so you can easily spend the day here.

• Aqualand: Aqualand is 16.6 km north of St Tropez and is the perfect place to go with children on a hot summer’s day. It, along with other Aqualands throughout the country, has some of the best water attractions in France. There are water slides, many for the more daring amongst you, but if you want to relax, there is a wave pool, and if you have younger children, there is a splash park especially for them.

• Fréjus Zoo: Fréjus Zoo covers 16 hectares and houses around 400 animals from 100 species including Bengal tigers, wolves, lions, and llamas. The animals come from five continents so your children will learn where different animals live. Children can also have a session with some of the keepers who will tell them about the animals they look after. The zoo is 37 km north of St Tropez.

• Child-Friendly Beaches And Clubs: Most children love to go to the beach to swim and make sandcastles. There are family-friendly beaches in St Tropez, including Tahiti Beach which is sandy and has clear waters. When it comes to beach clubs, Gigi Ramatuelle is a good choice for families. It is by Pampelonne Beach and has the Gigi Circus, a supervised play area.

• Ranch De La Mene: This Western-themed Park is 15 km west of St Tropez and is a great place for children of all ages. There are several activities to enjoy, including horse riding and a petting zoo. The ranch has a restaurant so you can have lunch here.

• Grimaud Aventure is 12 km west of St Tropez and is a two-hectare pine forest with tree climbing courses and aerial games. In total, there are 10 courses for different age groups, and 60 workshops, as well as zip lines. There are qualified trainers to support the experiences.

• Luna Park Fréjus: This amusement park is a minute away from the beach so you could combine your day at the park with some time swimming in the sea. The park is 37 km north of St Tropez and offers classic rides such as carousels, a ghost train, and the dodgems, as well as extreme roller coasters, and bungee jumping. There is a mini park with rides for the little ones. As there is a brasserie in the park, you could easily spend all day there.

Wineries In And Around St Tropez

• Château d’Esclans: Chateau des Esclans, 43 km north of S Tropez exclusively produces rose wines. The estate wine, Chateau Des Esclans is made from Grenache and Rolle using both stainless steel and barrel fermentation giving a smooth texture with floral notes followed by red berry fruits and a hint of pear and vanilla. The wine is only produced from grapes grown on the estate and it is bottled on site. The estate offers a private visit and tasting which you must book. You will have a tour of the estate and learn the methods they use to produce their wine, followed by a tasting.

• Château Minuty is just a short drive from Saint-Tropez, making it a perfect stop for wine lovers exploring the French Riviera. This historic vineyard, set on the rolling hills of the Provence countryside, produces some of the region’s finest rosé wines. Visitors can tour the estate, enjoy tastings of their signature wines, and take in the stunning views of the vineyards and the Mediterranean beyond. With a welcoming tasting room and a peaceful setting, it’s an ideal spot to relax and soak in the charm of Provence.

• Torpez A Saint Tropez: The winery, which is 1.9 km south of St Tropez, has been producing wine snce1908 and is the oldest winery in the Var province. It produces white, red, and rose AOP Cotes De Provence wines. Cll to find out when they are open.

• Domaine de La Croix: Located just 20 minutes from Saint-Tropez, Domaine de La Croix is a stunning winery in La Croix-Valmer. This Cru Classé estate offers a variety of wines, including rosé, white, and red, all crafted with the finest care. The vineyard’s unique location, blending sea breezes and sunny Provençal landscapes, creates the perfect environment for growing top-tier grapes. Visitors can enjoy guided wine tastings, explore the estate, and admire the scenic beauty surrounding the vineyard. The winery is open for visits and tastings, with reservations recommended.

• Château Saint-Maur Cru Classé: Located just 15 minutes from Saint-Tropez, Château Saint-Maur Cru Classé offers an elegant experience in the heart of the Provence wine region. Known for its exceptional rosé, red, and white wines, this estate provides a perfect blend of luxury and tradition. Visitors can enjoy guided wine tastings and explore the winery’s modern facilities, all while taking in stunning panoramic views over the vineyards. The estate also features Le Belrose, a refined restaurant serving exquisite cuisine that pairs perfectly with the wines, and is open from April to October.

• La Bastide Blanche: This winery is 37 km northwest of St Tropez and has been family-owned since 1972. It produces red, white, and rose Bandol wines which require all grapes to be hand-harvested. All of the wines are organic. Book in advance for a tour and a tasting. The winery is open Monday to Fridays.

Golf Courses In And Near St Tropez

• Golf Club Saint Tropez: This course was designed by the famous golfer, Gary Player and is 6.3 km southwest of St Tropez. It is an 18-hole course with a length of 6,045 metres. The way the course is designed allows you to return to the clubhouse after the first nine holes if you don’t want to play the full 18. When you get to hole 13, you will have a beautiful view of the Gulf of St Tropez. The golf course has a bar and a restaurant which is open from April until October.

• Beauvallon Golf Club: Beauvallon is in Grimaud, 11.5 km away from St Tropez. It is an 18-hole course on a plot of land covering 40 hectares. The course is varied and well-maintained, giving you a great experience. It also has spectacular views of the coastline which is always a bonus.

Where To Eat In St Tropez

With the type of clientele visiting St Tropez, you can be assured of great dining experiences. There is an eclectic mix of cuisines including traditional fare and innovative dishes. You won’t be surprised to learn that there is a focus on fish in many of the establishments.

Focus On Fish

• Restaurant La Ponche: This restaurant is in the hotel of the same name and is in the old town. It offers a Mediterranean menu with an emphasis on fish and fresh vegetables. For lunch, try the fish of the day with vegetables from their garden, served with green zucchini gazpacho. For dinner, choose the red mullet cooked over an open flame with candied eggplant. A decadent dessert is the warm chocolate and ice cream mousse, Fior de Latte. The restaurant is sophisticated and frequented by the iconic Brigitte Bardot. It has a sundeck from where you can enjoy a beautiful sunset.

• Le Girelier: This upmarket seafood restaurant serves gourmet Provencal dishes. It has a five-course menu which includes dishes such as foie gras, lobster, and veal tenderloin. It is open from midday until midnight.

Michelin-Starred

• La Vague D’Or: La Vague d’Or has three Michelin stars coupled with a spectacular view of the Gulf of St Tropez. The chef is Arnaud Donckele who produces creative menus which he pairs with excellent wines. The menus change with the seasons so you can be assured of fresh ingredients.

Bistro

• Au Caprice Des Deux - Cuisine Bistronomique Français: This is a rustic bistro which is known for producing traditional French dishes with a modern twist. Starters include The Seven Small Grains with garlic and zucchini flower fritters and gazpacho. Mains include veal grenadines with a bearnaise sauce and desserts, a chocolate & sweet meringue and a peach melba.

International

• Lucina Byblos: You may feel like a change from French cuisine and if so, there is an excellent Italian restaurant in town. If you are a vegetarian, you will fare well, unlike in many French restaurants where the focus is on meat and fish. The restaurant is in the Hotel Byblos and offers delicious food. Try a truffle pizza if you are a vegetarian or, if you like seafood, go for the roasted octopus tenacles, virgin sauce, and crushed potatoes with lemon.

• L’Opera: This restaurant is a favourite with the trendy set. It has a magnificent view of the port and features live music and international food. Dishes include squid tempura, foie gras pie, lobster, caviar, roasted sea bream with Himalayan salt, violet artichokes, and fennel, cooked in seashell juice, and Wagyu Kagoshima beef sirloin.

Seaside Restaurants

• La Petite Plage: This restaurant offers Mediterranean-inspired food which you can enjoy on a sophisticated terrace with beautiful views. Try the steamed artichoke with anchovy paste, green beans, and grilled hazelnuts to start or splash out on caviar. Mains include spicy lobster linguine with garlic and sauteed prawns and squid, chorizo, pine nuts, and basil. The restaurant offers sharing platters such as Black Angus beef carpaccio with pesto rosso, French fries, and green salad.

• Le Club 55: This is a legendary restaurant which caters to celebrities but there is no reason why you can’t go there as well. The dishes are authentic but not flowery and organic vegetables are used in as many dishes as possible . Dishes include artichoke with vinaigrette, the Pampelonne salad, traditional ratatouille, and sea bass.

Where To Stay In St Tropez

• Le Yaca Saint-Tropez  is a luxurious five-star hotel in the heart of Saint-Tropez, just a 2-minute walk from the town center and a 5-minute walk from the beach. This elegant hotel blends Italian-style charm with modern comfort, offering beautifully decorated rooms and suites, some with private terraces or balconies. Guests can enjoy excellent facilities, including a heated outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a tranquil garden for relaxation. The on-site gourmet restaurant serves refined Italian cuisine, while the stylish bar is perfect for evening drinks.

• Muse Saint Tropez: This luxurious five-star hotel is beautifully decorated which will enhance your stay. It has excellent facilities including an eco-friendly garden, a swimming pool, a spa and wellness centre, a boules pitch, a bicycle rental service, a bar, and free parking. The suites are large, and some have a terrace, while others have a balcony. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. A continental breakfast is included in the price of the room. If you want an a la carte breakfast or have special requests, there will be an additional charge. Room service is available for other meals.

• Hotel La Ponche: This hotel is in the centre of the St Tropez and offers five-star accommodation. The rooms are superb and have air-conditioning, soundproofing for a good night’s sleep, a TV, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and bathrobes. They either have a sea view or a view of the town. You can choose between an a la carte or a continental breakfast. The restaurant is open for other meals and there is room service. Other facilities include free Wi-Fi and a bar.

• La Bastide Du Port-Hotel De Charme: This four-star hotel overlooks the bay and is just 300 metres from the town centre so you are in prime position. Facilities include free parking, a garden, a terrace, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. The rooms are decorated in the traditional Provencal style and have air conditioning, a minibar, a TV, and a private bathroom with bathrobes and slippers. You will be able to enjoy either a sea or a garden view. A continental breakfast is offered but no other meals are served. However, you don’t have to go fr to find a restaurant. The hotel does have a bar so you can have a drink before you go out for dinner or when you return.

• Le Pre De La Mer: This hotel is a five-minute drive from the centre of town. The rooms well-equipped with air conditioning, a private terrace, a TV, and a private bathroom with slippers and bathrobes. A continental breakfast is available in the morning and the restaurant serves traditional Provencal dishes for lunch. The facilities are excellent. There is free Wi=Fi throughout the hotel, a fitness room, a hammam, a massage service, room service, airport shuttle, and a pool with a terrace. The hotel is four-star.

• Hotel Les Palmiers: Hotel Les Palmiers is three-star and is only 100 metres from the centre of St Tropez and 450 metres from the nearest beach, making it easy to stay in St Tropez without hiring a car. There is air conditioning in each room, a safety deposit box, a minibar, and a private bathroom. A buffet breakfast is provided every morning. Facilities include complimentary Wi-Fi, a garden, a bar, and a shared lounge.

Best Time To Stay In St Tropez

St Tropez has a mild Mediterranean climate with around 300 days of sunshine and rain mainly in March, April, and November. The best times to visit are in the shoulder months of May, June, September, and October when the weather is warm but not scorching hot and there aren’t the crowds of the summer months. If you do like the heat, go in July or August but expect crowds and higher prices. In the winter, the weather can still be pleasant, but St Tropez virtually shuts down as a resort.

Festivals In St Tropez

• Les Printemps Musical St Tropez: This classical music festival is held in the spring each year. There is a monthly concert from April until June held in different venues.

• La Fête De La Musique: This music festival is held throughout France on the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere, June 21st. It is a free event which was launched in 1982 by the French Ministry for Culture. The artists range from local amateurs to professionals. There are DJs and traditional folk bands, and the shows are held in bars and restaurants, often spilling out onto the streets as the night goes on.

• Bastille Day: July 14th is Bastille Day and is a national holiday. St Tropez celebrates it in style with fireworks, street parties, and activities for children.

• Christmas Festivities: December is the one time during the winter season when it is a good time to visit as the town is festive with sparkling lights and decorations everywhere. The lights are switched on December the 6th, the night when St Nicholas leaves presents in children’s shoes. There is a pop-up ice rink in Place des Lices. As well as ice skating for the general public, there are figure skating performances and ice hockey games. Younger children in particular will love it here especially as there is a Santa Grotto. There is Christmas market in St Tropez which runs from the 8th December until the beginning of January. It is filled with stalls selling Christmas delicacies and handmade gifts. On Christmas Eve, there is a service at 10.30 p.m. in the L'Église de Notre Dame de L’Assomption which has a wonderful choir singing Christmas carols.