- Updated: 19.10.2024
History of Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez, a glamorous town on the French Riviera, has a rich history dating back centuries. Saint-Tropez was initially a small fishing village named after Saint Torpes, a Roman martyr. The area has seen various rulers, including the Greeks, Romans, and Saracens. In the Middle Ages, the town was under the influence of the Abbey of Saint Victor in Marseille. Its strategic location along the Mediterranean coast made it susceptible to attacks and invasions.
Culture, Lifestyle
Saint-Tropez's transformation began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when artists and writers, including Paul Signac and Guy de Maupassant, discovered its serene beauty. They immortalized its landscapes in their works, laying the groundwork for its future allure. However, it wasn't until the 1950s that Saint-Tropez catapulted into the global spotlight. The town's fortunes changed dramatically when French actress Brigitte Bardot chose it as her retreat and subsequently filmed "And God Created Woman" in 1956. Bardot's presence drew the attention of the international media, sparking a tidal wave of interest in Saint-Tropez as a glamorous destination.
The influx of artists, writers, filmmakers, and celebrities turned Saint-Tropez into a cultural hub. The iconic Hotel Byblos, a playground for the rich and famous, further solidified its status as a luxury destination. The town's allure extended beyond its breathtaking beaches to its vibrant nightlife, haute couture boutiques, and world-class restaurants. The annual Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez regatta, starting in the 1980s, added a new dimension to the town's appeal, attracting sailing enthusiasts and aficionados from around the world. This event underscored Saint-Tropez's fusion of glamour, elegance, and sporting prowess.
Awesome view of Saint-Tropez
Beaches
Some of the most famous beaches in Saint-Tropez include Pampelonne Beach, which is lined with private beach clubs and attracts a trendy crowd. There are also quieter, more secluded beaches for those seeking relaxation. Saint-Tropez hosts various events throughout the year, such as the Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez regatta, attracting sailing enthusiasts, and the Bravade de Saint-Tropez, a traditional Provençal celebration.
The most famous beaches in Saint-Tropez: Pampelonne Beach, Tahiti Beach, Plage de l'Escalet, Plage des Salins, Plage de la Bouillabaisse.
Pampelonne Beach in Saint-Tropez! It's a dazzling stretch of coastline in the French Riviera, known for its pristine sands, azure waters, and vibrant atmosphere. Celebrities, jet-setters, and beach enthusiasts flock there to soak up the sun, enjoy the luxurious beach clubs, and experience the glamorous ambiance.
The Plage de l'Escalet in Saint-Tropez is a stunning beach known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings. It's located in a beautiful cove with golden sand, making it a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming. The rocky outcrops and cliffs nearby add to the charm and make it a great place for exploration and relaxation. The beach tends to be less crowded compared to some others in Saint-Tropez, offering visitors a more serene and peaceful experience. To see, feel and enjoy all this, read my cmplete guide how to spend one week in Saint-Tropez.
How to Get to Saint-Tropez
• The closest airports to Saint-Tropez are:
• Toulon-Hyeres, about 50 minutes away, regional flights only
• Nice, 105km/65miles, about 1 hour and 30 minutes away, international flights
• Marseille, 143km/88miles, about 1 hour and 45 minutes away, international flights
• If you are coming from Paris by train. The train from Paris to Saint-Tropez doesn't directly connect these two destinations. You can take a train from Paris to Saint-Raphael, which is the closest major train station to Saint-Tropez. Trains from Paris to Saint-Raphael typically depart from Gare de Lyon station in Paris. The journey duration can vary depending on the type of train you choose (TGV, Intercites, etc.) and the specific schedule, but it usually takes around 4-6 hours. You can buy a ticket directly from official webite of train company SNCF.
From Saint-Raphael to Saint-Tropez, you'll need to take a bus (N: 7601), taxi, or another form of transportation to reach Saint-Tropez.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
Morning
• Arrive in Saint Tropez, settle into your accommodation, and take a leisurely stroll around the Vieux Port (Old Port). Enjoy a coffee at a local café.
Afternoon
• Explore the historic La Citadelle, offering panoramic views of the town and coastline. Visit the Maritime Museum housed within the citadel. Official museum website for the tickets. View on the Google Map.
Day 2: Beach Day
Morning
• Head to one of the iconic beaches like Pampelonne Beach. Relax on the sands, indulge in water sports or rent a yacht for a luxurious experience.
Afternoon
• Have lunch at one of the beach clubs like Club 55 or Nikki Beach, known for their vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine.
Day 3: Cultural Immersion
Morning
• Visit the Annonciade Museum to admire a collection of Impressionist paintings, including works by Signac and Matisse. Official museum website for the tickets. View on the Google Map.
Afternoon
• Wander through the streets lined with designer boutiques and art galleries. Don't miss the Place des Lices market for local products and souvenirs.
Fishing Boats in St. Tropez
Day 4: Explore Nearby Villages
Morning
• Take a day trip to explore nearby villages like Ramatuelle, known for its charming streets and vineyards. Visit Gassin for stunning views of the coast.
Afternoon
• Enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard or relax in the picturesque surroundings.
Day 5: Water Activities
Morning
• Try a different beach, perhaps Plage de Tahiti, and engage in activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding.
Afternoon
• Consider a boat tour along the coastline, exploring hidden coves and learning about the area's history from a different perspective.
Atmosphere of St. Tropez
Day 6: Culinary Delights
Morning
• Take a cooking class to learn about Provencal cuisine and its flavors.
Afternoon
• Enjoy the fruits of your labor during lunch and spend the afternoon exploring local markets for fresh ingredients and specialties.
• Kepp in mind, Saint-Tropez has a variety of dining options, so exploring the smaller, lesser-known restaurants can also lead to delightful culinary experiences. Reservations are recommended, especially during the peak tourist season. Please check below mthe list of best restaurants.
Relaxation and Farewell
Morning
• Treat yourself to a spa day or a relaxing morning at a beachside cafe. Relax on the beach Plage de la Bouillabaisse
Afternoon
• Take a final stroll through town, perhaps pick up some last-minute souvenirs or enjoy a final meal at a charming local restaurant.
• Evening: Spend your last moments in the cafe and get ready for the airport for your return flight.
Remember, this is just a suggested itinerary; feel free to adjust it based on your interests and preferences!
Church - Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción
→ 10 Days in France, Best Itinerary
Best Hotels in Saint-Tropez
Best Restaurants in Saint-Tropez
• Sénéquier - established in 1887, this iconic café on the harbor is famous for its red awnings and is a popular spot for people-watching.
29 Quai Jean Jaures, Google Map
• Le Girelier - this restaurant offers beautiful views of the harbor and serves delicious seafood dishes. It's known for its fresh catches and vibrant ambiance.
17 Quai Jean Jaurès, Google Map
• La Vague d'Or - located in the Résidence de la Pinède hotel, this three-Michelin-starred restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with exquisite French cuisine by renowned chef Arnaud Donckele.
Plage de la Bouillabaisse, Google Map
• L'Opéra - situated in the heart of Saint-Tropez, it's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a diverse menu that includes seafood and Provencal dishes.
Résidence du Port, Google Map
• Sporting Plage - known for its elegant setting and panoramic views of the bay, this restaurant serves excellent Mediterranean cuisine.
510 Promenade Rose, Google Map
• Le Quai - another portside restaurant offering stunning views of the yachts and the sea. It serves Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on seafood, and its terrace is a prime spot for people-watching.
22 Quai Jean Jaurès, Google Map
Architecture of Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez Hotels Map
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