Glamour on the French Riviera: Where To Stay in Saint-Tropez

It’s no surprise that Saint-Tropez has long been a favourite destination for the rich and famous. With its stunning beaches, charming Old Town, vibrant cultural scene and glamorous nightlife, this is one of Europe's best coastal destinations. Our team of travel experts at Plum Guide know all the information about vacationing in this sunny destination and have put together this guide to where to stay in Saint-Tropez. Whether you want to be in the heart of the action or somewhere a little quieter, keep reading for our top neighbourhoods.

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If this is your first time visiting Saint-Tropez and sightseeing is at the top of your to-do list, the centre is the best place to stay. It’s easy to get around on foot, with the best attractions, restaurants and bars all within a few minutes walk from each other. Stroll down narrow, winding streets where brightly-painted buildings reflect the typical Provençal architecture. Pop into the many designer stores to splash the cash, or make your way down to Saint-Tropez’s picturesque harbour.

Place de Lices (sometimes called Place Carnot) is the heart and soul of the city, a 19th-century public square lined with rows of centuries-old plane trees. It’s a wonderful place to seek respite from the hot midday sun, with many alfresco cafes set along the edges of the square. Each Tuesday and Saturday, the square hosts a traditional Provençal market where you can browse the stalls selling everything from seasonal fruits and colourful flowers to local handicrafts and vintage clothing.

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The Old Town is a charming area bursting with character. Known for its charming atmosphere and postcard-perfect views, the best way to explore is to get lost amongst the maze of cobblestone streets. Look up at the old, pastel-hued buildings, vibrant flowers spilling over their ornate balconies. You’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve just stepped back in time.

The most recognizable landmark in the Old Town is the church of Our Lady of the Assumption. Dating back to the 18th century, this iconic building stands out from the rest with its soaring bell tower and bright red and yellow facade. Step inside and admire the religious artwork and the bust of Saint Tropez, the town’s patron saint. If you’ve been inspired by the church’s beautiful interiors and fancy zhushing up your own home, pick up some artwork from the Old Town’s many galleries. Saint-Tropez was once an artist’s haven (the likes of Paul Signac and Henri Matisse spent time here), so you’re bound to find something to your liking.

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Known as Vieux Port in French, the Old Port area is where Saint-Tropez had its roots as a small fishing village. Today, this bustling harbour seamlessly blends past and present, with traditional fishing boats juxtaposed against sleek superyachts. Take a stroll down Quai Jean Jaurès, the main palm-lined promenade running alongside the water. You’ll find loads of lively cafes here, where you can spend endless hours sitting back with a cool drink – many of them have outdoor terraces ideal for people-watching.

While taking it easy is the main appeal here, there are a few nearby attractions should you fancy switching things up. The Butterfly Museum (La Maison des Papillons) is an interesting place to spend an hour or two, with over 35,000 specimens arranged in an artistic way by painter Dany Lartigue. Another must-visit is the Annonciade Museum, home to a remarkable collection of modern art housed in a 16th-century chapel. If all that sightseeing has worked up an appetite, the nearby Place aux Herbes is a bustling market square where you can pick up delicious local produce to nibble on.

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If you’re after peace and quiet but with easy access to all the action, Port Grimaud is a fantastic place to base yourself. About a half-hour drive from Saint-Tropez, this seaside neighbourhood has a more laid-back vibe compared to its flashy neighbour. Its many canals and waterways have earned it the nickname ‘Venice of Provence’, providing a unique way to see the town. Hire a boat to navigate the channels or stroll along the quaysides to admire the beautiful houses that come right up to the water’s edge. There are also plenty of opportunities for watersports and excursions further afield.

Haven’t quite found your sea legs yet? There is an abundance of things to do on dry land, with the town’s pedestrian-friendly streets offering a variety of shops, boutiques and galleries ample for souvenir hunting. You’ll also come across many waterfront restaurants where you can relax and indulge in traditional Provençal dishes like bouillabaisse and salade Niçoise.

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Those seeking somewhere to stay in Saint-Tropez for a beach getaway should head straight to Pampelonne Beach. This is one of the most famous stretches of coastline in the area (arguably in the whole of France) – expect 5 kilometres of dazzling white sands and crystal-clear waters. You’ll probably recognise it from the Brigitte Bardot film And God Created Woman.

Glitz and glamour abound here, thanks to the many exclusive beach clubs like Club 55, Nikki Beach and Bagatelle dotted along the shores. With high-end dining, VIP service and flashy beach parties, this is the place to rub shoulders with celebrities and jet-setters. For those who prefer something a little more low-key, there are plenty of beach areas where you can set down your towel for free and enjoy more casual beach bars. Pampelonne Beach is also the perfect spot to try a range of watersports, offering everything from parasailing and paddleboarding to kayaking and jet-skiing.

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Behind Pampelonne Beach is the village of Ramatuelle, perched high in the hills overlooking the glittering Mediterranean. Less than a twenty-minute drive from Saint-Tropez, this is a great place to stay for a combination of coast and countryside. The village has a unique spiral layout – its streets wind around in a circular pattern. Amble past restored medieval houses and peaceful courtyards, admiring the breathtaking views across the lush countryside and out to sea.

There are a handful of interesting sights in Ramatuelle, including the Church of Notre Dame, an old prison built by Napoleon III and the 17th-century Font-d’Avaou washhouse. During the summer months, the village hosts various events such as the Ramatuelle Festival, Musiques en Liberté and Jazz à Ramatuelle. Even if you don’t manage to catch a festival, you can still soak up the atmosphere at Place de lLormeau, the village’s main square home to several bars and cafes. It's a good option if you're after somewhere to stay in Saint-Tropez that's tucked away from the action.

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Located across the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, right across the water from its famous neighbour, is Sainte-Maxime, a charming coastal town with a chilled-out vibe. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for some R&R, but if you fancy a bit of sightseeing, Saint-Tropez’s attractions are just a fifteen-minute ride on the ferry.

Those travelling with kids will love Sainte-Maxime, as it’s home to a large stretch of golden sands with all the amenities you could possibly need for a beach day. Nearby beaches like Plage de la Nartelle and Plage de la Croisette are also popular options, with blue waters and a range of watersports. It’s doubtful, but should the kids get bored of the beach, Aqualand Sainte-Maxime has pools and waterslides for hours and hours of fun. When you’re not at the beach or the waterpark, peruse the stalls at the market on Rue Fernand Bessy, or relax in the shade at the botanical gardens filled with Mediterranean flora.

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Looking for where to stay in Saint-Tropez that oozes relaxation? Just a twenty-minute drive away is the village of La Croix Valmer, known for its pristine beaches and picturesque nature. Spend long, lazy days on the many beaches like Plage de Gigaro, Briande, and Plage de Sylvabelle, both of which have golden sands and calm waters ideal for swimming. If these get too busy, venture further out to wilder, untouched beaches like Plage Brouis.

When you feel like stretching your legs, many walking trails lead you through spectacular natural landscapes. The nearby Cape Lardier Nature Reserve is a great place to get out and about in the fresh air, offering secluded coves, rugged cliffs and lush greenery. After a long hike, treat yourself to a glass of wine – we are in Provence, after all. Surrounded by vineyards, oenophiles can visit local wineries like Domaine de la Croix and Château de Chausse for a tasting amongst the rural countryside.

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