city   guide.

st. tropez

NEIGHBOURHOODS

PLAGE DE PAMPELONNE

A number of artists and writers all fell under the spell of this charming little port in the 1950s, paving the way for its iconic association with Brigitte Bardot, as well as its reputation as a legendary source of inspiration. Today, St-Tropez is an internationally recognised Mediterranean mecca for all things fashionable, from its see-and-be-seen terrace cafes to a diverse retail assortment of beachready wares and everything in between.

PLAGE DE PAMPELONNE

Located in Ramatuelle, the Plage de Pampelonne is one of the area’s best spots for people-watching and beach street styles. There is something for everyone, from the luxurious yacht owners at Club 55 to the younger, partyready crowd at Nikki Beach.

48 HOUR RECOMMENDATION

ST.TROPEZ CITY GUIDE | 48 HOURS

DAY 1

Wake up at...

Hôtel de Paris in the town centre on Traverse de la Gendarmerie. This beautiful hotel blends old-school decor with modern technology, and has an incredible rooftop pool with views over St-Tropez and the port. From here, you can walk straight towards town, stopping at the breathtaking Chanel boutique, housed in a St-Tropezienne building and holding its full resort, jewellery, accessories and ready-towear lines. Take a look in the newest outpost of local swimwear brand Les Canebiers across the street, and after, descend on the bustling Rue Général Allard to discover more French swimwear favourites, including Kiwi, Pain de Sucre and Banana Moon. Be sure to visit the Bluemint boutique for its selection of well designed men's resort and swimwear.

Spend the afternoon...

Hot spot cafe Senequier for people watching in the buzzy harbour and a glass of rosé with a cheese pastry, followed by the artisanal glacier Barbarac for a scoop (or two) of freshly made ice-cream or sorbet. Continue up Rue de la Citadelle and onto Rue Gambetta for a wealth of premium boutiques and designer stores from a mix of French and international brands, largely stocking resort wear, standout swimwear and beach accessories. For womenswear, don't miss Sunday, Coconut and By Marie, and for men, head to Vilebrequin or L'espadrille Tropezienne for a selection of deck-ready apparel and footwear.

Spend the evening...

Hobo for contemporary European cuisine, including squid risotto, steak and tarte-au-citron that, surprisingly for Saint- Tropez, won't burn a hole in your wallet. Before then, don't miss the small, boutique-crammed Rue Georges- Clemenceau just two streets along, where you'll find brightly coloured beachwear and glamorous accessories at Ravissante, handmade leather sandals at K Jacques and designer kidswear from Le Tipi de Lenie. For a night cap, head to new bar and restaurant La Guérite for drinks while taking in the sunset over the harbour. If you have the energy and are in the mood for some celeb spotting, head to one of the port-side clubs, including L'Opéra, the VIP Room or Le Quai for drinks, dancing and live entertainment.

DAY 2

Wake up at...

Hôtel Ermitage, a five-minute walk outside the town centre and not far from the citadel. With a relaxed, luxe feel, the hotel feels eclectic and contemporary, with impressive artworks and furniture designed by Jean Prouvé, alongside the sprawling outdoor terrace which is a local favourite for sundown drinks. After breakfast, head towards Place des Lices to browse vintage and upcycled garments at the boutique-cum-market concept Maison Blanc Bleu, alongside the Mission Accomplie concept store for handmade cover-ups and accessories. In the same square, you'll find eclectic furniture and antiques store L'Atelier 55 and Celine. For the best high-end shopping St-Tropez has to offer, head down Rue François Sibilli, where you'll find the Dior store and cafe, as well as womenswear boutiques Patch, Lulu and fun fashion bazaar Blabla for its selection of embroidered dresses and bags. Don't miss men's swimwear spot Orlebar Brown.

Spend the afternoon...

Les Graniers, a quiet spot on the beautiful Plage des Graniers, close to the town centre. Dine al fresco in this unpretentious beach hut-style restaurant that prides itself on fresh seafood, including cod ceviche and salmon gravelax. Staying along the coastline, take a short drive, taxi or 15- minute cycle ride to Le Club 55 along the famous Pampelonne beach. Another al fresco restaurant and bar, this bustling beachgoer's paradise serves excellent fish dishes and wine, while offering ample street style and people-watching opportunity. Just yards away is the Club 55 boutique, a must for inspiring beachwear, accessories and bohemian homewares, all of superior quality.

Spend the evening...

Cucina Byblos restaurant back in town, just off Place des Lices. Located inside the luxurious Hôtel Byblos, this new restaurant serves up authentic Italian cuisine in a relaxed, contemporary space. All dishes are a la carte, ranging from wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas to lavish sharing dishes such as pasta flambeed in a parmesan cheese wheel. For postdinner drinks, head to any one of the bars around the Place des Lices square, where locals sit and watch the world go by. Book a table at new Mexican-Peruvian bar and restaurant Pablõ for cocktails and live music to drink and dance into the night.

ST.TROPEZ CITY GUIDE | FAST FACTS

ONCE YOU'RE THERE
AIRPORTS

NICE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (NCE)

The Nice International Airport is 27km (16.8mi) northeast of Cannes, 105km (65.2mi) northeast of St-Tropez and 24km (15mi) southwest of Monaco. It is convenient to hire a car here from one of the many providers.

SAINT-TROPEZ-LA MÔLEM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (LTT)

This small airport offers service for smaller airplanes from Swiss Air and Air France, as well as helicopter service. Located approximately 14km (9mi) from the city centre.

TOULON HYÈRES AIRPORT (TLN )

This airport is 52km (32mi) west of Saint-Tropez.

SAINT-TROPEZ-LA MÔLEM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (LTT)

Travellers arriving from Paris and other destinations in the Mediterranean find that the train is a convenient option, and the TGV from Paris reaches the south in about 5.5-6 hours. For rail information, fare and schedules visit voyages-sncf.com.

GETTING AROUND

The easiest way to get around the South of France is by car, but trains, boats, buses and even helicopters are also viable options. Carpooling app BlaBla Car also offers an inexpensive way of traveling between destinations and to and from airports.

Taxis are convenient but be sure to use a licensed taxi and agree on the fare before beginning your trip.

Car or bike rental is necessary if you wish to visit the surrounding beaches or countryside.

tipping guide

Tax and service charges are often included at St- Tropez restaurants and hotels, but additional tipping is appreciated for good service.
Parking Valets: €5-10
Porter/Doorman: €1 per bag, plus a little extra if bags are delivered to your room.
Waitstaff: 5-10%
Bartender/Cocktail waitress: €1 per drink

SHOPPING HOURS

Monday-Sunday* 10am-7pm** Sunday: A limited number of stores are open from 12pm-5pm, with markets opening and closing much earlier from approximately 8am to midday. * Many stores are closed at lunchtime from about 2:30pm-3pm.
** Stores are generally open on Sundays during the high season, but a selection may close on Mondays instead.

other

Time Zone: Central European: UTC +1/+2
Electricity: 220-240V
Common Language: Italian
Currency: Euro (EUR) €