How to Spend 48 hours in St Tropez. Is it worth visiting St Tropez?
Tucked away on the glamorous French Riviera, St Tropez exudes charm and luxury. With its sun-soaked beaches, sparkling blue waters, and rich history, it’s long been a favorite playground for the rich and famous. But don’t let the glitz and glam fool you—this place is more than just a luxurious hotspot. Spending 48 hours in St Tropez is a perfect mix of sophistication, relaxation, and Mediterranean charm. From the iconic Old Port, where yachts of all sizes line the harbor, to the lively streets filled with chic boutiques and cozy cafes, Saint-Tropez offers a unique, captivating experience for anyone wanting a taste of the good life.
I loved every moment I spent in St Tropez, although a short 48 hours it is one of my favorite port towns and I cannot wait to share my perfect planned itinerary with you.
Day 1
We flew into Nice airport and rented a car an hour and a half drive to St Tropez. The drive itself is pretty easy with beautiful French countryside scenery along the way. We stayed at La Bastide D’Antoine and it was truly a magical place. Nestled on a cliff top about 5 minutes-10 minutes outside the main square of St Tropez in Gassin. We loved this small boutique hotel so much and highly recommend staying here for more budget friendly option (not cheap but budget friendly compared to other options in St Tropez).
Activities
- Visit the Old Port (Vieux Port): The main port in St Tropez where you can wander around the harbor lined with luxury yachts, pastel-colored buildings, and chic cafes. It’s great for people-watching, dining, and shopping.
- La Ponche Quarter: Explore this historic part of town with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and local boutiques. It gives a glimpse into the old fishing village life before the town became a jet-set and luxury destination.
- Citadel of Saint-Tropez: This 17th-century fortress offers stunning views of St Tropez and coastline. There’s also a maritime history museum inside if you are into history.
Food
- Cucina Byblos: Located inside the iconic Hotel Byblos, Cucina Byblos offers a vibrant and authentic Italian dining experience serving traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist, using fresh and seasonal ingredients. The lively ambiance and charming Mediterranean décor make it a perfect spot for a chic yet relaxed evening.
- HERA Bistrot-Bar à vin: Located in the heart of Saint-Tropez, it offers a curated selection of fine wines, both local and international, paired with a menu of delicious French bistro dishes. The intimate setting and attentive service make it an ideal place for a laid-back meal or a casual glass of wine with friends.
- La Part Des Anges – Brasserie Bistronomique: A contemporary brasserie blending traditional French cuisine with innovative flavors. The creative menu and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit for those seeking refined French dining experience.
- MAMÉ: A fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine in a modern and stylish setting. The menu is inspired by bold, exotic flavors, featuring dishes that combine fresh ingredients with fragrant spices. With its chic decor and warm ambiance, MAMÉ provides an exciting and flavorful dining experience in the heart of Saint-Tropez.
Day 2
Unfortunately on our second day in St Tropez it rained pretty hard all day (Is that normal for the middle of June?!). We originally had a boat day planned but was canceled due to the inclement weather, but we made the most of it of our. Boat day options below if you have a nice sunny day in St Tropez.
Activities
- Boat Day: As I mentioned, we originally had a boat day planned for Day 2 but weather was crappy and our reservation was canceled! We booked a catamaran tour through caseneuve maxi catamaran. There are some other boat rentals here for more luxury or private experiences.
- Explore the beaches & beach clubs: Pampelonne Beach the famous beach along the French Riviera. Spend the day at one of the many beach clubs of St Tropez (Le Club 55, Nikki Beach, Byblos Beach, Jardin Tropezina, Bagatelle, Loulou, La Reserve a la Plage just to name a few)
- Shopping: Obviously there is no shortage of luxury shopping in St Tropez. Whether you’re looking for designer labels or unique local products, the town has both luxury boutiques and charming markets like Place des Lices Market, where you can find local produce, clothes, and antiques.
Food
- Dior Cafe: I loved having brunch at the Dior Cafe in St Tropez. The food was actually really good and the garden was beautiful. Highly recommend making reservations (and don’t be late! We were running 10-15 minutes late and lost our table, thankfully they were able to fit us in).
- Manko: Recommend by many online, this is a trendy Peruvian restaurant known for its vibrant, exotic flavors and stylish ambiance, offering ceviche, grilled meats, and a lively late-night scene.
- Chez Clovis: A cozy, traditional seafood restaurant near the harbor, known for its fresh, local catches and classic French dishes with a warm, welcoming vibe. Definitely on my list for our next trip to St Tropez.
- Fatto Bene: If you’re looking for something more casual and Italian eatery specializing in handmade pizzas and pastas, with a relaxed atmosphere and a focus on simple, authentic Italian flavors.
Conclusion
A 48-hour stay in Saint-Tropez is a perfect snapshot of what makes this legendary town so special. I wish we could’ve spent more time here! You’ll experience a captivating mix of old-world charm and modern luxury, from wandering the quaint streets of the historic La Ponche district to admiring superyachts in the Old Port. Whether you’re enjoying a day on the golden sands of Pampelonne Beach or sipping wine at a chic café, Saint-Tropez strikes a balance between relaxation and excitement. Two days is just enough to soak in the essence of this glamorous Riviera destination, leaving you wanting more.
I cannot wait to be back on the French Rivera! Cannes, Antibes, Mention, and Monaco are still on my list to explore. If you like quick 48 hour trips like I do here is my 48 hour guide in Edinburgh Scotland <3
