A legendary port on the Côte d’Azur, Saint-Tropez is a must for lovers of glamour and yachting. On its quays, majestic yachts and elegant sailboats rub shoulders with the hustle and bustle of terraces and boutiques. Tour Azur invites you to find out more about this Côte d’Azur landmark.
Why visit the port of Saint-Tropez?
If you’re wondering why this port is so popular, here are the three main reasons.
A legendary port steeped in history
This port, already used by the Greeks and Romans, was a fishing port before becoming a trading port and then a yachting harbor. Today, it is world-renowned for its blend of tradition and modernity.
Indeed, Saint-Tropez owes its international renown to a veritable renaissance in the early 20th century. The artist Paul Signac, who fell under the spell of the village’s light and landscapes, set up his studio here, attracting renowned painters such as Matisse and Bonnard.
Consecration came a few years later, when cinema propelled Saint-Tropez to mythic status. With the film Et Dieu… créa la femme (1956), the port became a symbol of glamour and la dolce vita.
🎥 Did you know? This link with cinema is also celebrated at the Musée de la Gendarmerie et du Cinéma de Saint-Tropez, which traces the history of films shot in the region.
A popular destination for celebrities
Brigitte Bardot helped make it a glamorous destination, attracting icons from the worlds of film, music and fashion. Today, celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Beyoncé continue to visit this mythical village.
The charm of Saint-Tropez also lies in its prestigious establishments, such as the Hôtel Byblos, famous for its incredible parties and its welcome reserved for the international elite.
💍 Did you know? In 1971, Mick Jagger chose Saint-Tropez to celebrate his marriage. The ceremony attracted crowds of journalists and fans. To this day, the wedding is still remembered as one of the most exceptional celebrations of its time in Saint-Tropez.
It's the ideal place to admire luxury yachts and regattas.
It’s a fact that won’t have escaped you: the port of Saint-Tropez is a dream location for luxury yacht enthusiasts. It is home to some of the world’s most sumptuous yachts.
What’s more, it’s the only French port to host such intense and varied regatta activity, all year round. Notable events include the Trophée du Bailli de Suffren, and the Giraglia Rolex Cup.
In addition, regattas such as the Dames de Saint-Tropez, reserved exclusively for traditional sailing boats, or the Armen festival, stand out for their originality.
Every year, the Voiles de Saint-Tropez brings together classic and modern yachts in a spectacular competition that attracts enthusiasts from all over the world. The spectacle is accessible to all from the quayside.
What to do in the port of Saint-Tropez
Did you know that, on Trip Advisor, a visit to the port of Saint-Tropez is ranked 5th out of 48 activities in Saint-Tropez?
Stroll along the quays of the old port
Start your stroll near the lighthouse, then head for Saint-Tropez’s historic towers. In days gone by, four towers surrounded the bay to protect the people of Saint-Tropez: Tour du Portalet, Tour Vieille, Tour Suffren and Tour Jarlier.
Located at the entrance to the bay, the Portalet tower (open to the public) is the only one open to visitors. Further on, you can admire the Tour Vieille and Tour Jarlier from the outside. The Suffren Tower has been damaged by time, but is still visible.
Allow 20-30 minutes to walk around the harbor, taking time to stop and admire the yachts, sailboats and lively cafés.
For hiking enthusiasts, we recommend you continue your walk along the coastal path of Saint-Tropez, a coastal itinerary offering breathtaking panoramas. Don’t miss the Citadelle !
Discover local art galleries and boutiques
Around the port of Saint-Tropez, art occupies a special place, with more than a dozen galleries continuing the village’s artistic tradition. Well-known galleries such as Galerie des Lices and Galerie Henri Sie exhibit a wide variety of works, often highlighted at vernissages and temporary exhibitions.
When it comes to shopping, local boutiques offer a blend of Provencal tradition and luxury. That’s what we love about Saint-Tropez.
You’ll find artisanal products such as the famous Tropezian sandals, lavender-scented soaps and the Tropezian tart. Shopping streets like Rue Georges Clemenceau and Place des Lices invite you to stroll between elegant shop windows and lively markets.
Restaurants and terraces
The port of Saint-Tropez is the ideal place to savor delicious cuisine while enjoying a breathtaking view.
Among the must-visit addresses, L’Opéra Saint-Tropez stands out for its luxury decor, embellished with works of art. For an authentic break, Café Sénéquier, a Tropezian institution, welcomes you to its large red terrace.
Seafood lovers won’t want to miss Le Girelier, a refined fish and seafood restaurant.
🕰️ Good to know: many establishments close for a few weeks in winter. Find out when they’re open.
How do I get to the port of Saint-Tropez?
As Saint-Tropez lies on a cape, getting there is not so easy. The best way to get there is by car or boat.
By car
The easiest way to reach the port of Saint-Tropez is by car. There are four main parking lots.
Firstly, the Nouveau Port parking lot (fee-paying), located on the edge of the Jean Lescudier basin, is ideal for quick access to the port. VIP card holders and members of the Saint-Tropez Lounge Club have a reserved parking space on the terreplein.
There are also three pay parking lots close to the town center:
- Parc des Lices,
- The 15th Corps parking lot,
- Foch parking lot.
Finally, for those who prefer to walk a little, free parking is available near La Bouillabaisse Plage, about 15-20 minutes’ walk from the port.
By boat from the Côte d'Azur
Once moored, it is necessary to go to the harbor master’s office for registration. Owners must present their vessel’s documents and insurance, in accordance with local regulations.
To prepare your arrival and obtain detailed information, the port’s official website is a valuable resource.
🚁 Good to know: the port parking lot has a special area for helicopters (“helipad”).
With Tour Azur services
To make the most of your stay, our chauffeur-driven chauffeur-driven car Tour Azur’s chauffeur-driven car service is the ideal solution. Whether you want to explore the city’s picturesque lanes, reach a beach or attend a prestigious event, an experienced private chauffeur is at your disposal to drive you around in a top-of-the-range vehicle.
For those arriving or departing from the port of Saint-Tropez, our private transfer guarantees a perfectly organized trip. From or to the region’s main airports, train stations or destinations, enjoy a transfer tailored to your needs.
When is the best time to visit the port of Saint-Tropez?
It all depends on your expectations.
The summer season
Summer is the most popular time to visit the port of Saint-Tropez, ideal for those seeking a lively, festive atmosphere.
From June to August, the village vibrates to the rhythm of numerous events. The port becomes the scene of an endless ballet of luxury yachts, attracting celebrities and tourists from all over the world.
However, this influx of visitors is accompanied by high accommodation prices and parking lots that are often full. To get the most out of your stay, it’s advisable to book in advance, and to avoid the crowds by taking an early morning stroll.
Off-season
Visiting the port of Saint-Tropez in the off-season is very pleasant, especially if you’re avoiding the crowds. From September to May, the port of Saint-Tropez reveals a different, quieter and more authentic side.
Autumn, particularly in September and October, remains lively thanks to the Voiles de Saint-Tropez, but without the summer crowds.
Winter offers a peaceful setting for discovering the village’s Provencal charm and enjoying its monuments and museums.
Port operations
Services and equipment
The marina comprises two separate basins, separated by the Quai de l’Épi. Very busy, especially in summer, it’s advisable to book in advance via the port’s website. On arrival, contact the harbor master’s office on VHF channel 9 to be guided to your berth by a member of the harbor staff.
Sailing speed in the port is strictly limited to 3 knots.
Mooring is carried out differently in different areas. In the Bassin Lescudier, boats are moored using hangers. In the Vieux-Port, several options are available: mooring on anchors along the Môle d’Estienne d’Orves quay or using mooring blocks.
As for anchoring, protective markers are in place 300 meters from the shore to guarantee the safety of sailors and protect sensitive areas. Particular attention is paid to the Canebiers. The Pilon area, sheltered from the easterly wind, is a natural refuge for yachtsmen.
The port offers a full range of services:
- WC and showers
- Wi-Fi
- Defibrillator
- Laundromat
- Groom service
- 24-hour parking lot with 2,000 spaces
- Free electrical terminals for boats
- Pumping wastewater and bilge water
- Micro-waste centre for specific waste
- Containers for used oil (information at the harbor master’s office)
- Dockside waste collection.
Price list
Mooring rates depend on a number of factors, including the size of the vessel, the berthing area and the season.
The bassin Jean Lescudier can accommodate boats up to 25 meters (approx. €170 in high season), while the Vieux Port can accommodate boats between 25 and 50 meters (approx. €80 in high season).
Larger yachts can be accommodated at the Môle d’Estiennes d’Orves (approx. €140 in high season). Water and electricity included.
Navigation features
For a night finish, navigation is guided by several beacons (Moutte beacon and Sèche à l’Huile beacon).
During the day, access to the harbor is easy thanks to a wide 50-meter pass oriented WSW-ENE. In high season, sailing is prohibited in the entrance channel and in the harbor waters. Water sports are also prohibited in inland waters. Specific buoyage marks the entrance channel.
⚓ Good to know: in the event of a strong mistral wind, entering the harbor can become difficult due to chop and surf. For sailors coming from the southeast, it is advisable to go well around the Moutte and Basse-Rabiou turrets.
Tour Azur introduces you to the port of Saint-Tropez and the surrounding area
We’ve introduced our chauffeur-driven car and private transfer services to simplify your travel arrangements.
Did you know that Tour Azur is also a leader in excursions on the Côte d’Azur?
Our private tours
A private tour is an excursion with the following main characteristics:
- It is fully customizable,
- You benefit from a luxury vehicle (maximum 8 people), which is not shared with other customers,
- A private driver-guide accompanies you to each site and takes you on a guided tour.
Saint-Tropez and surroundings
Embark at the port of Sainte Maxime to reach Saint-Tropez by sea. Then drive along the roads of Pampelonne to admire the Gulf of Saint-Tropez from Gassin. Finally, enjoy a wine tasting at Château Minuty.
Unusual Nice
Let us tell you the stories and legends of Nice. Get off the beaten track and discover the must-sees.
Our shared tours
As for the shared tour is a tour in which the guide is only present during the travel time. Here are its main features:
- The circuit is fixed,
- You benefit from a luxury vehicle (maximum 8 people) shared with other customers,
- Your private chauffeur-guide accompanies you to each site, but does not take the guided tour on site.
Riviera panorama
Reach the medieval village of Èze. Descend to Monaco to discover the old town, its princely palace and cathedral. From the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit, drive to Monte-Carlo.
Then discover the star-studded setting of Cannes, before relaxing in Antibes.
Provence hinterland
Stroll along the Croisette boulevard in Cannes, then escape to Grasse, world capital of perfume. Join Gourdon, the “Balcony of the Côte d’Azur”, before discovering Saint Paul de Vence, a favorite spot for artists since the 1920s.
