Saint Tropez: Day Trips and Tours from Nice

Saint Tropez is a popular day trip destination from Nice and high on the list of best excursions on the Cote d’Azur. Pack your sunglasses and swimsuit and spend the day by the beach before exploring the historic streets of this world-famous luxurious city.

Here's all you need to know about Saint Tropez, one of the most glamorous destinations for a day trip from Nice.

How to get to Saint Tropez from Nice?

Saint Tropez is located approximately 113 kilometers southwest of Nice, close to the French-Italian border. The distance from Saint Tropez to Marseilles which sits west, is a further 135 kilometers.

Saint Tropez is a coastal town overlooking the breathtaking French Riviera.

From Nice to Saint Tropez by car

The driving time from Nice to Saint Tropez lies between 1.5 and two hours, depending on the traffic. Rush hour can be very busy in both cities, so expect to encounter some traffic in the mornings and late afternoon.

From Nice, head south on Highway A8 until Le Muy. Turn off onto Highway D25 until Sainte Maxime. The route from here to Saint Tropez follows the coastline and provides fantastic views of the bay. This is also where traffic is usually stop-and-go, so plan some extra time for this leg of the trip.

Note that there is also another route from Nice to Saint Tropez, which could make the journey more exciting. Head to Antibes and then Cannes, following smaller roads that snake along the coastline.

Not only are the views fantastic but you might enjoy visiting small villages along the way. Keep in mind that this route will take much longer, though.

From Nice to Saint Tropez by bus/public transport

Using public transport to get from Nice to Saint Tropez won’t be the fastest way, but still, a good alternative if you do not have a car or aren’t ready to join a guided day tour.

There are several public transport options.

From Nice, you can take the TGV train to the small town of Saint Raphael. Saint Raphael is located 40 kilometers from Saint Tropez.

You can now either take a taxi for the remaining distance or the 7601 Bus which leaves from the center of town. It only costs a few Euros per person and takes around 1.5 hours to reach Saint Tropez.

There is also a bus that departs from the airport of Nice to Saint Raphael. It takes longer than the TGV train, but it is slightly cheaper. Generally, the train is more comfortable, though.

You could also take a ferry from Saint Raphael, which takes around one hour. It departs twice daily and costs €15 per person.

Additionally, there is a ferry connection from Golfe Juan to Saint Tropez. Golfe Juan is located between Antibes and Cannes and can be reached by bus. This ferry takes over two hours and provides scenic views of the French Riviera and Saint Tropez from the water.

Guided tour to Saint Tropez from Nice

If you want to learn more about the history of Saint Tropez and spend the day with an expert guide, you should join a day tour. Choose between all-inclusive trips with everything taken care of or transportation only.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Saint Tropez from Nice?

Begin your day trip to Saint Tropez at your hotel in Nice. Your tour guide will pick you up at your accommodation at 8 AM and you’ll meet your group of fellow travelers.

Take the coastal route along the French Riviera and enjoy a drive through the picturesque countryside. You’ll get to stop along the way to stretch your legs and take photos of deserted beaches and impressive cliffs.

You’ll have a little break in the small town of Port Grimaud, where you can grab a snack, explore some souvenir shops and wander through the narrow streets. This town is known for its brightly painted houses and it’s the perfect place to take some photos.

In Saint Tropez, you’ll be greeted by sleek yachts, upscale waterfront restaurants and expensive stores. Enjoy some free time in the city to explore by yourself. This is your chance to get a glimpse of the luxury that Saint Tropez is known for.

Rejoin your tour and begin your walk through Saint Tropez together. Your guide will point out all the important sights along the way, such as the Provencal Market and the Place des Lys. You’ll grab some food either at a food market or a restaurant by the water, depending on your budget.

Finally, you’ll be heading back to Nice after a day of fun activities. Hop on the bus or minivan and enjoy the drive back to the city. Your tour guide will appreciate it if you give them a tip for their efforts at the end of the day.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Saint Tropez?

In most cases, a day tour from Nice to Saint Tropez will include bus transport and a guide to help you throughout the day. However, there are also ferry options or boat tours that could make your excursion and journey to Saint Tropez even more special.

Guided tours to Saint Tropez from Nice

Spend your excursion from Nice to Saint Tropez with a fun tour group of other travelers. You’ll get to see the coast of the French Riviera on the way before spending the afternoon in the city. Listen to your guide’s interesting stories and learn more about the history of Saint Tropez.

Small-group tours to Saint Tropez from Nice

If you’re looking for a more personal experience, you’ll love a small-group day tour from Nice to Saint Tropez. Spend the day with eight to six other people and enjoy the full attention of your guide. You’ll be driven around in an air-conditioned minibus, which will take you anywhere you need to go.

Ferry transfer without guide to Saint Tropez from Nice

Usually, there are no commercial ferry connections from Nice to Saint Tropez. If you’re looking for a fun jaunt to Saint Tropez on the water, you should book a ferry transfer.

You won’t be accompanied by a guide and can plan your day in Saint Tropez independently. You can even book a walking tour in Saint Tropez if you want to roam free for a bit but also get to know the city better with the help of a guide.

Private tour to Saint Tropez from Nice

Make your journey from Nice to Saint Tropez as exclusive as the city itself. Join a private tour with your own personal tour guide that will make your day absolutely perfect. You’ll be picked up at your hotel and can decide the specifics of your itinerary if requested beforehand.

Day trip to Saint Tropez plus Port Grimaud from Nice

Many day tours from Nice to Saint Tropez make a stop at the town of Port Grimaud to make the journey more memorable. This is an excellent choice since the two places are so different from each other and will give you a glimpse of small-town life on the French Riviera.

Make your day trip to Saint Tropez into a fun jaunt by stopping by Port Grimaud along the way.

How much does a tour to Saint Tropez from Nice cost?

A day tour from Nice to Saint Tropez costs between €80 and €125 per person, which generally does not include lunch or drinks. If you’re interested in booking a ferry transfer between the two cities without a guide, you should budget between €80 and €90 per person for a round-trip ticket.

Small-group tours are generally priced between €100 and €170 and some might include lunch. Private tours to Saint Tropez start at €390 and can cost as much as €800 per person.

What will you see and do in Saint Tropez?

Saint Tropez is known for its lavish hotels, expensive restaurants and superyacht harbor. You’ll be able to walk through town, explore the narrow streets and stop by souvenir shops or expensive luxury stores.

If you have time, you can try watersports such as jet skiing and kayaking or relax by the beach. In the town of Saint Tropez, you’ll enjoy visiting the Old Port and admiring the luxurious vessels.

The market of Place aux Herbes is also commonly visited on an excursion to Saint Tropez before tours stop by the historic Church located in the heart of the old town.

Finally, the Musee de l’Annonciade where you can admire priceless works of art which your tour guide will explain to you.

Of course, a ferry or boat ride is a must-do when visiting Saint Tropez on a jaunt. Enjoy the breeze of the ocean and take photos of the stunning Cote d'Azur.

When is the best time to visit Saint Tropez?

Most tourists visit Saint Tropez between May and September. This is when you’ll have sunny weather and clear skies on the French Riviera. However, this is also peak travel time in the area and prices will be at an all-time high.

Book your excursion to Saint Tropez as well as any hotels as far in advance as possible so ensure you’ll get a good deal.

Between October and April, Saint Tropez is slightly cooler, with temperatures generally being between 13°C and 18°C. There will still be plenty of warm days, though and you’ll be able to sit outside in outdoor restaurants or cafes.

Prices will be lower, although you should watch out for public holidays or special events in the area.

Are there any tours to Saint-Tropez from other cities in France?

Yes, there are other tours departing from other cities in France:

• Day tours to Saint-Tropez from Cannes

Travel tips

• In most cases, a day tour from Nice to Saint Tropez will not include lunch. You’ll have to get your own. Keep in mind that Saint Tropez is a very expensive city and budget food options are not common. If you’re looking for a quick snack that won’t break the bank, try to go to a food market that will be cheaper than a traditional restaurant.
• Saint Tropez is a city on the water. Choosing a boat day tour or excursion is one of the best options for a fun and exciting day trip.
• Some tours might invoice some time on the beach, so don’t forget to pack your swimsuit.
• Taking a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen with you on a day trip to Saint Tropez is absolutely essential. Even during winter, when temperatures are a bit lower, the sun is very strong in this region of France and you can easily get burned.