Date of travel: August 08, 2025
The French Riviera or The Côte d’Azur as known in French, renowned for its breath taking coastline and luxurious lifestyle, is a magnet for travellers worldwide. Stretching from Menton to Toulon, this picturesque region boasts over 180 kilometers of stunning shoreline, dotted with serene beaches and charming towns.
For our French Riviera getaway, we embarked on a day trip to two of its most captivating destinations: Port Grimaud, with its idyllic waterways and sun-kissed charm, and Saint-Tropez, famous for its luxurious vibe and glamorous allure. This journey promised an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, sophistication, and Mediterranean charm.
Port Grimaud:
Port Grimaud is a charming waterfront town in the region of Provence in South-eastern France and is known for its picturesque canals, colourful houses, and beautiful Mediterranean setting.
Grimaud was a medieval village with its castle majestically watching over the gulf of Saint-Tropez (Mediterranean Sea) offering breath taking views to spectators. Same fishing village was completely transformed to beautiful Port Grimaud in 1960s by French architect Francois Spoery who designed and built the town on marshlands and lagoons. Result was a charming coastal village with a network of canals and waterways whereas houses are built alongside the canals and residents having their own private docks to anchor gorgeous yachts.
It is also referred as “Venice of Provence” due to its canal based layout and in addition to its scenic beauty Port Grimaud offers numbers of waterfront restaurants, shops, budget and high end hotels and a sandy beach. The colourful houses, bridges over the canals create a charming and romantic atmospehere.
The village also has local markets open from 8 am to 1 pm selling fresh fruits, local artefacts, clothings, souvenirs etc.
Must-see Attractions:
– Canals and Waterways: Explore the town’s intricate network of canals and waterways by taking a boat tour or strolling along the quays.
– Beaches: Enjoy the sandy beaches along the Mediterranean coast, such as Plage de Port Grimaud Sud and Plage de Port Grimaud Nord. Their soft sandy shores and clear water make them ideal for swimming.
– Saint Francis of Assisi Church: Admire the church’s unique modern architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows created by Victor Vasarely.
– Grimaud Village: Visit the historic village and its citadel perched on a hill, featuring cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and stunning views.
Activities:
– Boat Tours: Take a guided boat tour to explore the canals and nearby coastal areas, including Saint-Tropez.
– Water Sports: Enjoy various water sports activities, such as sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing.
– Hiking and Cycling: Explore the beautiful natural surroundings by going for hikes or bike rides in the scenic countryside.
– Wine Tasting: Visit local vineyards to sample some of the region’s famous wines, such as Côtes de Provence rosé.
Tips:
– The best time to visit Port Grimaud is during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities.
– Don’t miss the Night Market, which takes place every Monday during the summer, offering local products and souvenir.
Saint-Tropez: A Historic Gem on the French Riviera:
Located in the Provence region of Southeastern France, Saint-Tropez is a charming commune situated approximately 70 kilometers west of Nice and 100 kilometers east of Marseille. With a rich history dating back to 600 BCE, this picturesque town has been influenced by various kingdoms and empires over the centuries. Saint-Tropez owes its name to Saint Torpes, a Christian martyr from Pisa who was beheaded by the Roman Emperor Nero for refusing to renounce his faith.
Today Saint-Tropez is a highly sought-after destination on the French Riviera, renowned for its stunning beaches, luxurious lifestyle, and rich cultural heritage. This picturesque town attracts millions of visitors each year, with approximately 10 million international visitors annually. Its popularity can be attributed to several factors:
– Luxurious Beaches: Saint-Tropez boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
– Brigitte Bardot: And God Created Women’ movie in 1956 catapulted both Bardot and Saint-Tropez to international stardom, transforming once-quiet fishing village into a glamorous destination of international jet set. A statue of Bardot stands in the town, honouring her contribution to Saint-Tropez’s global reputation.
– Upscale Shopping: The town offers high-end shopping experiences, featuring designer boutiques and luxury goods.
– Cultural Events: Saint-Tropez hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the famous Cannes Film Festival nearby.
– Gastronomy: The town is celebrated for its exquisite cuisine, with numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and traditional Provençal eateries.
– History and Architecture: Saint-Tropez’s historic citadel, ramparts, and charming old town are major draws for tourists.
Must-see Attractions:
– Citadel of Saint-Tropez: A 17th-century fortress with panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the town below, housing a Maritime History Museum.
– Old Port (Vieux Port): A picturesque harbour filled with luxury yachts and fishing boats, surrounded by cafes and restaurants.
– Musée de l’Annonciade: An art museum showcasing modern art, particularly works from the post-Impressionist period, in a former chapel.
– La Ponche: The historic quarter of Saint-Tropez, filled with narrow lanes, cobblestone streets, and quaint shops.
Beaches:
– Pampelonne Beach: A 5-kilometer stretch of fine white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and water sports. Whether you want to relax under the Sun, enjoy a refreshing swim, or dine at a trendy beachfront restaurant, Pampellone beach offers a quintessential Saint-Tropez experience.
– Nikki Beach: A luxurious beach club with high-end parties, celebrity sightings, and chic atmosphere.
– La Ponche Beach: A small, peaceful beach in the heart of Saint-Tropez, ideal for unwinding.
Other Experiences:
– Boat Tours: Explore the coastline and nearby islands, offering breath taking views of the Mediterranean.
– Sentier du Littoral: A scenic coastal path for hiking and discovering hidden coves and beaches.
– Wine Tastings: Visit local vineyards to sample rosé wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Our Journey:
“Our day trip to Port Grimaud and Saint-Tropez was an unforgettable experience. We set off from our hotel in Nice at 8 am on a beautiful sunny day and reached Port Grimaud after an hour and a half. As we strolled through the narrow roads along the canals, we took in the charming atmosphere and snapped lovely photographs. We also spent some time bargaining at local markets and savoured delicious mulberries and strawberries.
We then took a half-hour boat tour through the canals, which provided a unique perspective on this picturesque town. Next, we boarded a small boat for a scenic trip to Saint-Tropez, which cost €9 per person. The 30-minute journey included a transfer to a larger boat, offering breath taking views of the surroundings.
Upon arrival in Saint-Tropez, our guide greeted us at the port side waiting area. With so much to see and do, we felt like we were short on time. We visited the 17th-century Citadel, which houses a museum of maritime history and offers spectacular views of the town and its surroundings. We wandered through the cobblestoned roads, exploring high-end shops and boutiques before reaching the Old Port.
The bustling harbour was a highlight, with colourful fishing boats and luxury yachts docked alongside each other. We enjoyed people-watching and savouring local seafood dishes with glasses of beer at one of the many cafes. Finally, we strolled through the narrow lanes of La Ponche, taking in its old-world charm.
On our way back we spent one hour at Pampelonne beach where we enjoyed a relaxing time swimming in its lovely cool water.
This day trip was a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and scenic beauty, showcasing the best of Port Grimaud and Saint-Tropez.
Some tips for planning a similar trip:
– Best Time to Visit: Late May/early June and late September/early October are ideal times to visit, avoiding crowds and heat.
– Getting There: Rent a car or hire a driver for flexibility, or take public transportation like buses or trains or join group tours through Viator/Get Your Guide.
– Local Cuisine: Enjoy seafood, Provençal specialties, and try local wines.
30 thoughts on “Glamour and Nature Entwined: Discovering the Stunning Beauty of Port Grimaud and Saint-Tropez on the French Riviera”
Extraordinary photos and write ups. It was so good that we visited above said places as if sitting from our home. Thanks a lot dear Sandip. We enjoyed a lot
Thanks Bishwanath for your excellent feedback, it encourages me a lot.
Very nicely described!!
It gives overall view of the place
Thanks a lot for your feedback. Both of you are such a great company that these places become more enjoyable.
In one word EXCELLENT. I frankly tell you that, I am seeing world through your description. Thank you brother.
Thanks Himadri for your encouraging feedback.
It was a memorable picturesque unforgettable trip. Gives alot of insight into the varied local culture. Superbly described
Thank you very much
As I go through the write up , I am reliving the beauty of these places- Port Grimaud and especially Saint Tropez. Excellent photos and wonderful & detailed descriptions!!
Waiting for few more blogs on French Riviera…
Thank you Smriti for your lovely encouraging comments. Rakesh and Yourself are such a great company that many of our dream destinations were possible to enjoy to the fullest.
what an exquisitely delightful travelogue by Dr. Sandip Banerjee; which had so many helpful hints and tips about how to go about planning the trip to Port Grimaud & Saint Tropez from Nice: the scheduled stops, the must- see’s, the must- do’s, the must- eats: the photographer(s) should be proud; because the beautifully resplendent pictures are worthy of Conde Nast ♥️
Thank you so much Dibyendu for such a lovely feedback and review. Highly appreciate your thoughtful analysis which always encourages me a lot.
What a magestic tour !! The pictures drawn of the colourful village in Port Grimaud is really breathtaking. The waterways must have been adventurous. The beautifully narrated trip of St. Tropez was also delightful. Overall an attractive description. 👍 👌
Thanks for your thoughtful reviews. Really appreciate a lot
Sandip, very vivid description and many useful info for to-be-travellers. Enjoyed reading. Keep travelling and scribing!
Himadri, you always encourage me .Thanks for your encouraging comments and nice feedback.
Beautifully written. Tempting to visit the place at the earliest.
Thanks Kishore for your nice motivating feedback. You could take out time from your busy schedule to read the blog, is highly appreciated.
Wonderful description of the place as if you yourself were travelling excellent photos
Thanks a lot Kamlesh, highly appreciate your thoughtful feedback.
Excellent Narrative. French Riviera is known for it’s awesome beauty alongwith mouthwatering food. Your description made it more attractive. Time to think of publishing a coffee table book
Thank you so much for your encouraging remarks and feedback.
Such a detailed description and beautiful pictures are very inspiring to visit this place. Excellent narration!
Thank you for your encouraging feedback.
You have brought to life the heard-of-but-lesser-known places In France. You have a lovely way of presenting it and the photographs are marvellous. If there is a competition among Voyage Bloggers, I am sure you will get an award. Why dont you explore and see if you can apply for one?
Way to go, Bando! Proud of you and Madhavi!!
Thanks a lot Rajan. Such lovely remarks. Just an amateurish attempt but your feedback will allow it to grow.
French Riviera is such a romantic location and you have captured it so beautifully in your blog. It is definitely a place to visit leisurely and soak in the stunning vibes
Thank you Sir for your lovely comments.
Awesome blog. Truly a must visit destination for all.
Thank you Adrija for your inspiring remarks and nice feedback.