Synonymous with high style and glamorous living, Saint-Tropez is known as a world-renowned vacation spot, but one that still stays true to its fishing village roots. This Provençal town, located along the French Riviera in the southeastern corner of France, has a lot more to offer than the exclusive beach clubs that made it famous.

Wander away from the harbour and gorgeous beaches and you’ll soon find authentic French boutiques lining the town’s cobbled backstreets and various restaurants where you can sample authentic Mediterranean fare. The town is home to its own signature dessert, the Tarte Tropézienne. Try out any of the many bistros portside to fill your senses with the sweet stuffed brioche.

One of the best ways to see the Saint-Tropez area is via one of the many boat trips on offer in the marina. After taking in the gorgeous views, experience the Citadelle — the city’s fortress and maritime museum — from the water, drop anchor in the beautiful cove of Baie des Canebiers, and check out a few of the many villas hidden along the tree-lined shores.

Saint-Tropez’s out-of-the-way location is one of the key reasons it became known as such an exclusive destination. There’s no train station, and few buses serve the area. Car, boat, or helicopter are the most popular ways to arrive here. Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) is the nearest international airport and is a 90-minute drive away. Saint-Raphaël Valescure train station is 40 minutes away by car and offers a direct link along the coast to Italy. If you choose not to bring a car, ride-hailing apps are a popular alternative to taxis to get around the town.

If you’re in search of a traditional Saint-Tropez Villa holiday, the most popular time to visit is during the summer, between June and August. If you’re thinking of coming off season, May, September, and October are still warm, while the beaches are calmer and Saint Tropez holiday rentals are in less demand. May plays host to Les Bravades de Saint-Tropez, an annual celebration that’s been held for hundreds of years in honour of the area’s military achievements. September brings yachting enthusiasts for an annual regatta. The winter months may not stretch to sunbathing weather, but there are plenty of pleasant sunny days to enjoy, walking along the empty sands. Expect to feel a chill in the evenings at this time of year, however, so be sure to bring along layers to continue your outdoor adventures.

The beaches

The beaches of Plage de la Bouillabaisse and Plage des Graniers are just a few minutes’ walk away from the main town. If you’re driving, it’s worth visiting Plage de Pampelonne, Saint-Tropez’s most famous (and longest) stretch of sand. Plage de la Ponche and Plage de la Fontanette are two less crowded options, while Tahiti is the area’s best-known clothing-optional beach.

Musée de l’Annonciade

To view work by some of France’s most revered and famous painters of the 19th and 20th centuries, be sure not to miss the Musée de l’Annonciade. Housed in a pink-painted 16th-century former chapel, the museum displays a notable collection of watery-themed works that relate to the area by the many significant artists whose work was inspired by the scenery of the Côte d’Azur.

Local Vineyards

If you find yourself wanting some contrast to the beach and boat life, head inland to one of the many wine estates of the region. The Côte d’Azur and Provence cellars are famous for their rosé wine made most commonly from Grenache and Cinsault varietals, but the area produces well-regarded reds and white wines, too. Some of the local vineyards are home to French chateaus and even whole villages, while others have art galleries and sculpture parks.