Attracting artists and vacationers long before classic Hollywood stars made it popular, Saint-Tropez in the French Riviera is the holiday hotspot for A-listers around the world. Because of its narrow, tourist-dense streets, sometimes the best way to arrive to Saint-Tropez is to fly into La Môle on a private jet. Saint-Tropez Airport or Golfe de Saint-Tropez International are both great options for local airports. Alternatively, charter a helicopter or yacht from Cannes, Monaco, Nice, and other destinations along the Riviera.
Sleep
Hotel Byblos
Part of the Grand Floriat collection, you’ll find Hotel Byblos in the heart of Saint-Tropez, between the Place des Lices and the Citadel. The 91-room accommodation offers exclusive amenities, such as online yacht rentals. If you want to stay in town, book the Riviera Suite. For an accommodation with more seclusion and personal touches, book Byblos’ Villa la Capilla, the hotel’s luxury villa near Tahiti Beach.
Château de la Messardière
Set on a 25-acre hillside, Château de la Messardière is a palace hotel with incomparable panoramic views of vineyards and the bay. The coral-colored palace dates back to the 19th century and was restored in 1989. For the best experience, book the Junior Suite Grand Luxe or Pampelonne Suite. Be sure to have at least one evening meal at the on-site restaurant, L’Acacia.
Château de la Chèvre d’Or
Originally a gourmet restaurant, Château de la Chèvre d’Or transformed over the years into a resort that includes apartments in the nearby village of Eze. Each room has a distinct design and the hotel offers unique experiences, such as a Dream Car Tour and lessons on how to create perfume. If you don’t sleep here, at least have a meal at the Michelin-two-star La Chèvre d’Or restaurant.
Eat
Le Bistrot à la Truffe
Opened by Bruno Clément, “emperor of the truffle,” you’ll find Le Bistrot à la Truffe in a provençal-style house near the main church in Saint-Tropez. If you love truffles, this is the place to go for a true feast of revolutionized dishes. Ask Bruno to pack a special picnic basket for a yachting excursion or day at the beach.
Le Girelier
If you have a passion for seafood, you’ll be in heaven with the menu offerings found at Le Girelier. Earning two Michelin forks, chefs David Didelot and Laurent Simon serve up with the boats in le vieux port (the old port) haul in each day. On the menu, you’ll find salmon, bass, sole, monkfish, lobster, crayfish, sardines and more served grilled, stewed and in a paella.
La Pesquiere
If you want to eat where the locals eat, make a stop at La Pesquiere. The seafood restaurant takes you away from the glam and glitter to bring you cozy meals that are regional comfort foods. Try the calamari.
Play
Gallery Hopping
Pointillism and Favuism came out of Saint-Tropez, making it a prime location to find pieces for your private art collections. If you don’t find what you’re looking for in Saint-Tropez, ask your concierge hire a car to take you to nearby St. Paul de Vence, home to over 70 art galleries and studios. You’ll find a variety of styles—from postmodern work to originals by Matisse.
Antique Shopping
The flea markets, thrift stores and antique shops are of the finest in Saint-Tropez. Jas de Roberts on Sunday mornings is one of the most colorful antique markets in the area. If you’re into 17th and 18th century finds, head to Binet Antiquités in the heart of town. For antique jewelry with a vintage Hollywood feel, Les Carré des Arts has items that will make you red-carpet-ready. Don’t forget to check out the sprawling farmer’s market near Place des Lices.