Saint-Tropez Provence, France

Saint-Tropez is timeless but tiny, so I lap up the small-village lifestyle and get around on foot. Breakfast at Sénéquier is a must. Sitting by the harbor with a view of the yachts coming in is a quintessential Saint-Tropez experience, and the coastal walk up to the Citadel offers panoramic views over the port. Alternatively, strolling around shady Place des Lices offers the chance to watch locals play pétanque (boules). Beyond town are the beach clubs for an authentic French, yet truly exclusive escape, embodying the Saint-Tropez lifestyle – vibrant, glamorous, elegant, yet laid-back.

One of my favorite foodie spots is Fromagerie du Marché, tucked away behind Sénéquier, and its truffled Brie is a standout. For the sweet-toothed, Boulangerie Aux Deux Frères’ tarte brûlée is famous: a caramelized tart topped with seasonal fruit. For authentic seafood, I love Chez Camille, set in a secret creek, for its bouillabaisse fish stew that defines the region. Le Tigrr is inviting for sunset drinks with a view – a crisp glass of rosé is very much the drink of Saint-Tropez in summer; it’s light, refreshing, and captures the spirit of warm, sunlit afternoons on the Côte d’Azur. At Nikki Beach, our menu blends international and Mediterranean flavors – the sushi boats and seafood dishes are always popular.

The market on Place des Lices is a must – an-early morning visit is the best time to find the freshest produce and enjoy a more relaxed experience. It’s a sensory feast, with everything from spices and cheeses to Provencal handcrafts. Aside from grabbing a box of creamy tarte Tropézienne (a fluffy brioche filled with cream) nearby, I’d recommend buying a straw basket or a pair of classic Saint-Tropez “Roman” sandals from K. Jacques or Rondini, both authentic shoemakers.

Dine at La Renaissance on the square, the heartbeat of Saint-Tropez, for its charming outdoor seating. Then feast your eyes on renowned art galleries Bel-Air Fine Art, Galeries Bartoux, and Galeries Orlinski. If you’re interested in wine tasting (or buying), I highly recommend a visit to the iconic Château Minuty estate.

Before heading to the beach, wander the quaysides to see artists at work and visit the Annonciade Museum for a taste of local art history. To flee the crowds, consider a boat trip to La Plage de la Bastide Blanche, near Cap Taillat, a beach with crystal-clear waters. Alternatively, Île de Porquerolles is an enchanting island, perfect for both beach lovers and adventurers. Once ashore, enjoy the hiking and cycling or simply relax on lovely beaches like Plage Notre-Dame.