Saint Tropez is famous for its glamorous reputation, but beyond the luxury yachts and high-end boutiques, it’s a place with authentic charm and stunning scenery. Whether you want to learn about its history, enjoy a boat cruise, or explore its streets with a local, the right tour can make your visit truly memorable. We’ve rounded up three standout experiences, each offering a different way to see and feel Saint Tropez. Our favorites include the Little Train of Sainte-Maxime, a charming journey through the old town; the Excursion bateau, a scenic boat trip around the Gulf; and the Saint-Tropez: Express Walk with a Local, a quick but immersive exploration with a local guide. If you’re after a taste of local life, beautiful views, or a relaxing sea adventure, these tours deliver.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find a variety of options suited to different interests and schedules. The scenic train ride in Sainte-Maxime offers an affordable way to learn about local history and enjoy fantastic Gulf views. The boat excursion provides an intimate sea experience with a focus on discovering Saint Tropez from the water. The guided walking tour is perfect if you want to learn about the atmosphere of Saint Tropez with a knowledgeable local. Now, let’s dig into each tour to see what makes them special.
1. The Little Train of Sainte-Maxime
For around $12 per person, the Little Train of Sainte-Maxime offers a relaxing 45-minute ride through the scenic southern coast. This tour is ideal if you want an easy introduction to the area without much walking or fuss. The train weaves through Sainte-Maxime’s charming old town, passing notable sights like Semaphore and Gaumont castle, all while providing fascinating commentary in either French or English.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local history and breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. During the ride, you’ll get an overview of Sainte-Maxime’s development and its significance in the region. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a leisurely, informative experience and want to see the countryside without breaking a sweat. The train’s 45-minute duration is just right for a quick break or a family outing, offering a practical and affordable way to soak in the scenery.
Bottom line: If you’re short on time but want a relaxed, scenic overview of Sainte-Maxime, this train ride delivers excellent value and charm, especially with its commentary and views.
2. Excursion bateau
Priced at $81 per person, the Excursion bateau is a 2.5-hour sea adventure that takes you around the Gulf of Saint Tropez. Limited to a maximum of 10 people, this tour provides an intimate way to explore the coast and the legendary village of Saint Tropez from the water. The real highlight is the opportunity to see Eau turquoise waters and incredible landscapes that you simply can’t appreciate from land.
This boat trip covers the main sights, including the mythical village of Saint Tropez, seen from a unique perspective. The small group size ensures a personal experience, with plenty of room to relax and take photos. The itinerary starts from the Port des Marines de Cogolin, and after 2.5 hours, you’ll be back with memories of glittering seas and scenic coastlines.
Guests love the chance to discover Saint Tropez by sea, with reviews praising the stunning scenery and the peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere. It’s a great choice for families, couples, or friends eager for a relaxing day on the water.
Bottom line: For those who want a personalized, scenic boat ride that combines great landscapes with a touch of luxury, this tour is hard to beat — especially if you’re short on time but want a memorable experience.
3. Saint-Tropez: Express Walk with a Local in 60 minutes
At $205 per person, the Saint-Tropez: Express Walk with a Local is a premium option for travelers looking for an intimate, insider’s view of the city. This 1 to 2-hour guided walk with a local guide is designed to maximize your time in Saint Tropez, offering a close-up look at its landmarks, lively streets, and hidden corners.
This tour stands out because it’s tailored to fit into a busy schedule while still providing a deep sense of place. You’ll visit Place des Lices, the Church of Notre Dame de l’Assomption, and other local hotspots, with the guide sharing top tips on where to find the best cafes, bars, and restaurants. The small group size (up to 8 travelers) ensures a personal experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get local insights.
Reviews mention how well this tour captures the true essence of Saint Tropez, and the guide’s tips often turn into valuable recommendations for the rest of your stay. It’s ideal for travelers who want to understand Saint Tropez beyond the surface and come away with some insider knowledge.
Bottom line: If you value personalized attention and want to quickly grasp what makes Saint Tropez special, this walk is a fantastic choice — just be prepared for a slightly higher price point.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your priorities: If budget and scenery are your focus, the Little Train offers a charming overview at a great price. For a more personal, water-based experience, the Excursion bateau provides a beautiful sea perspective with fewer people. And if you’re short on time but want to dive deep into the local scene, the Express Walk with a Local is perfect, especially for those who enjoy guided insights.
Think about your budget, how much time you have, and whether you prefer land or sea. Booking early is wise, especially in high season, to secure your spot.
To sum it up, Saint Tropez offers a variety of fantastic ways to experience its charm, from scenic trains to intimate boat trips and personalized walking tours. For a relaxed introduction, the train ride is hard to beat. If you’re a water lover, the boat excursion will thrill you. And for those wanting an insider’s perspective, the local-guided walk is unbeatable. No matter your choice, these experiences promise a richer, more authentic visit to this glamorous part of France.