Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud Full-Day Tour

Experience the Glamour and Charm of the French Riviera

If you’re visiting Nice and craving a taste of luxury and authentic southern France, the Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud Full-Day Tour offers a well-balanced day of sightseeing, culture, and seaside relaxation. For about $150, you get around 10 hours of exploration, starting with hotel pickup and ending with picturesque snapshots and leisurely strolls.

What we love about this experience is how it combines scenic transport, like a boat crossing the bay of Saint-Tropez, with plenty of free time to explore at your own pace. The tour also offers a lovely visit to Port Grimaud, often called the “Little Venice,” with its charming waterways and colorful fisherman’s houses. Plus, the option for a wine tasting at Domaine La Rouillere adds a flavorful touch to a busy day.

A small possible downside is the amount of travel time in the van — roughly half the day is spent on the road, which might feel long if you’re eager for more beach or town time. However, this is unavoidable given the distance from Nice to Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud, and the tour is well-structured for those who appreciate a rundown rather than just quick stops.

This tour suits travelers who want a carefully curated day that balances sightseeing, authentic local flavor, and scenic beauty. If you enjoy knowledgeable guides, spontaneous moments like wine tastings, or simply soaking in the Mediterranean views, this trip will resonate well.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport and hotel pickup streamline the day.
• Scenic boat crossing offers a relaxed way to reach Saint-Tropez, saving time and avoiding traffic.
• Ample free time in Saint-Tropez allows for personalized exploration, shopping, or beach lounging.
• Charming visit to Port Grimaud provides a taste of “Little Venice” with picturesque waterways.
• Optional wine tasting at Domaine La Rouillere adds a local flavor to your journey.
• Small group experience (max 8 travelers) ensures a more personalized and intimate tour.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and First Stop: Port de Sainte-Maxime

Your day begins with a pickup in Nice, often with a friendly driver who knows the region well. The journey to Sainte-Maxime is comfortable, and from there, your first highlight awaits: a 30-minute boat cruise crossing the bay of Saint-Tropez. This is one of our favorite parts—the boat ride offers a chance to relax, enjoy Mediterranean breezes, and take in stunning views of the coast. Several reviews praise this as a key highlight, with Mahitha_R calling it “a comfortable crossing” that sets the tone for the day.

Saint-Tropez: The Jewel of the Côte d’Azur

Arriving directly into the Port of Saint-Tropez, you’ll be immediately struck by the yachts and luxury residences—including those of celebrities like Brigitte Bardot. The three-hour stay allows plenty of time to wander the famous streets, browse shops, or relax at a café.

Many visitors, like Vanessa_F, appreciated the informative guides and the chance to explore the city at their own pace. You might enjoy exploring the vibrant local markets (Tuesdays and Saturdays), where colorful produce and artisan goods line the streets. If you’re hungry, restaurants along the port serve everything from fresh seafood to Provençal specialties—perfect for a leisurely lunch.

Port Grimaud: The “Little Venice”

Next, you’ll head to Port Grimaud, often called the “Little Venice” for its picturesque waterways and colorful houses. Strolling along the docks, you can savor an ice cream or drink while watching boats drift by—something many reviews highlight as a relaxing and authentic experience.

This one-hour visit is a favorite for its charm and quiet beauty. It’s worth noting that the guide may give you some free time to explore or relax. The setting is so inviting that some travelers, like Merceditas_C, called their guide “enchanting” and appreciated the informative guidance.

Beach Time or Wine Tasting

After Port Grimaud, you have an hour at Port Grimaud 1 Beach—a white sand stretch ideal for sunbathing and swimming. If you visit in summer, you’ll want to bring your swimsuit and towel, as many reviews mention the Mediterranean’s inviting waters.

Alternatively, depending on the weather and season, your guide might suggest a wine tasting at Domaine La Rouillere instead of the beach stop. Guests have raved about this added bonus, with some buying bottles to take home. It’s a perfect chance to enjoy local wines and learn about the Provençal vineyards, adding depth to your Riviera experience.

Scenic Drive and Return

The return journey takes you across the Estérel massif, with spectacular mountain views on one side and vineyards on the other. The total trip time means quite a bit of sitting in the van, but this is offset by the stunning scenery and the fact that the tour is designed to maximize your sightseeing opportunities while minimizing transit congestion.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

The guides consistently receive high praise—reviewers mention guides like Ruben, Isa, and Stephane as “knowledgeable,” “fun,” and “considerate.” Their professionalism and friendliness make the long day much more enjoyable. Having a small group of up to 8 travelers enhances this personal touch, allowing guides to tailor stories and answer questions more thoroughly.

The scenic boat crossing to Saint-Tropez is a highlight. It’s a comfortable way to bypass the traffic and get a true feel for the coastline. Many also appreciate the balancing act of free time and guided commentary, which lets you soak up the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Plus, the local visits—from the yachty harbor of Saint-Tropez to the peaceful canals of Port Grimaud—offer a genuine taste of this part of France, not just the tourist clichés. The optional wine tasting at Domaine La Rouillere garners enthusiastic reviews, with guests describing it as a delicious and informative experience.

Practical Considerations and Tips

Since the tour involves around 10 hours, comfortable shoes are a must—many stops involve walking through cobbled streets. If you plan to dine in Saint-Tropez, booking a restaurant in advance can save time, especially during busy summer months.

Be prepared for the long van ride, which is necessary for covering the distance from Nice to the coast. If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider bringing medication or a small cushion for comfort. Also, bring sunscreen and water—the Mediterranean sun can be intense, and hydration is key.

While the tour does not include meals, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to purchase food and drinks along the way. The free time in Saint-Tropez is perfect for a sit-down lunch or a quick snack.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience best suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives, authentic local spots, and relaxed exploration. If you love small group sizes and appreciate guides who are both knowledgeable and personable, you’ll find this tour a perfect fit. It’s also ideal if you’re eager to see Saint-Tropez without the hassle of self-driving, especially since the boat crossing is a highlight.

However, if you’re looking for more in-depth guided tours or multiple museums, this might not be the best option. Keep in mind that a significant portion of the day is spent on transit, so those eager for more beach or shop time should plan accordingly.

The Sum Up: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

For those seeking an authentic and scenic taste of the French Riviera, this tour offers a solid, well-rounded experience. It’s especially good for first-timers wanting a manageable way to see Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud, while enjoying a comfortable ride and small group intimacy.

The excellent guides, the stunning coastal views, and the opportunity to sample local wines make this a very valuable day out. It’s not just a sightseeing trip—it’s a chance to feel the vibe of the Riviera, soak in the sights, and enjoy some leisurely moments along the way. If the long van ride doesn’t bother you and you value personal touches and authentic scenery, this tour is a smart pick.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket covers hotel pickup and drop-off in Nice, a comfortable vehicle, the boat crossing to Saint-Tropez, visits to Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud, and a wine tasting at Domaine La Rouillere if weather permits.

How long is the boat crossing?
It’s approximately 30 minutes from Sainte-Maxime to Saint-Tropez, offering a scenic and restful start to your time in the city.

Can I swim at the beach?
Yes, during the approximately 1-hour beach stop at Port Grimaud 1 Beach, you can sunbathe and swim. Remember your swimsuit and towel.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be mindful that it involves some walking and a full-day schedule. Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.

What if I want to explore Saint-Tropez longer?
You’ll have around 3 hours in Saint-Tropez, which is enough for a leisurely stroll, shopping, or a relaxed lunch. If you want more time, consider extending your stay independently.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

In sum, this tour offers a well-structured, scenic, and authentic way to enjoy some of the most iconic spots of the French Riviera. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to the region, you’ll find this day-packed with memorable sights, friendly guides, and genuine local flavor.