Saint-Tropez is the perfect mix of a vacation and travel destination. You can be perfectly content alternatively lounging and partying all day and night, or you have the option to get out and explore. Peak season for partygoers is July and August; for beach weather but less of a crowd, go in September. If you want to plan a day trip, make it to the Gorges du Verdon. It's a river canyon where you can paddle or ride an electric boat along the river, and you don't even have to hike to it (score). The gorges were truly gorgeous (see what I did there?), and a beautiful two hour drive from St. Tropez through the vineyards and tiny towns of southern France. On the way we stopped in Tourtour, an adorable town on a hill overlooking the area, and it was one of my favorite parts of the trip. We had two glasses of incredible house wine there for a total of two and a half euros, which was very exciting.
Where to Stay: To be right in the middle of the action, stay at Hôtel Byblos, a large hotel where Les Caves du Roy is located. Hotel Sezz is also centrally located, with more of a sophisticated boutique vibe. La Bastide de Saint Tropez is on the quieter side, and a quick walk to the center of town with a beautiful pool area. La Bastide D'Antoine is a few minutes drive out of town, if you are looking for a more peaceful environment. The hotel grounds feel like a secret garden, and the rooms have beautiful views of the water.
Where to Eat: Have lunch at Dior Des Lices after shopping in town. On the beach, head to Bagatelle Beach for something sceney, or Club 55 for a more laid back vibe. For dinner, Caprice de Deux is one of our favorite restaurants--it's family owned and laid back, a nice break from the party scene. For the opposite, go to Brasserie des Arts for a full DJ set/club vibe with a side of dinner. The Strand as well as Colette in Hotel Sezz have beautiful outdoor dining areas and are also in the low key camp. If you really, really like truffles, head to Chez Bruno outside of town for a six course meal where literally every dish is full of the stuff. It is a Michelin starred restaurant in a gorgeous old house that we found on our way to the Gorges du Verdon. It's about an hour out of town for the original where you will be served by Bruno himself, but there is an offshoot in St. Tropez as well.
Where to Play: During the day, book a table at Bagatelle Beach or Loulou for the quintessential St. Tropez day party. Another daytime option you can't miss is lunch and a cabana at Le Club 55, which is more sophisticated and low key. For a rager pool party, check out Nikki Beach but be prepared for a bro crowd. After a nap, go for dinner and a show (more for the latter) at L'Opera, just be careful a fembot doesn't step in your steak frites while she's dancing on your table. The legendary smoky basement club Les Caves du Roy can be hit or miss, but a must visit while in St. Tropez.
Where to Shop: The shopping, as you may guess, is amazing here--all of the big name brands you already know and love. If you are around on Saturday, don't miss the Place des Lices market. It is my favorite market ever, with everything from vintage Levi cuttoffs and home decor, to cheeses and jams to bring back home. The Chanel store here is incredible in a beautiful stately white house. Visit Kiwi, a boutique with cute bathing suits for both men and women. On the way to the beach, stop at the Chateau les Marres for a few cases of that amazing Côte d'Azur rose to send back home.
