Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud Full-Day Tour

This full-day tour from Nice offers a well-rounded experience of the glamorous French Riviera, combining scenic boat crossings, free time in Saint-Tropez, and the charm of Port Grimaud. Priced at $149.78 per person, the tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Its popularity is evident, with bookings made 81 days in advance on average. The tour’s highlights include a boat crossing of the bay of Saint-Tropez, visits to Port Grimaud, and optional wine tastings at Domaine La Rouillere.

It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxed day exploring with plenty of photo opportunities and free time to enjoy the locations at your own pace. A group size limit of 8 ensures a more personalized experience, and the professional driver and local guide help make the day smooth and informative.

While the tour does not include meals or drinks, the timing and itinerary are carefully structured to balance sightseeing with leisure, making it ideal for visitors wanting a comprehensive taste of the Riviera without overextending the day.

Key Points

• Full-day experience combining boat crossings, sightseeing, and beach time
• Price: $149.78 per person, including hotel transfers
• Duration of about 10 hours, with free time in Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud
• Boat crossing of the bay of Saint-Tropez from Sainte-Maxime
• Optional wine tasting at Domaine La Rouillere
• Small group size (up to 8 travelers) for a more personalized experience

Starting the Day with Hotel Pickup in Nice

The tour begins bright and early at 8:00 am, with pickup from your Nice accommodation. This seamless start means no need to worry about transportation logistics. The recent, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort throughout the day, especially on warm summer days. The driver/guide is professional and aims to make the journey as smooth as possible, navigating traffic and providing commentary along the way.

The trip is designed to maximize sightseeing while maintaining a relaxed pace, with the entire group sharing the experience in a small, intimate setting.

Crossing the Bay of Saint-Tropez by Boat from Sainte-Maxime

One of the tour’s standout features is the 30-minute boat crossing from Sainte-Maxime to Saint-Tropez. This scenic ride offers stunning views of the bay and its surrounding coastlines, giving travelers a taste of the Riviera’s beauty from the water. The large boat used for crossing is comfortable, and this part of the journey allows for great photo opportunities.

This boat transfer is a practical way to avoid the traffic jams that can occur when traveling by car along the coast. It also sets the tone for a leisurely day, blending transport with sightseeing.

Exploring Saint-Tropez’s Harbor and Market

Arriving directly into Saint-Tropez’s port by boat, visitors find themselves in the heart of this glamorous town. The harbor is lined with yachts, with plenty of luxury shops, cafes, and restaurants nearby. The city center is perfect for a relaxed stroll, browsing boutiques or soaking up the elegant atmosphere.

On Tuesdays and Saturdays, the vibrant local market adds a lively touch, offering colorful displays of local produce, crafts, and souvenirs. The town’s legendary residences, including Brigitte Bardot’s former home, add historical charm, which guides often point out during the free time.

Visitors are encouraged to choose a waterfront restaurant for lunch, soaking in the views while enjoying regional specialties.

Port Grimaud: The Little Venice of France

After exploring Saint-Tropez, the tour heads to Port Grimaud, known as the Little Venice of France. This picturesque village features narrow waterways lined with fishermen’s houses, creating a charming and tranquil atmosphere.

A stroll along the docks offers opportunities to enjoy ice cream or drinks in cafes overlooking the boats. The village’s unique layout makes it perfect for photography and leisurely exploration, with the waterfront views providing a delightful backdrop for a relaxed visit.

The visit to Port Grimaud typically lasts around one hour, giving enough time to appreciate its distinctive charm without feeling rushed.

Sunbathing and Swimming at Port Grimaud Beach

The tour dedicates time for relaxation at Port Grimaud 1 Beach, a white sand beach near the village. This spot offers swimming and sunbathing, making it ideal for those who want to unwind and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea.

It’s the perfect opportunity to recharge after sightseeing, with calm waters and scenic surroundings. Since this is a free time stop, visitors can choose to sunbathe, swim, or simply enjoy the seaside views.

Wine Tasting at Domaine La Rouillere

Depending on the weather and season, the guide may suggest a visit to Domaine La Rouillere for a free wine tasting instead of additional beach time. This 45-minute experience offers a chance to sample local wines, adding a flavorful touch to the day.

The vineyard’s proximity to the other stops makes it a convenient, enjoyable activity, especially for those interested in regional wine culture. The tasting is included in the tour, providing a value-added experience that many reviews praise.

Scenic Drive Along the French Riviera and Estérel Massif

On the way back to Nice, the tour passes through the French Riviera’s vineyards and offers views of the Estérel massif. The scenic drive showcases the Riviera’s diverse landscapes, from lush vineyards to rugged mountain ranges.

This part of the journey allows travelers to appreciate the region’s natural beauty while relaxing in the vehicle. The drive is smooth, with the driver providing commentary on the surrounding scenery.

The Return to Nice and Tour End at 6:00 pm

The round trip from Nice to Saint-Tropez and back follows a carefully planned schedule, with the group returning to Nice around 6:00 pm. The duration of the trip ensures a full but manageable day of sightseeing, with plenty of time to reflect on the highlights.

The hotel drop-off completes the experience, leaving visitors with a memorable day of discovery on the French Riviera.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This small-group excursion suits visitors who want a combination of scenic travel, free exploration, and relaxing beach time. It appeals to those who appreciate professional guides, beautiful vistas, and the chance to visit iconic Riviera locations without the hassle of self-driving.

The tour is flexible enough for families, couples, and small groups, and the included wine tasting is a bonus for wine enthusiasts.

The Sum Up: A Practical and Enjoyable Riviera Day Trip

This full-day tour from Nice offers a balanced itinerary that combines scenic boat crossings, charming villages, and relaxed beach time with professional guidance. Its price point of $149.78 delivers good value for the comprehensive experience, especially given the hotel pickup, boat transfer, and optional wine tasting included.

While the long van rides may not appeal to everyone, they are necessary to cover the distances between Nice, Saint-Tropez, and Port Grimaud. The small group size enhances comfort and personal interaction, making it ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate Riviera experience.

This tour suits those wanting a relaxed yet comprehensive day exploring some of the most celebrated spots along the Côte d’Azur, with plenty of photo opportunities and leisurely moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include lunch?
No, the tour does not include meals. Travelers can choose to dine at their own pace in Saint-Tropez or bring snacks for the day.

Is swimming in the Mediterranean available?
Yes, during the summer months, you can swim in the sea at Port Grimaud Beach, so remember your swimsuit.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transport in a recent vehicle, a boat crossing, and the wine tasting at Domaine La Rouillere (weather permitting).

Can I customize the stops?
The itinerary is fixed, but the guide may suggest optional activities like wine tasting based on weather and timing.

How long is the free time in Saint-Tropez?
You have about 3 hours to explore Saint-Tropez’s harbor, shops, and market at your own pace.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a camera, and your swimsuit if you wish to swim. Pack light, as the tour involves walking and boat crossings.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the length of the day and the van rides, especially for very young children.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The guide may suggest alternative activities, like the wine tasting, if the weather conditions prevent water-based activities or outdoor exploration.