When you are invited to a wedding in the French countryside, you must attend. It’s just a fact. That’s exactly what my husband and I did when we found ourselves with a wedding invitation in hand last summer. As an extremely logical and responsible average millennial woman, it was of course a very natural next step to jump at the opportunity to travel and turn this seemingly simple wedding invitation into a full-blown vacation on the French Riviera. When in France, amirite?
We are launching our South of France extravaganza with a bang in the fabulous playground of the rich and famous: Saint-Tropez. And yes, the rumors are very True: yachts, beach clubs, and nightlife are as OTT as your favorite celebrities make them out to be. Here’s how to plan one of the most unforgettable (and Ahem, probably the most expensive) trips of your life, whether you are traveling with your friends, family or boo. Let’s get into it!
PS The writer received free lodging, transportation, and meals to write this story.
STAY:
- Hotel in Paris Saint-Tropez: As much as I’d like to be like Leo during my Saint Tropez vacation, I’m not quite yacht level *yet*, which makes the chic, centrally located Hotels in Paris the perfect place to call home for our Saint-Tropez adventure. The location is an absolute 10/10 – we were able to walk everywhere except the beach clubs (which the Hotel de Paris provides transportation to, thanks to their concierge service). Feel like you are in a movie. Also, if you are a fashion connoisseur like moi, get your credit card ready, as Hotels in Paris sits in the corner of Chanel’s iconic seasonal pop-up at La Mistralée. Casual!
- In addition to the chic art, interiors, and heated rooftop pool, Hotels in Paris is the home of an immaculate Clarins Spagym and three restaurants (The Rooftops, The Pationata and The Atrium.)
Rates at the Hotel de Paris Saint-Tropez, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, start at $290 per double room per night.
Book Hotel in Paris Saint-Tropez
PLAY:
- Beach Clubs: The ultimate Saint-Tropez experience is a beachside lunch at a trendy beach club. Situated on the Pampelonne beach, the glamorous club 55 it’s *the* place to see and be seen (for example: we had a Jared Leto sighting). Another hot spot is Loulou Ramatuelle—an elegant seaside oasis with a standout menu (the pipa rigate alla vodka and the truffle pizza were heaven on earth).
- Shopping: Shopping in Saint-Tropez is as extravagant as the flashy yachts and fabulous champagne-filled club scene. Rue François Sibilli is lined with luxury shops from Jimmy Choo, Yves Saint Laurent Miu Miu, Louis Vuitton (home to its own spectacular garden and champagne bar), Bottega Veneta, Rolex, Bulgari and more. Once you’ve shopped until you drop, head over to the charming Cafe Dior, Dior des Licesby an afternoon pool and snack (loved the summer detox smoothie). The Dior brand covers everything from your pillows to your coffee, truly taking j’adore Dior to a whole new level.
- Culture: The Place Des Lices Provencal market is open every Tuesday and Saturday morning. This open-air market is located on the famous Place Des Lices. The market has a large selection of items from fresh produce, jewelry, handmade artwork, souvenirs, household items, and more.
- Night life: The nightlife in Saint-Tropez is as magical as the beach clubs. target the famous The opera (which is basically a glorified mix of Broadway meets burlesque meets club… just trust me on this one). Continue your night at the legendary Read Cuevas del Roy nightclub for more dancing and yes, even more champagne.
TO EAT:
- The roofs: Located on the roof of Hotels in ParisLes Toits is an idyllic place for a relaxing night or dinner with friends.
- Cafe Senequier: A Saint-Tropez institution made famous for Brigitte Bardot in And God created the woman. You can’t miss the sprawling red awnings in the center of the harbor, and the café’s central location makes it ideal for a quick coffee and people-watching.
- Kitchen: Located in the famous Hotel ByblosCucina is a bustling Italian place with delicious dining options (their margherita pizza was to die for).
Your packing list:
Bonus Tip
If you decide to stop in Paris before heading south, InterContinental Paris Le Grand It’s a solid hotel for a quick trip to the City of Light. Our room had the most picturesque Parisian breakfast balcony, and the hotel is located directly opposite the world famous Opera Garnier.