top of page

Car rental in Saint-Tropez: The ultimate guide

Car Rental in Saint-Tropez – The Ultimate Guide

​

Saint-Tropez, the glamorous jewel of the French Riviera, is a dream destination for travelers seeking stunning beaches, luxury experiences, and vibrant nightlife. While the town is best explored on foot, renting a car offers the freedom and flexibility to visit nearby attractions, hidden beaches, and charming Provençal villages. Whether you need a compact city car, a luxury convertible, or an SUV for coastal road trips, this guide covers everything you need to know about car rental in Saint-Tropez.

Why Rent a Car in Saint-Tropez ?

1. Explore the French Riviera at Your Own Pace

Saint-Tropez is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, from the Maures Mountains to the stunning coastline of Pampelonne Beach. Renting a car allows you to discover:

  • Ramatuelle & Gassin – Picturesque villages with panoramic views.

  • Cannes & Nice – Perfect for a day trip along the Côte d’Azur.

  • Verdon Gorge – A must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

2. Convenience & Comfort

  • Public transport is limited in Saint-Tropez, especially outside peak season.

  • A rental car ensures privacy, comfort, and flexibility.

  • Ideal for families, couples, and groups looking to explore without time restrictions.

3. Luxury & Prestige

  • Saint-Tropez is known for its luxurious lifestyle, and what better way to explore than in a Ferrari, Porsche, or Bentley?

  • Many car rental agencies offer high-end and exotic cars to match the glamour of the Riviera.

Where to Rent a Car in Saint-Tropez ?

1. Car Rental at Nearby Airports

Since Saint-Tropez does not have its own airport, many travelers rent a car upon arrival at the nearest international airports:

  • Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) – Best for international travelers.

  • Toulon-Hyères Airport (TLN) – Closest airport to Saint-Tropez.

  • Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) – Ideal for budget travelers.

2. Car Rental in Saint-Tropez Town

Several car rental agencies operate within Saint-Tropez, offering a range of vehicles from budget-friendly options to luxury cars:

  • Hertz, Avis, and Europcar – Well-known brands with a variety of vehicles.

  • Luxury car rentals – Specializing in sports cars, convertibles, and SUVs.

  • Local agencies – Personalized service with competitive pricing.

Best Types of Cars to Rent in Saint-Tropez

1. Compact & Economy Cars – Best for City Exploration

  • Ideal for navigating narrow streets and finding parking spots.

  • Affordable fuel consumption.

  • Examples: Fiat 500, Renault Clio, Peugeot 208.

2. Luxury & Convertible Cars – Experience the Glamour

  • Drive along the coastal roads in style.

  • Enjoy open-top drives with scenic views.

  • Examples: Porsche 911 Cabriolet, Ferrari California, Mercedes-Benz SL.

3. SUVs & 4x4s – Perfect for Adventure

  • Suitable for off-the-beaten-path exploration.

  • More space for families and luggage.

  • Examples: Range Rover Evoque, BMW X5, Audi Q7.

4. Electric & Hybrid Cars – Eco-Friendly Travel

  • Growing number of charging stations in Saint-Tropez.

  • Lower fuel costs and sustainable travel.

  • Examples: Tesla Model 3, BMW i3, Renault Zoe.

How to Rent a Car in Saint-Tropez

1. Booking Your Rental Car

  • Use online comparison sites like Rentalcars.com, Expedia, or Auto Europe to find the best deals.

  • Book in advance, especially during peak season (June-August).

  • Check for unlimited mileage options if planning longer road trips.

2. Requirements for Renting a Car

  • Valid driver’s license (International Driving Permit for non-EU residents may be required).

  • Minimum age: 21-25 years (depends on the rental company and car type).

  • Credit card for security deposit (some agencies accept debit cards).

  • Full insurance coverage recommended for peace of mind.

3. Car Rental Costs & Hidden Fees

  • Daily rental rates vary based on car type, season, and duration.

  • Additional fees may apply for:

    • Young drivers (under 25 years old).

    • Extra drivers.

    • GPS rental and child seats.

    • One-way rental fees if returning the car to a different location.

  • Always check fuel policy (Full-to-Full is the best option).

Driving Tips in Saint-Tropez & the French Riviera

1. Traffic & Parking

  • High traffic congestion in summer, especially near the port.

  • Best parking options:

    • Underground car parks in town center.

    • Free parking zones outside the main areas with shuttle services.

    • Hotel valet parking (if staying at a luxury hotel).

2. Road Rules & Regulations

  • Drive on the right-hand side of the road.

  • Speed limits:

    • 50 km/h in urban areas.

    • 80-90 km/h on secondary roads.

    • 130 km/h on motorways (110 km/h if raining).

  • Alcohol limit: 0.5 g/l (lower than in many countries).

3. Scenic Drives & Recommended Routes

  • Route de l’Esterel – Coastal road with stunning red rock formations.

  • Corniche d’Or – From Saint-Tropez to Cannes, offering breathtaking views.

  • Gorges du Verdon – A beautiful natural escape within a 2-hour drive.

Alternatives to Car Rental in Saint-Tropez

If you prefer not to rent a car, consider these alternatives:

  • Private chauffeur service – Luxury experience with a personal driver.

  • Scooter or bike rentals – Ideal for short-distance travel within Saint-Tropez.

  • Taxis & ride-sharing – Available but expensive, especially at night.

  • Public transport – Limited but includes buses and seasonal ferries.

Conclusion

Renting a car in Saint-Tropez is the best way to explore the French Riviera at your own pace. Whether you choose a compact car for easy parking, a luxury convertible for style, or an SUV for adventure, having your own vehicle allows you to discover hidden gems beyond the town. By booking in advance, choosing the right car type, and following local driving tips, you can enjoy a seamless and unforgettable experience in Saint-Tropez.

Start planning your Saint-Tropez road trip today and drive through one of the most beautiful destinations in the world !

bottom of page