Places

Port Grimaud in a Day: The Venice of the French Riviera

Tucked between the glitz of St. Tropez and the rolling hills of Provence, Port Grimaud is a picturesque waterside village that feels like a little slice of Venice on the Côte d’Azur. With its charming canals, pastel-colored houses, and laid-back atmosphere it offers a more picturesque experience than hotspots like Nice or Cannes. In this article, we’ll guide you through a perfect day in Port Grimaud, with a detour to the historic village of Grimaud.

A Brief History of Port Grimaud

Unlike its ancient neighbors, Port Grimaud is relatively young. Designed by architect François Spoerry in the 1960s, this planned community was built to resemble a traditional Provençal fishing village—only with Venetian-style waterways instead of streets. The result? A private marina village where each house has a boat mooring at its doorstep. Today, Port Grimaud is a paradise for boat lovers and those seeking a quieter, more refined Riviera experience.

Map of Grimaud and Port Grimaud in the Golf of St. Tropez — **Grimaud** on the map refers to the historic hilltop village, while **Port Grimaud** is its modern, waterside counterpart, located in the **Gulf of Saint-Tropez**. Both are located in the same commune and can be visited in one day.

Morning Activities

To fully experience Port Grimaud’s beauty, start your day early. The morning light reflecting on the water, the sound of boats gently swaying, and the scent of fresh pastries in the air create a really unique atmosphere you need to discover by yourself!

Stroll through the canals

Begin your day with a walk along the canals of Port Grimaud. Wander through its narrow alleyways, cross charming footbridges, and admire the colorful facades adorned with flowers. Stop at one of the waterfront cafés for a coffee and a croissant while watching the boats drift by.

View on the canals and luxury boats in Port Grimaud — From the tower of the **Saint-François d’Assise Church**, located right in the heart of the port, you can enjoy a stunning view of Port Grimaud’s canals and boats.

Do a boat tour on the canals

For a true Venetian experience, hop on an electric boat for a self-guided tour of the canals. No license is required, and it’s the best way to admire the village’s unique architecture from the water.

Explore the local market

On Thursdays and Sundays, the market at Place du Marché comes alive with stalls selling fresh produce, artisanal goods, and Provençal specialties. Pick up some lavender sachets, handmade soaps, or a bottle of locally-produced olive oil as a souvenir.

Market stand in Port Grimaud with local products like olives and herb garlic

Midday Activities & Lunch

Midday in Port Grimaud is all about relaxation—whether you choose a waterfront lunch or a quick beach escape.

Sunbathe at Grimaud Beach

Just a short walk from the village center, Grimaud Beach offers crystal-clear waters and golden sand. Rent a sunbed at one of the chic beach clubs, or bring a towel and enjoy a peaceful spot by the sea.

🍋 LUNCH TIPS

Café Telline: A charming seafood restaurant with a cozy terrace, known for its fresh oysters and grilled fish.
La Table du Mareyeur: An elegant bistro with an excellent selection of Mediterranean dishes and a fantastic harbor view.
Le Petit Bain: A relaxed beachside spot where you can enjoy a delicious salade niçoise with your feet in the sand.

Afternoon Activities

After lunch, venture beyond Port Grimaud and step back in time in the medieval village of Grimaud! Just a short drive away, it offers a more intimate and authentic experience. With its charming cobbled streets, historic stone houses, and breathtaking views over the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, visiting Grimaud feels like traveling to another era.

Discover the Château de Grimaud

The ruins of this medieval fortress offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coastline. Wander through the ancient stone remains and imagine the history that unfolded here.

🍋 MORE IDEAS FOR THE AFTERNOON

Visit the Musée du Patrimoine, showcasing the local history and culture of the Grimaud region.

Enjoy a wine tasting at Château Saint-Maur, a prestigious vineyard offering exquisite Provençal rosés.

Evening Activities

As the evening approaches, you have two options: enjoy a charming dinner in the medieval village of Grimaud, surrounded by its timeless ambiance, or return to Port Grimaud, where the waterfront comes alive with a magical glow.

As the sun sets, Port Grimaud transforms into a dreamy waterside retreat, with twinkling lights reflecting on the canals and the air filled with the sound of clinking glasses and soft laughter.

Aperitif & Dinner in Port Grimaud

Start your evening with a sunset aperitif by the water, sipping a chilled glass of Provençal rosé at a waterfront bar like Le Quai. For dinner, why not booking a table at Le Relais des Coches, a charming restaurant with a candlelit terrace overlooking the canals, offering fresh seafood and Mediterranean flavors.

🍋

If you're looking for a more casual option without the need for a reservation, head to Le Grand Pin, a laid-back spot known for its welcoming ambiance, delicious fare and stunning view on the boats.

Le Grand Pin restaurant in the harbour of Port Grimaud in the South of France — The restaurant Le Grand Pin gets its name from the large pine tree that uniquely grows through its roof, creating a distinctive and charming atmosphere.

🍋 MORE EVENING IDEAS

If you’re up for a bit more excitement, head to Saint-Tropez, just a 15-minute drive away, for a cocktail at Les Caves du Roy or a lively beach party at Nikki Beach.
Enjoy a live jazz performance at a local bar for a laid-back yet sophisticated end to the evening.

Practical Tips for Your Daytrip to Port Grimaud

Arrive early to secure parking, as spaces fill up quickly in peak season.
Dress smart-casual—Port Grimaud has a refined but relaxed atmosphere.
Bring cash, as some small markets and local vendors do not accept cards.
Pack sunscreen and a hat if you plan to spend time outdoors.
Make reservations for lunch and dinner in advance, especially in summer.
Pay attention to your holiday dates: Many spots are closed during the off-season

The off-season in Port Grimaud typically runs from November to March. During this period, many restaurants, shops, and tourist services either reduce their hours or close entirely.

Final Words

With its unique blend of Provençal charm, Venetian-style canals, and easygoing elegance, Port Grimaud is a perfect escape on the French Riviera. Whether you’re exploring by boat, lounging on the beach, or strolling through medieval streets, this hidden gem offers a truly magical experience. For more South of France Travel tips and ideas, check out our other articles and the magazine's Places section.