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Citadelle de Saint-Tropez: A Maritime History Hub

Explore Saint-Tropez's maritime history at this 17th-century citadel with panoramic views and engaging museum exhibits.

4.5

The Citadelle de Saint-Tropez, built in the early 17th century, stands as a sentinel overlooking the town and the Mediterranean Sea. Housing the Musée d'histoire maritime, it offers panoramic views and a deep dive into the region's seafaring past.

A brief summary to Citadelle de Saint-Tropez - Musée d'histoire maritime

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the walk up to the Citadelle can be steep.
  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the Citadelle and the museum.
  • Consider a guided tour to enhance your understanding of the Citadelle's history and architecture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Vieux Port (Old Port), head east along Quai Suffren, then turn left onto Rue de la Citadelle. This uphill walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Follow the signs for Citadelle de Saint-Tropez. Note that the climb can be steep. There are three pay parking lots close to the town center: Parc des Lices, Parking du 15e Corps and Parking Foch. Free parking is available near La Bouillabaisse Plage, about 30 minutes' walk from the port.

  • Public Transport

    Take a train to Saint-Raphaël. From Saint-Raphaël, catch bus line 7601 to Saint-Tropez; the bus ride is approximately 30-40 minutes. From the bus stop in Saint-Tropez, it is about a 15-minute walk uphill to the Citadelle. Alternatively, take a local taxi from the bus stop for approximately €10-€15. A single bus ticket costs a few euros.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Saint-Tropez. Provide the driver with the address: 1 Mnt de la Citadelle, 83990 Saint-Tropez. The fare from nearby towns typically ranges from €20 to €40. Within Saint-Tropez, a short taxi ride to the Citadelle will likely cost between €10 and €20, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Citadelle de Saint-Tropez - Musée d'histoire maritime

Crowning the hillside above Saint-Tropez, the Citadelle has been a defining feature of the town for over 400 years. Constructed between 1602 and 1608, this hexagonal fortress was designed by Raymond de Bonnefons to protect the Provencal coast from Spanish invasion. Its strategic importance diminished in the 19th century, but it remains one of the most significant coastal defense structures in the region. The Citadelle's keep, an imposing hexagonal structure, has been a listed historic monument since 1921, with the ramparts and enclosure listed since 1995. Today, the Citadelle is home to the Musée d'histoire maritime, which opened in 2013 after extensive restoration. The museum showcases the stories of Tropezian sailors, fishermen, and explorers who navigated the world's oceans. Exhibits include ship models, navigational instruments, and artifacts that highlight the town's maritime heritage. Visitors can explore the Citadelle's ramparts, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, the Mediterranean Sea, and the surrounding landscape. The museum itself is spread across three levels, each dedicated to different aspects of maritime history, from local fishing traditions to tales of daring voyages. Don't miss the room dedicated to the sailboat “Le Virtuelle,” imagined by Philippe Starck.

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