Things To Do
in La Garde

A rich fish stew originating from the nearby Marseille area; try it at seafood restaurants along the coast for a traditional preparation.

Must-Try!

A vegetable stew of tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and zucchini — a classic Provençal vegetarian dish found at bistros and family restaurants.

Olive tapenade and onion-anchovy tart (pissaladière) served as starters or snacks at cafes and markets.

Robust reds and rosés from the nearby Bandol appellation; available by the glass in many local restaurants.

A lively market (check local schedule) selling fruits, vegetables, cheeses, olives and street snacks; a great place to sample local specialties and buy picnic supplies.

Short drive to Toulon gets you a larger market with seafood stalls and Provençal products — ideal for sampling fresh fish and regional charcuterie.

Service is usually included in restaurant bills in France ('service compris'), but leaving small change or rounding up (5–10%) for good service is appreciated. For taxis, drivers round up fares; for hotel porters and housekeeping a few euros is customary.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted (Visa and MasterCard common). Carry some euros in cash for small shops, markets and occasional establishments that don't take cards. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly available.

Hot, sunny and busy (June–August). Expect high temperatures, crowded beaches and lively summer events; book accommodation in advance and seek shade midday. Evenings are pleasant for dining al fresco.

Mild temperatures, fewer tourists and lovely autumn colours in vineyards and hills. Sea remains swimmable into early autumn and it's a great time for hiking and wine tasting.

Mild but cooler weather with occasional rain (December–February). Fewer services and quieter streets — a good season for lower prices and exploring without crowds, though some attractions may have limited hours.

Blooming fields, comfortable temperatures and increasing daylight make spring ideal for outdoor activities, market visits and hiking before the summer crowds.

Located above Toulon, Mont Faron offers several trails, panoramic viewpoints, and a memorial park; accessible by car or cable car from Toulon for rewarding climbs and vistas.

A scenic coastal ridge with trails overlooking the sea, secluded coves and lighthouse views; moderate difficulty with outstanding coastal panoramas.

A larger natural area inland with longer hikes through wooded hills, Mediterranean scrub and occasional vineyard views — good for day hikes and nature immersion.

Short coastal walks linking beaches and rocky coves, ideal for combining hiking with swimming stops and photography.

Long-time residents and families who work locally or commute to Toulon; they form the core of community life.

People who commute to Toulon or nearby industrial and service centers for work, including service industry and naval personnel linked to Toulon's port.

The mild climate attracts retirees seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle — they contribute to the quieter daytime pace outside peak tourist season.

Summer sees an influx of holidaymakers from France and abroad who come for beaches, boating and regional events.

With a strong maritime tradition on the Var coast, sailing, regattas and boat-based recreation are very popular.

Local interest in football, with many amateur clubs and youth teams; regional professional teams in nearby Toulon and Marseille draw fans.

Rugby has a regional following with local clubs and matches that attract community support.

This traditional Provençal bowls game is widely played in public squares and parks — a cultural as well as sporting activity.

Vegetarian options are increasingly common (salads, omelettes, ratatouille, vegetable tartines), but many traditional dishes include seafood or meat — mention preferences when ordering and seek out bistros and modern cafes for better selection.

Vegan choices are more limited in small towns; look for markets, vegetable dishes, salads, and restaurants that advertise vegetarian/vegan menus. Carry snacks if you have strict requirements.

Gluten-free options are available at some restaurants and bakeries, but cross-contamination can occur. Inform staff and prefer naturally gluten-free items (seafood, salads, grilled meats).

Allergy awareness varies — learn key French phrases (e.g., 'Je suis allergique à...' for 'I am allergic to...') and always communicate dietary restrictions clearly.