Things To Do
in Saint-Laurent-du-Var

Saint-Laurent-du-Var is a sun-kissed seaside town on the French Riviera just a short hop from Nice. It blends a relaxed beach-town atmosphere with a lively marina, markets, and easy access to the wider Riviera. The coastline offers palm-lined promenades, pebbly and sandy beaches, and fresh seafood served in Provençal style.

Whether you stroll the quay at sunset or wander inland to markets and parks, the town feels both inviting and quintessentially Riviera.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Beaches
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing swim in the azure waters of Saint-Laurent-du-Var's pristine beaches. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachfront café, savoring local pastries and coffee while basking in the warm sun. The morning is perfect for a stroll along the promenade, taking in the stunning coastal views.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a seaside restaurant, spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or participating in water sports such as paddleboarding or jet skiing. Explore the nearby shops for unique souvenirs and beach essentials. Capture the beautiful scenery with photographs to cherish the memories.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, indulging in freshly caught seafood and regional wines. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as the beach bars come alive with music and laughter, perfect for an evening of relaxation. Cap off the night with a leisurely walk along the lit promenade, breathing in the sea air.

day 2
Cultural Discovery
morning
:

Visit the local markets in the morning to experience authentic French culture, where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods. Interact with friendly vendors who are eager to share their culinary secrets. After shopping, enjoy a picnic breakfast with your finds at a nearby park.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon exploring the historical sites, including the charming Village of Saint-Laurent and the stunning Church of Saint-Laurent. Delve into local history by visiting exhibits at nearby museums that showcase the region’s artistic heritage. Take advantage of the beautiful weather by enjoying an outdoor lunch at a quaint bistro.

evening
:

As night falls, immerse yourself in the local art scene by attending a gallery opening or a theater performance. Savor dinner at a restaurant featuring traditional cuisine with a modern twist. Engage with locals and other visitors over dessert, discussing your favorite experiences of the day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$3-5
🚌Public transport fare (single ride)$2-3
🏖️Beach chair rental$8-15
🍷Wine bottle (mid-range)$20-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastline with easy access to Nice and Monaco for day trips
  • Relaxed Riviera vibe with family-friendly beaches and markets
  • Seasonal crowds in peak summer
  • Prices can be high in tourist areas
  • "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Où est la plage?" - Where is the beach?

Places to Visit in Saint-Laurent-du-Var

Visit one of these nice places.

Promenade Marcel Pagnol at the seafront

A long coastal walkway with palm trees, blue water, and golden-hour light ideal for silhouettes and wide coastal shots.

Port de Saint-Laurent-du-Var

Marina with moored boats and reflections—great at sunrise or sunset for long exposure photography.

Old Town viewpoints

Quaint lanes, colorful façades, and a church tower offering charming cityscape angles.

Culinary Guide

Food in Saint-Laurent-du-Var

The cuisine centers on Mediterranean flavors, fresh seafood, and Provençal ingredients. Expect olive oil, herbs, citrus, tomatoes, and plenty of seaside specialties across markets, bistros, and beachside shacks.

Saint-Laurent-du-Var Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Socca

A warm chickpea pancake served piping hot, perfect as a street-side bite.

Must-Try!

Pissaladière

A savory onion, anchovy, and olive tart—fragrant and rustic.

Salade Niçoise

A classic Niçoise salad with olive oil dressing, often featuring tuna, eggs, and olives.

Bouillabaisse

Provencal fish stew; common in Riviera eateries with regional variations.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de Saint-Laurent-du-Var

Weekly market near the town hall offering fresh seafood, vegetables, cheeses, herbs, and olives.

Promenade street food stalls

Seasonal stalls along the waterfront serving socca, panisse, grilled sardines, and other coastal snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The area enjoys abundant sunshine most of the year, particularly from spring through early autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a polite bonjour or buenos días-inspired equivalent; courteous interaction is valued.

Dress code

Smart-casual in most restaurants; swimwear is appropriate only at the beach or pool areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally safe for travelers; standard coastal town precautions apply. Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded markets, swim in designated areas, and monitor ocean conditions before entering the water.

Tipping in Saint-Laurent-du-Var

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A 5-10% tip is common if service is good; rounding up at cafes is appreciated but not required.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming gardens make it ideal for walking, markets, and outdoor photography without the crowds.

Summer

Hot and sunny with lively beaches and events; bring sun protection, water, and a plan for busy days.

Autumn

Pleasant weather and fewer crowds; sea conditions remain good for coastal walks and late-season dining.

Winter

Milder than many European destinations; cooler days and quieter beaches, with more en plein air photography opportunities.

Nightlife Guide

Saint-Laurent-du-Var at Night

The nightlife scene is modest but lively in the summer, with seaside bars, casual pubs, and live music along the coast. Expect a relaxed vibe rather than a wild party atmosphere, with many venues offering outdoor seating and sunset views.

Hiking in Saint-Laurent-du-Var

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cap d’Antibes Coastal Path

Stunning coastal trail with sea views; scenery ranges from rugged cliffs to sunny coves, suitable for a moderate hike.

Airports

How to reach Saint-Laurent-du-Var by plane.

Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE)

Major international gateway about 15-25 km from Saint-Laurent-du-Var; easy connections by tram, bus, or taxi to the town.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and very walkable; the coastal promenade is excellent for pedestrians. Parking can be challenging during peak season, but walkable routes reduce the need for driving.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents

A mix of families, retirees, and professionals attracted by the Riviera lifestyle and proximity to Nice.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing / maritime sports

Common along the Riviera; sailing schools and rental options along the coast.

Football (soccer)

Popular pastime with local clubs and matches in nearby towns.

Transportation

Traffic

Coastal traffic can be heavy in the summer due to vacationers. The public transport network (Ligne d'Azur) and the tram to Nice are reliable alternatives to driving, though roads can slow during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Laurent-du-Var.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

In Saint-Laurent-du-Var, enjoy ratatouille, socca, salade Niçoise without tuna, and grilled vegetables; ask for olive-oil dressings.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities are accessible in Nice and surrounding towns with public and private clinics. Pharmacies are common throughout the area, and emergency numbers follow French system; consider travel insurance and keep your passport and any necessary documents handy.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide