How to Get Around the French Riviera (From Menton to Saint-Tropez)
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TER Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Introduction
The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) stretches along the Mediterranean coast from Menton, near the Italian border, to Saint-Tropez in the Var region.
This region is famous for its beaches, luxury resorts, and scenic coastline, but transportation can be challenging, especially during summer. Traffic congestion, limited parking, and expensive taxis make public transportation and ferries a practical and enjoyable alternative.
This guide covers how to travel from Menton to Saint-Tropez using trains, buses, and boats, with detailed information about schedules, fares, stations, and practical tips for each mode of transport.
Traveling by Train on the French Riviera (TER PACA)
Overview of the TER Network
The TER Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is the main regional train network connecting major cities along the Riviera. Key stations from Menton to Saint-Raphaël include: Menton, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, Monaco / Monte-Carlo, Nice (Ville and Riquier), Antibes, Juan-les-Pins, Cannes, Fréjus, and Saint-Raphaël Valescure.
Note: Saint-Tropez does not have a train station. Travelers must reach Saint-Raphaël by train and continue by bus or ferry. Check TER PACA schedules.
Train Schedules and Frequency
- Major cities are connected every 15 to 30 minutes during daytime.
- Early morning and late evening services are less frequent.
- During summer, trains run more frequently, but seats can fill up quickly.
- Tickets can be purchased online or via the SNCF app.
Train Ticket Prices
- Menton to Nice: €5–7
- Nice to Cannes: €7–9
- Nice to Saint-Raphaël: €15–18
Tip: The Sud Azur Explore Pass offers unlimited travel for several days and is ideal for multiple trips along the coast.
Practical Train Tips
- Validate paper tickets before boarding.
- Activate digital tickets in the app.
- Bicycles are allowed on some trains.
- Board early during peak season for the best seats.
Traveling by Bus on the French Riviera
ZOU! Regional Buses
The ZOU! network serves areas not covered by trains, especially inland towns and the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. The most popular route for tourists is Line 876: Saint-Raphaël → Sainte-Maxime → Saint-Tropez, connecting the train station to the city. ZOU! Bus Line 876.
Bus Schedules and Frequency
- Operates year-round, with more frequent services during summer.
- Runs every 30–60 minutes during peak season.
- Travel time Saint-Raphaël to Saint-Tropez: 1h30–2h depending on traffic.
Bus Ticket Prices
- Single ticket: €3–5
- Tickets available online, via app, or from the driver.
Local Urban Bus Networks
- Lignes d’Azur – Nice and surroundings
- Palm Bus – Cannes area
- Local shuttles in Menton, Antibes, and Saint-Tropez
These buses are perfect for short trips and beach access.
Traveling by Boat and Ferry Along the Riviera
Maritime transport is a scenic and stress-free way to explore the Riviera. It avoids traffic and offers panoramic coastal views.
Sainte-Maxime to Saint-Tropez Boat Shuttle
- Crossing: 15 minutes
- Frequency: every 20–30 minutes in high season
- Price: €7–16 depending on season
Saint-Raphaël to Saint-Tropez Ferries
- Crossing: 1 hour
- Seasonal operation: April to October
- Price: €25–30 one way
- Comfortable seating and open decks
Nice or Cannes to Saint-Tropez by Ferry
- Travel time: 2–2.5 hours
- Seasonal departures (June–September)
- Book in advance to secure seats
Tips for Traveling by Boat
- Check weather conditions
- Arrive early during summer
- Book online in advance
- Bring sun protection and water
Taxi, Ride-Hailing, and Alternative Options
Taxis and VTC
- Expensive for long distances
- Useful for late-night trips, remote locations, or short point-to-point rides
Water Taxis and Private Boats
- Operate in Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez
- Fast but expensive
- Ideal for urgent or premium transfers
Comparison of Transportation Options
| Transport Type | Cost | Speed | Best For | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TER Train | Low to Medium | Fast | Long coastal distances | No direct access to Saint-Tropez |
| Regional Bus | Low | Medium | Saint-Raphaël to Saint-Tropez | Traffic dependent |
| Ferry / Boat | Medium to High | Medium | Scenic, comfortable | Seasonal |
| Taxi / VTC | High | Fast | Flexibility | Expensive |
Seasonal Travel Advice
- Summer (July–August): More trains, buses, ferries; crowded; higher prices
- Spring & Autumn: Best balance of comfort, availability, and fewer crowds
- Winter: Limited ferry services, trains and buses remain reliable
Final Tips for Getting Around the French Riviera
For the best experience between Menton and Saint-Tropez:
- Take trains for long distances
- Use buses or ferries to reach Saint-Tropez
- Use local buses for city exploration
Planning ahead ensures a comfortable, affordable, and stress-free trip along the Côte d’Azur.