A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint-Tropez vs. Sestri Levante for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a luxurious, glamourous, and opulent resort town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a scenic, local, and quaint seaside town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food and beaches.

Saint-Tropez and Sestri Levante: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint-Tropez. Although Saint-Tropez and Sestri Levante are both popular with visitors, Saint-Tropez has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint-Tropez is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Sestri Levante is known for its food, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Saint-Tropez is more touristy than Sestri Levante and is popular for its trendy beach clubs around the Bay of Pampelonne, as well as its popularity with celebrities and the extravagantly wealthy. It is also home to The Old Port. Sestri Levante is popular for its two bays and coastal setting.

The Old Port

How is Saint-Tropez different from Sestri Levante?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sestri Levante and Saint-Tropez. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is the Food Better in Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sestri Levante is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Sestri Levante. You'll find many restaurants along the central road in the old town, Via XXV Aprile. Seafood is popular, as are many other Italian favorites. If you're visiting during the summer months then it's best to make reservations as wait times can be long.

Saint-Tropez is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food is all about the local flavors. You'll find plenty of local seafood as well as local organic meats, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, garlic, and truffles. Cheese is a common ingredient as well. There are many different soups and stews, and bouillabaisse is a common fish soup found in the restaurants around town. Daube is another popular stew that is made with beef. Ratatouille is a vegetable casserole that has made a name for itself both inside and outside of France. And, of course, you have to try the local salads and pastries. Because it's such a touristy area, there are many restaurants geared specifically to the tourists, many of which are overpriced.

Is Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination for nightlife.

Saint-Tropez is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It is a place to see and be seen, so if you're looking for A-list celebrities, glamourous yacht parties, and ritzy dance clubs, then this is your place. While the nightlife scene is filled with extravagance, there are still laid back clubs where you can sip a cocktail in style. The best season to come and party is during the summer months, but you'll still find plenty to do throughout the year.

People don't go to Sestri Levante for the nightlife. There are a few places to grab a drink, but if you're looking for nightlife, you'll really need to head out of town.

Is Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante Better for Resorts?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its resorts.

Saint-Tropez is a world class resort vacation destination. Luxury and extravagance is what this resort town is all about. If you have the money to spend, you'll have no trouble finding a glamourous villa or luxury hotel where you can relax, party, or soak up the French Riviera sun.

Sestri Levante has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a number of hotels in the old town or by the beach. You'll also find a decent selection of vacation rentals. During peak season you'll want to make your reservations early.

Is Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sestri Levante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Saint-Tropez is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The Gulf of Saint Tropez is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive along the French Riviera. There are wreck dives including the most famous, The Rubis, a submarine that is surrounded by marine life. Although you're not allowed to enter the vessel, there is still plenty to see. There are also plenty of dive spots that feature rock formations, schools of fish, and lobsters.

Sestri Levante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante Better for Beaches?

Saint-Tropez is great for the beach. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its beaches.

The beaches at Saint-Tropez attract visitors from all over. The beaches are frequented by celebrities, so you'll find plenty of glitz and glamour by the water. For some of the best beaches, you'll want to head a little out of town. The most famous beach in the area is Pampelonne Beach which is popular with Hollywood celebrities during the summer months. Bouillabaisse Beach is the place to go if you want to look at the yachts, but for a more natural setting head to Graniers Beach.

Sestri Levante offers a nice beach destination. Home to two beaches, this makes a nice holiday spot if you're hoping to relax by the water. The beaches can get crowded with Italians during the summer months, but it still offers a charming seaside spot. Many people head to the beach by the the Bay of Silence in part because it's free. Make sure you arrive early. By the Bay of Fairytales you can rent chairs and umbrellas and enjoy a little more space.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Saint-Tropez specifically to go shopping. Surrounded by luxury, shopping is a must in this glamourous resort town. There are international luxury brands as well as local designer boutiques. Whether you're looking for yachting clothes, cigars, jewelry, or perfume, this is one of the best shopping destinations along the Cote d'Azur. Art is a particularly popular item to purchase while you're in town.

Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante Better for Families?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its family-friendly activities.

Saint-Tropez is an extremely popular resort town to visit for families. With great beaches, several amusement parks, waterparks, and even Marineland, there are an endless supply of activities for kids. There's also a zoo and nature reserve for wildlife enthusiasts. For adventure lovers, there are a number of different watersports to try and if the weather isn't cooperating, there are a few good museums and other indoor activities as well.

Sestri Levante is a family-friendly place to visit. This is a great spot for families that want a relaxing holiday with a small town vibe. The picturesque setting is said to have inspired fairytales, and today kids will enjoy playing on the playgrounds or exploring at the adventure park. There are also hikes, activities, and restaurants that are great for kids and adults alike.

Is Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante Better for Couples?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for couples. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for romance.

Saint-Tropez is a great resort town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Whether you're honeymooning or taking a short getaway to the French Riviera, this is a great option for couples. You can take a stroll at sunset, relax on one of the beautiful beaches, dine on local seafood, and soak up the rich local culture. The romance and beauty of this French Riviera city make it a world class romantic destination.

Sestri Levante is a nice destination for couples. This scenic setting offers a relaxing holiday for couples who want to enjoy quiet time together. There are plenty of outdoor activities and a cultural town with a lot of beauty to explore. It's one of the lesser known destinations in the area, so you will have a peaceful small town vibe that's great for a romantic getaway.

Is Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint-Tropez is a resort town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination for backpackers.

Saint-Tropez is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. For many backpackers it may seem cost prohibitive to visit the French Riviera, but for those with the money, it is well worth the splurge. You can save some money by staying outside of town or finding a vacation rental where you can cook meals. There are also hostels and rooms in local homes that come at a more reasonable price.

Sestri Levante is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some dorm rooms in town, but most backpackers head to one of the more well known destinations in the area. The atmosphere and history makes for a unique experience for those who do make the trip.

Is Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Saint-Tropez and Sestri Levante.

You'll find some public transit in Saint-Tropez, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system that connects many parts of the area.

While Sestri Levante offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town can be explored on foot and there are buses and trains that can be used for day trips.

Is Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante a more walkable city?

Saint-Tropez and Sestri Levante both are terrific when exploring on foot.

Getting around Saint-Tropez on foot is easy. It's easy to explore many places on foot, passing by beautiful beaches, stunning views, impressive yachts, and glamourous villas.

Sestri Levante is a very easy resort town to get around on foot. There are pedestrian promenades and charming streets through town that are best explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint-Tropez Worth Visiting? and Is Sestri Levante Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sestri Levante or Saint-Tropez?

How long in Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint-Tropez and Sestri Levante. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint-Tropez than in Sestri Levante. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint-Tropez, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sestri Levante.

Families should spend more time in Saint-Tropez than Sestri Levante. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Saint-Tropez, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Saint-Tropez than Sestri Levante. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Saint-Tropez that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint-Tropez than Sestri Levante if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Saint-Tropez.

One day in Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante?

In Saint-Tropez, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Sestri Levante is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this seaside town.

A weekend in Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante?

Saint-Tropez is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Sestri Levante is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint-Tropez. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Sestri Levante is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the resort town of Saint-Tropez. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Sestri Levante is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, and The Best Historical Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Saint-Tropez and Sestri Levante, we can see that Saint-Tropez is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Saint-Tropez Expensive? and Is Sestri Levante Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint-Tropez or Sestri Levante?

Sestri Levante has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Saint-Tropez. When comparing the sizes of Saint-Tropez and Sestri Levante, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.