From diegoenfrance.com, I have explored several times Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, one of the most unique destinations in the south of France. In this guide I bring together the best things to see and do, with practical advice based on real experience.
What to see and do in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer?
In summary: :
- Coastal village in the heart of the Camargue Natural Park, known for its Gypsy traditions and wild landscapes.
- This guide includes ideas to enjoy nature, culture, local gastronomy, and family-friendly activities.
- Designed for curious travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. Recommended by diegoenfrance.com after several visits to the area.
ℹ️ Population of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer: 2,145 inhabitants in 2020. Source INSEE
Selected Village
Featured in the Guide to the 20 Hidden Gems of France You’ll Want to Keep All to Yourself by diegoenfrance.com
⭐ If you are exploring Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer with children, you are probably looking for more quiet, authentic and family-friendly plans.
👉 Discover here what to see in Provence: 30 amazing ideas to enjoy with your family, and turn your Camargue getaway into a complete adventure in the South of France.
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How to get to Saintes Maries de la Mer
Your Gateway to France
Starting your holidays in France is a hassle-free process. Most travelers choose to fly, thanks to the many air connections available. France boasts numerous international airports that facilitate arrival from anywhere in the world.
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Airports near Saintes Maries de la Mer
- Montpellier 54 km
- Nîmes 44 km
- Marseille 102 km
Travelling to France by Train: Comfort, Speed and Sustainability
Opting for the train as a means of transport is not only an environmentally responsible choice, but also an unrivalled opportunity to immerse yourself in the European landscapes while travelling quickly and comfortably. Thanks to SNCF’s extensive rail network, you can connect directly to iconic destinations such as Montpellier or Nîmes, directly from Spain, ensuring a hassle-free arrival to the region’s gems.
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Nearest TGV stations to Saintes Maries de la Mer
- Montpellier 55 km
- Nîmes 58 km
- Marseille 127 km
The Magic of Driving in France
Once in France, touring the country by car is one of the most practical and charming ways to travel. This option offers not only comfort, but also the freedom to discover picturesque landscapes and stop wherever the moment inspires you.
Thanks to Rentalcars.com, you can easily find the perfect vehicle for your adventure. Compare prices among the leading rental agencies and book your car for pick-up at the airport, train station or multiple locations of your choice. Start your trip in total freedom and comfort!
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Moreover, as you journey through the charming French roads, what better company than a good playlist? Precisely, I have a very special one that I have prepared for you later on.
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Driving to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
Traveling by car to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is an amazing experience that immerses you in the unique and wild landscapes of the Camargue region.
From any of the nearby cities such as Montpellier, Nîmes, Marseille or Avignon, the journey is much more than just a transfer; it’s a true adventure through one of the most picturesque areas of France.
This trip offers us views we rarely get the chance to enjoy. The landscapes of the Camargue are unexpected and exotic, revealing a corner of France that many don’t even know exists.
The mix of marshy terrain, white horses grazing freely, and imposing black bulls creates a setting that is both surprising and enchanting in equal measure.
It’s a journey that invites us to explore and discover a lesser-known but equally fascinating side of the French South.
Note that in the months of May, October and December, thousands of people congregate in the village on the occasion of the pilgrimages that take place every year. More information in the section on What to do in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.
The ferry Bac du Sauvage
✅ Route included in the routes suggested by diegoenfrance.com for curious travelers
If you come from the Montpellier, Aigues-Mortes or Le Grau-du-Roi side, you have the opportunity to cross a lush, wild environment and, on the way, even cross the Petit Rhône River on a free cable ferry linking the two banks which is located 6.5 km from Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.
🔁 You can of course also cross it in the opposite direction.
ℹ️ Crossing time: 2 minutes. Fee: Free of charge. Open 365 days a year.
Achieve maximum immersion
in French culture
Here’s a playlist to listen to while driving these routes
Things to do in Saintes Maries de la Mer
Around all the villages you will always find a huge amount of places to enjoy with the little ones and everything is really prepared for a great time.
Near this charming village, you’ll discover a plethora of exciting activities to enjoy with them.
From exploring fascinating castles and quaint villages to immersing yourself in fun-filled theme and water parks, there are endless options to entertain the whole family.
Here is a list of activities to enjoy with the family and places nearby, which I selected for you.
I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.
Unforgettable panoramic views: Visit and climb Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer Church
✅ Monument highlighted by diegoenfrance.com as a key point of Camargue’s heritage
One of the must-see spots during your visit to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is the historic church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer.
This imposing structure, with roots dating back to the 9th century, is both a place of worship and a monument steeped in history and legends.
The church is dedicated to the Saint Maries, central figures in local tradition, and it’s a pilgrimage site that attracts visitors from all over the world, especially during the Gypsy festivals in May and October.
But the experience doesn’t end inside the church. What I strongly recommend is climbing up to the rooftop of the church.
From there, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views that capture the essence of the Camargue.
You’ll see the picturesque village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, with its reddish rooftops and winding streets, and in the distance, the majestic Mediterranean Sea.
In the other direction, the marshy landscapes and vast stretches of the Camargue unfold as far as the eye can see, offering a natural spectacle that perfectly matches the serenity of the surroundings.
This panoramic view is a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the Camargue landscape.
ℹ️ Closed at midday. Easy to climb.
🎟️ Rooftop access ticket €4
Take a Guided Tour of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer with Clara
✅ Tour recommended by diegoenfrance.com for its authenticity and local approach.
Get to know this adorable little village with Clara, a passionate local guide from the Camargue. Immerse yourself in the history and nature of this amazing corner of France with this guided tour that will take you to the heart of this fascinating region.
Accompanied by Clara, you will discover the wonders of the village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a place that has inspired figures such as Van Gogh and Frédéric Mistral.
During the tour, you’ll hear stories, anecdotes, and secrets that only a local would know, enriching your experience and connection with the place.
This tour will also give you the chance to meet locals and gain a deeper understanding of their traditions and way of life, making your visit an authentic and unforgettable experience.
ℹ️ Book now and pay later. Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour.
- Duration 3 hs. Approx.
- Groups of up to 10 people
Private 4×4 Safari in the Camargue: A Wild Adventure
✅ Recommended by diegoenfrance.com to discover the Camargue from the inside.
I propose you to live an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Camargue. This two-hour private tour allows you to explore the wonders of the Rhone Delta in the comfort and excitement of an open 4×4 vehicle.
Accompanied by a passionate and knowledgeable guide, you will immerse yourself in the wild and unique landscapes of the Camargue Regional Natural Park.
During the tour, you will have the opportunity to see the rich fauna and flora of the area up close. You will be able to spot the emblematic white horses and black bulls roaming freely, as well as an impressive variety of birds, including pink flamingos.
ℹ️ Duration approx. 2 hours.
✴️ Cancel up to 24 hours before the excursion. Book now and pay later
👉 From 399 € per group
Discover the Camargue on Petit Train
✅ Activity recommended by diegoenfrance.com to explore the Camargue with the family
This little train takes you on a 13 km ride through the Regional Natural Park of the Camargue, skirting ponds and marshes.
Along the way, a local guide will passionately share stories about the history and traditions of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and its surroundings.
With photo stops, you’ll get a close look at the rich wildlife and flora, including the iconic bulls, horses, and pink flamingos.
The Petit Train is ideal for both individuals and groups, and its departure point is conveniently located right next to the tourist office.
This ride is not only a perfect opportunity to learn about the biodiversity and unique landscapes of the Camargue, but also to enjoy a relaxed and educational experience.
ℹ️ Duration of the tour: 50 minutes.
🚂 Departure: right next to the Tourist Office.
🎟️ Price: €10 per person.
Live the tradition and get excited: White Horses, Bulls and Fun
✅ Recommended by diegoenfrance.com to get to know the living soul of the Camargue.
In Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, summer is experienced with a series of festivities celebrating the traditions and culture of the Camargue.
Among the highlights are the “abrivados” and the “juegos de vaquillonas”, events that combine emotion, tradition and community.
Abrivados: bulls, gardians and pure Camargue tradition
The abrivados are an ancient Camargue tradition where the gardians, the local cowboys, lead the bulls from the fields to the village square.
This exciting horseback procession is an impressive display of equestrian skill and teamwork. It is a vibrant spectacle that attracts locals and tourists alike, offering an authentic glimpse of life in the Camargue.
Cowgirl games: courage, laughter and spectacle in the plaza
On the other hand, the vaquillonas games are playful competitions in which the young people of the village show their dexterity and bravery trying to catch the vaquillonas, or young bulls, in a festive atmosphere.
These games are held in the bullring and are an opportunity for the whole family to enjoy an afternoon full of fun and tradition.
These festivities not only keep local customs alive, but also strengthen the sense of community and offer visitors an authentic and exciting experience.
ℹ️ Check the agenda of the Tourist Office or the Mairie for the dates when these festivities take place.
Fervor and Tradition: Pilgrimages in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is known for its significant pilgrimages, which attract thousands of faithful and travelers each year.
These events pay homage to the town’s patron saints, Sainte Marie Jacobe and Sainte Marie Salomé, who, according to tradition, arrived in the region in the 1st century to evangelize, accompanied by Sainte Sara.
The relics of the Saints, discovered in 1448, are kept in the Upper Chapel of the village church and are brought down to the choir during the pilgrimages.
May Pilgrimage: Sainte Sara and the boat to the sea
The May pilgrimage is one of the most important. The day begins with a solemn mass in the church, followed by the ceremony of the Descente des Châsses and a procession to the sea, where Sainte Sara, patron saint of the Gypsies and travelers, is honored.
On May 25th, the feast of Sainte Marie Jacobe is celebrated with a grand mass and the procession of the Barque des Saintes Maries, carried to the sea by the guards and pilgrims, culminating with the Remontée des Châsses ceremony.
ℹ️ The festival takes place on May 24th and 25th.
October Festival: The arrival of the Saints at the sea
In October, around the 22nd, the feast of Marie Salomé is celebrated. On Saturday afternoon, the Descente des Châsses takes place, followed by a living reenactment of the arrival of the Saints on the beach and a prayer vigil in the sanctuary.
On Sunday, a solemn mass precedes an impressive procession to the sea, where the Barque des Saintes is carried by the brotherhood’s bearers, accompanied by horse-mounted guards and pilgrims.
December of Light: ceremonial transfer and torchlit procession
In December, the Translation des Reliques pilgrimage closes the year with a solemn torchlight procession and religious ceremonies, including the unveiling of the relics of Marie Jacobé and Marie Salomé.
These pilgrimages not only celebrate faith, but also the rich history and traditions of the Camargue.
⭐ After enjoying the sea, the horses and the lively culture of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, why not continue your route into the Provençal hinterland? 👉 Here are the 8 best unusual accommodations in Vaucluse, a perfect choice to combine the Camargue with rural Provence, in an experience that will delight young and old alike.
The best accommodations in Saintes Maries de la Mer
Hotel L’Estelle en Camargue ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Located in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, in the heart of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, L’Estelle en Camargue is an idyllic retreat within a 3-hectare domain.
This hotel-restaurant offers a total communion with the wild nature of the Camargue, integrating perfectly into the environment.
With some twenty spacious rooms reflecting the light of Provence, hosts Philipp Genner and Sven Fuhrmann ensure a memorable stay.
The rooms, all on the first floor, have private patios that open onto a serene pond or terraces surrounded by a Mediterranean garden.
- Rooms and Suites with Terrace or Garden
- Heated infinity pool
- Panoramic Jacuzi
- Gastronomic Restaurant
- Tennis and Petanque Courts
- Sunset Lounge y Piano Bar
▶Room rates from 449€.
Rent a house nearby: The Perfect Option for Families
If you are looking for an intimate and personalised experience, especially if you are travelling with family or a large group, renting a whole house can be the perfect solution. Not only does it give you the comfort of feeling at home, but it also offers you the opportunity to live like a local, cook your own meals and have communal spaces to share unforgettable moments.
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Quiénes son “Les Gardians”?
“Les Gardians” are the guardians or cowboys of the Camargue region in the south of France. Traditionally, they are responsible for the care and management of the bulls and horses that live in the vast marshes and grasslands of the Camargue.
This area is known for its unique natural environment and for being home to a distinctive breed of white horses, the Camargue Horses, as well as black bulls used in traditional local bullfights.
The Gardians are emblematic figures of Camargue culture, often seen wearing specific outfits that include wide-brimmed hats, fitted shirts and trousers, and leather boots.
They are expert riders and play a crucial role in preserving the traditions and lifestyle of the Camargue. In addition to their role in livestock management, they take part in local events and festivals, performing equestrian shows that showcase their skills and the region’s heritage.
⭐ If you love combining nature, tradition, and unique experiences, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer can be the perfect starting point for exploring charming accommodations in nearby regions. 👉 Check out the 5 best unusual places to stay near Aix-en-Provence, ideal for continuing your journey through the most authentic Provence with family or as a couple.
Gastronomy in Saintes Maries de la Mer
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is not only a natural paradise, but also a gastronomic destination that delights the senses. The local cuisine, steeped in the traditions of the Camargue and the Mediterranean, offers a variety of flavors and aromas that reflect the cultural and natural richness of the region.
In addition to traditional cuisine, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer offers culinary experiences that blend classic flavors with contemporary touches.
Local chefs, like Sven Fuhrmann of L’Estelle en Camargue, are constantly innovating, creating menus that surprise and delight even the most discerning palates.
From elegant dinners with nature views to relaxed lunches on sunny terraces, the village’s dining scene caters to all tastes and occasions.
Don’t forget to pair your meals with local wines, especially rosés, which perfectly complement the region’s flavors.
In Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, every meal is a celebration of Camargue culture and nature.
What to try in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer: La Gardianne de Taureau — a traditional Camargue bull stew, slowly cooked in red wine and served with regional rice.
⭐ Traveling in the south of France with children also means facing the classic dilemma: where to eat well and without stress? 👉 I share with you the best tips for families in a restaurant in France, so that eating with children in places like Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is a pleasant moment with no surprises.
Charming villages near Saintes Maries de la Mer
✅ Selection of villages recommended by diegoenfrance.com for travelers looking for authenticity
Beyond the wild charm of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the Camargue and Provence regions hold other hidden treasures well worth a visit.
Small towns full of history, cobblestone streets, Provençal markets, traditional architecture, and landscapes that blend marshes, vineyards, and olive groves.
Exploring these villages means diving into the essence of the South of France, with its slow pace, authenticity, and untouched rural beauty.
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The Weather in Saintes Maries de la Mer
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, located in the heart of the Camargue region in the south of France, enjoys a Mediterranean climate that makes it an ideal year-round destination.
Spring and autumn
These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, making them ideal for a relaxed and crowd-free family vacation.
In addition, the region enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, so don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat.
Summers in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures usually ranging between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius—perfect for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities.
Winters in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 5 degrees Celsius, allowing for peaceful strolls through charming streets and exploration of the surrounding nature without the harsh cold.
With its mild and sunny climate, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is a fantastic destination to enjoy nature, culture, and history in any season.
The history of Saintes Maries de la Mer
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is a charming town located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in the south of France. This picturesque village, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, is the heart of the Camargue, a vast region of wetlands and unique landscapes.
Legendary Origins
The history of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is deeply intertwined with legends and traditions. According to Christian tradition, the town is named after the Holy Marys (Marie Jacobé, Marie Salomé and possibly Mary Magdalene) who, according to legend, came to these shores fleeing persecution in the Holy Land.
It is said that they arrived in a boat without oars or sails, accompanied by their servant Sara the Kali, who is venerated as a saint by the gypsy community.
A Pilgrimage Center
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer has become an important pilgrimage center. Every year, in May, the village welcomes thousands of gypsies who come to pay homage to Sara the Kali during the festivities in her honor.
This cultural and religious event attracts visitors from all over the world and is a manifestation of the deep spirituality and tradition of the place.
Historical Evolution
Over the centuries, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer has seen the influence of various cultures, from the Romans to the Saracens.
Its strategic location at the mouth of the Rhone has been key to its development as a major port in the region. The fortified church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer, built in the 9th century, is a testimony to its rich historical and architectural heritage.
