Gendarmerie and Cinema Museum: A Must-Visit Site in Saint-Tropez
The Gendarmerie Museum in Saint-Tropez awaits you just 11 km from our campsite in the Var region. Depart from Cogolin for a journey full of laughter and nostalgia. Relive the unforgettable moments of Louis de Funès and uncover the secrets of one of France's most famous brigades. Get your camera ready for this unforgettable visit in the Var!
The Gendarmerie and Cinema Museum at a Glance
- Discover this museum in Saint-Tropez, conveniently located near the harbor.
- Dive into the iconic world of Louis de Funès and the Gendarme saga, with memories, sets, and archives.
- Explore three floors blending local history, cinema, and immersive spaces.
- Enjoy temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year.
- Easily plan your visit thanks to extended opening hours and affordable ticket prices.
An Iconic Site Within Your Reach
The Gendarmerie and Cinema Museum proudly stands on Place Blanqui, in the heart of Saint-Tropez, just steps from the harbor and the charming narrow streets. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible from anywhere in the gulf. Park at the harbor or Les Lices parking lots and take a short walk to reach this famous ochre façade, instantly recognizable to fans of the saga! Our tip: arrive right at opening time in the morning (usually 10 a.m.) to avoid the crowds and enjoy the refreshing air of the Var region.
History of the Gendarmerie and Cinema Museum
The Le Gendarme de Saint-Tropez saga, directed by Jean Girault starting in 1964, helped make the iconic façade of this building known worldwide and turned it into a beloved cinematic symbol for visitors. But did you know that this building once housed a real gendarmerie brigade? Indeed, the building accommodated the local brigade from 1879 to 2003, before it moved to new premises. This site tells the history of the gendarmerie in Saint-Tropez and its connection to cinema, from the origins of the brigade to the way it was portrayed on screen:
- 1879: the gendarmerie brigade settles in the building that would later become famous.
- 1964: release of the first film in the Le Gendarme de Saint-Tropez saga starring Louis de Funès, partly filmed in Saint-Tropez.
- 2003: the gendarmes leave this station for more modern facilities.
- 2016: inauguration of the Gendarmerie and Cinema Museum, renovated and opened to the public.
Good to know: the historic façade of the building, seen in the films, has been preserved and highlighted in the layout of this museum in Saint-Tropez.
Museum Visit Route
The museum offers a thematic visit route that explores both the history of the Saint-Tropez gendarmerie and the rich connections between the town and the silver screen, to be discovered during your stay at our campsite near Saint-Tropez.
Ground Floor of the Museum
Step into the world of Le Gendarme de Saint-Tropez and his colleagues! On the ground floor, you will find the welcome area, the gift shop, and a temporary exhibition room that changes regularly.
Exploring the First Floor
On the first floor, the tour continues with a recreation of the gendarmerie offices, period lockers and color-coded systems, as well as archival items illustrating the evolution of the Saint-Tropez gendarmerie. This floor also features a retro cinema room showing film clips and artist interviews, along with areas that trace the history of cinema in Saint-Tropez.
Spotlight on the Top Floor
On the upper floor, the visit offers even more surprises! Discover a recreation of the famous Nationale 7, a space dedicated to the culture and festivals of the French Riviera, as well as areas inspired by actresses’ dressing rooms like Brigitte Bardot and Romy Schneider, highlighting the strong connection between the town and cinema. Extra touch: some parts of the museum let visitors relive the atmosphere of film shoots or immerse themselves in the festive spirit of the Côte d’Azur.
Seasonal Activities and Events Offered in This Space
The Gendarmerie and Cinema Museum in Saint-Tropez offers temporary exhibitions throughout the year that enrich the permanent collection and provide fresh perspectives on Saint-Tropez cinema. The museum also takes part in national events such as the European Heritage Days and the European Night of Museums, featuring guided tours, treasure hunts, and special formats to explore the collections in new ways. Family activities and occasional events, including challenges, puzzles, and photo sessions with famous movie vehicles, are also offered. Practical tip: check the full program before your visit, as the schedule varies with seasons and cultural events.
Practical Information
Plan your visit with ease to the Gendarmerie and Cinema Museum in Saint-Tropez:
- Address: 2 Place Blanqui, 83990 Saint-Tropez.
- Opening hours: open every day of the year. Generally from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closing at 5 p.m. in low season and extended until 7 p.m., or later, during summer).
- Last entry: 45 minutes before closing.
- Visit duration: plan about 1 hour 30 minutes to fully enjoy all three floors.
- Indicative ticket prices: full price €5 / reduced price €3 (students under 26, gendarmes, job seekers).
- Free entry: children under 12 (with proof of age).
- Payment methods: credit/debit cards, cash, and holiday vouchers (ANCV).
- Accessibility: the museum holds the Tourism & Disability label for four types of disabilities (mobility, cognitive, hearing, and visual), ensuring optimal access for all visitors.
- Getting here from our campsite in Cogolin: take the main road (D98 then D98a) connecting Cogolin to Saint-Tropez via the La Foux junction in Gassin. By car, it takes approximately 15–20 minutes under normal traffic conditions.
Thanks to its success, the Gendarmerie Museum of Saint-Tropez is now a departmental reference. According to data from the Var Tourism Development Agency (Var Tourisme), the museum consistently ranks among the Top 5 paid sites in the Var, alongside the Abbaye du Thoronet. It welcomes between 150,000 and 180,000 visitors each year. Want to be one of the next visitors and dive into the history of French cinema? Book your nearby accommodation at our L’Argentière campsite!
Source:
- Var Tourisme. (2025). Tourism Activity and Cultural Site Attendance in the Var: 2025 Edition. Var Tourism Development Agency.