Things to do in Pays Basque
Discover the best attractions and experiences Pays Basque has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the Basque Country’s enduring heritage through its fortresses, cathedrals, and old towns along the coast.
Cathédrale Sainte-Marie de Bayonne
A striking Gothic cathedral guarding the Nive river, with a landmark façade and soaring arches.
Fort de Socoa
Seaside fortress at the tip of Ciboure, offering fortifications and sea views.
Château d'Abbadia
Moorish-style villa perched on cliffs near Hendaye, designed by Viollet-le-Duc.
Museums
Delve into Basque culture and French art through well-curated collections across the region.
Musée Basque et de l'Histoire de Bayonne
Exhibits the Basque people, culture and history through artifacts and interactive displays.
Musée Bonnat-Helleu
Art museum in Bayonne with a strong collection spanning the 15th to 19th centuries.
Ecomusée Basque
A living Basque heritage museum in Sare with traditional houses, crafts and rural life.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites reveal the spiritual landscape of the Basque Country, from chapels to grand churches.
Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste (Saint-Jean-de-Luz)
Historic church at the heart of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, known for its maritime connections.
Chapelle Impériale (Biarritz)
Elegant imperial chapel near the Hôtel du Palais, built for Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie.
Cathédrale Sainte-Marie de Bayonne
Gothic cathedral with a grand nave and a central landmark in Bayonne.
National & Theme Parks
Natural spaces and ocean-focused attractions make the Basque coast a playground for outdoor lovers.
La Cité de l'Océan et du Surf (Biarritz)
Interactive museum exploring the sea and surfing culture along the Basque coast.
Parc naturel régional des Pyrénées Basques
Protected landscape range offering scenic hikes and Basque villages.
Aquarium de Biarritz
Dynamic marine attraction highlighting coast life and local species.
Neighborhoods
The Basque coast is best discovered through its lively quarters and picturesque villages.
Bayonne Old Town (Vieux Bayonne)
Medieval streets, riverside walks, and traditional architecture to explore on foot.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz Port and Old Town
Picturesque fishing port with narrow lanes, seafood eateries and charm.
Espelette Village
Typical Basque village famed for its red-and-white houses and peppers.
Free Things to Do
Some of the Basque coast’s best experiences are free and easy to enjoy.
Walk along the Grande Plage, Biarritz
Stretch of sandy shore with sea breeze and surfers.
Stroll through Bayonne’s old town
Explore scenic streets and riverside scenery without an entry fee.
Watch surfers at Côte des Basques
Observe the iconic Basque surf culture from the coast.
Gastronomy
Basque cuisine is bold, flavorful, and deeply tied to the land and sea.
Pintxos and Basque tapas
Small, flavorful bites served in bars across the coast.
Gâteau Basque
Classic almond-filled cake enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Jambon de Bayonne
Delicate cured ham perfect for crusty bread and cheese.
Espelette pepper products
Distinctive peppers used to season many Basque dishes.
Nightlife
Evenings glow with seaside bars, live music, and stylish venues.
Bars around Rue Gambetta and Halles district, Biarritz
Casual pubs and live music in a lively seaside area.
Bayonne city center terraces
Relaxing spots to sample local drinks after sunset.
Casino Barrière, Biarritz
Glamorous venue offering gaming, shows and entertainment.
Entertainment
Festivals, cinema, and performances bring Basque culture to life.
Fêtes de Bayonne
Massive summer festival with Basque music, dancing and street parades.
Ciné-Biarritz film events
Seasonal film screenings and cinema nights by the coast.
Le Casino Barrière performances
Live entertainment options hosted at the casino.
Sports
Active pursuits define the Basque coast, from sea to hills.
Surfing at Côte des Basques
World-class waves and a friendly beach culture.
Hiking La Rhune
Scenic ascent to a high peak with views of the coast.
Paragliding over the Basque coast
Soaring rides offering panoramic sea and mountain views.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the obvious to discover hidden Basque gems.
Espelette Pepper farms and shops
Visit producers and shops to learn about this iconic spice.
Villa Arnaga (Cambo-les-Bains)
Historic house and gardens once owned by Rostand.
Ainhoa – picturesque Basque village
One of France’s most beautiful villages with traditional charm.