Bayonne Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture of Bayonne, France, with this complete travel guide.


Introduction to Bayonne

Located in Pyrénées-Atlantiques in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France, Bayonne is a picturesque city that is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. The city is famous for its chocolate, ham, and festivals, making it a popular tourist destination in the region.

Bayonne is situated on the banks of the Adour River, and it is a perfect blend of the old and the new. It has many historical landmarks, quaint streets, and vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you are interested in outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or culinary delights, Bayonne has something to offer for everyone.

This travel guide will provide you with a complete overview of Bayonne and everything you need to know before planning your trip to this enchanting city.

List of Places to Visit in Bayonne

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Musée Basque

The Musée Basque is one of the most important museums in Bayonne, showcasing the culture, history, and traditions of the Basque country. The museum houses over 2,000 artifacts, including traditional costumes, folk art, and ancient tools.

Cathédrale Sainte-Marie

The Cathédrale Sainte-Marie is a stunning cathedral that features a unique blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. It is known for its beautiful stained glass windows, which date back to the 16th century.

Château-Vieux

The Château-Vieux is a fortified castle that dates back to the 12th century. It is now home to the Museum of Basque Archaeology and History, where you can learn about the city’s rich history and culture.

Natural Attractions of Bayonne: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Jardin Botanique

The Jardin Botanique is a beautiful botanical garden located in the heart of Bayonne. The garden features over 1,500 plant species, including exotic plants and rare flowers.

Chiberta Forest

The Chiberta Forest is a beautiful nature reserve that offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. The forest has several trails that lead you through beautiful landscapes, including dunes, forests, and beaches.

Plage de la Chambre d’Amour

The Plage de la Chambre d’Amour is a stunning beach that features crystal-clear waters and white sands. It is one of the most popular beaches in Bayonne, and it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bayonne

Bayonne has plenty of hiking and biking routes that take you through beautiful vistas and scenic landscapes. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Circuit de la Nive
  • La Voie Verte
  • La Route des Crêtes

Best Things to Do in Bayonne: Activities and Tours

Basque Food Tour

Bayonne is famous for its delicious ham and chocolate. Take a Basque food tour to explore the city’s culinary scene and taste some of the best dishes the region has to offer.

Fêtes de Bayonne

The Fêtes de Bayonne is a vibrant festival that takes place in August each year. The festival features Basque music, dance, and food, and it’s the perfect place to experience the local culture and traditions.

Basque Coastline Tour

Take a Basque coastline tour to explore the beautiful shoreline of Bayonne. The tour includes stops at some of the region’s most beautiful and scenic beaches, historical landmarks, and quaint fishing villages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bayonne

Day 1: Visit the Cathédrale Sainte-Marie and explore the quaint streets of the Old Town. Day 2: Take a Basque coastline tour and spend the day exploring the beautiful beaches and fishing villages. Day 3: Visit the Musée Basque and learn about the history and culture of the Basque country. Day 4: Relax and unwind at the Plage de la Chambre d’Amour. Day 5: Take a hiking or biking tour through the scenic landscapes of Bayonne. Day 6: Visit the Chiberta Forest and spend the day exploring the nature reserve. Day 7: Experience the vibrant Fêtes de Bayonne festival and taste some of the region’s best dishes.

Food and Drink Scene of Bayonne

Must-Try Dishes

Bayonne Ham

Bayonne ham is a cured ham that is produced in the region. The ham has a distinct flavor and is enjoyed both on its own and as an ingredient in many local dishes.

Basque-style Fish Soup

Basque-style fish soup is a hearty fish soup that is made with a variety of different fish and vegetables. The soup is hearty, filling, and perfect for colder days.

Gateau Basque

Gateau Basque is a delicious dessert that is made with almond flour and filled with cream or fruit. It’s the perfect dessert to indulge in after a long day of exploring Bayonne.

Local Beverages

Basque Cider

Basque cider is a local alcoholic beverage that is made from fermented apples. The cider is crisp, fruity, and refreshing, and it’s the perfect accompaniment to a meal.

Irouleguy Wine

Irouleguy wine is a red or white wine that is produced in the region of Irouleguy. The wine is known for its strong flavor and is the perfect complement to many local dishes.

Where to Stay in Bayonne: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hôtel Loreak

Hôtel Loreak is a popular hotel located in the heart of Bayonne. The hotel features comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and friendly staff who speak multiple languages.

Auberge du Cheval Blanc

Auberge du Cheval Blanc is a charming guesthouse located in a historic building in the Old Town. The guesthouse features cozy rooms, a beautiful courtyard, and a delicious breakfast.

Bayonne Youth Hostel

Bayonne Youth Hostel is a budget-friendly hostel that is perfect for travelers on a budget. The hostel offers dormitories and private rooms, and it’s located close to many of Bayonne’s main attractions.

What to Buy in Bayonne: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bayonne Ham

Bayonne ham is the perfect souvenir to bring home from Bayonne. Look for ham shops in the Old Town, and make sure to ask for advice on how to store the ham to enjoy it at home.

Basque Beret

The Basque Beret is a traditional hat that is still worn by many locals in Bayonne. Look for shops and markets in the Old Town to find the perfect beret to bring home.

Basque Espadrilles

Basque Espadrilles are a traditional type of shoe that is still popular in the region. Look for shops and markets in the Old Town to find the perfect pair to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Bayonne

Bayonne is known for its strong Basque culture and traditions. The locals are proud of their heritage and embrace their traditional customs and costumes. If you visit during the Fêtes de Bayonne festival, make sure to dress in the traditional white and red outfit to experience the full spirit of the festival.

Best Time to Visit Bayonne

The best time to visit Bayonne is during the summer months, from June to September. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, and when many of the region’s festivals and events take place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bayonne

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine, including Bayonne ham and Basque-style fish soup.
  • Do embrace the traditional Basque culture and customs.
  • Do visit during the Fêtes de Bayonne festival to experience the region’s vibrant spirit.

Don’t:

  • Don’t expect everyone to speak English. Try to learn some basic French or Basque phrases before your trip.
  • Don’t litter in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bayonne

Bayonne is a safe city, and violent crime is rare. However, visitors should take precautions against pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded places.

Health in Bayonne

There are no major health risks to worry about in Bayonne. Make sure to bring any necessary prescription medications with you and take precautions against insect bites during the summer months.

Getting to Bayonne: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bayonne

The closest airport to Bayonne is the Biarritz Pays Basque Airport, which is located just 6 miles away from the city center. Other nearby airports include Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport and Toulouse–Blagnac Airport.

Bus Stations Near Bayonne

Bayonne has several bus stations, including the Gare Routière de Bayonne and the Gare SNCF de Bayonne.

Other Options

If you are traveling from other parts of France, you can take a train to the Gare SNCF de Bayonne. Bayonne is also accessible by car, with several major highways connecting the city to other parts of France and Spain.

How to Get Around in Bayonne

Bayonne is a relatively small city, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you prefer to use public transportation, the city has a reliable bus system that is easy to navigate. Taxis and rental cars are also available.

Where to Go Next from Bayonne: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Biarritz

Biarritz is a beautiful coastal town located just 6 miles away from Bayonne. It’s famous for its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and world-class surfing.

San Sebastián

San Sebastián is a beautiful seaside town located just across the border in Spain. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious Basque cuisine.

Conclusion

Bayonne is a beautiful city that is perfect for exploring and experiencing the local culture. With its picturesque streets, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder that Bayonne is such a popular destination. So start planning your trip to Bayonne today, and get ready to discover one of the most beautiful regions of France!