Are you ready to take the time to explore a rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions? Welcome to Bayonne! There’s so much to see in the economic capital of the Basque Country, and a fine selection of terrace cafés and restaurants for a welcome break.

Why not start with a highly original way of exploring the city? Comfortably seated in a Hawaiian canoe, travel down the Adour and Nive rivers with Pirogue & Surf. Set off on a historical tour through three key districts in Bayonne: Saint-Esprit, Petit Bayonne and Grand Bayonne. From your canoe, admire the traditional Basque architecture of the riverside buildings before immersing yourself in nature.

There’s no shortage of cultural activities in Bayonne. Take in all the must-sees on the city slow walks, in the company of a Tourist Office guide who has a host of surprises in store for you.

Discover Bayonne, its cathedral and other local wonders, from the heart of the old town to the quays, the fortress walls and the Gothic cloister. Your tour ends with an immersive visit to Sainte-Marie Cathedral. This listed UNESCO heritage on the Way of Saint James is a wonder you don’t want to miss.

Street art rules here! During the annual Points de Vue festival in October, Bayonne becomes an open-air museum. Take this opportunity to explore the street art of the Saint-Esprit district, where urban art lives in perfect harmony with history.

Do you have a sweet tooth? You probably know then that Bayonne is also the capital of chocolate and boasts numerous chocolate-makers. Come see our chocolate-makers in action in their workshops with the Gourmet Chocolate guided tour, which retraces the history of chocolate-making in Bayonne. 

Longing for nature? Take a hike through the meadows and woods of the Plaine d’Ansot. The Plaine d’Ansot trail is a 2.3km walk which takes just an hour to complete. Walk along the Nive from the Blanc bridge to the Uhaldia farm to get to the Maison des Barthes and the Bayonne Natural History Museum.

Adopt the local pace of life by staying in comfort at a modern, upmarket, 4-star hotel that embodies the spirit of Bayonne: The Villa Koegui Hotel, which opened recently in the Petit Bayonne district, pays tribute to the history and culture of Bayonne and the Basque Country. Its restaurant, Le Carré, is the place to sample excellent pintxos in a convivial atmosphere. The Hôtel des Basses Pyrénées, located in the heart of Bayonne in a Medieval tower and ramparts, promises a night in a unique setting with the charm of exposed stone walls and a relaxed contemporary atmosphere. The restaurant offers a choice of high-quality cuisine boasting the very best of local gastronomy.