Things To Do
in Bayonne

Bayonne is a vibrant city located at the confluence of the Nive and Adour rivers in southwestern France. Known for its rich Basque culture, it boasts beautiful half-timbered houses and a unique blend of French and Spanish influences. The city is famously recognized for its chocolate and ham, making it a gastronomic delight.

With its charming old town and lively atmosphere, Bayonne is a perfect destination for those seeking culture, history, and culinary experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Old Bayonne
morning
:

Start your day with a coffee at a local café, then explore the stunning Gothic-style Bayonne Cathedral and the picturesque streets of the old town.

afternoon
:

Visit the Basque Museum to learn about the local culture, followed by a leisurely stroll along the Nive River and stopping for lunch at a traditional Basque restaurant.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant and take a walk to see the city illuminated at night, perhaps stopping by a local bar for a drink.

day 2
Day 2: Culinary Delights and Green Spaces
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Bayonne Market to sample local cheeses and cured meats, then take a walk through the beautiful Parc Mazon.

afternoon
:

Participate in a chocolate-making workshop to indulge in Bayonne's renowned chocolate culture, followed by lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

End your trip with a memorable dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the local nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
Coffee$2.50
🍽️Meal at a Mid-range Restaurant$20
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1.50
🍷Glass of Wine$5
🏨Hotel Room (1 night)$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine and vibrant food scene.
  • Beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Limited public transport options compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas may have language barriers for non-French speakers.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Bayonne

Visit one of these nice places.

Bayonne Cathedral

An impressive Gothic cathedral that offers stunning architecture and views.

Pont St. Esprit

A picturesque bridge over the Nive River, perfect for capturing the essence of Bayonne.

Old Town Streets

The narrow, winding streets with colorful buildings provide countless opportunities for charming photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bayonne

Bayonne is a culinary paradise, especially known for its rich Basque flavors and artisanal products. You must try local specialties such as Bayonne ham, Basque cake, and chocolate.

Bayonne Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bayonne Ham

A dry-cured ham that is a staple of Basque cuisine, known for its rich flavor.

Must-Try!

Basque Cake

A traditional cake filled with cream or jam, often flavored with almonds.

Chocolate from Bayonne

Artisanal chocolate made using traditional methods, famous throughout France.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Les Halles de Bayonne

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bayonne experiences an oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winters can be cool, averaging around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Rain is common throughout the year, particularly in the fall and winter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet with 'Bonjour' during the day and 'Bonsoir' in the evening.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to sit before you start eating, and keep your hands on the table.

Respect for Tradition

Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and religious events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bayonne is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, like any urban area, it's advisable to be cautious with personal belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Bayonne

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming flowers, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm and lively, with many festivals and outdoor dining options, but can be crowded.

Autumn

Cooler weather with beautiful fall colors, perfect for exploring the city's parks and markets.

Winter

Cool and sometimes rainy, but the festive holiday markets bring a magical atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Bayonne at Night

Bayonne's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with a mix of cozy bars and lively clubs. The streets come alive in the evenings, especially during the summer months when outdoor terraces are bustling with locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy live music, dance, or simply relax with a drink while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Hiking in Bayonne

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chemin de la Mâture

A scenic hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, perfect for nature lovers.

Sentier du littoral

A coastal trail that runs along the Basque coastline, providing breathtaking views of the ocean.

Airports

How to reach Bayonne by plane.

Biarritz Pays Basque Airport

Located about 8 km from Bayonne, this small airport offers flights to major cities in France and Europe.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bayonne is very walkable, especially in the old town where narrow streets and pedestrian zones make exploring easy and enjoyable. Most attractions are within walking distance, and the scenic riverside paths are perfect for leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Basques

The Basque people form a significant part of Bayonne's identity, known for their unique language and culture.

Tourists

Bayonne attracts a diverse group of tourists, especially from Europe, seeking cultural and culinary experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is a major sport in Bayonne, with local teams attracting passionate fans.

Surfing

With nearby beaches, surfing is incredibly popular, especially during the summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bayonne is generally manageable, with peak times during rush hours. Public transportation includes buses that connect the city and surrounding areas, making it easy to navigate without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bayonne.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's helpful to communicate your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Bayonne is accessible and of high quality. There are several hospitals and clinics in the city, and pharmacies are widely available. EU residents may use their European Health Insurance Cards for access to healthcare services.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide