Things To Do
in Dax
Dax is a spa town in the Landes department of southwestern France, set along the Adour river and surrounded by pine forests. It is famed for its therapeutic thermal baths and Belle Époque spa architecture, which give the town a refined yet relaxed character. The town pairs wellness with easy access to the Basque Country, Atlantic beaches, and extensive cycling and hiking trails.
Visitors come for restorative spa experiences, regional cuisine, markets, and a friendly, easygoing atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Dax and settle into your charming hotel, ideally located for exploring the city. Take a leisurely stroll through the town's quaint streets to get a feel for the local atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional French breakfast at a nearby café, sampling fresh pastries and coffee.
Visit the Roman ruins of Dax, where you can admire ancient thermal baths and impressive architecture. Explore the bustling market in Place de la Fontaine, where local vendors offer fresh produce and artisanal products. Take a break at a nearby park to soak in the sun and enjoy your surroundings.
Dine at a cozy restaurant that serves regional specialties, indulging in the flavors of the Landes cuisine. After dinner, take a twilight walk along the riverbank, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and the reflections on the water. Spend your night enjoying a drink at a local bar, mingling with friendly locals and tourists alike.
Start your day with a rejuvenating visit to the famed thermal spas of Dax, known for their healing waters. Enjoy a calming soak in the thermal baths and treat yourself to a therapeutic massage that melts away your stress. Breathe in the serene atmosphere and prepare for a day of wellness.
After your spa treatment, have a light and healthy lunch at a nearby bistro, where you can sample local salads and seafood. Take some time to explore the charming gardens surrounding the spa, letting nature enhance your relaxation. Consider visiting the nearby Musée de Borda to delve into local history and culture.
Return to your hotel to freshen up before heading out for dinner. Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dax by visiting a local wine bar to taste regional wines paired with delightful tapas. Wrap up your night with a leisurely stroll through the beautifully lit streets, feeling the lively spirit of the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚆Public transport or airport transfers (day pass) | $5-8 |
| 🛏Hotel room (mid-range) | $90-140 per night |
| 🧺Grocery basket (local produce) | $8-15 |
| 🎟Attraction or spa entry | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Spa town charm with easy access to Basque and Atlantic coast
- Walkable center and scenic Adour riverfront
- Rich regional cuisine and vibrant markets
- Nightlife options are more relaxed than in big cities
- Spa crowds can be seasonal and some attractions close midweek
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Dax
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light, gentle reflections, and silhouettes of bridges along the river create serene photos.
Ornate façades, wrought-iron balconies, and grand staircases offer elegant architectural shots.
Colorful stalls, textured ceilings, and bustling activity provide vibrant market photography.
Food in Dax
Dax Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty Landes soup made with cabbage, potatoes, beans, and often confit or smoked meat; perfect for cooler days.
Must-Try!
Duck legs slowly cooked in their own fat, then crisped; a staple of Gascon cuisine.
Seared duck breast, usually served with a fruit-based sauce and seasonal vegetables.
A dense cake with vanilla or almond cream, a Basque specialty enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Covered market with stalls offering cheeses, charcuterie, seafood, produce, and regional specialties in a lively setting.
Casual stalls and pop-up bites along the promenade, great for quick bites and tasting local pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet shopkeepers with a friendly 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' before asking questions; politeness is valued in social interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Dax
Ensure a smooth experience
Service compris is often included in restaurants; small tips for good service are appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash remains useful in markets and small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blooming parks, and market energy make walking and outdoor dining especially pleasant.
Warm to hot days; early mornings are ideal for outdoor activities, while evenings are lively with terrace dining.
Harvest markets and cooler but comfortable weather; great for scenic countryside walks.
Cool but usually not freezing; spa visits are popular, and crowds are thinner outside holidays.
Dax at Night
Hiking in Dax
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive pine forest networks with flat, long trails suitable for walking and cycling.
Wetland boardwalks and observation points ideal for birdwatching and photography.
Short drives to Capbreton, Hossegor, and Seignosse for coastal paths and dune walks.
Airports
How to reach Dax by plane.
Closest major airport; about 40–60 minutes by car; strong for international and domestic connections.
Smaller regional airport with domestic and some international flights; a longer drive from Dax.
Large international hub; a longer drive but excellent flight options and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of Dax and the Landes area, including families and retirees.
Spa guests and tourists who visit primarily in spring and summer.
A mix of Basque and Gascon heritage influencing culture and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A regional favorite with local clubs and community matches in the wider Basque-Gascon area.
Traditional sport enjoyed in the region, with courts and casual play in towns around Dax.
Short day trips to Capbreton, Hossegor, and Seignosse offer excellent surfing opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dax.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-forward dishes, cheese plates, and mushrooms; many bistros can adapt recipes on request.