Between the deep blue of the Bay of Biscay and the wild hills at the foot of the Pyrenees, the French Basque Country (Pays Basque) has a unique charm, unlike any other part of France. At its beating heart is Bayonne: a human-scale city, proud and authentic, often ranked among the best places to live in France.
Overlooking the rivers Adour and Nive, Bayonne preserves its medieval soul within the ancient walls of Grand Bayonne, while the Petit Bayonne district charms visitors with its colorful half-timbered houses, riverside bars, artisan shops, and a youthful vibe thanks to its student life. Chocolate, street art, and festivals make the mix even more irresistible!
Here are 7 things to do to fall in love with the city.
1. Dive into Basque culture at the Basque Museum and History of Bayonne
Here you’ll find everything: from pelota (the famous Basque ball game) to folklore, from crafts to rural traditions. Walk among historical reproductions of the 19th-century port, discover how the city developed along the two banks of the Nive, and admire the cathedral and bastions in the historical reconstructions.
The museum, spread over three floors and about twenty rooms, is a journey into the daily life of the Basque people: language, funeral rites, architecture, and art. Don’t miss the paintings of Ramiro Arrue, Gustave Colin, and Léon Bonnat.
2. Admire Sainte-Marie Cathedral and Wander Through the Historic Center
This Gothic gem began construction in the 13th century and evolved over the centuries. Inside, you’ll find stunning medieval stained glass and one of Europe’s largest monumental organs. Recognized for its historical value, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998. Don’t miss the cloister, one of the largest in France, which offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets.
Once you’ve explored the cathedral, wander through the narrow streets of Grand Bayonne. Discover creative boutiques on Rue des Faures, indulge in local delicacies on Rue d’Espagne, soak up the charm of Place Bernard de Lacarre, and browse shops and restaurants along Rue du Pont-Neuf.
3. Experience the Street Art of Petit Bayonne
Cross the Nive River to explore Petit Bayonne, the city’s younger, more rebellious side. Here, vibrant murals and street art cover walls throughout the neighborhood. Each autumn, the Points de Vue festival turns the streets into a dynamic open-air gallery.
Some murals are massive and eye-catching, while others are tucked away, waiting to be discovered. Want to find them all? Check out this interactive map.
4. Savor the Vibrant Life at Les Halles Market
On Saturday mornings, the square in front of Bayonne’s covered market bursts with color and energy. Stalls overflow with fresh fruit and vegetables, local cheeses, seafood, and street food perfect for a quick bite. Inside, around twenty shops showcase regional delicacies, while outside, nearly sixty stalls tempt you with must-try specialties like Bayonne ham, sheep’s cheese, Espelette peppers, and fresh seafood straight from the Atlantic.
Do as the locals do: grab a spot at a café table, order a coffee or a cold beer, and simply watch the lively crowd drift by. It’s the perfect way to soak in the rhythm of the city.
5. Stroll Along Ancient Bastions and Lush Gardens
The walls encircling Bayonne date back to Roman times, with major reinforcements by Vauban in the 17th century. Today, you can wander along Boulevard Lachepaillet, enter the city through the Porte d’Espagne, and explore the hidden inner casemates on a guided tour—history literally comes alive here.
The areas around the walls are lush with parks, flower-filled gardens, and tranquil green spaces. For a serene break, the Botanical Garden invites you to stroll among vibrant flowers, a sparkling pond, delicate bridges, and a Japanese-style waterfall—a peaceful green haven right in the heart of the city.
6. Savor Chocolate and Discover Its History
Chocolate has a long-standing tradition in Bayonne, brought by Jewish artisans fleeing Spain in the 17th century. By 1870, the city boasted over 130 chocolate shops! Today, only a few remain, but one of the most famous is L’Atelier du Chocolat, where you can enjoy guided tours and delicious tastings in its factory-museum.
7. Cycle Along the Vélodyssée to Biarritz
If you love cycling, Bayonne is the perfect starting point for the Vélodyssée, one of France’s most scenic bike routes. It follows the Atlantic coast all the way to the golden beaches of Anglet, where you can swim, surf, or simply stroll along the shore. For the energetic, continue on to Biarritz, Europe’s surfing capital.
Looking for a rental bike? You’ll find several around the city called “pony” bikes, which are easy to reserve via an app. Alternatively, efficient electric buses connect Bayonne and Biarritz in about half an hour.
