Exploring Arcachon: A Self Guided Walking Tour
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Once a tiny fishing village, Arcachon transformed into a thriving seaside resort in just a century, where golden beaches meet grand Belle Époque villas. The town is uniquely divided into four neighborhoods, one for each season.
On this self-guided walking tour through the sparkling Summer City and the elegant Winter City, you’ll discover the town’s history, local flavors, and hidden corners.
The tour starts at Place Thiers, a square right by the beach, before following the town’s wooden pier, Jetée Thiers, where you’ll hear about Arcachon’s oyster farming legacy. You’ll explore the charming streets of La Ville d’Été (the Summer City), home to Arcachon’s magnificent market and trendy fashion outlets.
In Ville d’Hiver, Arcachon’s historic Winter City, opulent villas tell the story of the town’s transformation. The tour ends in Parc Mauresque, a lush retreat that’s perfect for unwinding or enjoying a picnic with the treats you picked up along the way.
Available options
Exploring Arcachon: A Self Guided Walking Tour
What's included
Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
You'll pass by Jetée Thiers, a scenic pier offering stunning views over Arcachon Bay. Please note that entry to attractions around the pier are not included in this tour.
2
You'll pass by Parc Mauresque, a picturesque park known for its lush gardens and panoramic views of Arcachon.
3
You'll catch a glimpse of Observatoire Sainte-Cécile, a historic iron lookout tower offering breathtaking views over Arcachon. Please note that entry to the observatory is not included in this tour.
What's not included
Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
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2★
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1★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
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3★
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1★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
This tour starts at Thiers Place. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading."
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
Create an account
Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Arcachon
Arcachon is a charming coastal town on the western coast of France, known for its stunning beaches, pine forests, and the famous Arcachon Bay. It offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a perfect getaway for various types of travelers.
Top Attractions
Arcachon Beach
The main beach in Arcachon is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It's known for its fine sand and clear waters.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Dune du Pilat
The Dune du Pilat is one of the tallest sand dunes in Europe, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Arcachon Bay.
Nature
Half day
€8 for the shuttle bus
Arcachon Market
The Arcachon Market is a vibrant market offering fresh local produce, seafood, and artisanal products.
Market
1-2 hours
Varies by purchase
Eglise Notre-Dame-des-Passions
This beautiful church is a notable landmark in Arcachon, known for its unique architecture and historical significance.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Aqualand Arcachon
Aqualand is a popular water park featuring a variety of slides, pools, and attractions for all ages.
Entertainment
Half day to full day
€20-€30 per person
Must-Try Local Dishes
Oysters
Fresh oysters from the Arcachon Bay, often served with a squeeze of lemon.
Appetizer
Contains shellfish
Foie Gras
A rich and indulgent dish made from the liver of a duck or goose.
Appetizer
Contains animal products
Pilmen
A local specialty made with fish, often served with a creamy sauce.
Main Course
Contains fish and dairy
Canelés
A small, rum-infused pastry with a soft, custard-like center and a caramelized exterior.
Dessert
Contains eggs, dairy, and rum
Popular Activities
Hiking
Water sports
Cycling
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Picnicking
Wine tasting
Historical tours
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and vibrant atmosphere. The beaches are crowded, and all attractions are open.
20°C to 25°C
68°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Arcachon is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
Getting there
By air
- Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport • 50 km
By train
Arcachon Station
By bus
Arcachon Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services throughout the day.
Taxis
Available • Apps: G7, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
La Teste-de-Buch
Pyla-sur-Mer
Day trips
Bordeaux
50 km • Full day
Bordeaux is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-famous wines.
Cap Ferret
15 km • Half day to full day
Cap Ferret is a charming peninsula known for its beautiful beaches, pine forests, and relaxed atmosphere.
Saint-Émilion
60 km • Full day
Saint-Émilion is a picturesque medieval village known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and world-class wines.
Festivals
Fête de l'Huître • July
Festival de la Mer • August
Pro tips
- Visit the Arcachon Market in the morning for the freshest selection of local produce and seafood.
- Rent a bike to explore the town and surrounding areas, as Arcachon is very bike-friendly.
- Try local specialties like oysters, foie gras, and canelés.
- Book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Consider visiting during the shoulder season (May or September) for a more relaxed experience and smaller crowds.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
