Biarritz and the French Basque Coast Tour from San Sebastian

San Sebastian , Spain

Biarritz and the French Basque Coast Tour from San Sebastian

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About this experience

A must-do tour during your holidays in the Basque Country and perfect for those travelers who wish to take a day off from enjoying San Sebastian to cross the border into France and visit three of the most charming coastal villages of the French Basque region: Bayonne, Biarritz and Saint Jean de Luz.

Our full-day tour takes you to the region's top highlights, starting in Bayonne, famous for its colorful shutters, ancient walls, and the Gothic cathedral. Next, we visit Biarritz, the elegant seaside resort known for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and luxurious Belle Époque charm. Finally, you will discover Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a picturesque fishing village with fascinating royal history and delightful coastal vibes. Along the way, our expert guide will provide fascinating insights into the culture, gastronomy, and traditions of this unique region.

Available options

Biarritz and the French Basque Coast Tour from San Sebastian

Pickup included

What's included

Easy going guided tours through Bayonne, Biarritz and St. Jean de Luz

Local guide

Transportation in air conditioned vehicle

All Fees and Taxes

Hotel pick-up and drop-off in San Sebastian

Detailed itinerary

After morning pickup at your accommodation in San Sebastian, we will cross the border into France to visit three of the most beautiful coastal villages in the French Basque region. Our first stop will be Bayonne, the cultural capital of the Basque Country. Packed with history, a strong cultural heritage, and beautiful architecture, the city is to this day an important economic center for the Basque region, as well as the French capital of chocolate (and who doesn’t love chocolate?).

We will continue our trip heading towards the elegant town of Biarritz, possibly the most stylish and luxurious city of the Basque Country. A former whaling town and meeting point for European aristocracy in the XIX century, Biarritz remains today an important tourist destination thanks to its luxurious Hôtel du Palais, numerous chic shops and fashion boutiques, casinos, extensive beaches, and surfing scene.

Here you will get some free time to enjoy lunch on your own and/or do some shopping if desired.

Our last stop before returning to San Sebastian will be the colorful and easy-going beach town of Saint Jean de Luz. Sitting on a half-moon bay of the same name, St. Jean de Luz is a charming little fishing port village on the Basque Coast with famous pedestrian streets full of small local shops and restaurants. We will take a stroll through its famous streets and enjoy a breath of fresh air from its beach promenade while learning about the history of the town.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified in inclusions

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

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Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

About San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a picturesque coastal city in the Basque Country known for its stunning beaches, world-renowned gastronomy, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled between the Pyrenees and the Cantabrian Sea, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and modern sophistication.

Top Attractions

La Concha Beach

La Concha Beach is one of the most famous beaches in San Sebastian, known for its beautiful shell-shaped bay and calm waters. It's a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach 2-3 hours Free

Parte Vieja (Old Town)

The Parte Vieja is the historic heart of San Sebastian, filled with narrow streets, charming plazas, and traditional pintxo bars. It's a great place to soak up the city's atmosphere and enjoy local cuisine.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore

Monte Igueldo

Monte Igueldo offers panoramic views of San Sebastian and the surrounding coastline. The hill is accessible by a historic funicular and is a great spot for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Nature 2-3 hours €3.50 for the funicular ride

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pintxos

Small, savory bites typically served on bread, featuring a variety of ingredients like seafood, meats, and cheeses.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Bacalao al Pil Pil

Codfish cooked in olive oil with garlic and parsley, a classic Basque dish.

Main Course Contains fish

Popular Activities

Surfing Hiking in the surrounding hills Sunbathing on the beaches Strolling along the promenade Visiting museums and galleries Exploring the historic old town Swimming Kayaking

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the best time to visit San Sebastian for its warm weather and vibrant atmosphere. The beaches are at their most inviting, and the city hosts numerous festivals and events.

18°C to 25°C 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Basque, Spanish
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

San Sebastian is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

San Sebastian Airport • 20 km from city center
Bilbao Airport • 100 km from city center

By train

San Sebastian Station

By bus

San Sebastian Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in San Sebastian is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for tourists.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Cabify, MyTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gros Antiguo

Day trips

Hondarribia

25 km • Half day

A charming coastal town with a historic old quarter, beautiful views, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to explore Basque culture and history.

Biarritz

50 km • Full day

A glamorous coastal town in France known for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, and upscale atmosphere. It's a great destination for a day trip from San Sebastian.