French Basque Coast & Biarritz Day Trip, San Sebastián
Explore more of the Basque Region by crossing the French border via the Bidasoa River.
Overview
Explore more of the Basque Region by crossing the French border via the Bidasoa River. International boundaries don't bind this unique area's history, culture, language, and traditions, and to truly discover it all, visit the charming towns of Biarritz, Bayonne, and St. Jean de Luz. Learn about the differences and similarities that span the Spanish and French sides of the historic and picturesque Basque Region.
After getting picked up at your hotel in San Sebastián, you'll enjoy a comfy drive to the French border in an air-conditioned vehicle. Along the way, enjoy countryside views and listen to your guide detail the area's history. The beautiful Bidasoa River is what splits the two countries in the Basque region, but you won't notice much difference yet. On both sides of the border, the locals speak Basque and adhere to centuries of cultural traditions.
Of course, there are some differences, and your guide will happily reveal them to you as you explore the cities of Biarritz and Bayonne. Historically, Biarritz was a fishing village, but it eventually became the royal family's residence in the 19th century. Visit sites like the Hotel du Palais and Casino Barrière to get glimpses of this grandiose past. Enjoy the sea views at Rocher de la Vierge and stroll the city beaches and gardens. Stroll the city's charming cobbled streets and stop at a local eatery for a delicious two-course lunch.
Next, you'll reach the region's capital city, Bayonne. Start by visiting a few iconic sites, such as the Gothic Cathédrale Sainte-Marie de Bayonne from the 16th century, the old fort at the Adour and Nive Rivers, and the buzzy Carreau des Halles market.
On your way back to San Sebastián, stop to explore the historic Old Town of St. Jean de Luz, known for its stunning 14th-century Roman Catholic church, Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste. You can also enjoy time on the city's Grande Plage beach and wander through its charming streets.
After getting picked up at your hotel in San Sebastián, you'll enjoy a comfy drive to the French border in an air-conditioned vehicle. Along the way, enjoy countryside views and listen to your guide detail the area's history. The beautiful Bidasoa River is what splits the two countries in the Basque region, but you won't notice much difference yet. On both sides of the border, the locals speak Basque and adhere to centuries of cultural traditions.
Of course, there are some differences, and your guide will happily reveal them to you as you explore the cities of Biarritz and Bayonne. Historically, Biarritz was a fishing village, but it eventually became the royal family's residence in the 19th century. Visit sites like the Hotel du Palais and Casino Barrière to get glimpses of this grandiose past. Enjoy the sea views at Rocher de la Vierge and stroll the city beaches and gardens. Stroll the city's charming cobbled streets and stop at a local eatery for a delicious two-course lunch.
Next, you'll reach the region's capital city, Bayonne. Start by visiting a few iconic sites, such as the Gothic Cathédrale Sainte-Marie de Bayonne from the 16th century, the old fort at the Adour and Nive Rivers, and the buzzy Carreau des Halles market.
On your way back to San Sebastián, stop to explore the historic Old Town of St. Jean de Luz, known for its stunning 14th-century Roman Catholic church, Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste. You can also enjoy time on the city's Grande Plage beach and wander through its charming streets.
Know before you go
8 hours
All ages
Small group
What's included
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Transportation in a private vehicle with A/C
- Lunch at Biarritz (two courses with dessert)
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