Ultimate Travel Guide to Bayonne, France

Bayonne is a riverside city at the confluence of the Nive and Adour rivers, forming the cultural and historic heart of the French Basque Country. Its half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and vibrant market life make it one of France’s most charming small cities. While it’s often overshadowed by nearby Biarritz, Bayonne offers authenticity, history, and gastronomy in equal measure.

Bayonne is more than just a gateway to the French Basque Country — it’s a city layered with history, from Roman origins to its role as a medieval stronghold and cultural hub. These are the must-visit landmarks that define its unique charm.

Bayonne Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Marie)

Address: 15 Rue des Prébendes, 64100 Bayonne
A UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, this Gothic cathedral dominates Grand Bayonne. Construction began in the 13th century and continued into the 17th century, blending medieval and Renaissance elements. Highlights include its stained-glass windows, high vaulted nave, and cloister — one of France’s largest and most peaceful. Guided tours are offered in summer, providing insight into its role in Bayonne’s religious and civic life.

Cloister of Bayonne Cathedral

Address: Entry via 15 Rue des Prébendes, 64100 Bayonne
Directly attached to the cathedral, the cloister is a serene escape from the bustling old town. Built between the 13th and 14th centuries, it once served as a burial ground and gathering place for canons. The cloister’s arcades are lined with sculpted capitals and open onto a tranquil garden. Admission is free, making it an excellent early stop on a walking tour.

Château-Vieux (Old Castle)

Address: Avenue du 11 Novembre, 64100 Bayonne
This fortress, built in the 12th century by the Viscounts of Labourd, later fortified by the French military engineer Vauban, reflects Bayonne’s strategic importance near the Spanish border. The castle is part of the old ramparts and is still used by the army, but its exterior can be viewed on a walk along Avenue du 11 Novembre. Guided tours are occasionally arranged by the tourist office.

Basque Museum (Musée Basque et de l’Histoire de Bayonne)

Address: 37 Quai des Corsaires, 64100 Bayonne
This museum is a cultural treasure, offering an in-depth look at Basque traditions, maritime heritage, and folk art. With more than 3,000 artifacts, exhibits range from fishing boats to pelota gear and domestic crafts. Located in a 17th-century merchant house, it’s ideal for travelers who want to understand the Basque identity beyond surface-level attractions. Plan at least 1–1.5 hours here.

Bayonne Ramparts

Address: Promenade along Avenue du 11 Novembre, 64100 Bayonne
The Vauban ramparts, dating from the 17th century, provide a leafy circuit around the old city. These fortifications once protected Bayonne against Spanish invasion. Today, they’re landscaped as walking paths offering sweeping views of the Adour River and distant Pyrenees. Several bastions, like Château-Neuf, punctuate the route — excellent for photography and evening strolls.

Town Hall and National Theatre (Hôtel de Ville et Théâtre de Bayonne)

Address: Place de la Liberté, 64100 Bayonne
Built in 1843, the Town Hall also houses the National Theatre. Its neoclassical façade overlooks Place de la Liberté, a lively square where events and concerts take place. The building’s design reflects Bayonne’s 19th-century prosperity as a commercial hub, and it remains a symbol of civic pride.

Rue Port-Neuf and the Historic Chocolate Shops

Location: Rue Port-Neuf, 64100 Bayonne
This pedestrian street connects Place de la Liberté with the cathedral and is lined with chocolatiers such as Maison Cazenave and Daranatz. Bayonne was the first French city to embrace chocolate-making, thanks to Jewish artisans expelled from Spain and Portugal in the 17th century. Walking here blends history, shopping, and the irresistible scent of cocoa.

Nive and Adour River Quays

Location: Quai Augustin Chaho & Quai de Lesseps, 64100 Bayonne
The riversides define Bayonne’s geography. The Nive separates Grand Bayonne from Petit Bayonne, while the Adour borders Saint-Esprit. Colorful half-timbered houses with shuttered windows reflect in the water — particularly beautiful at sunset. Cafés and restaurants line the quays, perfect for lunch stops during a walking tour.

Saint-Esprit Quarter and Saint-Esprit Church

Address: Place Saint-Esprit, 64100 Bayonne
This neighborhood across the Adour River has a quieter atmosphere and deep historical roots. Once home to Jewish refugees and merchants, it retains narrow streets and the imposing Saint-Esprit Church. The nearby train station, Gare de Bayonne, dates to the 19th century and reflects the city’s expansion during the railway boom.

Les Halles Market

Address: 1 Rue des Halles, 64100 Bayonne
Though technically a food market rather than a monument, Les Halles is a living landmark of Bayonne. The covered market showcases Bayonne ham, Basque cheeses, fresh seafood, and seasonal produce. In the mornings, it buzzes with locals and chefs buying ingredients. Surrounding streets are lined with tapas bars perfect for a midday break.

Bayonne’s culinary scene blends Basque tradition, French finesse, and local pride. Whether you’re seeking rustic taverns, Michelin-starred dining, or casual pintxos (Basque tapas), the city offers food for every taste.

Chez Txotx

Address: 18 Rue d’Espagne, 64100 Bayonne
Specialties: Basque tapas, Irouléguy wine
This lively pintxos bar is known for its generous small plates — think chorizo, stuffed peppers, and creamy sheep’s cheese. The rustic wooden interior feels like a traditional Basque cider house. It’s best enjoyed in the evening when locals crowd the bar for casual drinks and hearty snacks. Price range: €20–€35 per person.

La Table de Pottoka

Address: 21 Quai Amiral Dubourdieu, 64100 Bayonne
Specialties: Modern Basque cuisine
This Michelin-recommended restaurant reinvents Basque flavors with seasonal ingredients. Expect dishes like squid ink risotto, duck breast with espelette pepper, and creative desserts. The dining room is elegant yet relaxed, making it ideal for a long lunch. Price range: €40–€70 per person.

Bar du Marché

Address: 2 Rue des Cordeliers, 64100 Bayonne
Specialties: Pintxos and cider
Located near Les Halles Market, this bar is perfect for sampling pintxos in a bustling, casual setting. Locals drop by after shopping, and the outdoor terrace is perfect for people-watching. Price range: €15–€30 per person.

Auberge du Cheval Blanc

Address: 2 Rue des Gouverneurs, 64100 Bayonne
Specialties: Refined Basque dining
Housed in a 17th-century inn, this restaurant combines history with fine cuisine. Traditional dishes such as slow-cooked lamb or grilled hake are served with exceptional attention to detail. Price range: €50–€90 per person.

Txoko

Address: 12 Rue des Tonneliers, 64100 Bayonne
Specialties: Family-style Basque food
Txoko (meaning “club” in Basque) serves hearty plates meant for sharing — cod stew, axoa (veal with peppers), and local charcuterie. The warm, no-frills atmosphere makes it popular among locals. Price range: €20–€40 per person.

La Grange

Address: 39 Avenue du 11 Novembre, 64100 Bayonne
Specialties: French bistro classics with a Basque touch
Located near the ramparts, this cozy restaurant features simple yet flavorful dishes like duck confit and chocolate mousse. A great spot for lunch during sightseeing. Price range: €25–€45 per person.

Brasserie Basa

Address: 1 Rue Frédéric Bastiat, 64100 Bayonne
Specialties: Creative modern cooking
Basa offers a chic, contemporary menu with locally sourced ingredients. Expect dishes like tuna tartare with citrus or lamb shoulder slow-cooked in aromatic spices. Price range: €40–€60 per person.

Le Chistera

Address: 42 Avenue Louis de Foix, 64100 Bayonne
Specialties: Seafood and grilled meats
Named after the curved racket used in Basque pelota, this restaurant features hearty portions and traditional recipes. The seafood platters are a highlight, as are the steaks grilled over open flame. Price range: €30–€55 per person.

Cazenave Chocolaterie & Salon de Thé

Address: 19 Rue Port-Neuf, 64100 Bayonne
Specialties: Hot chocolate and Basque sweets
Though not a full restaurant, Cazenave is a must-stop for dessert lovers. Their thick, velvety hot chocolate served with whipped cream is legendary. Pair it with Basque cake (gâteau basque) or pralines. Price range: €8–€15 per person.

Maison Martin

Address: 12 Quai Augustin Chaho, 64100 Bayonne
Specialties: Riverside dining with seasonal menus
Maison Martin is perfect for an evening meal with a view of the Nive River. Its menu changes frequently but always highlights fresh seafood and regional produce. Price range: €35–€60 per person.

Bayonne’s identity is inseparable from its Basque heritage — music, dance, sport, and celebrations fill the city throughout the year. Here are ten cultural highlights to immerse yourself fully in local traditions.

Fêtes de Bayonne (Bayonne Festival)

Location: Throughout the city center, Grand Bayonne and Petit Bayonne
Held every late July, this is one of Europe’s largest summer festivals. For five days, locals and visitors dress in white with red scarves and fill the streets with parades, concerts, dances, and fireworks. Originating in 1932, the festival now draws hundreds of thousands. The atmosphere is lively yet family-friendly during the day, shifting to spirited nightlife after dark.

Basque Pelota Matches

Address: Trinquet Moderne, 7 Rue des Lisses, 64100 Bayonne
Pelota, the Basque handball sport, is central to the region’s culture. At the Trinquet Moderne — one of Bayonne’s oldest indoor courts — you can watch live matches or learn about the rules from local players. Matches take place year-round, particularly during festivals.

Traditional Music and Dance Performances

Address: Various squares such as Place de la Liberté and Place Pasteur
Basque music features tambourines, accordions, and traditional chants. Dance troupes perform regularly in public squares during festivals or weekends in summer. Performances often end with spontaneous participation — don’t hesitate to join.

Bayonne Carnival

Location: Parade through Petit Bayonne
Celebrated in February, the carnival combines Basque folklore with colorful costumes. Processions feature giant puppets, street bands, and dancers. Children dress up and take part in traditional games.

Sainte-Léon Festival

Address: Saint-André Church, Rue des Lisses, 64100 Bayonne
Honoring Bayonne’s patron saint every May, this religious celebration includes masses, parades with traditional costumes, and choral music. It’s a quieter counterpart to the Fêtes de Bayonne, offering insight into local devotion.

Basque Choir Concerts

Address: Often held at Bayonne Cathedral, 15 Rue des Prébendes
Bayonne’s male choirs perform hauntingly beautiful polyphonic songs, a hallmark of Basque identity. Concerts are typically announced by the tourist office and held in historic venues like the cathedral for stunning acoustics.

Chocolate Days (Journées du Chocolat)

Location: Rue Port-Neuf and surrounding streets
Bayonne’s chocolate-making tradition is celebrated every October. Local chocolatiers organize tastings, demonstrations, and workshops explaining how the city became France’s chocolate capital.

Basque Theatre and Storytelling

Address: Théâtre Michel-Portal, Place de la Liberté
This theatre stages performances in French and Basque, often focusing on folklore and modern interpretations of Basque identity. Storytelling evenings include traditional legends passed down orally for generations.

Local Artisan Fairs

Location: Esplanade Roland Barthes or Les Halles Market
Craft fairs showcase Basque textiles, espadrilles, woodwork, and gourmet foods. Many artisans demonstrate weaving, espadrille-making, and carving techniques on-site.

Gastronomic Festivals

Address: Often held at Les Halles, 1 Rue des Halles, 64100 Bayonne
From Bayonne Ham Fairs in April to cider-tasting events, food-focused celebrations highlight the city’s culinary pride. Chefs organize cooking demonstrations, and visitors sample local specialties at pop-up stalls.

While Bayonne is more relaxed than nearby Biarritz, its nightlife has a charming, distinctly Basque flavor. Expect lively tapas bars, cider houses, riverside terraces, and folk dancing that goes late into the night — especially in summer.

Petit Bayonne Tapas Bars

Location: Rue d’Espagne and Rue des Tonneliers, 64100 Bayonne
Petit Bayonne comes alive at night with pintxos (tapas) bars lining its narrow streets. The best way to experience this area is to hop from bar to bar — sampling small bites like chorizo, sheep cheese, and seafood skewers while sipping local Irouléguy wine. Arrive early to secure a spot, as it gets busy around 8 PM.

Bar du Théâtre

Address: 1 Place de la Liberté, 64100 Bayonne
This traditional café-bar serves aperitifs and offers outdoor seating overlooking the square. It’s a good starting point for an evening stroll before heading to dinner or live music venues. Prices are reasonable, and the service is famously friendly.

Cider Houses (Sidrerías)

Address: Maison Martin, 12 Quai Augustin Chaho, 64100 Bayonne (one example)
Basque cider houses are perfect for a rustic evening. Locals gather to drink cider poured from great heights — a tradition known as txotx — and share hearty dishes like grilled cod or ribeye steak. Expect communal tables and a festive atmosphere.

Folk Dance Nights

Location: Often held in summer at Place Pasteur or Place de la Liberté
Traditional Basque dances are performed weekly during high season. Some events are organized by cultural associations and end with public participation. It’s a free, authentic way to enjoy local music under the stars.

Le Chistera Sports Bar

Address: 42 Avenue Louis de Foix, 64100 Bayonne
Popular with fans of Aviron Bayonnais rugby, this bar combines hearty Basque snacks with big-screen matches. It’s lively on game nights and a great spot to mingle with locals passionate about sport.

Les Halles by Night

Address: 1 Rue des Halles, 64100 Bayonne
On summer weekends, the central market area transforms into an evening hotspot. Food stalls remain open late, and nearby bars spill into the street, creating a relaxed open-air party atmosphere.

Jazz Clubs and Live Music

Address: Ateliers de la Rue Sainte-Catherine, 64100 Bayonne (venue for concerts)
Jazz and folk music nights take place throughout the year. Venues like Ateliers de la Rue Sainte-Catherine host intimate performances, while larger concerts are held at municipal halls during festivals.

Riverside Terraces

Location: Quai Chaho-Pelletier, 64100 Bayonne
The riverside quays offer outdoor cafés and bars perfect for a quiet drink at sunset. The views of the Nive River and pastel half-timbered houses make this a picturesque evening option.

La Luna Negra Café-Théâtre

Address: 7 Rue des Augustins, 64100 Bayonne
This café-theatre offers evening shows, from stand-up comedy to intimate concerts. It’s a cultural nightlife venue that appeals to those seeking something different from the typical bar scene.

Seasonal Night Markets

Location: Esplanade Roland Barthes, 64100 Bayonne (varies by season)
Summer night markets combine shopping, street food, and music in one place. Artisans sell crafts while food vendors serve Basque specialties late into the evening — ideal for a casual, family-friendly night out.

Bayonne is easy to reach thanks to its location in southwestern France near the Atlantic coast and the Spanish border. Whether you’re arriving by air, rail, or road, or simply moving around town, here’s everything you need to know.

Arriving by Air: Biarritz Pays Basque Airport

Address: 7 Espl. de l’Europe, 64600 Anglet
Bayonne’s closest airport is just 7 km away, about a 15-minute drive. It connects to major cities like Paris, Lyon, London, and Madrid. Taxis, shuttle buses, and car rentals are readily available. In peak season (summer), flights can sell out quickly — book in advance.

Arriving by Train: Bayonne SNCF Station

Address: Place Pereire, 64100 Bayonne
Bayonne is on the high-speed TGV line from Paris (about 4 hours) and Bordeaux (2 hours). Regional TER trains also connect to Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, and Hendaye. The station is within walking distance of the old town or a short bus ride.

By Car: Driving to Bayonne

Bayonne is easily accessible via the A63 motorway (Bordeaux to Spain). Drivers can expect tolls on major highways. Parking is available near Les Halles, Place des Basques, and along Quai Chaho-Pelletier, but spots fill up fast during festivals. Consider park-and-ride lots outside the center.

Local Bus Network (Chronoplus)

Address (main hub): Place des Basques, 64100 Bayonne
Chronoplus buses link Bayonne to Biarritz, Anglet, and nearby towns. Tickets are inexpensive and valid across the network. Schedules run later during summer and festivals, making public transit a practical option.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing

Taxis are readily available at Bayonne Station, Place de la Liberté, and major hotels. While ride-hailing apps exist, traditional taxis are more reliable during peak times. Fixed-rate transfers from the airport to central Bayonne usually cost €20–€30.

Walking the Old Town

Bayonne’s historic center — Grand Bayonne and Petit Bayonne — is best explored on foot. Streets are narrow, cobbled, and mostly pedestrianized. Major sights like Bayonne Cathedral, Basque Museum, and Les Halles Market are all within a 15-minute walk.

Cycling Around Bayonne

The city has bike lanes and scenic routes along the Nive River. Rentals are available from shops near the train station and Quai Chaho-Pelletier. For longer rides, take the coastal path to Biarritz or Anglet’s beaches.

Riverfront Strolls and Ferries

While Bayonne does not operate regular passenger ferries, the Nive and Adour rivers offer lovely walking routes. Bridges link both sides of the old town, and scenic paths are perfect for leisurely exploration.

Regional Day Trips by Train or Bus

Bayonne is a great base for visiting Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Biarritz, Hendaye, and even San Sebastián in Spain. TER trains and cross-border buses are frequent and affordable, making car-free travel easy.

Accessibility and Travel Tips

Bayonne is gradually improving wheelchair access in its historic center, though cobblestone streets can be uneven. The main transit hubs (station, airport, buses) have elevators and ramps. For those with mobility concerns, taxis are the most reliable way to navigate.

Bayonne blends history, gastronomy, and Basque tradition in every corner. Whether you’re wandering cobbled streets or tasting its world-famous ham, this riverside city is rich with experiences.

Visit Bayonne Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Marie)

Address: 15 Rue des Prébendes, 64100 Bayonne
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture dating from the 13th century. Inside, you’ll find stunning stained glass, sculpted chapels, and a serene cloister. Guided tours (available in French and English) explain its role on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

Walk the Old Town Rampart

Access: Entrances near Avenue du Maréchal Leclerc and Boulevard du Rempart Lachepaillet
Bayonne’s 17th-century Vauban fortifications offer panoramic views of the Adour River and colorful rooftops. A walking path circles much of the old town — perfect for photography and quiet strolls. Panels explain the city’s military past.

Explore the Basque Museum (Musée Basque)

Address: 37 Quai des Corsaires, 64100 Bayonne
Housed in a 17th-century merchant house, this museum showcases Basque culture through textiles, traditional tools, costumes, and folk art. Temporary exhibitions focus on regional crafts and festivals.

Taste Bayonne Ham

Address: Maison Aubard, 17 Rue des Cordeliers, 64100 Bayonne
Bayonne is famous for its dry-cured ham. At Maison Aubard and other charcuteries, you can watch slicing demonstrations and taste ham paired with local wines. Annual ham fairs in April celebrate this culinary heritage.

Shop at Les Halles Market

Address: 1 Rue des Halles, 64100 Bayonne
This bustling indoor market sells farm-fresh produce, cheese, chocolate, and seafood. It’s busiest on Saturday mornings, when locals gather for tapas and coffee. Outdoor stalls add even more color in summer.

Discover Bayonne’s Chocolate Heritage

Address: L’Atelier du Chocolat, 19 Avenue Maréchal Soult, 64100 Bayonne
Bayonne is France’s chocolate capital. Visit artisan shops for tastings or the chocolate museum to learn how Sephardic Jews introduced cocoa to the city in the 17th century. Don’t leave without sampling spiced drinking chocolate.

Watch a Pelota Match

Address: Trinquet Moderne, 7 Rue des Lisses, 64100 Bayonne
Pelota is the Basque version of handball — fast, thrilling, and deeply rooted in local tradition. Matches are held regularly, especially during festivals. Some venues also offer short introductions to the sport for visitors.

Stroll Along the Nive River Quays

Location: Quai Chaho-Pelletier, 64100 Bayonne
The riverside walk is lined with pastel half-timbered houses, cafés, and bars. In the evening, it’s a lively spot for an aperitif. Street musicians often perform here in summer.

Admire the Half-Timbered Houses

Location: Grand Bayonne and Petit Bayonne districts
These 16th- and 17th-century houses, painted in Basque colors (red, green, blue), give the city its postcard charm. Many now host boutiques, cafés, and galleries — a photographer’s delight.

Experience the Fêtes de Bayonne

Location: Throughout Grand Bayonne and Petit Bayonne
Held each July, this festival fills the streets with music, dancing, parades, and fireworks. Wear white with a red scarf to join the fun. Days are family-friendly, while nights transform the city into one big celebration.

Bayonne offers accommodations for every traveler — from boutique riverside hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Whether you’re here for a short city break or using Bayonne as a base to explore the Basque Coast, these are the best options.

Hôtel des Basses Pyrénées (Boutique Charm)

Address: 12 Rue Tour de Sault, 64100 Bayonne
Located inside the old city walls, this 4-star boutique hotel blends historic architecture with modern style. Rooms overlook medieval ramparts, and its restaurant serves refined Basque cuisine. Ideal for travelers who want to stay close to landmarks like the cathedral.

Hôtel Mercure Bayonne Centre Le Grand Hôtel (Central Comfort)

Address: 21 Rue Thiers, 64100 Bayonne
This elegant hotel in a 19th-century building is minutes from Les Halles Market. Expect spacious rooms, business amenities, and reliable service. Great for couples and business travelers wanting quick access to restaurants and shopping.

Okko Hotels Bayonne Centre (Modern and Stylish)

Address: 22 Boulevard du Bab, 64100 Bayonne
A sleek 4-star property with minimalist design, free evening aperitifs, and a panoramic lounge. Located just outside the pedestrian center but within walking distance. Popular with younger travelers and those who appreciate modern amenities.

Hôtel Côte Basque (Budget-Friendly and Practical)

Address: 2 Rue Maubec, 64100 Bayonne
Directly opposite Bayonne SNCF station, this hotel is perfect for quick stopovers or train travelers. Rooms are simple but well-kept, and public transport is at your doorstep.

Villa KOEGUI Bayonne (Upscale Boutique)

Address: 7 Rue Frédéric Bastiat, 64100 Bayonne
Stylish décor meets warm hospitality. This boutique hotel features a wine bar, local breakfasts, and eco-friendly touches. Only steps from museums and riverfront cafés, ideal for exploring on foot.

Ibis Styles Bayonne Gare Centre (Family-Friendly)

Address: 1 Place de la République, 64100 Bayonne
A reliable mid-range option offering family rooms, breakfast included, and a riverside location. Friendly staff and consistent service make it popular with both tourists and business guests.

Hôtel Le Bayonne (Riverside Relaxation)

Address: 1 Avenue Jean Rostand, 64100 Bayonne
With an outdoor pool, riverside terrace, and on-site restaurant, this 4-star hotel is ideal for travelers who want resort-style amenities within walking distance of the old town.

Hôtel La Villa (Quiet Residential Stay)

Address: 31 Avenue du Dr Camino, 64100 Bayonne
Set in a peaceful area near the Nive River, this charming villa-style hotel feels more like a guesthouse. Personalized service, homemade breakfasts, and elegant interiors make it perfect for couples.

Hôtel de la Gare (Value and Convenience)

Address: 8 Bis Rue Sainte-Catherine, 64100 Bayonne
A small family-run hotel offering great value for travelers who need proximity to the train station and a friendly local atmosphere. Rooms are modest but comfortable.

Chambres d’Hôtes Bayonne (Local Guesthouses)

Throughout the old town, private guesthouses and B&Bs provide authentic experiences. Look for listings offering Basque breakfasts with local ham, cheese, and gateau Basque. Many owners share tips on hidden spots that guidebooks

Bayonne is more than just a picturesque riverside town — it’s the cultural heartbeat of the French Basque Country. With its cobblestone streets, Gothic cathedral, and pastel half-timbered houses, Bayonne feels like stepping into living history. Yet it’s also a city full of life, where local markets bustle, chocolatiers tempt passersby, and traditional festivals fill the streets with music and color.

What makes Bayonne truly special is its balance of old-world charm and vibrant Basque identity. You can spend mornings exploring medieval ramparts, afternoons savoring Bayonne ham or sipping rich hot chocolate, and evenings wandering along the Nive River as tapas bars come alive. Whether you’re here to dive into culture, sample world-famous cuisine, or use Bayonne as a gateway to Biarritz and the Atlantic coast, the city rewards every visitor with a genuine sense of place.