Bayonne is an atmosphere.

A city on a human scale, full of character, where you can stroll, taste, discover, and above all... come back.

Nestled between the Adour and the Nive, between the ocean and the mountains, it offers a total immersion in Basque culture, without ever forcing the line.

Here is everything you can do in Bayonne for a successful stay.

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1. Get lost in the historic center

Start with the Petit Bayonne and Grand Bayonne, the two hearts of the old town.

Cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, typical red or green shutters... each street corner tells a story.

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➡️ Don't miss:

• La St. Mary's Cathedral (classified by UNESCO with its cloister)
  
• Les Vauban ramparts
• The lively quays of the Nive, perfect for a walk or an aperitif on the terrace
  

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2. Immerse yourself in Basque culture at the museum

To understand Bayonne, you have to go through the Basque Museum and the History of Bayonne.

It is the largest ethnographic museum in the Basque Country.

Costumes, reconstructions, everyday objects... a fascinating immersion in Basque identity.

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3. Stroll through the Halles

Local specialties

See you at Bayonne halls first thing in the morning for a real local experience.

Fresh products, a friendly atmosphere, and small glasses of white wine served with pintxos from noon.

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➡️ Definitely try:

• The IGP Bayonne ham
• The Ossau-Iraty sheep cheese
• The Basque cake
• A glass of Basque cider or Irouléguy wine
  

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4. Exploring the craft scene and shopping

Bayonne is a city of artisans. There you will find:

• Historic chocolate makers like Cazenave or Daranatz
  
• Of Basque cutlers
• Basque linen weavers (like Lartigue 1910)
  
• Handmade local espadrilles
  

And of course, some surf & lifestyle shops in the spirit of the Basque coast.

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5. Attend a game of pelota

An emblematic sport of the Basque Country, pelota is played in Bayonne as elsewhere.

Parts are often visible for free on the open-air pediments, especially at the Modern Trinquet, which also offers initiations.

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6. Discover the banks of the Adour by bike

Looking for nature? Rent a bike and follow the greenway along the Adour or towards Anglet and its beaches.

Ideal for enjoying the sea air just a few pedal strokes from the city center.

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7. Enjoy holidays and events

• Les Fêtes de Bayonne (end of July): 5 days of popular festival, music, dance, Basque strength and ferias.
  
• The ham fair (April): perfect for food lovers.
  
• Cultural festivals, concerts, rugby matches or sporting events all year round.
  

Cultural program on the official website

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8. Visit a chocolate factory or participate in a workshop

Bayonne is the chocolate capital of France.

You can do tastings or follow workshops at Daranatz or Cazenave.

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In summary

Bayonne is:
✅ A rich and living heritage
✅ Unique gastronomy
✅ An omnipresent Basque culture
✅ A soft and festive atmosphere
✅ A great starting point for exploring the inland Basque Country and the coast

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