10 Best Things to Do in Bayonne
What is Bayonne Most Famous For?
The best things to do in Bayonne combine historic monuments, spectacular nature and delicious gastronomy. Stroll along centuries-old ramparts and take in magnificent views of this stunning town. Shop in quaint boutiques in a popular quartier or indulge your senses in a mouthwatering food market and chocolate museum.
Locals are proud of their Basque heritage, and you can explore the region’s traditions and culture in a fascinating museum. There’s no shortage of open-air activities too, including hiking and biking trails, top-class golf facilities and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Discover the amazing range of things to do in this corner of south-west France in the guide below.
What are the best things to do in Bayonne?
1. Petit Bayonne
A dynamic quartier full of shops and eateries
Ideal para: Alimentação, Compras, Vida noturna
Petit Bayonne is a lively neighbourhood bordered by the rivers Adour and Nive. It’s compact and ideal for exploring on foot. Stroll along the riverbanks admiring the pretty Basque-style houses with their brightly painted shutters in shades of red, blue, teal and yellow. You’ll love the quaint shops dotted throughout this quartier and you’ll find some original gifts and souvenirs.
At night, the dozens of bars and restaurants come alive with a mainly younger crowd, as this area is popular with students from the nearby universities. If you visit in April, head to Esplanade Roland Barthes for the annual Foire au Jambon festival. It’s been running since the mid-15th century and showcases Bayonne’s legendary ham and charcuterie production.
Petit Bayonne
2. Cathédrale Sainte-Marie de Bayonne
An unmissable UNESCO site
Ideal para: Econômico, Foto
Cathédrale Sainte-Marie de Bayonne will leave you awestruck by its sheer size and magnificent beauty. It’s a stunning Gothic cathedral dating back to the mid-13th century, known for its dazzling stained-glass windows throughout the main cathedral and the chapels. Each one tells a story, with vibrant images of the prophets through to Adam and Eve, and the crucifixion of Christ.
It’s a popular destination for pilgrims as it lies on the Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle route. You’ll also find locals flocking to the cathedral for mass, as well as tourists snapping photos of the impressive, vaulted ceilings and spectacular organ centrepiece. Admission is free, so it can get rather busy. Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Localização: 15 Rue des Prébendes, 64100 Bayonne, France
Abre: Monday–Saturday from 8 am to 6.30 pm, Sunday from 8 am to 7 pm
Telefone: +33 (0)5 59 59 17 82
Cathédrale Sainte-Marie de Bayonne
3. Rue Port Neuf
A combination of architecture and gastronomy
Ideal para: Alimentação, Compras, Foto
Rue Port Neuf lies in the historic centre of Bayonne. Start at the northern end, near Place de la Liberté, and you’ll get a stunning view of the cathedral’s spires at the far end of the street. It’s a narrow, pedestrian street with apartment buildings towering high on each side. Admire the typical Basque architecture of small balconies and colourful shutters.
Foodies will delight in the choice of bistros and restaurants along Rue Port Neuf. Tempt your tastebuds with Basque cuisine and plenty of vegetarian choices or snack on fresh, buttery croissants and pastries before hitting the shops. There’s a great choice of boutiques and you’ll find everything from artisanal chocolates and beauty products to leather goods and women’s clothing.
Rue Port Neuf
4. Bayonne Ramparts
Scenic strolls along Roman walls
Ideal para: Econômico, Foto, História
A walk along the ramparts is one of the best things to do in Bayonne. These majestic ramparts were originally built by the Romans, then fortified by Vauban in the 17th century. Today, you’ll find well-preserved structures surrounded by beautiful parks and greenery. Enjoy an afternoon stroll and snap some great photos.
If you’re arriving by car, it’s a good idea to park at Porte d’Espagne and start at this gate. Head along Boulevard Lachepaillet to discover the majestic Château-Vieux in all its glory. Nearby, you’ll see the cobbled alleyway and arched gate of La Poterne, which is a popular spot for photos. You can also take a guided tour of the ramparts to learn Bayonne’s history whilst you walk.
Bayonne Ramparts
5. Musée Basque
Regional history and culture
Ideal para: História, Econômico
Musée Basque lies on the banks of the Nive, next to Marengo Bridge. It’s a fascinating and modern museum in a listed, 17th-century building, showcasing Basque culture. You’ll explore the language, history, rural life and architecture of this unique region through around 20 rooms over 3 levels. Admire stunning artwork, photographs, books and documents highlighting Basque society and the importance of maritime activities in this area.
Take a guided tour or download the museum’s app before arriving for an invaluable audio guide in several languages. Admission is free to all on the first Sunday of each month, and always free to those under 26, so it’s a lovely weekend activity for those on a budget.
Localização: 37 Quai des Corsaires, 64100 Bayonne, France
Abre: Tuesday–Wednesday from 10 am to 6 pm, Thursday from 1 pm to 8 pm, Friday–Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm (closed on Mondays)
Telefone: +33 (0)5 59 59 08 98
Musée Basque
6. Atélier du Chocolat
For chocoholics
Ideal para: Famílias, Alimentação, Compras
Atelier du Chocolat is a wonderful boutique on the popular Rue Port Neuf. Its pristine displays showcase hundreds of different chocolates, in all shapes, sizes and flavours. You’ll be tempted inside by the delicious aroma of rich, dark chocolate which drifts onto the busy, pedestrian street and you’ll quickly see why Bayonne is considered the chocolate capital of France.
The boutique has its own museum, Musée du Chocolat, just a few kilometres away. It’s well worth a visit to learn how their chocolates are made using artisanal methods. There are fun videos and kids can even decorate their own chocolates. Be patient and wait until the last and best bit: the tasting, of course.
Localização: 37 Rue Port Neuf, 64100 Bayonne, France
Abre: Monday–Saturday from 9.30 am to 7 pm (closed on Sundays)
Telefone: +33 (0)5 59 25 72 95
Atélier du Chocolat
7. Jardin Botanique de Bayonne
Beautiful blooms in the heart of the town
Ideal para: Econômico, Foto, Casais
The Jardin Botanique de Bayonne is a beautiful sanctuary of tranquillity. It sits high above the town, tucked away behind the ramparts, and its free admission makes it a popular spot for locals looking to escape the bustle of the town centre. This Japanese-inspired garden is full of pretty water features and the plants are arranged by colour, so you’ll walk through a rainbow of flowers and blooms.
Stroll by the palm trees and bridges and admire the small waterfall set against the backdrop of the cathedral’s spires. Enjoy an ice cream whilst sitting on one of the many benches and soak up the peaceful atmosphere in this oasis of calm.
Localização: Allée des Tarrides, 64100 Bayonne, France
Abre: April–September: Tuesday–Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm (closed October–March)
Telefone: +33 (0)6 11 08 53 28
Jardin Botanique de Bayonne
8. Halles de Bayonne
A wonderful choice for foodies
Ideal para: Alimentação, Compras
Halles de Bayonne is a fantastic indoor market on the banks of the Nive. It’s predominantly a food market which is popular for its fresh produce and wide variety of French food items. You’ll see locals sitting at food counters indulging in tapas as lunchtime approaches and buyers examining the colourful rows of fresh vegetables and baked goods on display.
The market is known for its friendly atmosphere and the vendors are keen to introduce visitors to regional specialities and Basque cuisine. Don’t hesitate to ask to try a sample of cheese or charcuterie before making your choice. On Saturday mornings, the market extends outdoors with over 60 vendors and local producers selling everything from fresh eggs to leather handbags.
Localização: Quai Dominique Roquebert, 64100 Bayonne, France
Abre: Monday–Thursday from 7 am to 1.30 pm, Friday from 7 am to 2.30 pm, Saturday from 6 am to 2.30 pm, Sunday from 8 am to 2.30 pm
Telefone: +33 (0)5 59 46 60 60
Halles de Bayonne
9. La Plaine d’Ansot
Spectacular nature
Ideal para: Econômico, Foto
La Plaine d’Ansot is a wonderful escape to nature close to the Petit Bayonne quartier. This huge park places great importance on conservation and biodiversity, and you’ll find a fascinating range of flora and fauna to discover. Hike, bike or ride a horse along 7 km of colourful paths and trails, through various forest and prairie areas. Then take a break at one of the picnic tables under the shade of old trees and soak up the serenity.
You can visit several buildings dotted throughout the site, including La Maison des Barthes. You’ll love the temporary nature exhibitions which are updated regularly. There’s also a raised observatory for birdwatchers, so bring your binoculars.
Localização: 51 Chemin d’Ansot, 64100 Bayonne, France
Abre: Hours vary by season
Telefone: +33 (0)5 59 42 22 61
La Plaine d'Ansot
10. The Basque Coast
Beautiful beaches and great sports
Ideal para: Foto, Aventura, Econômico
The Basque Coast stretches from the Landes department right down the Atlantic Ocean coastline to Spain. It’s full of colourful fishing villages and bustling towns, each with a distinct character. Just 4 km from Bayonne, you’ll find the beautiful coastal town of Anglet. If you love water sports, this is a great place to paddleboard and it’s famous for its surfing.
Golf lovers will delight in the amazing courses along the coast. Anglet is home to a stunning course which overlooks the ocean. Watch the waves tumble towards you as you aim for a hole in 1. This coast is popular for its dazzling beaches of soft, fine sand and you can access many within a short drive of Bayonne.
The Basque Coast
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