Explore Saint Jean de Luz in French Basque Country
Not as well known in French Basque Country, Saint Jean de Luz is an easy to reach city from either Biarritz or San Sebastian in Spain. Even though you can easily reach Saint Jean de la Luz using public transportation or driving directly to the city, I took a guided tour that was perfect, easy and fun to do. I didn’t have to think about driving, parking and even knowing the main attractions of visiting the city, just leaving it all to an expert guide, I’ll share below.
The coastal town of Saint Jean de Luz is sweet, colorful and easy to explore the coastal promenades to the historic district along with visiting local attractions in the area.
Here’s some of the highlights and places to visit when you are planning a visit to Saint Jean de la Luz.
Where is Saint Jean de Luz Located?
Saint-Jean-de-Luz is located on the southwestern coast of France, in the French Basque Country. It sits along the Bay of Biscay, just a few kilometers north of the Spanish border and about 20 minutes south of Biarritz.
It’s part of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and is known for its small fishing port, charming old town, and sandy beaches. The town has a strong Basque identity, with traditional architecture, regional cuisine, and a lively cultural scene that reflects its location between the ocean and the Pyrenees mountains. It’s a popular destination for both French and Spanish visitors, especially during the summer.
Places to visit at Saint Jean de Luz
Located on the Atlantic side of the French Basque countryside, Saint Jean de Luz maintains a strong Basque identity along with its coastal presence, four large beaches in town along with the Grande Plage which is protected by sea walls. Passing through the promenade you’ll see colorful beach tents, deck chairs and other popular water accessories with people exercising and walking everywhere it seems.
Other than the beaches and water activities, Saint Jean de Luz also is an outdoor haven for hiking, walking, biking and boating activities along with enjoying in town fun, shopping and dining venues.
Visit the Old town
It’s fun to explore the heart of the old town and experience the many bakeries, unique boutique stores, farmers markets and other cool shopping, dining and entertainment around town. I really loved the whole relaxed atmosphere and vibe here, well maintained and colorful architecture, walking only promenades and lovely squares filled with local restaurants or bars to hang out in and people watch.
Shopping and eating
The old town of Sain Jean de Luz, has a fantastic walking promenade that makes shopping and dining around town very pleasant and full of local atmosphere that almosts makes shopping and dining an art in itself.
There is some great shopping in the old town with a variety of boutique shops, art galleries, bakeries, cafes and unique tourist venues. Window shopping is a fun excuse to explore the charming downtown shops that entice visitors to enter and take a look around, find some take aways or souvenirs to remember and enjoy.
You’ll find a variety of outdoor markets every Tuesday and Friday, and on Saturdays during the summer and a daily covered market selling all local and regional provisions.
For foodies with a sweet tooth, you’ll have an amazing choice of delicious bakeries, coffee shops and pastry shops to choose from and really hard to resist, with eye popping displays. Popular things to try in town includes;
Mouchons, which are similar to macaroons but smaller and made with lots of almonds and very little sugar
Kanouga, a soft dark chocolate or coffee caramel.
Traditional Foods to try at Saint Jean de Luz
Saint-Jean-de-Luz, nestled in the French Basque Country, offers a rich culinary scene that reflects its coastal heritage and Basque traditions. Here are some traditional foods to try when visiting:
Seafood Specialties
- Merlu de ligne (line-caught hake):A local favorite, often prepared simply to highlight its delicate flavor
- Chipirons (baby squid):Typically grilled or cooked in their ink, showcasing the town’s fishing heritage
Cheeses and Meats
- Ossau-Iraty A traditional sheep’s milk cheese from the region, known for its nutty flavor
- Kintoa ham Basque cured ham with a rich, savory taste
Sweet Delicacies
- *Gâteau Basque: A buttery pastry filled with either black cherry jam or pastry cream, a regional classic.
- *Macarons from Maison Adam: These almond-based cookies have been a local specialty since 160.
Other Notable Items
- *Piperade: A dish made with sautéed peppers, tomatoes, and onions, often served with eggs or mat.
- *Espelette pepper: A mildly spicy red pepper that’s integral to Basque cuisine.
Public market of Saint Jean de Luz
The public market of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, known as Les Halles, is a cornerstone of daily life in this coastal Basque town. Open every morning from 7:00 to 13:00, the covered market and its surrounding stalls host over 70 vendors offering a vibrant selection of regional produce, meats, cheeses, seafood, and baked goods. The market is especially lively on Tuesdays and Fridays, when the outdoor area fills with additional local producers and artisans
Walk along the coastline and harbor area
Those looking for more outdoor and recreation don’t need to get far with the coastline, beaches and harbor area just in town.
A walk along the coastline and harbor area of Saint-Jean-de-Luz offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and recreational activities. The picturesque harbor, lined with colorful buildings, provides a charming backdrop for leisurely strolls, especially in the early morning when fishermen unload their daily catch. The well-maintained coastal path, known as the “sentier littoral,” extends from Saint-Jean-de-Luz to nearby Ciboure, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, hidden coves, and the vast Atlantic Ocean.
For those seeking outdoor adventures, the area boasts a multitude of activities. Visitors can enjoy surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and Hawaiian canoeing, taking advantage of the region’s favorable ocean conditions. Additionally, hiking enthusiasts can explore various trails that provide both scenic vistas and opportunities for physical activity
The combination of natural beauty and diverse recreational options makes the coastline and harbor area of Saint-Jean-de-Luz a must-visit destination for travelers.
How to get to Saint Jean de Luz
Here’s an outline on how to get to Saint-Jean-de-Luz with diffferent options and locations:
1. By Air
- Nearest Airport: Biarritz Pays Basque Airport (BIQ) – about 20 km away
- Direct flights from Paris, Lyon, London, Madrid, and other European cities
- From the Airport:
- Taxi (approx. 20–30 min)
- Bus to Saint-Jean-de-Luz via Chronoplus network or regional bus
2. By Train
- Destination Station: Saint-Jean-de-Luz–Ciboure train station
- From Paris:
- High-speed TGV from Paris Montparnasse (approx. 4.5–5.5 hours)
- From Biarritz or Bayonne:
- TER regional trains (15–30 minutes)
- From Spain (San Sebastián):
- Take Euskotren to Hendaye, then transfer to SNCF TER train
3. By Car
- From Biarritz: Around 30 minutes via A63 highway
- From San Sebastián: About 40 minutes via AP-8/A63
- From Bordeaux: Around 2.5–3 hours via A63
4. By Bus
- Regional and long-distance buses available via:
- FlixBus and Blablacar Bus: Routes from major cities in France and Spain
- Local buses: From Biarritz, Bayonne, or Hendaye
Guided tours of San Jean de Luz
it’s easy to book a guided tour and leave the driving, expert guides, parking and places to explore with a local expert. Check out these tours covering the coastal town along with other interesting attractions in the area.
From San Sebastian: Biarritz, St. Jean de Luz & Hondarribia
Saint Jean de Luz : guided walking & gourmet tour
Check out these other related Topics
If you are exploring Basque country, check out these other points of interest below:
Things to do in Biarritz, France
12 day tours from San Sebastian
: Is San Sebastian worth visiting?
Conclusion to Explore Saint Jean de Luz
Saint-Jean-de-Luz, nestled along the Basque coast, offers a delightful blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant local life. From its historic harbor and charming streets to its renowned culinary scene and scenic coastal paths, the town invites exploration and discovery. Whether you’re savoring traditional Basque dishes, strolling along the promenade, or engaging in outdoor activities, Saint-Jean-de-Luz provides an authentic and enriching experience.
Plan your visit to this captivating destination and immerse yourself in the unique charm of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. For more information on attractions, accommodations, and events, visit the official tourism website at saint-jean-de-luz.com.
About author – Noel Morata
After relocating from the United States to Andalusia in 2024. I’ve made it my mission to discover every corner of Spain. Based just east of Granada, I’ve spent over 12 months exploring Catalonia and The Basque Country region along with the rest of Spain, including multiple extended visits to Barcelona throughout different seasons. My background in Spanish cultural studies and years of residence and exploring all of Spain have given me unique insight into the region’s historical significance, local customs, and culinary traditions.
I regularly update my guides with the latest information gathered through personal visits and relationships with local tourism officials, always seeking what’s new and exciting in each destination. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I’m passionate about discovering authentic local markets and regional specialties.
Last updated: April 2024 based on my most recent visit
