Basque country tour

BASQUE COUNTRY PRIVATE TOUR. SAMPLE ITINERARY:

Discover One of Europe's Most Unique Cultures

Day 1 – Bayonne, Biarritz & Saint-Jean-de-Luz

The Basque Country is unlike any other region in France. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pyrenees Mountains, it boasts its own language, traditions, architecture, gastronomy, and strong cultural identity.

9:00 A.M. – Departure from Bordeaux

Travel south towards the French Basque Country, a land of colorful villages, dramatic coastlines, and centuries-old traditions.

11:00 A.M. – Guided Walking Tour of Bayonne

Discover the historic capital of the French Basque Country. Wander through its charming old town, admire the magnificent Gothic Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Camino de Santiago, and explore medieval streets lined with traditional half-timbered houses.

Bayonne is also famous for its chocolate, cured ham, and vibrant Basque culture.

1:30 P.M. – Traditional Basque Lunch

Enjoy authentic Basque cuisine in a carefully selected local restaurant featuring regional specialties and seasonal ingredients.

3:30 P.M. – Explore Biarritz

Once the summer playground of European royalty, Biarritz remains one of France's most elegant seaside resorts.

Discover the city's fascinating history, spectacular Atlantic views, luxurious villas, and iconic landmarks while learning how Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie transformed a small fishing village into an international destination.

5:30 P.M. – Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Stroll through this charming fishing town, famous for its colorful harbor, traditional Basque houses, and rich maritime heritage.

This picturesque village was also the setting for the wedding of King Louis XIV and Maria Theresa of Spain.

Evening – Optional San Sebastián Experience

Cross the border into Spain and discover San Sebastián, widely regarded as one of Europe's gastronomic capitals.

Enjoy a traditional Pintxos experience in the lively Old Town before returning to your hotel.

Day 2 – San Sebastián & Getaria

9:00 A.M. – Departure for Getaria

Travel along the spectacular Basque coastline to one of the region's most beautiful fishing villages.

10:30 A.M. – Discover Getaria

Explore the charming streets and waterfront of this historic village, birthplace of explorer Juan Sebastián Elcano and legendary fashion designer Cristóbal Balenciaga.

Optional: Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum

Visit the museum dedicated to one of the greatest fashion designers of all time. 

1:00 P.M. – Seaside Gastronomic Lunch

Enjoy lunch in a renowned seafood restaurant where fresh fish and lobster are grilled over traditional outdoor charcoal grills.

Pair your meal with Txakoli, the distinctive white wine of the Basque coast.

Optional: Txakoli Wine Estate Visit

Meet a local winemaker and discover the production of this unique Basque wine.

3:30 P.M. – Walking Tour of San Sebastián

Discover one of Spain's most beautiful cities. Admire its elegant Belle Époque architecture, vibrant old quarter, and famous La Concha Bay.

5:00 P.M. – Monte Igueldo

Ride to the summit of Monte Igueldo for breathtaking panoramic views over San Sebastián, the Atlantic Ocean, and one of the world's most beautiful urban beaches.

Evening

Enjoy a Pintxos crawl through the city's most celebrated bars or dine in one of San Sebastián's renowned gastronomic restaurants.

Day 3 – The Most Beautiful Villages of the French Basque Country

10:00 A.M. – Departure for the Basque Countryside

Today, discover the authentic rural heart of the Basque Country, where traditions remain deeply rooted and village life has changed little over the centuries.

Ascain, Sare & Espelette

Explore some of the most picturesque villages in the region, surrounded by green hills and the foothills of the Pyrenees.

Optional Experiences

• Visit a traditional sheep cheese farm
• Meet a local cider producer
• Discover regional artisan producers

Espelette

Stroll through the village famous for its iconic red peppers hanging from whitewashed facades.

Learn why Espelette Pepper has become one of France's most celebrated culinary ingredients.

1:00 P.M. – Traditional Basque Lunch

Enjoy authentic regional cuisine in a charming village restaurant.

4:00 P.M. – Ainhoa

Visit one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France," renowned for its perfectly preserved Basque architecture and its historical role on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.

6:00 P.M. – Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

Discover one of the jewels of the French Basque Country.

Located at the foot of the Pyrenees, this fortified medieval town has welcomed pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostela for centuries. Wander through its cobbled streets, historic gates, and impressive citadel while enjoying stunning mountain views.

Evening

Dinner at a local restaurant before returning to Bordeaux or continuing your journey through the Basque Country.