7 day itinerary for Pays Basque

Itinerary

The Pays Basque is a stunning region that beautifully blends French and Spanish cultures, with breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 7-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained and engaged!

## Day 1: Arrival in Biarritz

Morning: Arrive in Biarritz, a lovely coastal town. Check into your family-friendly hotel or rental. After settling in, head to the beach! La Grande Plage is perfect for kids to play in the sand.

Afternoon: Grab lunch at a beachside café. Try some local specialties like Basque cake or seafood. After lunch, visit the Biarritz Aquarium. The kids will love the interactive exhibits and the impressive shark tank!

Evening: Stroll along the promenade and enjoy the sunset. For dinner, try a family-friendly restaurant like Le Surfing, where you can enjoy a casual meal with a view.

## Day 2: Explore Bayonne

Morning: After breakfast, take a short train ride or drive to Bayonne. Start your day at the Château-Vieux and explore the charming old town with its colorful half-timbered houses.

Afternoon: Visit the Bayonne Chocolate Museum where the kids can learn about chocolate-making and even participate in a workshop! Enjoy lunch at a local café, sampling some Basque specialties.

Evening: Head back to Biarritz and enjoy a relaxed dinner. Consider a family-friendly pizzeria or a place that serves traditional Basque dishes.

## Day 3: Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Morning: Drive to Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a picturesque fishing village. Spend the morning at the beach, where the shallow waters are perfect for little ones.

Afternoon: After a beach picnic, explore the town. Visit the Maison de l’Infante, where you can learn about the history of the region. Don’t forget to try some local pastries like macarons!

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant. The seafood here is fresh and delicious!

## Day 4: Hiking in the Pyrenees

Morning: Take a day trip to the Pyrenees National Park. Pack a picnic and head to Gavarnie for some family-friendly hiking. The trails are beautiful and suitable for all ages.

Afternoon: Enjoy your picnic surrounded by stunning mountain views. After lunch, take a short hike to see the Cirque de Gavarnie, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Evening: Return to Biarritz and have a cozy dinner at your accommodation or a nearby restaurant.

## Day 5: San Sebastián (Donostia)

Morning: Cross the border into Spain and head to San Sebastián. Start your day at La Concha Beach, where the kids can play and you can relax.

Afternoon: Explore the Old Town (Parte Vieja) and indulge in some pintxos (Basque tapas). There are plenty of kid-friendly options, and the vibrant atmosphere is sure to delight everyone.

Evening: Take a stroll along the beach promenade and enjoy the sunset. For dinner, try a family-friendly restaurant that serves a mix of local and international cuisine.

## Day 6: Cultural Day in Espelette and Ainhoa

Morning: Visit the charming village of Espelette, famous for its red peppers. Explore the local shops and maybe pick up some souvenirs.

Afternoon: Head to Ainhoa, one of the most beautiful villages in France. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and then take a walk through the picturesque streets. There are lovely parks where the kids can play.

Evening: Return to Biarritz for dinner. Consider a family-friendly bistro where you can enjoy a relaxed meal.

## Day 7: Relax and Departure

Morning: Spend your last morning relaxing at the beach or visiting any spots you may have missed in Biarritz. The Rocher de la Vierge is a great place for a family photo!

Afternoon: Enjoy a farewell lunch at a local café. If time allows, do some last-minute shopping for local products like cheese or jamón.

Evening: Depart from Biarritz, taking with you wonderful memories of the Pays Basque!

This itinerary balances relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, ensuring that every family member has a fantastic time. Enjoy your trip to the beautiful Pays Basque! 🌊🏞️🍽️