3 day itinerary for Saint Jean De Luz

Itinerary

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a charming coastal town in the Basque Country of France, known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Here's an ideal itinerary for your 3-day stay:

Day 1:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying some freshly baked croissants and a strong cup of coffee. After breakfast, head to the Plage de Saint-Jean-de-Luz, the town's main beach, for a relaxing morning by the sea. You can rent a beach chair and umbrella or simply soak up the sun on the golden sand.

For lunch, indulge in some Basque cuisine at one of the many waterfront restaurants. Try some local specialties like pintxos (small tapas-style dishes) or seafood platters featuring fresh catch from the Bay of Biscay.

In the afternoon, take a stroll through the historic Old Town, admiring the traditional Basque architecture and browsing the charming boutiques. Don't miss the Maison de l'Infante, a beautiful 17th-century house where the Spanish Infanta Maria Teresa stayed before her marriage to Louis XIV.

End your day with a sunset walk along the promenade, enjoying the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. For dinner, dine at a cozy bistro and savor some Basque-style grilled fish or a hearty cassoulet.

Day 2:

Today, venture out of town to explore the picturesque countryside of the Basque Country. Rent a bike or take a scenic drive along the coastal road to the nearby village of Sare. Here, you can visit the charming Sare Village and take a ride on the Petit Train de la Rhune, a historic cog railway that takes you to the summit of La Rhune mountain for breathtaking views of the Pyrenees.

After returning to Saint-Jean-de-Luz, spend the afternoon at the Château d'Abbadia, a stunning 19th-century castle overlooking the ocean. Explore the castle's grounds and gardens, and learn about the life and work of its eccentric creator, Antoine d'Abbadie.

In the evening, head to a traditional Basque cider house for a unique dining experience. Enjoy a hearty meal of grilled meats, local cheeses, and plenty of cider poured straight from the barrel.

Day 3:

On your final day in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, start with a visit to the bustling fish market at the Port de Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Watch the fishermen unload their catch of the day and pick up some fresh seafood to take home or enjoy at a local restaurant.

Next, take a boat trip to the nearby town of Ciboure, where you can explore the historic Fort Socoa and stroll along the waterfront promenade. Stop for a leisurely lunch at a seaside café and savor some more delicious Basque dishes.

In the afternoon, relax on the beach or try your hand at surfing or paddleboarding in the clear waters of the Bay of Biscay. Alternatively, you can visit the Maison de l'Infante for a guided tour to learn more about the town's royal history.

For your final evening in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, where you can sample innovative Basque cuisine paired with fine wines. Raise a toast to a wonderful stay in this charming seaside town!

I hope this itinerary gives you a taste of the best that Saint-Jean-de-Luz has to offer. Enjoy your trip!