Saint-Jean-de-Luz - Discovering France

Travelling to Saint-Jean-de-Luz

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Saint-Jean-de-Luz and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Saint-Jean-de-Luz, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Saint-Jean-de-Luz for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a coastal town located in the Basque Country region of southwestern France. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, charming old town, and rich maritime history. It was once an important fishing port and many traditional Basque fishing boats can still be seen in the harbor. Saint-Jean-de-Luz is also famous for its role in the history of France, as it was the site of the marriage between King Louis XIV of France and the Spanish princess Maria Theresa in 1660. Today, the town is a popular tourist destination and offers visitors a variety of activities such as swimming, surfing, shopping, and dining on delicious Basque cuisine.

What to visit in Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Sure, here are some top tourist attractions of Saint-Jean-de-Luz in France along with some information about each attraction: 1. Plage de Saint-Jean-de-Luz (Saint-Jean-de-Luz Beach): This beautiful beach is a popular attraction for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste (Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church): This stunning 17th-century church is one of the most popular attractions in Saint-Jean-de-Luz. The church is known for its beautiful baroque architecture, intricate carvings, and stunning stained glass windows.
3. Rue Gambetta (Gambetta Street): This is one of the main streets of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and is known for its quaint shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll down this street and soak in the charming atmosphere of the town.
4. Maison de l'Infante (Infante's House): This historical house is a must-visit attraction in Saint-Jean-de-Luz. The house was built in the 17th century and was once the residence of Infanta Marie-Thérèse, the daughter of King Philip IV of Spain. Today, the house is a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Basque Country.
5. Observatoire de la Rhune (La Rhune Observatory): This observatory is located on top of La Rhune mountain and offers stunning views of the Basque Country and the Bay of Biscay. Visitors can take a scenic train ride to the top of the mountain and enjoy panoramic views from the observatory.
6. Musée de la mer (Museum of the Sea): This museum is dedicated to the marine life and history of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Visitors can learn about the town's rich fishing heritage and explore exhibits that feature a variety of marine species.
7. Fort de Socoa (Socoa Fort): This historical fort is located on the coast of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and dates back to the 17th century. The fort was built to protect the town from enemy attacks and served as an important military stronghold during various wars.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Saint-Jean-de-Luz has to offer. Each attraction provides a unique window into this charming French town's rich history and culture.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Saint-Jean-de-Luz.

When to go on holiday to Saint-Jean-de-Luz

The best time to visit Saint-Jean-de-Luz is during the summer months of June to September when the weather is mild and sunny. If you prefer fewer crowds, then it's best to avoid July and August, as these months are the peak tourist season. Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) can also be good times to go, as the weather is still pleasant and you're likely to find cheaper accommodation prices. However, note that some tourist activities and attractions may be closed during the offseason.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Saint-Jean-de-Luz

There are several ways to get to Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France. Here are some options: 1. By plane: The closest airport to Saint-Jean-de-Luz is Biarritz Pays Basque Airport (BIQ), which is about 15 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
2. By train: Saint-Jean-de-Luz has a train station that connects it to major cities in France and Spain. You can take a train from Paris, Bordeaux, or San Sebastian (Spain), among others.
3. By car: Saint-Jean-de-Luz is easily accessible by car. It's located on the A63 highway, which connects Bordeaux with the Spanish border. You can rent a car at the airport if you're flying in, or in one of the nearby cities.
4. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate in the area, including Eurolines and Flixbus. You can take a bus from cities like Bordeaux, Bayonne, or Bilbao (Spain).
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Saint-Jean-de-Luz! Let me know if you have any other questions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Saint-Jean-de-Luz, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Here are some typical foods of Saint-Jean-de-Luz along with a short description for each of them: 1. Chipirons à la plancha - This is a local dish made with squid cooked on a flat griddle with garlic, parsley, and olive oil.
2. Ttoro - Ttoro is a traditional Basque fish soup made with a variety of fish and seafood, vegetables, and a spicy red pepper sauce called piperade.
3. Gateau Basque - A traditional dessert of the Basque region, the gateau Basque is a buttery and crumbly pastry filled with either vanilla pastry cream or cherry jam.
4. Axoa - A stew made with minced veal or pork, typically cooked with red and green peppers, onions, and Espelette pepper.
5. Merlu koskera - A dish made with hake, a local fish, cooked with peas, red peppers, onions, and a white wine sauce.
6. Idiazabal cheese - This is a hard, smoked cheese made with milk from the Basque region's Latxa sheep.
7. Piment d'Espelette - A mild, slightly sweet red pepper used as a seasoning in many local dishes.
These are just some of the delicious dishes you can enjoy during your visit to Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Saint-Jean-de-Luz an expensive destination for tourists?

Saint-Jean-de-Luz can be considered a bit expensive for tourists, especially during the high season. However, it is still possible to find affordable accommodations, restaurants and activities. It's recommended to plan your budget beforehand and book in advance to get good deals. Additionally, visiting during the low season can save you some money, while still enjoying the beauty of the town.

Where to find accomodation in Saint-Jean-de-Luz

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Saint-Jean-de-Luz in France are the city center, the promenade along the beach, and the areas around Place Louis XIV. These areas offer a wide range of hotels, apartments, and bed and breakfasts. They also provide easy access to the town's attractions, including the beach, the port, and the many restaurants and shops. Additionally, if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, you may also consider staying in the residential areas on the outskirts of the town.
You can check hotel prices at Saint-Jean-de-Luz here:
Booking.com

Is Saint-Jean-de-Luz a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Like any tourist destination, it is important to take standard safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding unfamiliar areas at night, and keeping valuables secure. However, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a peaceful and welcoming town and crime rates are relatively low.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Saint-Jean-de-Luz.

What type of travelers will enjoy Saint-Jean-de-Luz the most?

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a charming coastal town in the south of France that offers a variety of activities and attractions suitable for all types of travelers. Couples will find Saint-Jean-de-Luz a romantic destination with scenic views of the ocean and a peaceful atmosphere. The town's rich history and architecture, such as the Church of St. John the Baptist and the Maison de l'Infante, offer perfect opportunities for romantic walks and cultural experiences.
Families can enjoy the local beaches and parks, as well as the Aquarium de Biarritz, which is a popular attraction for children. The town also has a range of family-friendly restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Young people can enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, especially during the summer months when the town is bustling with tourists. There are a variety of bars, clubs and restaurants that offer live music, dancing and cultural events.
Overall, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a destination that can offer something for everyone, whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a fun-filled adventure with friends.

How to get around Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a fairly small town, so walking or biking is a great way to get around and explore all the sights and attractions. However, if you need to travel longer distances or prefer public transportation, there are also buses and taxis available. There is also a train station in the town if you want to travel to nearby destinations. Additionally, renting a car or taking a guided tour are also options.

What to see around Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Sure, here are some great places you can visit in a day trip from Saint-Jean-de-Luz: 1. Biarritz: A beautiful coastal town, known for its sandy beaches, stunning architecture, and surfing.
2. Hendaye: A charming town located on the French-Spanish border, Hendaye boasts a long sandy beach, a picturesque harbour, and an impressive fortress.
3. Bayonne: Famous for its chocolate, this city also has a medieval old town with impressive Gothic architecture.
4. San Sebastian (Spain): A short drive from Saint-Jean-de-Luz is the Spanish city of San Sebastian. Known for its delicious food scene, stylish architecture and stunning sandy beaches.
5. Ainhoa: Located in the Basque Country, Ainhoa is a stunning pastoral town and one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France". Its beautiful streets and remarkable houses blend perfectly with the beautiful surrounding countryside.
6. Espelette: A village just a few kilometers away from Ainhoa. It is famous for its vibrant red peppers used in traditional Basque cuisine.
7. La Rhune: For adventurous travelers, a hike up to the top of La Rhune offers some of the best views of the Basque Country. These are just a few options for day trips, and there are so many other great places to visit nearby!
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