Things to Do in Saint-Jean-de-Luz
1. Explore Saint-Jean-de-Luz’s Historic Old Town
Wander through the historic centre of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and you’ll find narrow streets lined with traditional Basque houses, colourful shutters, independent boutiques and inviting cafés. Much of the town’s character comes from its maritime past and distinctive Basque architecture. The centre is compact and easy to explore on foot, making it perfect for a relaxed stroll. Take your time, look down the smaller side streets and enjoy the lively yet traditional atmosphere.
2. Visit the Church of Saint John the Baptist and Maison Louis XIV
The Church of Saint John the Baptist is one of Saint-Jean-de-Luz’s most important historic landmarks. It is particularly famous as the setting for the 1660 wedding of King Louis XIV and Maria Theresa of Spain. Inside, admire the magnificent Baroque altarpiece and traditional wooden galleries. Afterwards, visit the nearby Maison Louis XIV, where the young king stayed around the time of his marriage, for another fascinating glimpse into this remarkable chapter of French history.
3. Discover the Maison de l’Infante
Overlooking the harbour, the Maison de l’Infante is another building closely connected with Saint-Jean-de-Luz’s royal history. The striking 17th-century house welcomed Maria Theresa of Spain before her marriage to Louis XIV in 1660. Its distinctive pink façade makes it one of the most recognisable buildings beside the port. Even if you don’t go inside, it is worth stopping to admire the architecture and imagine Saint-Jean-de-Luz during one of the most celebrated moments in its history.
4. Shop on Rue Gambetta
Rue Gambetta is the main shopping street running through the heart of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Largely pedestrianised, it is a pleasant place to browse fashion boutiques, delicatessens, bakeries and shops selling Basque products. Look out for local textiles, espadrilles, chocolates and regional foods that make excellent souvenirs. Cafés and tempting food shops provide plenty of reasons to stop along the way. The street is also a useful route for exploring many of the old town’s main sights.
5. Explore Les Halles and Try Basque Food and Taste Saint-Jean-de-Luz Macarons
Food lovers should make time for Les Halles, Saint-Jean-de-Luz’s covered market. Stalls showcase produce from the French Basque Country, including cheeses, charcuterie, seafood, vegetables and regional delicacies. It’s an excellent introduction to local flavours and the town’s strong connection with both the ocean and surrounding countryside. Afterwards, continue your culinary tour at a local restaurant, trying dishes featuring fresh fish, Bayonne ham, piment d’Espelette, Basque cheese or a slice of traditional gâteau basque.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz is known for its traditional Basque-style macarons, quite different from the colourful filled macarons found elsewhere in France. Made primarily with almonds, sugar and egg whites, they have a simple, soft and wonderfully nutty character.
7. Visit the Botanical Garden and Discover Ciboure
For a quieter side of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, visit the coastal botanical garden, where plants and landscapes reflect the natural environments of the Basque coast. It provides a peaceful contrast to the busy town centre. Then cross the harbour to neighbouring Ciboure, the birthplace of composer Maurice Ravel. Its waterfront, traditional Basque buildings and fishing heritage make it a natural extension of a Saint-Jean-de-Luz visit, while the views back across the harbour are particularly picturesque.
8. Visit Fort Socoa and Explore Nearby Basque Villages
Continue beyond Ciboure to Socoa, where the historic Fort Socoa stands beside the entrance to the bay. The waterfront is a lovely place for a coastal walk and offers a different perspective of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. If you have more time, head inland to explore villages such as Ascain, Sare, Ainhoa and Espelette. Whitewashed houses with red or green shutters, mountain scenery, local food and strong Basque traditions make these villages an excellent addition to your stay.
