Saint Jean De Luz is a wonderful base for exploring the Basque coastline. Its charming fishing port, lively markets, and rich maritime traditions make it a natural starting point for memorable tours. We especially love the Boat tour along the coast for its stunning ocean views and the chance to admire the sunset. The guided walking and gourmet tour offers a tasty dive into local flavors, perfect for food lovers. And for those craving a truly unique experience, the private side-car ride takes you along scenic roads, with panoramic views and encounters with Basque wildlife. Whether you’re into boat rides, cultural walks, or adventurous rides, Saint Jean De Luz offers several ways to experience its beauty and character.
Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of the best tours in Saint Jean De Luz. Each one offers a distinct way to discover the area, from the water to the streets, and even on two wheels. Take a look at these options and see which one suits your travel style best.
1. Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Basque country: Boat tour along the Coast
This boat tour in Basque country is a fantastic way to see the coast between Biarritz and San Sebastian from the water. With a high rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 22 reviews, it’s clear travelers love the experience. For around $90 per person, you’ll spend about 2.5 to 3.5 hours exploring the coastline, with options to check available start times.
What sets this tour apart is its variety of stops, including scenic views on the way, a secret visit, and cruises from Hendaye to Hondarribia. You’ll enjoy a sunset cruise that’s especially beautiful if you favor evening scenery. The itinerary includes interesting stops like The Basque Corniche and a secret stop that adds an element of surprise. You’ll start at 14 Quai de l’Infante, with the tour wrapping up at the same spot.
The tour is perfect for nature lovers and those who want to see the coast from a different perspective. It offers a relaxed pace but enough variety to keep everyone engaged. The chance to admire the sunset over the ocean makes this a memorable outing.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a scenic, relaxing experience with flexible timing and excellent reviews. It’s a great choice if you love being on the water and soaking in coastal views.
2. Saint Jean de Luz : guided walking & gourmet tour
This guided walking tour is rated a perfect 5 out of 5 by four reviewers, highlighting its quality. For just $99 per person, you’ll spend three hours exploring Saint Jean de Luz with a local guide, discovering its secrets, history, and culinary delights.
The tour kicks off at Place Louis XIV and takes you through the city’s most iconic spots, including the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste where Louis XIV married. It includes a food and coffee tasting at a historic spot, giving you a taste of Basque cuisine. As you walk, you’ll enjoy scenic views and learn about local life, with opportunities to meet passionate local producers and see bustling markets.
What makes this tour stand out? It combines cultural insights with culinary delights, including regional cheeses, wines, and sweet treats. You’ll finish at Mercado Les Halles de Saint Jean de Luz, where you can continue exploring or pick up some regional specialties.
This tour is perfect for foodies, history lovers, and anyone wanting an authentic look into local life. The small-group setting ensures a personalized experience, making it ideal for couples or small groups.
Bottom line: A balanced mix of cultural discovery and gourmet tasting, perfect for travelers who enjoy walking and good food. It’s especially suited for those interested in local traditions and culinary culture.
3. Private side-car ride with drivers in the Basque Country
This private side-car tour offers a one-of-a-kind way to see the Basque region, rated 5 out of 5 based on a single review. For $433 per person, you’ll spend a full 7 hours riding comfortably in a sidecar, taking scenic routes from Saint-Jean-de-Luz to the mountains and coastal villages.
The experience begins at Parking relais Chantaco with a guided sightseeing tour of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. From there, you travel along the Basque Corniche, with photo stops and scenic drives that reveal the area’s rugged beauty. You’ll encounter pottoks (small Basque horses) and Kintoa pigs, adding a wildlife element to the ride. The itinerary also includes visits to Espelette, famous for its chili peppers, and Sare, a historic smuggling village.
What makes this tour unique is its blend of adventure and comfort. Riding in a sidecar allows for unobstructed views and a feeling of freedom, while the driver guides you through both well-known and offbeat spots. It’s suited for those comfortable with a full day of riding and seeking something exclusive and memorable.
Bottom line: The best choice for adventurous travelers who want an active, intimate exploration of the Basque Country with stunning vistas and local encounters.
4. Walking tour of Saint Jean de Luz
This walking tour, rated 4.5 out of 5 by two reviews, is a quick but thorough way to see Saint Jean de Luz in 1.5 hours. Starting from Arnabar, the tour guides you through the town’s maritime tradition and key sights such as the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste and the Grande Plage.
You’ll learn about the city’s history, especially its importance as a fishing port, and hear stories that give life to the streets. The guide will point out local landmarks and scenic views, making this tour ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview in a brief period. It ends near the main market, inside the lively market area, where you can explore further.
This tour is suited for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a leisurely stroll with a knowledgeable guide. It’s also great for families or anyone wanting a relaxed introduction to Saint Jean de Luz’s coastal charm.
Bottom line: A concise, engaging way to get oriented and learn about the city’s maritime roots, perfect as a first taste of Saint Jean de Luz.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
Picking the best tour depends on your interests and travel style. If you love being on the water and relaxing with scenic views, the Boat tour along the coast is hard to beat. For food lovers wanting an immersive experience, the guided walking and gourmet tour offers a delicious glimpse into local flavors. If adventure and unique vehicles appeal to you, the private side-car ride provides a memorable journey with panoramic views.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. The boat tour is a longer but relaxing outing, while the walking tour is quick and rich in culture. The side-car ride is more exclusive, suited for those seeking adventure. For a brief introduction, the walking tour is ideal; for a full-day exploration, the side-car option is unbeatable.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular experiences like the boat tour or the side-car ride, which fill up quickly. Think about the season — summer offers longer daylight and better weather for outdoor tours, but many experiences run year-round.
Final Thoughts
Saint Jean De Luz offers a variety of ways to experience its scenic coast, historic streets, and lively markets. For a relaxing day, the boat tour provides stunning ocean views and sunset magic. If you prefer culture with delicious tastings, the guided walking tour is a perfect fit. Adventure seekers will enjoy the private side-car ride, an exciting way to explore the rugged landscape.
No matter which you choose, these tours promise a closer look at one of France’s most charming seaside towns. To avoid missing out, consider booking your preferred experience early, especially during peak season. With so many engaging options, your visit to Saint Jean De Luz will be packed with memorable moments.
