Saint-Jean-de-Luz, guided tour of a village on the Basque coast

Who hasn't heard of Saint-Jean-de-Luz ?! Its festivals, gastronomy, local produce, and traditions make it a must-see destination when visiting the Basque Country.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a beautiful city to discover

I decide to put my backpack there for the day. I start my walk in the city center, near the house of the Infanta. Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a very important city historically speaking since it celebrated the marriage of Louis XIV with the Infanta of Spain. I therefore discover the residence of Anne of Austria and the Infanta whose architecture is quite similar to the Italian codes with large galleries of square windows and its combination of pink bricks and tawny stones. This house is open to visitors! Opposite, you can admire the port of Saint-Jean-de-Luz which is quite cute.

Continuing along the square, I find myself facing the house of Louis XIV , which can also be visited ( guided tours of a little over 30 minutes). The king stayed there for a month and left his mark. I really like this architecture with its two towers which make the building unique. Right next to it is the town hall which has nothing to envy its neighbor!

Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a relaxing destination

I now go up Rue de la République, which is one of the most typical and busy streets in Saint-Jean-de-Luz. There is also a street party on the third weekend of September. This street leads me to the jetty. I discover a large beach giving me a beautiful view of the Pointe de Socoa. It is the only harbor sheltered from the ocean, so it is possible to swim there in complete peace. Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a very famous seaside resort, it would be a shame not to take advantage of the many advantages of the city!

On the pier, beautiful typical houses in the colors of the Basque Country. They have a beautiful view of the beach ! The latter is supervised from June from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. every day. You can therefore swim in complete safety and enjoy the benefits of the city center which is nearby: ice creams, bistros, crepes, doughnuts, waffles... everything you need for a great vacation !

At the end of the jetty, the Saint-Jean-de-Luz lighthouse. Listed as a Historic Monument, it guides boats and echoes its twin in Ciboure.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz, memorable souvenirs to bring back

I retrace my steps to get closer to the city center. I arrive at the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church, which celebrated the marriage of Louis XIV. It boasts impressive furnishings, including bas-reliefs, paintings, Louis XIV-style chandeliers, and embroidery. It's a remarkable church that shouldn't be missed when visiting Saint-Jean-de-Luz.

In the city center, there are plenty of shops selling local products, all kinds of objects, as well as only a few souvenir shops . Everyone can find something to suit them and have a pleasant stay. Saint-Jean-de-Luz is close to many small towns typical of the Basque Country and it is possible to do a lot of activities all around! It is a charming town that is worth the detour!

You now know how to get to Saint-Jean-de-Luz!

Have a nice walk!

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