Saint Jean De Luz may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to memorable experiences. Its charming port, lively market streets, and proximity to the Basque coast make it a perfect hub for exploring by boat, foot, or even a vintage sidecar. Among the many ways to enjoy this seaside town, we’re especially fond of a sunset boat tour, which combines breathtaking views with a relaxed pace, and a guided walking and gourmet tour that offers a delicious taste of local life. For those craving something truly unique, a private side-car ride takes you along winding coastlines, past Basque farms, and into villages with stories to tell. If you’re looking for a well-rounded itinerary with lots of personal touches, one of these tours could be your ideal choice.
Quick Overview
Our list highlights three of the best tours in Saint Jean De Luz, covering a variety of interests and budgets. Whether you prefer a scenic boat experience, a cultural walking tour with tastings, or an adventurous sidecar ride, there’s something here for everyone. Each offers a chance to see the Basque region from a different angle, with authentic details and local insights. For more details, visit the respective tour pages: Boat tour along the coast, Guided walking & gourmet tour, and Private side-car ride.
1. Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Basque country: Boat tour along the Coast
For about $90 per person, this boat tour offers an engaging way to explore the coast between Biarritz and San Sebastian. It lasts roughly 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the day’s schedule, and is rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 22 reviews. The tour kicks off at 14 Quai de l’Infante, a charming starting point right in Saint Jean De Luz, where you’ll board a comfortable vessel to glide along the Basque coast.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of scenic views and hidden stops. You’ll see the Saint-Jean-de-Luz Bay, with its colorful houses and lively port, then cruise along the Basque Corniche, famed for rugged cliffs and panoramic vistas. A secret stop (with a 30-minute visit) adds an element of surprise, and the trip includes visits to Hendaye and Hondarribia, two charming towns full of character. The cruise culminates with a sunset, lighting up the ocean in shades of orange and pink, perfect for photography or just soaking in the moment. The itinerary is flexible enough to allow for spontaneous discoveries, and the friendly crew shares insights on local history and geography.
Bottom Line: This boat tour offers a relaxed, visually stunning experience, ideal for those who appreciate nature and coastal scenery. It’s a great way to see multiple towns from the water, with enough time to enjoy the sunset. Perfect for travelers seeking a memorable, social outing.
2. Saint Jean de Luz : guided walking & gourmet tour
At $99 per person, this 3-hour guided tour provides a rich immersion into Saint Jean de Luz’s local culture, history, and culinary delights. Rated a perfect 5 out of 5 based on 4 reviews, it’s perfect for those who love exploring on foot and savoring regional flavors. The tour begins at Place Louis XIV, right in the heart of town, where a local guide with deep knowledge of the area will lead you through narrow streets and lively markets.
What sets this tour apart is its blend of history, culture, and cuisine. You’ll explore some of the town’s best-kept secrets, learn about its corsair past, and hear stories that bring Saint Jean de Luz alive. Along the way, you’ll enjoy tastings of local specialties, including regional cheeses, charcuterie, and sweets, plus a freshly roasted coffee at a historic café. The itinerary includes a scenic walk through the town, visiting landmarks, and stopping at the Halles de Saint Jean de Luz market for an authentic taste of local produce.
This tour is particularly suited for foodies and culture buffs, offering intimate encounters with local producers and a chance to see the town from a local’s perspective. The tour’s small size ensures personalized attention, and the focus on tasting makes it both fun and delicious.
Bottom Line: If you want to combine cultural discovery with a culinary adventure, this guided tour offers an authentic taste of Saint Jean de Luz and a chance to connect with local life.
3. Private side-car ride with drivers in the Basque Country
For around $433 per person, this 7-hour private side-car ride offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Rated 5 out of 5 with a single review, it’s suited for travelers who want to see the Basque region in style and comfort, all while enjoying the thrill of riding in a vintage sidecar. Starting from Parking Relais Chantaco, your driver-guide takes you along scenic, winding roads that showcase the stunning contrast of ocean and mountain.
What makes this tour unique is its combination of panoramic drives, cultural stops, and encounters with local wildlife and farms. You’ll visit Espelette, famous for its chili peppers, and Sare, a charming smugglers’ village. You’ll also stop at Ainhoa, a picture-perfect village, and experience a local restaurant break. The itinerary includes photo stops, guided tours, and free time, making it a flexible adventure that caters to your interests. Along the way, you might spot pottoks (small Basque horses) or Kintoa pigs, which are part of the region’s proud farming tradition.
This ride is best suited for travelers comfortable with outdoor activity and looking for a luxurious, personalized day in the countryside. The experience is quite immersive and allows you to cover more ground than a walking tour while enjoying the fresh sea air.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a memorable, stylish way to explore the Basque Country’s highlights and enjoy panoramic views, this private side-car ride offers an unforgettable day out.
$433 per person
How to Choose
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you love being on the water, the boat tour provides a scenic cruise with spectacular sunset views. For those who prefer strolling through town and tasting local food, the guided walking and gourmet tour is ideal. If you’re after a luxury adventure and want to see the countryside in style, the private side-car ride is unmatched.
Consider your fitness level and how active you want your day to be. The boat and side-car tours involve some movement and outdoor exposure, while the walking tour is more relaxed but involves some walking and standing. For booking, remember that popular tours like the boat cruise fill up fast—especially during summer—so plan ahead to secure your preferred time.
Final Thoughts
Saint Jean de Luz offers a fantastic selection of tours that highlight its natural beauty, rich culture, and lively local scene. Whether you choose a scenic boat trip, a culturally rich walk, or an exhilarating sidecar adventure, each experience promises memorable moments. For most travelers, a combination of a water-based tour and a cultural walk makes for a well-rounded visit.
If you have limited time, the guided walking tour provides a quick but thorough immersion into the town’s charms. For a special treat and full-day adventure, the private side-car ride takes you deep into the Basque countryside. No matter your choice, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these top-rated experiences. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget your camera!