Discover the captivating Basque region on a day trip from San Sebastian. Explore the stunning beaches of Biarritz, the charming streets of Saint Jean de Luz, and the picturesque town of Hondarribia. This guided tour offers an enriching cultural experience, with opportunities to indulge in local delicacies and scenic coastal drives. Whether you’re a beach lover, a history buff, or simply seeking a memorable day, this excursion promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the Basque Country’s unique charm.
Key Points
- A day trip from San Sebastian to explore the Basque coastal towns of Biarritz, St. Jean de Luz, and Hondarribia.
- Guided tours, sightseeing, and optional lunch included in the $391.52 per person tour package.
- Highlights include exploring the birthplace of European beach tourism in Biarritz and discovering the charming streets of Saint Jean de Luz.
- Tour guides available in English and Spanish, with an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from previous customers.
- Duration of the tour is 8 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour from San Sebastian offers a day trip to explore the charming coastal towns of Biarritz, St. Jean de Luz, and Hondarribia.
Priced from $391.52 per person, the 8-hour excursion includes guided tours, sightseeing, and an optional lunch.
An 8-hour excursion from $391.52 per person with guided tours, sightseeing, and an optional lunch.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they won’t need to pay until the day of the tour.
With English and Spanish-speaking guides, the highly-rated trip showcases the region’s rich history, local cuisine, and picturesque landscapes along the Basque coastline.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in San Sebastian.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with pickup at Donostia-San Sebastian, followed by a guided tour of Biarritz (1 hour) and a visit to the vibrant Les Halles market (45 minutes) to sample local specialties like cheeses, charcuterie, and pastries. Next, travelers enjoy sightseeing in Saint-Jean-De-Luz (75 minutes) before heading to Hondarribia for a 1.5-hour lunch (optional extra fee) and a guided tour (1 hour) of the picturesque fishing district and medieval upper town. Throughout the day, guests will take in panoramic views of the Basque coastline during the 1-hour scenic drive along Mount Jaizkibel before returning to Donostia-San Sebastian.
| Location | Activity | Duration |
| — | — | — |
| Biarritz | Guided Tour | 1 hour |
| Biarritz | Les Halles Market Visit | 45 minutes |
| Saint-Jean-De-Luz | Sightseeing | 75 minutes |
| Hondarribia | Lunch (optional) | 1.5 hours |
| Hondarribia | Guided Tour | 1 hour |
Tour Experience
Exploring the birthplace of European beach tourism and surfing, the tour allows visitors to enjoy the vibrant culture of Biarritz.
Travelers can browse the bustling Les Halles market, sampling local cheeses, charcuterie, and pastries.
Visitors can explore the bustling Les Halles market, sampling delightful local cheeses, charcuterie, and pastries.
Next, they’ll discover the colorful streets and famous macarons of Saint Jean de Luz.
The tour then ventures to picturesque Hondarribia, where visitors can explore the fishing district and medieval upper town.
Throughout the day, guests enjoy panoramic views of the stunning Basque coastline.
With an expert guide providing commentary in English and Spanish, the tour offers a well-curated and unique cultural experience.
Guides and Customer Reviews
A live tour guide is available for this excursion, providing commentary in both English and Spanish.
Based on 16 reviews, travelers have given the tour an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.
Guests praise the guide’s:
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Extensive knowledge of the Basque region
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Ability to provide a comfortable and efficient experience
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Thoughtful incorporation of unique cultural elements into the itinerary
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Engaging storytelling that brings the history and landmarks to life
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Flexibility in accommodating the diverse needs and interests of the group
The overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests this tour is an excellent choice for discovering the charming towns along the Basque coast.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
Passport and comfortable shoes are recommended for this excursion. Transportation and hotel pickup/drop-off are included, though meals and beverages not listed in the package are an additional cost. Guests should confirm tour availability and start times.
| Key Information | | |
| — | — | — |
| Duration | 8 hours | |
| Price | From $391.52 per person | |
| Cancellation Policy | Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance | |
| Payment | Reserve now, pay later | |
| Pickup Location | Donostia-San Sebastian | |
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Explore Biarritz, Birthplace of European Beach Tourism and Surfing
Biarritz, the coastal city in southwestern France, is widely regarded as the birthplace of European beach tourism and surfing.
What once was a small fishing village transformed into a glamorous resort destination in the 19th century, attracting the European elite and pioneering surfers.
This charming city offers a unique blend of French flair and Basque culture.
During the tour, visitors can:
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Stroll along the iconic Grande Plage, once a playground for royalty
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Admire the striking Villa Belza, a château-style mansion perched atop the cliffs
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Explore the Rocher de la Vierge, a rocky outcrop connected to the mainland by a footbridge
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Visit the Musée de la Mer, a maritime museum showcasing the region’s nautical heritage
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Savor local Basque delicacies at the lively Les Halles market
Discover Saint Jean De Luz, Known for Its Colorful Streets and Macarons
After exploring the charms of Biarritz, the tour continues to the captivating town of Saint Jean de Luz.
Known for its colorful streets and delectable macarons, this quaint fishing village offers a delightful respite.
Wander through the picturesque lanes, admiring the Basque architecture and lively markets.
Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the local specialties, including the famous Saint Jean de Luz macarons.
With 75 minutes of sightseeing, you’ll have ample time to learn about the town’s unique character and blend of French and Spanish influences.
The next stop on this journey is the historic town of Hondarribia.
Wander Through Picturesque Hondarribia
As the tour continues, visitors are treated to a guided exploration of the picturesque town of Hondarribia.
This historic fishing district and medieval upper town offers a captivating experience:
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Stroll along the charming, narrow streets lined with colorful buildings and medieval architecture.
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Marvel at the impressive 15th-century Hondarribia Castle, a former royal residence.
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Indulge in a traditional Basque lunch, savoring local delicacies like pintxos (Basque tapas) and txakoli (local white wine).
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Admire the stunning views of the Bidasoa River and the neighboring French town of Hendaye.
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Discover the unique blend of Spanish and French influences that have shaped Hondarribia’s rich cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Sites?
Yes, the tour can be customized to visit specific sites. Travelers can work with the tour operator to modify the itinerary based on their interests and preferences, ensuring they experience the highlights that most appeal to them.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
Yes, the tour provider offers discounts for group bookings. Travelers can get a discounted rate when booking the tour for a group of 4 or more people. The exact discount amount may vary, so it’s best to check with the provider.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but casual, comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended. Visitors should dress for a mix of indoor and outdoor activities and prepare for potential changes in weather.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on the Tour?
The tour does not specifically accommodate dietary restrictions. However, the optional lunch in Hondarribia allows travelers to choose a meal that fits their dietary needs. Guests should notify the tour operator in advance of any special dietary requirements.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour’s standard duration is 8 hours, but there’s no option to extend it. Travelers can, however, inquire about customized tour lengths or add-ons when booking if they’d like to spend more time exploring the region.
Recap
This captivating day trip from San Sebastian allows you to explore the stunning beaches of Biarritz, savor local delicacies in Saint Jean de Luz, and wander through the picturesque streets of Hondarribia. With a high customer rating, the tour promises an enriching cultural experience along the Basque coastline, making it an ideal way to discover the region’s charms.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in San Sebastian
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