26 August 2025 | DAY TOUR
A journey where history meets the Atlantic breeze
Imagine this: you’re enjoying pintxos and Michelin-star dining in San Sebastián, one of Europe’s true gastronomic capitals. The next morning, after a scenic 30-minute drive across the Spanish-French border, you’re standing in a picture-perfect harbor town with colorful fishing boats, royal history, and golden beaches protected from the Atlantic surf.
Welcome to Saint Jean de Luz, the French Basque gem that blends seaside charm, culture, and cuisine into one unforgettable experience. This guide will show you the very best things to do in Saint Jean de Luz, how to get there on an easy day trip from San Sebastián, and why staying at Lasala Plaza Hotel in Donostia makes the perfect starting point for exploring both sides of the Basque Coast.
In 1660, Saint Jean de Luz hosted one of Europe’s most important weddings: King Louis XIV of France married Maria Theresa of Spain at the Church of Saint John the Baptist. The event marked peace between the two nations after decades of war. Even today, visitors can see the walled-up door where the couple exited the church, sealed forever to symbolize a once-in-history event.
Saint Jean de Luz wasn’t just about royalty. In the 17th century, the town became infamous as a base for French Basque corsairs, privateers who raided English ships. Their fortune transformed the village into an elegant port with grand Basque mansions that still stand proudly along the harbor.
Don’t miss the Maison Louis XIV, where the young king stayed before his marriage, and the Maison de l’Infante, home of Maria Theresa during her time in the city. Walking past these grand houses feels like stepping into a living history book.
This golden sandy beach is the beating heart of the town. Thanks to protective seawalls, the water is calm — perfect for swimming, families, or simply relaxing with an ice cream while gazing at the Atlantic.
Few places capture the Basque essence better than the harbor, lined with colorful boats and seafood restaurants. It’s a photographer’s dream and a reminder that fishing is still a way of life here.
Rue Gambetta, the town’s lively pedestrian street, is full of boutiques, artisan shops, and pastry houses. At its heart, the Place Louis XIV buzzes with life, where you can sip coffee at a café and watch locals and travelers mingle.
Markets are where you feel the soul of a place. At Les Halles, you’ll find fresh fish, Basque cheeses, charcuterie, breads, and sweets. It’s the perfect stop to stock up for a picnic on the beach or to simply enjoy tasting your way through local flavors.
For panoramic views, hike up to Pointe de Sainte-Barbe. The green hill overlooks the bay, the Grande Plage, and the endless Atlantic. It’s one of those spots where you’ll want to pause and just take it all in.
The Paul Jovet Botanical Garden offers trails and viewpoints framed by native flora, while the Jacques Thibaud promenade runs along the beach, perfect for a morning stroll or a sunset walk.
Saint Jean de Luz is more than just beautiful streets and beaches — it’s an experience.
Food is at the heart of Basque life. Try the iconic macarons from Maison Adam, originally created in 1660 for King Louis XIV, or a slice of gâteau basque, a traditional Basque cake with cream or cherry filling. And of course, fresh seafood is everywhere.
American travelers love to take home something unique. In Saint Jean de Luz, look for Basque linens, gourmet chocolates, and handmade ceramics — gifts that carry the essence of the region.
Saint Jean de Luz is famous for its thalassotherapy centers, where treatments use the healing power of seawater. After a morning of exploration, imagine soaking in warm saltwater pools while overlooking the Atlantic.
The town is perfectly located for exploring other coastal towns near San Sebastián, including chic Biarritz, historic Bayonne, and charming Hendaye. Each offers a different flavor of Basque culture, all within a short drive.
Dining here is a treat, whether you want a casual bistro or a more refined experience. Some traveler favorites include:
And don’t miss the pastry shops: Maison Adam for macarons and Pariès for the irresistible gâteau basque.
If you love food, combining Saint Jean de Luz with a stay in San Sebastián — arguably the food capital of Europe — makes for the ultimate culinary trip.
The beauty of this destination for American travelers? It’s so close. You can have tapas in Spain for dinner, and croissants in France the next morning.
This flexibility makes it one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from San Sebastián to Saint Jean de Luz.
While Saint Jean de Luz is an enchanting day trip, the best way to experience the Basque region is to base yourself in San Sebastián. At Lasala Plaza Hotel, you’re steps from the city’s old town and beaches, with sweeping sea views that connect you back to the Atlantic every morning.
From here, you can explore the city’s world-famous gastronomy, visit nearby coastal towns near San Sebastián, and still return each night to luxury, comfort, and the best views in town.
Things to do in Saint Jean de Luz aren’t just checklists of sights. They are moments: watching the sun dip into the Atlantic from Sainte-Barbe, tasting a macaron that carries four centuries of history, or walking the very streets where kings and queens once strolled.
From the comfort of Lasala Plaza Hotel in San Sebastián, this French Basque treasure is yours to discover. Two countries, two cultures, one unforgettable journey.
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