On the road: Pauline Limouzin’s favorite addresses in Basque Country

Must-see spots in the Basque Country? 

Stroll through Guéthary

"This former fishing village, full of charm, is famous for its legendary wave, Parlementia. For me, it’s an essential stop on the Basque coast. After a walk or a swim, nothing beats grabbing a coffee, breakfast, or snack at Providence, exploring potter Lena Baltazard’s world, or browsing the Parlementia shop. Then, settle in for a meal at Café du Fronton or, in season, at Hétéroclito."

64210 Guéthary

A hike from Pasaia to San Sebastian

"A day that blends nature, city, and gastronomy! In the morning, hop on the Topo from Hendaye to Pasaia, then walk along the coast all the way to San Sebastian. Once you arrive in the early afternoon, hit the tapas bars for a pintxo (don’t miss the Basque cheesecake at La Viña). Then take the Topo back to Hendaye to complete the loop."

L’Atalante Cinema

"Whether you’re in the mood for a film, a documentary, an exhibition, or just a sunset drink, this art-house cinema on the edge of the Adour river has it all!"

3–5 Quai Amiral Antoine Sala, 64100 Bayonne

Sunset at the Côte des Basques

"A must-visit spot in Biarritz, the Côte des Basques offers a breathtaking show at sunset, with stunning views of both the ocean and the mountains."

Côte des Basques, 64200 Biarritz

Restaurants, grocery stores & markets to savor? 

Bayonne Market

"Every Saturday morning, the Halles de Bayonne comes alive with local producers and artisans. I love filling my basket with high-quality local products, chatting with the vendors, and ending the morning with a coffee in the sun at Bar François’ terrace."

Carreau des Halles, Quai Dominique Roquebert, 64100 Bayonne

Bocata

"This charming, vintage-style canteen is a perfect spot for breakfast or a midday bite in Saint-Jean-de-Luz (just a short walk from the train station). The small menu changes daily and features sandwiches that are as original as they are generously filled, delicious daily specials, and comforting desserts."

9 Avenue de Verdun, 64500 Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Ressources Grocery Store

"Fruits and vegetables, cheeses, eggs, charcuterie, meats, fine groceries, wines, spirits, and soft drinks—you’ll find everything you need to prepare a great meal using the finest local products. At lunchtime, the store’s ingredients are transformed into beautiful dishes, sandwiches, and quiches."

2 Rue Jean Mouton, 64600 Anglet

Café Belardi
"In the heart of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, this colorful bistro—with a façade covered in past menus—is the perfect stop for a high-quality lunch at a very reasonable price. In the evening, the shared plates step up a notch, accompanied by the house’s excellent drink recommendations."

5 Avenue Labrouche, 64500 Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Freya

"Located in the Saint-Charles district of Biarritz, Freya is a true celebration of the local plant-based terroir, showcased in high-end gastronomic dishes and accompanied by impeccable service."

1 Rue du Lycée, 64200 Biarritz

Elizaberriko

"Competition-worthy tortilla, Getaria anchovies, whole wild turbot, txuleta, cheesecake, coq au lait, homemade ice creams… This neighborhood restaurant, styled like a cozy inn, perfectly blends Basque traditions and ingredients with a Franco-Spanish—and even Saxon—twist."

85 Chemin d'Errelua, Quartier Elizaberri, 64240 Hasparren

Cave Dolia

"Behind a large bay window, this bright wine cellar offers expert wine advice for every budget, with a constant focus on respect for nature and artisanal craftsmanship. To complement your menu, you can also take home local cheeses and farm-produced charcuterie."

900 Rue Harguin Etcheberry, 64210 Bidart

Bars, cafés & tearooms to sip a drink?

Tinto All Day

"In Anglet, this Franco-Colombian hotspot won over my taste buds—and my heart—from the very first bite of its legendary 'love cake'! From breakfast to afternoon tea, you can enjoy Colombian specialties with Basque touches, alongside other comforting cakes and drinks that are as unusual as they are addictive."

163 Avenue de l'Adour, 64600 Anglet

Etikoa

"At Etikoa, I come as often to pick up their sourdough bread and other baked delights as I do to enjoy a meal at the large farmhouse table, paired with a specialty coffee or one of their decaf creations (barley coffee, chicory, or homemade pumpkin latte…)."

6 Place de la République, 64100 Bayonne

Sweet Pea

"For those with a sweet tooth, this is a must-visit in Ciboure. I love settling in here to work or take a coffee break while enjoying one of their homemade cakes."

23 Quai Maurice Ravel, 64500 Ciboure

Les Contrebandiers

"For an evening of indulgent pintxos and fine wines, I love going to Les Contrebandiers, a cozy Biarritz institution (bar, dining cellar, and wine shop) that always fills both its indoor and outdoor seating!"

20 Avenue Victor Hugo, 64200 Biarritz

Shops to pick up souvenirs for your suitcase?

Ateleria

"Ateleria brings together five Basque designers under one roof in Bayonne. From ceramic pieces and coastal-inspired lamps to recycled gold and silver jewelry and upcycled designer bags, this multi-concept store celebrates originality and sustainability."

32 Rue Poissonnerie, Bayonne, France 64130

Les Explorateurs Modernes

"A cozy little shop of local creators and artisans, where you can find everything from herbal teas, illustrations, and poetry collections to wooden objects, jewelry, and textile creations. I also display my photo prints here, highlighting Basque markets, tables, daily life, and landscapes."

14 Rue du Pilori Porte Droite, 64100 Bayonne

Ainsi de Suite

"This high-end consignment shop in the heart of Bayonne offers premium clothing and accessories, curated vintage finds, and artisanal objects—not to mention creations from the Bayonne-based upcycling brand Retrouvailles Atelier."

9 Rue Lormand, 64100 Bayonne

Monsieur Txokola

"It’s impossible to leave the chocolate capital without picking up some txokola. In the Petit Bayonne district, the team at Monsieur Txokola crafts a variety of 'Bean to Bar' chocolate bars—whether single-origin or infused with indulgent local flavors. And their spreads… simply irresistible!"

11 Rue Jacques Laffitte, 64100 Bayonne