Small Group French Basque Markets & Local Specialties Food Tour

Spend a day tasting the French Basque Country through the places where locals actually eat. In a small group, explore Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Biarritz, and Bayonne while discovering the markets, producers, and traditions that shape the region’s food culture. The experience begins in Saint-Jean-de-Luz on lively market day, where even Michelin-starred chefs shop for produce. Among colorful stalls, taste regional cheeses with fresh baguette and Bayonne ham, then visit Maison Adam to try the famous Basque macaron created here in the 17th century. Continue to elegant Biarritz to walk the coastal promenade before visiting Les Halles market. Here you’ll taste Atlantic seafood such as oysters, shrimp, or bulots paired with regional wine. Afterwards enjoy free time to have lunch or explore the seaside town. Finish in Bayonne, cultural capital of the French Basque Country, where you’ll stroll historic streets and taste artisan chocolate in one of the city’s traditional chocolate houses.

1. 1

   Saint-Jean-de-Luz

   1.5 hours

   Waking up early to embark on a gastronomic adventure through the Côte Basque is well worth it. This Atlantic coastal gem offers some of the most picturesque views and authentic flavors in the region. Our first stop will take us to Saint-Jean-de-Luz, where we’ll meet a master cheesemaker. An affineur is the guardian of cheese perfection, carefully maturing each piece until it’s at its peak. In Saint-Jean-de-Luz, we’ll sample a variety of cheeses curated by a skilled affineur.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   10 min

   Saint-Jean-de-Luz, nestled within its sheltered bay, is a charming fishing village with a fascinating history. At Maison Adam pastry shop, where the first macarons were created in 1660, we’ll indulge in a sweet slice of history. Nearby, we’ll uncover tales of the French corsair Johannès de Suhigaraychipi, whose daring exploits still echo through the town. A visit to the Church of St. John the Baptist, adorned with intricate wooden carvings and nautical-themed miniatures, brings us closer to the town’s seafaring legacy.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   15 min

   Known for its timeless sophistication, Biarritz has long been a hub of luxury and leisure. From its pioneering days as a beach destination 200 years ago to becoming Europe’s surf mecca in the 1950s, this city is a blend of heritage and style. We’ll stroll along its elegant promenade, take in views of the Atlantic, and marvel at the grand architecture, ending at the iconic lighthouse lookout.

4. 4

   Mercado Les Halles

   30 min

   The lively Les Halles Market is a feast for food lovers, offering the best of French culinary delights: cheeses, charcuterie, and freshly baked pastries. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a few gourmet souvenirs or simply savor the moment. Here, we’ll enjoy Arcachon oysters, prawns, and escargots, accompanied by a crisp white wine from Les Landes.

5. 5

   Biarritz

   1 hour

   Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the seaside town at your pace: lunch, shopping, or simply a stroll along the promenade.

6. 6

   Bayonne

   1 hour

   We finish in Bayonne, the cultural capital of the French Basque Country and the kind of place that surprises you at every corner. Half-timbered houses line the streets, the Gothic cathedral watches over the town, and the scent of fresh chocolate lingers in the air—for good reason. Centuries ago, chocolate-makers brought their craft here, and the tradition never left. We step into one of the city’s artisan chocolate houses to sip rich hot or cold chocolate and sample handcrafted pralines.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Adults only
• Carry your passport or European ID with you
• Not recommended for vegans, vegetarian options are limited

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.