Bayonne is a beautiful city located in the south-west of France, in the region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, known for its rich history, culture, and gastronomy. Here is a sample itinerary for a weekend trip to Bayonne:
Day 1
- Upon arrival, start your day with a visit to the historic center of Bayonne. The city is known for its charming medieval streets, and you can take a stroll along the narrow alleys and admire the colorful half-timbered houses. The city center is also home to several notable landmarks such as the Gothic-style Saint-Marie Cathedral, the Basque Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Bayonne Citadel.
- After a morning of sightseeing, head to the Place des Halles, the city’s main square, for lunch. Bayonne is renowned for its gastronomy, and you can find many traditional Basque restaurants and cafes here, serving local specialties such as jambon de Bayonne, a cured ham, or a hearty dish of ‘piperade’ with omelette.
- In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Adour River, where you can enjoy the views of the city and the natural surroundings. You can also stop by the Saint-Esprit bridge, which is a popular spot for taking photos, and the nearby Château-Vieux, a medieval castle that offers great views over the city.
- Finish your day by exploring the city’s nightlife. Bayonne is known for its lively atmosphere, and you can find a variety of bars and clubs that stay open late.
Day 2
- Start your day with a visit to the Musée Basque et de l’Histoire de Bayonne, which provides a good introduction to the history and culture of the Basque region.
- After that, take a short drive outside of the city to visit the charming village of Espelette, known for its chili pepper festival, it is also a great opportunity to explore the beautiful Basque countryside.
- Return to Bayonne for lunch, and then spend the afternoon at the beach. Bayonne is located near the Atlantic coast and you can reach the beaches of Anglet and Biarritz in a short drive. You can spend the afternoon soaking up the sun, swimming, or surfing.
- Finish your weekend with a farewell dinner
Zoom on Saint-Marie Cathedral
The Cathédrale Sainte-Marie in Bayonne, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Bayonne, is a Gothic-style cathedral located in the city of Bayonne, in the south-west of France. The cathedral dates back to the 13th century, and it is considered one of the most important landmarks of the city, and a must-see for visitors.
The cathedral is built in a mix of the Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, it features twin spires that rise high above the city, as well as a beautiful facade, with intricate carvings and sculptures. Inside the cathedral, you will find a nave and two aisles, with ribbed vaults and pointed arches, and a beautiful apse with a choir.
One of the most striking features of the cathedral is its stained glass windows, which date back to the 15th century, they are considered some of the most beautiful in the region.
The Cathedral also houses a number of important works of art, including a beautiful altarpiece, a wooden sculpture of the Virgin Mary, and a 14th-century statue of the Virgin and Child.
You can take a guided tour of the cathedral, which will give you an insight into the history and architecture of the building, and also an opportunity to admire the art and sculptures inside.
The Cathédrale Sainte-Marie de Bayonne is a great destination for those who appreciate the beauty of Gothic architecture and art, it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Basque region.
