St. Jean de Luz

St. Jean de Luz Port Guide

St. Jean de Luz, France Cruise Port Guide

Welcome to Saint-Jean-de-Luz, an enchanting Basque coastal town nestled along France's southwest coast near the Spanish border.

Renowned for its picturesque crescent bay, rich maritime history, and vibrant Basque culture, this charming port is a favorite tender stop for luxury cruise lines including Windstar Cruises, Oceania Cruises, and Silversea.

Visitors are captivated by its half-timbered architecture, historic royal connections, and exceptional regional cuisine, making it an idyllic stop on French Atlantic itineraries.


Key St. Jean de Luz Port Information

Top Attractions & Excursions

A short stroll from the tender dock brings you to the historic Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste, famous as the site of King Louis XIV's wedding to Maria Theresa of Spain in 1660.

Nearby, explore the Maison Louis XIV, an elegant 17th-century grand mansion overlooking the harbor that offers tours of historic royal rooms.

For relaxation, walk along the scenic Promenade Jacques Thibaud bordering the golden sand of Grand Plage, offering sweeping views of the Pyrenees meeting the Atlantic coast.

Last updated on October 19, 2026

Nearby Cities & Attractions

Just a 20-minute drive north lies the glamorous resort town of Biarritz, famous for its surfing beaches, belle-époque casino, and luxury shopping.

Cross the nearby border into Spain to visit San Sebastián, located roughly 35 minutes away, world-renowned for its legendary pintxos bars and picturesque La Concha Beach.

Alternatively, the medieval town of Bayonne is only 25 minutes away, featuring half-timbered buildings and traditional chocolate workshops.

Last updated on October 19, 2026

Port Location

Cruise ships anchor off the coast, and tender boats deliver passengers directly to the Port de Pêche in the heart of the city.

Upon stepping off the tender pier, visitors immediately find themselves in downtown Saint-Jean-de-Luz, requiring no shuttle buses to access the main sights.

The immediate port area is lively and well-equipped with outdoor waterfront cafes, seafood restaurants, and charming shops.

Last updated on October 19, 2026

Local Currency

The official currency used in Saint-Jean-de-Luz is the Euro (€); US dollars are not accepted for everyday transactions.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at shops, cafes, and attraction ticket counters throughout the city.

ATMs are easily accessible along the main pedestrian thoroughfare, Rue Gambetta, for passengers needing small amounts of cash.

Last updated on October 19, 2026

Safety Considerations

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a very safe seaside town where cruise passengers can comfortably explore on their own.

Standard travel safety habits apply, such as watching your belongings around busy beach areas and street markets.

Exploring the historic town center independently on foot is effortless, though booking guided shore excursions is convenient for travel across the border into Spain.

Last updated on October 19, 2026

Weather & Climate

During the primary cruise season from May through October, Saint-Jean-de-Luz enjoys a mild, pleasant oceanic climate.

Summer daily temperatures average between 20°C and 26°C (68°F to 79°F), making it ideal for sightseeing and beach walks.

Rain showers can occur occasionally due to the nearby mountains and ocean, so carrying a light rain jacket alongside sun protection is recommended.

Last updated on October 19, 2026

Getting Around

Because the town center is flat and compact, walking is the absolute best way to navigate Saint-Jean-de-Luz.

The local train station, Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz - Ciboure, is a 10-minute walk from the tender dock, providing quick rail links to Biarritz and Bayonne.

Taxis are stationed near the train station, and local Hegobus bus routes offer inexpensive regional travel to neighboring coastal villages.

Last updated on October 19, 2026

Shopping

The pedestrianized Rue Gambetta serves as the main shopping area, filled with independent boutiques, craft shops, and food stores.

Popular local souvenirs include authentic Basque linen products, handmade espadrille footwear, Espellette pepper, and gâteau Basque pastry.

Don't miss a visit to Maison Adam on Place Louis XIV to buy traditional almond macarons, baked from a secret family recipe dating back to 1660.

Last updated on October 19, 2026

Shore Excursions & Tours

Private Basque Country Tour Hidden Villages and Culinary Delights

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★ 5.0 (19)

Explore the enchanting Basque Country with a private guide, uncovering secret spots in charming villages like Biarritz, Espelette, and Ainhoa. You will enjoy a scenic drive through breathtaking mountain landscapes in a premium van with a tailor-made itinerary to match your wishes. Along the way, engage with authentic local producers to savor regional delicacies including wine, cheese, and charcuterie.

Initiation Pelota Basque in Biarritz

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★ 5.0 (17)

Discover the fascinating evolution of Basque pelota by learning about its history and specific rules. This experience covers the unique equipment and distinct techniques used across three different disciplines of the sport. You will gain a deeper understanding of this traditional practice through a focused exploration of its mechanics.

Biarritz walking Tours

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★ 5.0 (8)

Join a delightful 90-minute walking tour through the heart of Biarritz, celebrated as one of the most elegant seaside towns on the French Basque coast. This guided stroll provides the perfect introduction to the city by showcasing its rich history and stunning architecture. As you explore, you will also admire breathtaking views of the ocean.

French Basque Country Coastline tour in a VW Combi

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★ 5.0 (8)

Embark on an immersive four-hour private tour aboard a vintage 1970s VW Combi named Woody to discover the French Basque coastline. Starting at the Biarritz Lighthouse, your local guide Clémence will lead you south to Saint Jean de Luz, sharing secrets and pirate stories along the way. This authentic journey offers a unique way to experience the region's heritage and majestic coastal views.

2 peoples Personal Surf Lesson in Biarritz

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★ 5.0 (7)

Enjoy a private two-hour surf lesson designed for two people in the elegant seaside town of Biarritz. This location on the southwestern French coast is widely considered the best surf spot in the Basque Country. You will have the opportunity to hit the waves in a premier destination known for its surfing culture.

Biarritz private surf lessons

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★ 5.0 (6)

Experience a private surf lesson on the beautiful Marbella beach in Biarritz, located in an authentic local setting. You will benefit directly from the extensive knowledge of an instructor with 30 years of surfing experience. This personalized session ensures you learn from a seasoned expert on the Basque coast.

Cetacean Boat Tours in the Basque Country

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★ 5.0 (6)

Board a small group boat for a unique excursion to observe cetaceans in their natural environment off the coast of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. After a 45-minute navigation, you will reach the Gouf de Capbreton oceanic fault, a meeting place for diverse marine life. Here, you may encounter over fifteen species found in the Basque Country, including dolphins, whales, and porpoises.

Discovery of the Basque Country by sidecar with private driver

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★ 5.0 (4)

Travel unforgettably in a sidecar while contemplating extraordinary landscapes and the rich culture of the region. Your driver will make photo stops at your convenience as you ride through the Basque mountains to discover animals grazing freely. This friendly and tailored experience offers a unique way to explore the countryside.

Experience the Best of the Basque Country from Coast to Mountain

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★ 5.0 (4)

Explore beautiful scenery where the mountains meet the ocean as your driver takes you through incredible off-the-beaten-track roads. You will feel like you are in a postcard while learning about the Basque Country and tasting local AOP and AOC food products. This memorable journey shares the most beautiful landscapes of France through the passion of a local expert.

Discover Surfing on the beaches of Biarritz

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★ 5.0 (3)

Learn to surf on one of the beautiful beaches of Biarritz under the supervision of state-certified instructors. Your session includes equipment suited to your size and a group placement based on your level, ensuring a safe and supportive environment. After a warm-up and educational training on land, you will spend an hour and a half in the water practicing your take-off on the waves.

French Basque Country Private Day Tour in an VW Combi

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★ 5.0 (3)

Embark on a full-day immersive journey into the culture and traditions of the Basque Country, spanning from the coastline to the countryside. Your itinerary includes a guided tour of Biarritz, visits to charming villages like Sare and Ainhoa, and a stop in Espelette to discover its famous peppers. You will also enjoy a traditional lunch at a Cider House and taste local specialties like the Basque cake.

St Jean de Luz City Tour

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★ 5.0 (3)

Discover the charm of Saint Jean de Luz on a walking tour that begins among the colorful stalls of Les Halles market. You will stroll through narrow streets lined with traditional houses to visit the Church of Saint John the Baptist, famous as the site of King Louis XIV’s wedding. The experience concludes with views of the fishing harbor and a taste of the town’s famous sweet macarons.

Classes DE Surf Collectif DE 1H30

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★ 5.0 (2)

Take part in a 90-minute group surf course at the iconic Côte des Basques spot in Biarritz. State-educated instructors provide structured teaching adapted to the tides and your skill level to ensure you progress safely. All necessary material is provided, so you only need to bring your motivation to enjoy the waves.

Private Transfer from Biarritz to Bilbao Cruise Port

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★ 5.0 (2)

Enjoy a safe and reliable private transfer from Biarritz to the Bilbao Cruise Terminal in a luxury Mercedes Benz vehicle. This service features a certified, uniformed driver and a fixed price with no hidden costs. A Meet & Greet service is included, where your driver will welcome you holding a board with your name.

Basque Villages & mountain road tour

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★ 5.0 (2)

Step aboard a restored 1970s VW van for a scenic four-hour adventure through iconic Basque Country villages. You will explore Sare and Ainhoa, both recognized among the most beautiful villages in France, before enjoying a tasting of local specialties in Espelette. Your local guide shares captivating stories about the region's history and legends throughout this inland journey.

Biarritz: Full day excursion to visit the Basque coast!

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★ 5.0 (2)

Experience the elegance of the Basque Country in the utmost comfort with this luxury excursion in a top-of-the-line Mercedes minivan. A professional private chauffeur ensures a seamless journey to picturesque villages and historic landmarks. This customizable tour allows you to tailor the itinerary to include dining reservations or specific additional stops.

Biarritz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour

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★ 5.0 (2)

Discover Biarritz from a new perspective with an interactive sightseeing scavenger hunt played on your smartphone. You will solve riddles and clues that lead you to city highlights and hidden gems at your own pace. This unique experience combines a walking tour with a fun game available in both English and French.

Chauffeured car Transfers to Saint Jean Pied de Port

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★ 5.0 (2)

Book a reliable and comfortable chauffeur service for your transfer to Saint Jean Pied de Port. Your bilingual driver provides a meet and greet service complete with flight or train tracking for a seamless arrival. Travel in clean sedans or minivans equipped with mineral water and phone chargers for your convenience.

Visiting St. Jean de Luz Cruise Deals

70 Night Portsmouth to Athens cruise
August 26, 2028
Azamara Journey
S M L XL
Portsmouth → St. Malo → Bordeaux → St. Jean de Luz → Bilbao → Ferrol → Vigo → Porto → Lisbon → Seville → Gibraltar → Malaga → Motril → Cartagena, Spain → Valencia → Barcelona → Marseille → Cannes → Monte Carlo → Portofino → Florence → Porto Santo Stefano → Rome → Sorrento → Salerno → Trapani → Porto Empedocle → Syracuse → Kotor → Sibenik → Venice → Opatija → Zadar → Sibenik → Kotor → Dubrovnik → Hvar → Pula → Venice → Koper → Rovinj → Split → Kotor → Corfu → Kefalonia → Itea → Olympia → Chania → Athens → Monemvasia → Syros → Volos → Thessaloniki → Istanbul → Canakkale → Khios → Rhodes → Agios Nikolaos → Santorini → Mykonos → Athens
$19,729
$282 per day
Inside
9 Night Lisbon to London cruise
August 25, 2027
Oceania Sirena
S M L XL
Lisbon → Porto → Vigo → A Coruna → Bilbao → St. Jean de Luz → Bordeaux → Brest → St. Peter Port → London
$2,999
$333 per day
Inside
PRICE RISING
11 Night Portsmouth to Lisbon cruise
August 26, 2028
Azamara Journey
S M L XL
Portsmouth → St. Malo → Bordeaux → St. Jean de Luz → Bilbao → Ferrol → Vigo → Porto → Lisbon
$3,499
$318 per day
Inside
20 Night Portsmouth to Barcelona cruise
August 26, 2028
Azamara Journey
S M L XL
Portsmouth → St. Malo → Bordeaux → St. Jean de Luz → Bilbao → Ferrol → Vigo → Porto → Lisbon → Seville → Gibraltar → Malaga → Motril → Cartagena, Spain → Valencia → Barcelona
$6,819
$341 per day
Inside
35 Night Rome to Dublin cruise
May 15, 2027
Azamara Journey
S M L XL
Rome → Florence → Monte Carlo → Marseille → Sanary-sur-Mer → Palamos → Tarragona → Malaga → Gibraltar → Seville → Portimao → Lisbon → Porto → Bilbao → St. Jean de Luz → Bordeaux → La Rochelle → Lorient → St. Malo → Portsmouth → Edinburgh → Dundee → Aberdeen → Invergordon → Kirkwall → Glasgow → Douglas → Dublin
$15,079
$431 per day
Outside

Upcoming Cruises to St. Jean de Luz Cruise Deals

35 Night Rome to Dublin cruise
May 15, 2027
Azamara Journey
S M L XL
Rome → Florence → Monte Carlo → Marseille → Sanary-sur-Mer → Palamos → Tarragona → Malaga → Gibraltar → Seville → Portimao → Lisbon → Porto → Bilbao → St. Jean de Luz → Bordeaux → La Rochelle → Lorient → St. Malo → Portsmouth → Edinburgh → Dundee → Aberdeen → Invergordon → Kirkwall → Glasgow → Douglas → Dublin
$15,079
$431 per day
Outside
10 Night Lisbon to Portsmouth cruise
May 29, 2027
Azamara Journey
S M L XL
Lisbon → Porto → Bilbao → St. Jean de Luz → Bordeaux → La Rochelle → Lorient → St. Malo → Portsmouth
$4,469
$447 per day
Inside
11 Night Lisbon to London cruise
June 24, 2027
Oceania Vista
S M L XL
Lisbon → Porto → A Coruna → Bilbao → St. Jean de Luz → Pauillac → Brest → St. Helier → Paris → London
$6,549
$595 per day
Balcony
22 Night Lisbon to London cruise
June 11, 2027
Seabourn Quest
S M L XL
Lisbon → Porto → Bilbao → St. Jean de Luz → St. Malo → Portsmouth → London → Trondheim → Brønnøysund → Svolvaer → Tromsø → Honningsvag → Olden → Bergen → Amsterdam → London
$15,818
$719 per day
Outside
LOWEST PRICE EVER
8 Night Lisbon to London cruise
June 11, 2027
Seabourn Quest
S M L XL
Lisbon → Porto → Bilbao → St. Jean de Luz → St. Malo → Portsmouth → London
$5,998
$750 per day
Outside

Ships in Port Schedule

Map of St. Jean de Luz port area
St. Jean de Luz port location
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© OpenStreetMap · © ESA WorldCover 2021

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Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting St. Jean de Luz

Sailings visiting St. Jean de Luz during the the peak season of fall are much more expensive than the the low season of spring. On average cruises that visit St. Jean de Luz are fairly expensive compared to other itineraries. See the diagram below for the average cost per day by month.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
$437
Jun
$688
Jul
Aug
$319
Sep
$733
Oct
Nov
Dec

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