St. Jean de Luz, France
Nestled in the heart of the French Basque Country, this charming coastal town offers cruise passengers a perfect blend of royal history and seaside relaxation. Frequently visited by boutique lines such as Seabourn, Silversea, and Windstar Cruises, the port provides an intimate glimpse into traditional Basque culture without the crowds of larger terminals. Visitors are immediately drawn to its beautiful crescent bay, renowned culinary scene, and the distinct architecture that lines the pedestrian-friendly streets.
The most significant landmark is the Church of St. John the Baptist, famous for hosting the wedding of King Louis XIV and featuring a spectacular baroque altarpiece. Just a short walk away, history buffs can tour the Maison Louis XIV, the opulent shipowner's home where the young king stayed before his marriage. For those seeking relaxation, the sheltered Grande Plage offers pristine sands and calm waters right in the heart of the town, easily accessible during a standard port stop.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
Many passengers take a short excursion to Biarritz, a glamorous seaside resort known for its surfing culture and imperial history, located just 20 to 30 minutes north. Alternatively, a trip across the border to San Sebastian in Spain takes approximately 40 minutes, offering world-class tapas and stunning bay views. The historic city of Bayonne is also close by, famous for its Gothic cathedral and delicious chocolate heritage.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
Cruise ships anchor in the bay, and tenders ferry passengers directly to the small fishing port located in the absolute center of the town. Once ashore, you are immediately immersed in the action, with the main square, Place Louis XIV, and the primary shopping streets just steps away from the tender pier. There is no need for shuttles to reach the downtown area, making it an incredibly convenient destination for independent exploration.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
As a French destination, the official currency is the Euro. While credit cards are widely accepted at most restaurants and boutiques, it is advisable to carry some small cash for markets or smaller cafes. ATMs are plentiful within the town center near the tender drop-off point, so obtaining local currency is hassle-free for visiting passengers.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
This town is generally considered very safe for tourists, with a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere that makes independent exploration stress-free. Violent crime is rare, though standard precautions against pickpocketing should be taken in crowded market areas or busy squares. The ocean conditions in the bay are usually calm due to the breakwaters, but visitors should always pay attention to flag warnings on the beaches.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
The region enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by warm summers and mild, damp winters. During the peak cruise season from May to September, temperatures typically range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), making it comfortable for walking tours. Passengers should pack layers and a waterproof jacket or umbrella, as rain showers can occur suddenly even during the warmer months.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
The town center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, so walking is the primary and best mode of transport for local sightseeing. For venturing further, the SNCF train station is centrally located and connects to nearby cities like Biarritz and Hendaye efficiently. Local buses, specifically the Txik Txak network, offer affordable rides to neighboring coastal towns, while taxis are available near the port for more direct transfers.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
The pedestrian street Rue Gambetta is the main artery for shopping, lined with boutiques selling authentic Basque linen and handcrafted espadrilles. Foodies should look for the famous local macarons from Maison Adam or Kanouga caramels from Maison Pariès, both of which make excellent edible souvenirs. Prices are generally fixed, and visitors can find high-quality leather goods and berets that reflect the region's strong cultural identity.
Last updated on February 3, 2026
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Improve your photography skills by alternating between theoretical advice and practical shooting in varied lighting conditions. You will capture subjects ranging from the surfing legends of Biarritz and the art-deco architecture of Guéthary to the 18th-century shipowners' houses in Saint-Jean de Luz. This creative tour takes you far from the beaten track and includes a lunch break along the ocean.
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.
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.
Experience the best of the Spanish Basque Country on this day trip that begins in Bilbao with admission to the iconic Guggenheim Museum and a walk through the Old Town. After savoring a traditional pintxos lunch paired with regional wines, the tour continues to San Sebastian to explore the elegant La Concha and the Old Quarter. Round-trip transport in an air-conditioned vehicle and expert local guides are included for a comfortable journey.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Showing 13 ships in the area
No ships scheduled in port today.
Cruises visiting St. Jean de Luz during the the peak season of summer are much more expensive than the low months of spring and fall. Overall St. Jean de Luz is fairly expensive as a port of call. Look at the graph below for the average cost per day by month.
Want to hear about the best deals and cruise tips every week? Sign up for our free weekly VIP Newsletter, customized exactly to your preferences!
