Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, an iconic stop on the Way of St James in the heart of the Basque Country
A historic gem nestled at the foot of the Basque Pyrenees, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port invites you on a journey to the heart of a vibrant fortified town. Stroll through its cobbled streets and follow in the footsteps of the pilgrims to the Porte Saint-Jacques, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With its fortifications designed by Vauban, remarkable religious heritage and local crafts, this vibrant village blends Basque traditions with warm hospitality.
A stage on the Way of St James in the Basque Pyrenees
A citadel, a medieval prison, a rampart walk and a Gothic treasure trove all welcome you for an unforgettable stay!
Word of Mouth
In Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, secondary school pupils attend lessons in a citadel designed by Vauban. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful secondary schools in France!
Your experiences to live in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
©Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
Explore the village at a leisurely pace
Let yourself be swept away by the charm of the cobbled streets, and admire the red or green half-timbered façades, typical of Basque architecture. From Rue de la Citadelle to Rue d’Espagne and on to the ramparts, via the Porte Saint-Jacques – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – you’ll find a wealth of heritage and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
©Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
Get into the swing of Basque traditions
If you’d like to immerse yourself in everyday Basque culture, nothing could be easier! Watch the pelota matches on Fridays and Sundays at the fronton and listen to the Basque choirs singing in the church during the summer.
Having a pair of bespoke espadrilles made
Step inside Maison Arangois, which continues the tradition of hand-sewn espadrilles. After touring the workshop, choose your style and fabric, and leave with your own pair of personalised espadrilles! And if you appreciate craftsmanship passed down through the generations, why not follow on with a visit to the Navarrese Pottery Workshop: a taste of the Basque spirit guaranteed!
Discover the flavours of the Basque Country at the market(s)
Stock up on fresh, local produce at the unmissable Monday morning market on Place des Remparts. In summer, there’s also a market featuring local farmers and craftspeople every Thursday. It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up some sheep’s-milk cheese, Irouléguy AOP wines, Banca trout, or even cherry jam and Basque cake!
Ideas for everyone, all the time
The Oct. 22, 2026
Rando à la ferme avec Trott'Iraty
Departing from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, meet Fabien and Sébastien who await you for an unforgettable visit to their sheep's cheese and honey farm. After the visit, we'll continue upwards to the most beautiful viewpoints in the Garazi valley, before coming back down, our heads full of memories and our backpacks full of goodies. Package includes: scooter rental, helmet and gloves, guide, farm visit and insurance. We recommend wearing long clothes and closed shoes, a bag with water and a jacket in case of changeable weather. It is compulsory to know how to ride a bike (level 2/5). For people over 14. Total duration: approx. 3 hours. Departure valid from 4 participants.
Next dates:
- 10/22/2026
The Oct. 22, 2026 from 3:30 p.m.
Rando à la ferme avec Trott'Iraty
Departing from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, meet Fabien and Sébastien who await you for an unforgettable visit to their sheep's cheese and honey farm. After the visit, we'll continue upwards to the most beautiful viewpoints in the Garazi valley, before coming back down, our heads full of memories and our backpacks full of goodies. Package includes: scooter rental, helmet and gloves, guide, farm visit and insurance. We recommend wearing long clothes and closed shoes, a bag with water and a jacket in case of changeable weather. It is compulsory to know how to ride a bike (level 2/5). For people over 14. Total duration: approx. 3 hours. Departure valid from 4 participants.
Next dates:
- 10/22/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 23, 2026
Rando à la ferme avec Trott'Iraty et pique-nique du berger au cayolar
Departing from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, meet Fabien and Sébastien for an unforgettable visit. After this visit, we'll continue to the kaiolar, to enjoy a simple, authentic shepherd's picnic in an exceptional setting. A complete experience to fully immerse yourself in mountain pasture life and its magical panoramas. Package includes: tottinette rental, helmet and gloves, guide, farm visit, insurance, shepherd's picnic. Shopping available at the farm. We recommend wearing long clothes and closed shoes, a bag with water and a jacket in case of changeable weather. It is compulsory to know how to ride a bike (level 2/5). For people over 14. Total duration: approx. 4 hours. Departure valid from 4 participants
Next dates:
- 10/23/2026
The Oct. 23, 2026 from 2 p.m.
Initiation à la pelote basque
4 specialities: bare hand, pala ancha, xare, chistera. From age 4. Mini 5-maxi 15 people.
Next dates:
- 10/23/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 23, 2026 from 10 a.m.
Rando à la ferme avec Trott'Iraty et pique-nique du berger
Departing from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, meet Fabien and Sébastien for an unforgettable visit. After this visit, we'll continue to the kaiolar, to enjoy a simple, authentic shepherd's picnic in an exceptional setting. A complete experience to fully immerse yourself in mountain pasture life and its magical panoramas. Package includes: tottinette rental, helmet and gloves, guide, farm visit, insurance, shepherd's picnic. Shopping available at the farm. We recommend wearing long clothes and closed shoes, a bag with water and a jacket in case of changeable weather. It is compulsory to know how to ride a bike (level 2/5). For people over 14. Total duration: approx. 4 hours. Departure valid from 4 participants
Next dates:
- 10/23/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 23, 2026 from 2 p.m.
Micro-Folie -Thématique : Enquête-L'énigme du chef d'oeuvre volé-Visites guidées
As a group, in pairs, with friends, or with family, come solve the mystery “The Heist at the Digital Museum: The Enigma of the Stolen Masterpiece.” Based on the concept of escape rooms, lead the investigation. One evening, the prison’s night watchman was found unconscious, and one of the artworks had disappeared... 2:00–3:00 p.m.: Guided tours: a look back at the greatest heists in art history! 5:00–6:00 p.m.: Sherlock Holmes Level (ages 12 and up). Maximum 15 people. __ La Micro-Folie is a cultural initiative sponsored by the municipality of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, proposed by the Ministry of Culture, and coordinated by the Etablissement Public de la Villette in Paris. It provides access to numerous masterpieces for all audiences thanks to the collaboration of 12 founding national institutions and more than 400 national, regional, and international institutions.
Next dates:
- 10/23/2026
Open every day
From Oct. 24, 2026 to Oct. 24, 2026
Micro-Folie -Thématique : Enquête-L'énigme du chef d'oeuvre volé-visite guidée
As a group, in pairs, with friends, or with family, come solve the mystery “The Heist at the Digital Museum: The Enigma of the Stolen Masterpiece.” Based on the concept of escape rooms, lead the investigation. One evening, the prison’s night watchman was found unconscious, and one of the artworks had disappeared... 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Young Detective Level (ages 6 and up, accompanied by an adult) 3:00 p.m., guided tour (30 min): A look back at the greatest art heists in history 5:00 p.m., Sherlock Holmes Level (ages 12 and up). Maximum 15 people. __ La Micro-Folie is a cultural initiative sponsored by the municipality of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, proposed by the Ministry of Culture, and coordinated by the Etablissement Public de la Villette in Paris. It provides access to numerous masterpieces for all audiences thanks to the collaboration of 12 founding national institutions an
Next dates:
- 10/24/2026
Open every day - 10/24/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 26, 2026
Marché
Morning gourmet market.
Next dates:
- 10/26/2026
The Oct. 26, 2026 from 2:30 p.m.
Visite guidée : du royaume de Navarre à Compostelle
We invite you to go back in time and discover this unique heritage. Enjoy the view of the Pyrenees while walking on the century-old cobblestones. You will learn about the history of St Jean Pied de Port with our guide. You will become the time of a visit, a pilgrim of St Jacques de Compostelle, during the crossing of the street of the citadel.
Next dates:
- 10/26/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 26, 2026
Pelote basque à main nue
Bare-handed Basque pelota.
Next dates:
- 10/26/2026
The Oct. 27, 2026 from 3:30 p.m.
Rando à la ferme avec Trott'Iraty
Departing from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, meet Fabien and Sébastien who await you for an unforgettable visit to their sheep's cheese and honey farm. After the visit, we'll continue upwards to the most beautiful viewpoints in the Garazi valley, before coming back down, our heads full of memories and our backpacks full of goodies. Package includes: scooter rental, helmet and gloves, guide, farm visit and insurance. We recommend wearing long clothes and closed shoes, a bag with water and a jacket in case of changeable weather. It is compulsory to know how to ride a bike (level 2/5). For people over 14. Total duration: approx. 3 hours. Departure valid from 4 participants.
Next dates:
- 10/27/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 27, 2026
Rando à la ferme avec Trott'Iraty
Departing from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, meet Fabien and Sébastien who await you for an unforgettable visit to their sheep's cheese and honey farm. After the visit, we'll continue upwards to the most beautiful viewpoints in the Garazi valley, before coming back down, our heads full of memories and our backpacks full of goodies. Package includes: scooter rental, helmet and gloves, guide, farm visit and insurance. We recommend wearing long clothes and closed shoes, a bag with water and a jacket in case of changeable weather. It is compulsory to know how to ride a bike (level 2/5). For people over 14. Total duration: approx. 3 hours. Departure valid from 4 participants.
Next dates:
- 10/27/2026
The Oct. 27, 2026 from 2 p.m.
Initiation à la pelote basque
4 specialities: bare hand, pala ancha, xare, chistera. From age 4. Mini 5-maxi 15 people.
Next dates:
- 10/27/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 27, 2026 from 9:30 a.m.
Micro-Folie -Thématique : Enquête-L'énigme du chef d'oeuvre volé
As a group, in pairs, with friends, or with family, come solve the mystery "The Break-In at the Digital Museum: The Enigma of the Stolen Masterpiece." Based on the concept of escape rooms, lead the investigation. One evening, the prison’s night watchman was found unconscious, and one of the artworks had disappeared... From 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Sherlock Holmes level (ages 12 and up). Maximum 15 people __ La Micro-Folie is a cultural initiative sponsored by the municipality of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, proposed by the Ministry of Culture, and coordinated by the Etablissement Public de la Villette in Paris. It provides access to numerous masterpieces for all audiences through the collaboration of 12 founding national institutions and more than 400 national, regional, and international institutions.
Next dates:
- 10/27/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 28, 2026 from 10 a.m.
Rando à la ferme avec Trott'Iraty et pique-nique du berger
Departing from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, meet Fabien and Sébastien for an unforgettable visit. After this visit, we'll continue to the kaiolar, to enjoy a simple, authentic shepherd's picnic in an exceptional setting. A complete experience to fully immerse yourself in mountain pasture life and its magical panoramas. Package includes: tottinette rental, helmet and gloves, guide, farm visit, insurance, shepherd's picnic. Shopping available at the farm. We recommend wearing long clothes and closed shoes, a bag with water and a jacket in case of changeable weather. It is compulsory to know how to ride a bike (level 2/5). For people over 14. Total duration: approx. 4 hours. Departure valid from 4 participants
Next dates:
- 10/28/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 28, 2026
Rando à la ferme avec Trott'Iraty et pique-nique du berger au cayolar
Departing from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, meet Fabien and Sébastien for an unforgettable visit. After this visit, we'll continue to the kaiolar, to enjoy a simple, authentic shepherd's picnic in an exceptional setting. A complete experience to fully immerse yourself in mountain pasture life and its magical panoramas. Package includes: tottinette rental, helmet and gloves, guide, farm visit, insurance, shepherd's picnic. Shopping available at the farm. We recommend wearing long clothes and closed shoes, a bag with water and a jacket in case of changeable weather. It is compulsory to know how to ride a bike (level 2/5). For people over 14. Total duration: approx. 4 hours. Departure valid from 4 participants
Next dates:
- 10/28/2026
From Oct. 28, 2026 to Oct. 28, 2026
Micro-Folie -Thématique : Enquête-L'énigme du chef d'oeuvre volé-Réalité virtuelle-Collections Normandie et Grand Est
As a group, in pairs, with friends, or with family, come solve the mystery “The Heist at the Digital Museum: The Enigma of the Stolen Masterpiece.” Based on the concept of escape rooms, lead the investigation. One evening, the prison’s night watchman was found unconscious and one of the artworks had disappeared... 10 a.m.–11 a.m.: Young Detective Level (ages 6 and up, accompanied by an adult). Maximum 15 people. Afternoon: Impressionist and Paris collections. Virtual reality for ages 12 and up. __ Micro-Folie is a cultural initiative sponsored by the municipality of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, proposed by the Ministry of Culture, and coordinated by the Etablissement Public de la Villette in Paris. Access for all audiences to numerous masterpieces thanks to the collaboration of 12 founding national institutions and more than 400 national, regional, and international institutions.
Next dates:
- 10/28/2026
Open every day - 10/28/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 29, 2026 from 3:30 p.m.
Rando à la ferme avec Trott'Iraty
Departing from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, meet Fabien and Sébastien who await you for an unforgettable visit to their sheep's cheese and honey farm. After the visit, we'll continue upwards to the most beautiful viewpoints in the Garazi valley, before coming back down, our heads full of memories and our backpacks full of goodies. Package includes: scooter rental, helmet and gloves, guide, farm visit and insurance. We recommend wearing long clothes and closed shoes, a bag with water and a jacket in case of changeable weather. It is compulsory to know how to ride a bike (level 2/5). For people over 14. Total duration: approx. 3 hours. Departure valid from 4 participants.
Next dates:
- 10/29/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 29, 2026
Rando à la ferme avec Trott'Iraty
Departing from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, meet Fabien and Sébastien who await you for an unforgettable visit to their sheep's cheese and honey farm. After the visit, we'll continue upwards to the most beautiful viewpoints in the Garazi valley, before coming back down, our heads full of memories and our backpacks full of goodies. Package includes: scooter rental, helmet and gloves, guide, farm visit and insurance. We recommend wearing long clothes and closed shoes, a bag with water and a jacket in case of changeable weather. It is compulsory to know how to ride a bike (level 2/5). For people over 14. Total duration: approx. 3 hours. Departure valid from 4 participants.
Next dates:
- 10/29/2026
The Oct. 30, 2026
Rando à la ferme avec Trott'Iraty et pique-nique du berger au cayolar
Departing from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, meet Fabien and Sébastien for an unforgettable visit. After this visit, we'll continue to the kaiolar, to enjoy a simple, authentic shepherd's picnic in an exceptional setting. A complete experience to fully immerse yourself in mountain pasture life and its magical panoramas. Package includes: tottinette rental, helmet and gloves, guide, farm visit, insurance, shepherd's picnic. Shopping available at the farm. We recommend wearing long clothes and closed shoes, a bag with water and a jacket in case of changeable weather. It is compulsory to know how to ride a bike (level 2/5). For people over 14. Total duration: approx. 4 hours. Departure valid from 4 participants
Next dates:
- 10/30/2026
The Oct. 30, 2026 from 10 a.m.
Rando à la ferme avec Trott'Iraty et pique-nique du berger
Departing from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, meet Fabien and Sébastien for an unforgettable visit. After this visit, we'll continue to the kaiolar, to enjoy a simple, authentic shepherd's picnic in an exceptional setting. A complete experience to fully immerse yourself in mountain pasture life and its magical panoramas. Package includes: tottinette rental, helmet and gloves, guide, farm visit, insurance, shepherd's picnic. Shopping available at the farm. We recommend wearing long clothes and closed shoes, a bag with water and a jacket in case of changeable weather. It is compulsory to know how to ride a bike (level 2/5). For people over 14. Total duration: approx. 4 hours. Departure valid from 4 participants
Next dates:
- 10/30/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 30, 2026 from 2 p.m.
Initiation à la pelote basque
4 specialities: bare hand, pala ancha, xare, chistera. From age 4. Mini 5-maxi 15 people.
Next dates:
- 10/30/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 30, 2026 from 2 p.m.
Micro-Folie -Thématique : Enquête-L'énigme du chef d'oeuvre volé-Visites guidées
As a group, in pairs, with friends, or with family, come solve the mystery “The Heist at the Digital Museum: The Enigma of the Stolen Masterpiece.” Based on the concept of escape rooms, lead the investigation. One evening, the prison’s night watchman was found unconscious, and one of the artworks had disappeared... 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.: Guided tours (30 min): a look back at the greatest heists in art history! From 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.: Young Detective Level (ages 6 and up, accompanied by an adult). Maximum 15 people. __ La Micro-Folie is a cultural initiative led by the town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, supported by the Ministry of Culture, and coordinated by the Etablissement Public de la Villette in Paris. It provides access to numerous masterpieces for all audiences thanks to the collaboration of 12 founding national institutions and more than 400 national, regional, and
Next dates:
- 10/30/2026
Open every day
From Oct. 31, 2026 to Oct. 31, 2026
Micro-Folie -Thématique : Enquête-L'énigme du chef d'oeuvre volé-visite guidée
As a group, in pairs, with friends, or with family, come solve the mystery “The Heist at the Digital Museum: The Enigma of the Stolen Masterpiece.” Based on the concept of escape rooms, lead the investigation. One evening, the prison’s night watchman was found unconscious, and one of the artworks had disappeared... 3:00 p.m., guided tour (30 min): A look back at the greatest art heists in history 4:00 p.m., Young Detective (ages 6 and up, accompanied by an adult) Max. 15 people 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Sherlock Holmes Level (ages 12 and up). Maximum 15 people. __ La Micro-Folie is a cultural initiative sponsored by the municipality of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, proposed by the Ministry of Culture, and coordinated by the Etablissement Public de la Villette in Paris. It provides access to numerous masterpieces for all audiences thanks to the collaboration of 12 founding national
Next dates:
- 10/31/2026
Open every day - 10/31/2026
Open every day
The Nov. 2, 2026
Marché
Morning gourmet market.
Next dates:
- 11/02/2026
The Nov. 2, 2026
Pelote basque à main nue
Bare-handed Basque pelota.
Next dates:
- 11/02/2026
The Nov. 9, 2026
Marché
Morning gourmet market.
Next dates:
- 11/09/2026
The Nov. 9, 2026
Pelote basque à main nue
Bare-handed Basque pelota.
Next dates:
- 11/09/2026
The Nov. 16, 2026
Marché
Morning gourmet market.
Next dates:
- 11/16/2026
The Nov. 16, 2026
Pelote basque à main nue
Bare-handed Basque pelota.
Next dates:
- 11/16/2026
The Nov. 23, 2026
Marché
Morning gourmet market.
Next dates:
- 11/23/2026
The Nov. 23, 2026
Pelote basque à main nue
Bare-handed Basque pelota.
Next dates:
- 11/23/2026
The Nov. 30, 2026
Marché
Morning gourmet market.
Next dates:
- 11/30/2026
The Nov. 30, 2026
Pelote basque à main nue
Bare-handed Basque pelota.
Next dates:
- 11/30/2026
The Dec. 7, 2026
Marché
Morning gourmet market.
Next dates:
- 12/07/2026
The Dec. 7, 2026
Pelote basque à main nue
Bare-handed Basque pelota.
Next dates:
- 12/07/2026
The Dec. 14, 2026
Marché
Morning gourmet market.
Next dates:
- 12/14/2026
The Dec. 14, 2026
Pelote basque à main nue
Bare-handed Basque pelota.
Next dates:
- 12/14/2026
The Dec. 21, 2026
Marché
Morning gourmet market.
Next dates:
- 12/21/2026
The Dec. 21, 2026 from 2:30 p.m.
Visite guidée : du royaume de Navarre à Compostelle
We invite you to go back in time and discover this unique heritage. Enjoy the view of the Pyrenees while walking on the century-old cobblestones. You will learn about the history of St Jean Pied de Port with our guide. You will become the time of a visit, a pilgrim of St Jacques de Compostelle, during the crossing of the street of the citadel.
Next dates:
- 12/21/2026
Open every day
The Dec. 21, 2026
Pelote basque à main nue
Bare-handed Basque pelota.
Next dates:
- 12/21/2026
The Dec. 28, 2026
Marché
Morning gourmet market.
Next dates:
- 12/28/2026
The Dec. 28, 2026 from 2:30 p.m.
Visite guidée : du royaume de Navarre à Compostelle
We invite you to go back in time and discover this unique heritage. Enjoy the view of the Pyrenees while walking on the century-old cobblestones. You will learn about the history of St Jean Pied de Port with our guide. You will become the time of a visit, a pilgrim of St Jacques de Compostelle, during the crossing of the street of the citadel.
Next dates:
- 12/28/2026
Open every day
The Dec. 28, 2026
Pelote basque à main nue
Bare-handed Basque pelota.
Next dates:
- 12/28/2026
The Jan. 4, 2027
Marché
Morning gourmet market.
Next dates:
- 01/04/2027
Geocaching
Fancy a family adventure? Set off on a treasure hunt with the “Tèrra Aventura” app! Through Zéroïk’s puzzles, step back in time in the footsteps of a medieval pilgrim and discover the village’s hidden corners.
Fancy a game of pelota?
Give Basque pelota a go in true local style, every Monday at the trinquet or Jai Alai. Play or watch? All you have to do is pick a side… and cheer on the champions of the day!
"Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port: A Journey Back in Time" cycle loop
Hop on your bike and set off to explore the Basque countryside, winding through narrow streets, along the banks of the River Nive and along country lanes. This 14 km loop (2 hours) combines heritage with legends and crosses the Way of St James.
Water Park
Enjoy a refreshing swim at the water park in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. Situated 400 metres from the town centre, it features a 25-metre outdoor pool, as well as water play areas for children, a water slide and a hot tub, plus an indoor pool and a paddling pool. Perfect for a heatwave!
Autumn foraging
Head into the Iraty Forest in search of porcini and chanterelle mushrooms, the culinary treasures of the Basque Country’s woodland! The air is crisp, the colours are vibrant, and the picnic smells of the season: a pleasure to share!
Map of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Prepare your stay at Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Office de tourisme Pays Basque
Accessibility
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
# Parking : Stationnement gratuit toute l'année
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Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port