French Basque Country

France

France Travel Guide

Shop

Get even more with a Lonely Planet guide.

Shop Book

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Bridge to the Rocher du Basta rock on the beach in Biarritz, France.

Why visit French Basque Country

Edged by the brilliant blue Bay of Biscay and the craggy foothills of the Pyrenees, the Pays Basque (Basque Country) feels one step removed from the rest of France – which is hardly surprising, since it's been an independent nation for much of its history and has more in common with the nearby Basque regions of Spain. Proud, independent and fiery, the people of the Basque Country are fiercely protective of their history and culture, whether it's their passion for pelota or their fondness for their spicy chilli pepper, le piment d'Espelette. It's a fascinating place.

Meet your new travel partner

Stay connected in French Basque Country

Holafly eSIM provides unlimited mobile data with no hidden fees, giving you peace of mind wherever you travel. Stay connected even after your plan ends with Always On. Use code LONELYPLANET for an exclusive discount.

Get 5% off

Take your France trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

Pick one of our ready-to-book trips or fully customize your own with help from our local experts.

bookable trip

The French Riviera & Provence: A Journey Through Authentic France

11 days / 10 nights

highlights

  1. 1 Hopping between villages — and countries — with a guided tour to Èze, Nice, and Monaco
  2. 2 Wafting the scent and color of violets in Tourettes-sur-Loup, a floral and medieval wonderland
  3. 3 Enjoying the unique galleries and sculpture gardens of Saint Paul de Vence museum, Fondation Maeght
from $4,430

per person

book this trip see trip details

Explore more trips

  • Basque Country at Its Best: Bilbao, San Sebastian, and Spain’s Rioja Wine Region
    France

    8 days / 7 nights

    Basque Country at Its Best: Bilbao, San Sebastian, and Spain’s Rioja Wine Region

    FROM $2,900

    per person

    See Trip Details
Want our experts to design a custom trip for you?
start planning

Top places to visit in French Basque Country

Discover the best attractions in French Basque Country from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

Explore all

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

Explore all books

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in French Basque Country

French Basque Country and beyond

View all