Welcome to Bayonne! If you took the night train to get here, it's probably early morning and you'll want to drop off your luggage somewhere and go sightseeing straight away. On the other hand, If you're arriving in the evening, you'll probably just want to relax! Fortunately, Bayonne has something for every taste and budget. We've put together a small selection for you; be warned, it's all very charming! :)
One of the dormitories. Photo © Hostel 20.
We start with a hostel located a few steps from the train station in the St Esprit district. (Spoiler: no, a youth hostel isn't just for young travelers!) A certified member of the Hi!France network of youth hostels, this hostel describes itself as "human-sized". It encourages travelers to meet up, and it is equipped with a bar, where events and themed evenings take place. If you're interested in this friendly atmosphere, but prefer to spend the night on your own, private rooms are available; however, the dormitories, which can accommodate up to 10 people, are modern, and some beds can be entirely "closed" with a curtain, ensuring a minimum of privacy. There are also dormitories reserved for female travelers. Given that in hostel, every positive point can cost travelers more, this very central accomodation offers excellent prices (fluctuating according to demand) for such quality.
Price: approx. €30 / night
8 rue Sainte-Catherine, 64100 Bayonne
One of the rooms. Photo © Visit Bayonne / Mathieu Prat
Located in the heart of Bayonne on a pedestrian street, the charm of this hotel goes beyond its pretty half-timbered façade. Indeed, this building will surely enchant many with its narrow and slightly crooked staircase leading to the rooms and its bar right at the entrance where you can enjoy a glass of wine before discovering your room. And don't worry! Despite the original look of the building, the rooms are modern and have everything you need to feel at home. Withe that being said, we still recommend leaving your room at some point to explore the city, but not before having a hearty breakfast (€9) made of fresh products.
Price: from €59 / night
44 rue Port Neuf, 64100 Bayonne
https://www.hotelportneuf.com/
One of the hotel's common areas. Photo © Visit Bayonne / Mathieu Prat.
Personally, I'm never disappointed by an Ibis Styles. This one is located on the banks of the River Adour, which you can admire in the morning sunshine from your room or, in summer, from the hotel terrace. The rooms are decorated in warm colors and offer a serene atmosphere - perfect for both relaxing and checking a few e-mails. And should you need to work for an hour or two, a superb coworking space with sockets is available in the common area of the establishment. As its name suggests, the hotel is close to the station and has elevators to the upper floors, making it a wise choice for busy travelers.
Price: approx. €100 / night
1 place de la République, 64100 Bayonne
Overview of one of the rooms. Photo © Visit Bayonne / Mathieu Prat
If you're going to visit the Basque Country, why not make the most of it? This accommodation is designed to fully immerse you in Basque culture, blending Bayonne traditions with the latest innovations for a comfortable and surprising stay. The floors, walls and artwork are all inspired by the art and culture of the Basque territory. The aim of this hotel is to be both traditional and comfortable, and it works! On the ground floor we have a bar, Le Carré, offering the perfect place to enjoy some evening events over regional dishes and drinks. The hotel is also ideally situated: its location at the confluence of the Nive and Adour rivers means that you can start exploring the city as soon as you leave the hotel... on foot or by bike, as the hotel has been awarded the "bike-friendly" label and offers a perfectly secure place to park your bike.
Price: from €120 / night
7 rue Frédéric Bastiat, 64100 Bayonne
https://hotel-villakoegui-bayonne.fr/
After a long day's walking, this pool is the perfect spot. Photo © Visit Bayonne / Mathieu Prat.
If you're looking for a relaxing place to unwind after a long day of exploring the city of Bayonne, the creatively-named Hôtel Le Bayonne, will do just that, with its sauna and tree-lined outdoor pool. The clean environment and meticulous decor make the accommodation very pleasant and give an immediate feeling of relaxation. Some rooms even have a view of the Nive river. Although not as close to the train station as our other suggestions, this hotel is located in the south of Greater Bayonne, just a few minutes from the heart of the city's main historic district.
Price: from €86 / night
Avenue Jean Rostand, 64100 Bayonne
https://www.hotel-le-bayonne.com/
Cover photo © Visit Bayonne / Mathieu Prat