New Aquitaine by Train: A 7-Day Car-Free Itinerary
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Published on 7/3/27
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Welcome to Bayonne! If you’re arriving on the overnight train, you’re probably eager to drop off your luggage somewhere and head out to explore the city right away. If you’re arriving in the evening, on the other hand, you’re probably just looking to relax! Luckily, Bayonne has something for every taste and budget. We’ve put together a little selection for you—but be warned, everything is absolutely charming! :)
One of the dorms. Photo © Hostel 20.
Let’s start with a youth hostel located just a stone’s throw from the train station in the St. Esprit neighborhood. Spoiler: No, a youth hostel isn’t just for young travelers! A certified member of the Hi!France youth hostel network, this hostel describes itself as “on a human scale,” encouraging travelers to mingle and featuring a bar where events and themed nights take place. If this friendly atmosphere appeals to you but you’d rather have some privacy at night, private rooms are, of course, available; however, the dorms, which can accommodate up to 10 people, are modern, and some beds can be completely “enclosed” with a curtain, ensuring a minimum of privacy. There are also dorms reserved exclusively for female travelers. Given that in youth hostels, every perk can cost travelers more, this very centrally located hostel offers excellent rates (which fluctuate based on demand) for such high quality.
Price: about 30 € per night
8 Sainte-Catherine Street, 64100 Bayonne
One of the rooms. Photo © Visit Bayonne / Mathieu Prat
Located in the heart of Bayonne on a pedestrian street, this hotel’s charm goes beyond its pretty half-timbered facade. In fact, this building is sure to enchant many with its narrow, slightly crooked staircase leading up to the rooms, and its bar right at the entrance, where you can enjoy a glass of wine before checking into your room. And don’t worry! Despite the building’s initial appearance, the rooms are modern and have everything you need to feel comfortable. That said, we still recommend stepping out at some point to explore the city—but not before enjoying a hearty breakfast (€9) made with fresh ingredients.
Price: starting at 59 € per night
44 Port Neuf Street, 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 Adour River, which you can admire in the morning sunshine from your room or, in the summer, from the hotel’s terrace. The rooms are decorated in warm colors and offer a serene atmosphere—perfect for both relaxing and checking a few emails. In fact, if you need to work for an hour or two, a superb coworking space with power outlets is available in the hotel’s common area. As its name suggests, the hotel is close to the train station and has elevators to the upper floors, making it a smart choice for travelers with a lot of luggage.
Price: about 100 € per night
1 Place de la République, 64100 Bayonne
Overview of one of the rooms. Photo © Visit Bayonne / Mathieu Prat
If you’re going to be in the Basque Country, you might as well make the most of it, right? 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 decorative elements are all inspired by the art and culture of the Basque region. The goal of this hotel is to be as traditional as it is comfortable—and it works! On the ground floor is a bar, Le Carré, offering the perfect spot to enjoy evening entertainment while savoring regional food and drinks. The hotel is also ideally located: its location at the confluence of the Nive and Adour rivers lets you start exploring the city as soon as you step out of the hotel… whether on foot or by bike, since the hotel is certified “bike-friendly” and offers a perfectly secure place to park your bike.
Price: starting at €120 per night
7 Frédéric Bastiat Street, 64100 Bayonne
https://hotel-villakoegui-bayonne.fr/
After a long day of walking, this pool is the perfect place. Photo © Visit Bayonne / Mathieu Prat.
If you’re looking for a relaxing hotel where you can unwind after a long day of exploring Bayonne, the creatively named Hôtel Le Bayonne will more than meet your expectations, thanks in particular to its sauna and tree-lined outdoor pool. The minimalist setting and tasteful decor make for a very pleasant stay and provide an immediate sense of relaxation. Some rooms even offer a view of the Nive River. While not as close to the train station as our other suggestions, this hotel is located south of Greater Bayonne; it takes just a few minutes to reach the heart of the city’s main historic district.
Price: starting at 86 € per night
Avenue Jean Rostand, 64100 Bayonne
https://www.hotel-le-bayonne.com/
Cover photo © Visit Bayonne / Mathieu Prat
