Private Basque Odyssey: Bayonne, Biarritz & St-Jean-de-Luz

Our guides were terrific - very engaging and knowledgeable. Sharing their personal experiences increased our understanding of the history and culture of the Pays Basque. The input of the tour company into the stops and restaurants on our tour increased our knowledge of the local culture and history.

Absolutely amazing. Everything was beyond expectations!! It was incredibly helpful to have such personal insight from each tour guide!

Ikusnahi gave our group a first-rate tour through Basque country in both France and Spain over a period of ten days. The guides were passionate, knowledgeable and generous in sharing their Basque heritage. The experience exceeded our expectations.

We took a day tour through Bayonne, Biarritz, and Saint-Jean-de-Luz—and it was absolutely fantastic. Our guide, Olatz (highly recommend you request her specifically), brought the kind of deep, personal insight that only a true local can offer. Due to a major festival making Bayonne nearly inaccessible, Olatz suggested we visit Hondarribia instead—and what a brilliant swap. The old town of Hondarribia, perched behind ancient fortified walls, is brimming with rich history, outstanding culinary options, and breathtaking views of the Bidasoa River as it divides Spain and France and spills into the bay. Olatz even knew the manager of a stunning hilltop hotel, giving us access to a private terrace where we soaked in panoramic vistas—truly unforgettable. Biarritz was another highlight: a city teeming with vibrant energy, fascinating history, bustling markets, and dazzling coastal scenery. With Olatz’s engaging and thoughtful commentary, our leisurely walk through the city felt like stepping into the heart of Basque culture. This tour strikes a beautiful balance—gorgeous landscapes, charming small towns, dynamic city centers, and incredible food. Olatz’s expertise, warmth, and flexibility made all the difference. She genuinely tailored the experience to our interests and went above and beyond to ensure we had a magical day. Ikusnahi Tours, with Olatz at the helm, is an absolute must. You won't be disappointed.We did the day tour to bayonne, biarritz, and St. Jean de Luc and it was fantastic. Olatz our tour guide (I strongly recommend that you specifically request her) has the intimate knowledge that only a local has. She suggested that we switch Bayonne for Hondarribia due to a huge festival in Bayonne which made getting around almost impossible. Great Choice, old town Hondarribia which stands behind fortified walls was has s rich history, great gastronomical choices, and incredible views of the bidasoa river splitting Spain and France as it empties into the bay. Olatz knew the manager of a hotel (high on a hill with the best views) and we were able to sit out on a private terrace admiring the panoramic Vistas. Biarritz is a must see with a rich history, vibrant city center, markets galore, and of course the incredible scenery. Once again Olatz gave interesting and pertinent commentary as we strolled through the city. This tour blends absolutely gorgeous vistas with small towns, great city centers with rich culture and history, and amazing culinary options. Olatz was fantastic as she was not only very knowledgeable and fun, but genuinely was committed to providing the best possible experience and was more than willing to alter the tour to our interests. Ikusnahi tours and Olatz you will not be disappointed

Villages are picturesques and beautiful! Our guide, Mark, explained us about villages, basque history adding many fun facts ! Well organized, nice timeline, punctua!! Perfect 10!!

Olatz was an amazing guide who happened to also be the driver. She is friendly, Knowledgeable, and went above and beyond. Perfect trip!

Martin was great and very accommodating. We went with our 2 year old and changed the itinerary a bit and Martin was great in adjusting to our schedule. He was very knowledgeable about the history of each area and took us to different scenic spots to take pictures. We are thankful to experience the coastal Basque area with such a knowledgeable and kind guide. Thank you Martin!

Miguel was very informative - knowledgeable in the culture and the area! He was on a schedule and we were not!! A little more flexibility would have been nice. But a beautiful day all together

Martin was wonderful. He provided excellent history, stories from his family, and was flexible to our preferences. He also organized a dinner and private ride for us that evening.

Mark, our tour guide was wonderful! He was friendly and knowledgeable. It was fun to get information regarding a bit of history in the area, tasty treats that the locals would eat and he also gave us space to explore. If it was a warmer day, I would have liked to just pick up food and have a picnic or a swim on one of the beaches. We made the most out of a one day trip. Since the trip is a private tour, the only suggestion I have is to maybe give some alternative ideas and timeline, so we could cater it to our family. I would recommend this tour again!