MileHacker Logo
Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Southwestern France, France

Accommodation Types

General Options

  • Hotels

    From 1-star to 5-star, including international chains and independent boutique hotels.

  • Guesthouses (Chambres d'hôtes)

    Charming, locally-run establishments with a personal feel, often including breakfast.

  • Apartments/Vacation Rentals

    Suitable for longer stays or families, offering more space and kitchen convenience.

  • Campsites

    Located just outside the city, with pitches for tents/RVs and rental bungalows.

Specialized Options

  • Unique Local Stays

    Many guesthouses and hotels feature traditional Basque architecture and decor, such as converted Etxe (traditional Basque houses).

  • Homestay Experiences

    Staying in a Chambre d'hôtes offers an immersive experience, similar to a homestay.

  • Hostels

    Limited options, but cater to budget travelers and solo explorers seeking a social atmosphere.

  • Vacation Rental Platforms

    Find numerous listings, particularly in the historic center, on platforms like Booking.com and Vrbo.

Neighborhood Guide

Bayonne's distinct neighborhoods present different atmospheres and amenities.

Grand Bayonne

Benefits
  • Central location, close to major attractions.
  • Lively atmosphere with many traditional shops.
  • Easy walking access to most sights.
  • Historic arcaded streets and medieval architecture.
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, especially during peak season.
  • Parking is difficult and expensive.
  • Bustling during the day.

Petit Bayonne

Benefits
  • Excellent for nightlife and a younger vibe.
  • Proximity to the Basque Museum.
  • Charming atmosphere.
  • Artistic feel.
Considerations
  • Can be very noisy at night due to bars.
  • Especially lively on weekends.

Saint-Esprit / Outskirts

Benefits
  • Close to the train station.
  • More affordable accommodation.
  • Quieter, residential feel.
  • Offers free parking in areas like Marracq.
Considerations
  • Slightly further from the historic center.
  • More reliance on public transport for outlying areas.

Safety and Proximity

Safety Information:

All central neighborhoods are generally safe. Be aware in crowded areas for pickpocketing. Serious incidents involving tourists are uncommon.

Proximity to Attractions:

Grand Bayonne and Petit Bayonne are best for walking to most attractions. Saint-Esprit is convenient for the train station and bus routes for day trips.

Booking Strategies

Plan your accommodation booking based on the season for optimal choice and pricing.

Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (July-August): Book several months in advance. For Fêtes de Bayonne (late July/early August), secure lodging 6-12 months ahead.
  • Shoulder Season (April-June, Sept-Oct): Book 1-2 months in advance for good selection and prices.
  • Low Season (Nov-March): Easier availability, but booking a few weeks ahead is still advisable for preferred options.
  • Negotiating walk-in rates is uncommon; online booking typically yields better prices.

Information

  • Trusted Platforms: Use Booking.com, Agoda, IHG Hotels, Hostelworld, Vrbo, and TrustedHousesitters. Local tourism office websites also list options.
  • Deposit & Cancellation: Policies vary; always check specific terms before confirming a reservation. Many offer free cancellation flexibility.
  • Price Fluctuations: Prices are notably higher in July and August, particularly during Fêtes de Bayonne. Shoulder season offers better value.
  • Low season (winter) generally brings the lowest accommodation prices.

Considerations for Your Stay

Booking during Fêtes de Bayonne:
  • Accommodation sells out quickly.
  • Prices surge significantly.
  • Book as far in advance as possible.
  • Consider Saint-Esprit for quieter, potentially more affordable options.
Optimal Stay Period:
  • Shoulder seasons (spring and early autumn) offer pleasant weather.
  • Fewer crowds compared to high season.
  • A balance of experience and value.

Additional Tip

Local Insights:

The Bayonne Tourist Office website occasionally lists direct booking options and special packages not found elsewhere.

Price Comparisons:

Always compare prices across multiple platforms to find the best deal for your preferred dates and lodging type.

Read Reviews:

Before booking, review recent guest feedback to determine if the accommodation aligns with your expectations.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some general recommendations for different traveler types and budgets, serving as a starting point for your search.

Picks by Budget

Budget-Friendly Options

Auberge de Jeunesse HI Bayonne (hostel) offers dorms. Small guesthouses in Saint-Esprit also provide affordable stays.

  • Auberge de Jeunesse HI Bayonne
  • Saint-Esprit guesthouses
Mid-Range Options

Hôtel Le Bayonne, Hôtel des Basses Pyrénées, and Hôtel Villa Koegui Bayonne deliver comfortable stays with good amenities.

  • Hôtel Le Bayonne
  • Hôtel des Basses Pyrénées
  • Hôtel Villa Koegui Bayonne

Picks by Traveler Type

Luxury Experience

Mercure Bayonne Centre Le Grand Hotel presents a premium stay with amenities and a central location.

  • Mercure Bayonne Centre Le Grand Hotel
Family-Friendly Stays

Apartment rentals via Booking.com offer space and kitchens. Hotels with family or connecting rooms are also available. Campsites with bungalows are also good.

  • Vacation Rentals
  • Campsite Bungalows

Solo Traveler & Long Stays

  • Solo Traveler

    Hostels (for social interaction) and centrally located hotels/guesthouses (for security and access) are recommended.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Apartment rentals are ideal for longer visits, offering space, privacy, and self-catering facilities. Seek weekly or monthly rates.

Cultural Significance

  • Historic Buildings

    Many hotels in Grand Bayonne reside in historic buildings, offering charm.

  • Hôtel des Basses Pyrénées

    Set in a 17th-century building, it delivers a taste of Bayonne's architectural heritage.

Trusted Platforms for Your Search

General Booking Sites

These widely used platforms offer diverse lodging options and user reviews.

Specialty Booking Sites

For specific lodging types, these platforms are great choices.

Considerations for Your Choice

Location

Decide if you prefer central bustle or a quieter residential area, considering proximity to attractions and transport.

Amenities

Match your needs, whether it's a full-service hotel, a guesthouse with breakfast, or a self-catering apartment.

Atmosphere

Choose between the lively charm of the historic center or the relaxed ambiance of outlying districts.