Overview
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is the premier starting point in France for pilgrims walking the French Way of the Camino de Santiago to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. About 14 percent of pilgrims who finish the French Way started their journey here in 2024, drawn by its position as the French departure closest to the Spanish border.
Day Trips · History · Trekking
Before you go
Accommodation
Pilgrim hostels (gîtes) dominate: Beilari (€45 pp with meals), Gite Makila (€25 with breakfast), Refuge Municipal (dorms €12, doubles €30). Two campsites within 5 km.
Connectivity
Standard French mobile coverage (4G). Power plugs use types C, E, and F (220V/50Hz).
Food
Multiple pizzeria options and traditional French/Basque restaurants. Menus from €10. Full dinners €20-30.
Money
ATMs are available in town. Major supermarkets Lidl, Carrefour Market, and Intermarché Super are near the center. France uses euros (€).
Transport
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port has a railway station connecting to Bayonne and onward to Pau or Bordeaux. The town is walkable.