Discover the hidden gems of Bayonne through its diverse selection of museums! From traditional Basque culture to contemporary art, there’s something for everyone to explore and learn. Take a journey through this charming French city’s rich heritage and discover its unique offerings in our guide to 11 must-visit museums.
In this guide, we will take you on a journey through the city’s 11 must-visit museums, giving you a taste of Bayonne’s rich heritage and diverse offerings.
1. Musée Basque (Musée Basque et de l’histoire de Bayonne)
The first stop on our museum tour is the Musee Basque et del’Histoire de Bayonne. Housed in a beautiful 17th-century building, this museum offers a fascinating insight into the Basque culture and history of Bayonne. From traditional costumes and objects to interactive displays, visitors can immerse themselves in the unique traditions and customs of this vibrant region.
Address: 37 Quai des Corsaires, 64100 Bayonne, France
Opening Hours:
- Sunday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Monday Closed
- Tuesday – Wednesday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Phone: +33 5 59 59 08 98
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
2. Musee du Chocolat
For all the chocolate lovers out there, the Musee du Chocolat is a must-visit destination in Bayonne. Located in the historic Bonnat-Helleu chocolate factory, this museum takes visitors on a journey through the history of chocolate making and its importance to the city. Discover how cacao beans are transformed into decadent treats and even try your hand at making your own chocolate bar.
Address: 7 All. de Gibéléou, 64100 Bayonne, France
Opening Hours:
- Sunday Closed
- Monday – Saturday 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Phone: +33 5 59 55 70 23
Email: atelierduchocolat.fr
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
3. Musee Bonnat-Helleu, Museum of Fine Arts Bayonne
Next door to the chocolate museum is the Musee Bonnat-Helleu, one of the most significant art museums in the Aquitaine region. Housed in a stunning 19th-century building, this museum is home to an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures from renowned artists such as Goya, El Greco, and Degas.
Address: 5 Rue Jacques Laffitte, 64100 Bayonne, France
Phone: +33 5 59 46 63 60
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
4. Spacejunk
For something a little more contemporary, head to Spacejunk, a unique museum dedicated to urban art and street culture. Featuring works from both local and international artists, this dynamic space also hosts exhibitions, events, and workshops throughout the year.
Address: 35 Rue Sainte-Catherine, 64100 Bayonne, France
Opening Hours:
- Sunday – Wednesday Closed
- Thursday 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Phone: +33 5 59 03 75 32
Email: axu.fr
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
5. Didam
History buffs will love exploring the Didam, a former military barracks turned museum showcasing Bayonne’s role in various wars and conflicts. From medieval knights to World War II resistance fighters, this museum offers a comprehensive look at the city’s military past.
Address: 6 Quai de Lesseps, 64100 Bayonne, France
Opening Hours:
- Sunday 1:00 PM – 6:30 PM
- Monday Closed
- Tuesday – Saturday 1:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Phone: +33 5 59 46 63 43
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
6. Muséum d’histoire naturelle et maison des barthes de Bayonne
Nature lovers will be delighted by the Muséum Histoire naturelle et Maison des Barthes de Bayonne, a natural history museum located in a beautiful park on the outskirts of Bayonne. With exhibits ranging from fossils and minerals to live animals, this museum is a great place for both children and adults to learn about the world around us.
Address: 51 Chem. d’Ansot, 64100 Bayonne, France
Opening Hours:
- Sunday 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM – 6:00 PM
- Monday Closed
- Tuesday – Saturday 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Phone: +33 5 59 42 22 61
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
7. Musee du Jambon de Bayonne
Another unique museum not to be missed is the Musee du Jambon de Bayonne, dedicated entirely to the iconic cured ham of the region. Learn about the traditional methods of production and the strict regulations that make Bayonne ham so special, and of course, taste some for yourself.
Address: 18 Rue Poissonnerie, 64100 Bayonne, France
Opening Hours:
- Sunday – Monday Closed
- Tuesday – Friday 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday 8:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Phone: +33 5 59 59 52 03
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
8. Etienne Coffee & Shop
Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to Atelier 53, a trendy coffee shop and roastery with its own mini-museum dedicated to coffee. Learn about the history of this beloved drink while sipping on a freshly brewed cup in a cozy atmosphere.
Address: 8 Rue Port de Suzeye, 64100 Bayonne, France
Opening Hours:
- Sunday Closed
- Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday 8:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Phone: +33 5 59 20 47 31
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
9. Atelier 53
This charming boutique has a little bit of everything, from artisanal products to local delicacies. But the highlight is its small museum showcasing traditional Basque objects and heritage. Take a stroll through this quaint shop and learn about the region’s culture along the way.
Address: 53 Rue Pannecau, 64100 Bayonne, France
Opening Hours:
- Sunday Closed
- Monday – Saturday 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Phone: +33 6 18 43 89 61
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
10. Association Rugby Tattoo Family Museum
As the birthplace of French rugby, it’s no surprise that Bayonne has its own museum devoted to this beloved sport. The Rugby Tatoo Family Museum celebrates the city’s rich rugby heritage through interactive displays, memorabilia, and even a virtual reality experience.
Address: Stade Jean-dauger Tribune keolis, Av. Fernand Forgues, 64100 Bayonne, France
Opening Hours:
- Sunday – Monday Closed
- Tuesday – Wednesday 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Thursday Closed
- Friday – Saturday 9:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Phone: +33 7 68 83 93 13
11. L’artsenal
Last but certainly not least, L’artsenal is a museum and cultural space dedicated to contemporary art. With exhibitions showcasing both local and international artists, this is the perfect place for art lovers to discover new talent and be inspired.
Address: 2 Rue Sainte-Catherine, 64100 Bayonne, France
Opening Hours:
- Sunday Closed
- Monday 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
- Tuesday 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:30 PM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Friday 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Phone: +33 6 63 29 85 15
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Conclusion
Bayonne’s diverse selection of museums truly offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or food, these 11 museums are bound to leave a lasting impression and deepen your understanding of this charming city. So next time you visit Bayonne, be sure to add these top museums to your itinerary. Happy exploring!
