Bayonne stands at the meeting point of the Nive and Adour rivers as the cultural heart of the French Basque Country. Its historic center unfolds through half-timbered houses, lively quays, and café-lined squares that reflect a strong regional identity. The UNESCO-listed Sainte-Marie Cathedral rises above the old town, while Vauban’s fortifications recall the city’s strategic past. Museums, festivals, and traditional sports celebrate Basque heritage, alongside renowned specialties such as Bayonne ham and fine chocolate. Close to Atlantic beaches and within reach of the Pyrenees, Bayonne blends riverfront charm, coastal energy, and green landscapes in a setting defined by culture and character.