Coordinates
43.1634°N, 1.2358°W
Elevation
183m
Accommodation
Available
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is the traditional starting point of the Camino Frances, a picturesque walled town in the French Pyrenees on the banks of the River Nive. The cobblestoned Rue de la Citadelle, lined with red and white Basque houses, leads pilgrims down through the old town to the Porte d'Espagne and the start of the climb over the Pyrenees.
The town has a full range of services including the Pilgrim Office (where credencials are issued and the route over the mountains is explained), multiple albergues, hotels, restaurants, outdoor shops, ATMs, and a pharmacy. The municipal albergue fills quickly in peak season.
Saint-Jean sits at the convergence of three of the four historic French pilgrimage routes, giving it deep significance in Camino history. Pilgrims should arrive by early afternoon to allow time to visit the Pilgrim Office and prepare for the demanding first day over the Pyrenees.
Everything you need to know for your time in Saint Jean Pied de Port.
39 Rue de la Citadelle. Open daily during the main season, generally from early morning to evening with a midday break, though hours vary. Quieter outside peak months.
There are ATMs on the main street (Rue de France and Rue d'Espagne). Many albergues along the route are cash-only, so stock up before you leave.
There are pharmacies along the main street, generally open Monday to Saturday with varying hours. A good place to stock up on blister prevention supplies before you start.
There are small supermarkets and grocery shops around Rue d’Espagne. Pick up snacks, trail food, and a water bottle for the next day.
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Saint Jean Pied de Port
769 km to Santiago de Compostela
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How to reach your starting point from major cities and airports.
Take the TGV from Paris Montparnasse to Bayonne (approx. 5 hours), then a scenic local train from Bayonne to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port (1 hour). From Madrid, travel to Bayonne via TGV or Renfe connections through the Basque Country.
The nearest airport is Biarritz (Pays Basque Airport), approximately 45 minutes by taxi or shuttle. Bilbao Airport (2.5 hours) and Pamplona Airport (1.5 hours) are also well-connected alternatives with onward buses or taxis.
Alsa and regional operators run buses from Pamplona to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. From Biarritz, local buses connect to Bayonne, from where you take the train.
Private transfers are available from Biarritz, Bayonne, and Pamplona airports. Many transfer companies specialise in Camino pilgrims and can drop you at the Pilgrim Office.
Your checklist for arrival day in Saint Jean Pied de Port.
Visit the Pilgrim Office at 39 Rue de la Citadelle. In season (April to October) it is typically open 7:30am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 8pm, though hours vary. Your Credencial is your official Camino passport. You will need it to stay in albergues and to receive your Compostela in Santiago.
The Church of Notre-Dame du Bout du Pont holds a pilgrim blessing most evenings during the season. This is a meaningful and memorable way to begin your journey. Check locally for the current time.
If you have forgotten anything, there are several hiking and outdoor shops along the main street. This is your last chance to buy trekking poles, blister plasters, or anything else before you head into the mountains.
Tomorrow is the first stage: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Roncesvalles, one of the most demanding stages on the entire Camino, crossing the Pyrenees with over 1,400 metres of ascent. An early dinner and early night will serve you well.
Everything you need to know for your time in Saint Jean Pied de Port.
39 Rue de la Citadelle. Open daily during the main season, generally from early morning to evening with a midday break, though hours vary. Quieter outside peak months.
There are ATMs on the main street (Rue de France and Rue d'Espagne). Many albergues along the route are cash-only, so stock up before you leave.
There are pharmacies along the main street, generally open Monday to Saturday with varying hours. A good place to stock up on blister prevention supplies before you start.
There are small supermarkets and grocery shops around Rue d’Espagne. Pick up snacks, trail food, and a water bottle for the next day.