CAMINO KOALA
City

Saint Jean Pied de Port

163m
43.1634°N, 1.2358°W

Coordinates

43.1634°N, 1.2358°W

Elevation

163m

Accommodation

Available

Services Available

Accommodation
Restaurant
Cafe
Grocery
Pharmacy
ATM
Train
Post Office
Airport
Bus
Pilgrim Office
Clinic
Water
Tobacconist

About Saint Jean Pied de Port

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.

Explore Saint Jean Pied de Port

Things to Do in Saint Jean Pied de Port

Sightseeing

Walk the Rue de la Citadelle

The main cobbled street through the old town, lined with pink sandstone houses, carved lintels, and pilgrim shops. This is where the Camino energy lives.

Sightseeing

Porte Saint-Jacques

The UNESCO World Heritage gate at the top of town where pilgrims arriving on the French routes have entered for centuries. Great views of the mountains from here.

Sightseeing

Walk the Medieval Walls

Follow the Chemin de Ronde along the old town walls from Porte de Navarre back up to Porte Saint-Jacques. Lovely views of the rooftops and surrounding hills.

Relaxation

Sit by the River Nive

The old stone bridge over the Nive is one of the most photographed spots in town. Grab a coffee and watch the river from the bank or the bridge itself.

Food & Drink

Try the Local Cheese

The Basque Country is famous for its sheep and goat cheeses. Pick some up at the Monday market or in the shops along Rue de la Citadelle.

Food & Drink

Taste Irouleguy Wine

A local Basque wine produced in the valleys around Saint-Jean. Red, white, and rose varieties available in most restaurants and shops in town.

Food & Drink

Monday Market

Every Monday morning, local producers set up along Place de Remparts selling cheese, bread, cured meats, honey, and local produce. Also runs Thursdays in summer.

Food & Drink

Pilgrim Menu Dinner

Most restaurants in town offer a menu del peregrino or pilgrim set menu. A three-course meal with wine, typically for around 12 to 15 euros. A Camino tradition.

Relaxation

Browse the Pilgrim Shops

Pick up a scallop shell, walking stick, or last-minute gear. The shops along Rue de la Citadelle and Rue d'Espagne are geared towards pilgrims and well worth a wander.

Practical Information

Everything you need to know for your time in Saint Jean Pied de Port.

Pilgrim Office

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.

ATM / Banks

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.

Pharmacy (Farmacia)

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.

Supermarket

There are small supermarkets and grocery shops around Rue d’Espagne. Pick up snacks, trail food, and a water bottle for the next day.

Accommodation in Saint Jean Pied de Port

Where You Are on the Camino

You are here

Saint Jean Pied de Port

770 km to Santiago de Compostela

Part of

Saint Jean Pied de Port → Roncesvalles(Next Stage)
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Gamarthe → Larceveau(This Stage)
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