What to see in Hondarribia ?

Hondarribia occupies a singular position: a sixteenth-century fortified town at the mouth of the Bidassoa, facing Hendaye across the border, it belongs to Spanish Basque Country whilst breathing a frontier atmosphere that lends it distinctive character. The Marina quarter, with its red and green half-timbered houses, contrasts sharply with the Parte Vieja, ringed by ramparts, where pintxos are consumed standing at the bar, unpretentiously.

The best season runs from May to October, though September strikes the most balanced note between light and crowds. Two days suffice for an unhurried circuit. Arrive by car or water taxi from Hendaye—a crossing of mere minutes that spares you the detour via the bridge. Avoid the August weekend: the town becomes an extension of Saint-Sébastien's seaside resort, twenty kilometres away, and the Plaza de Armas terraces lose their usual calm.