Dax

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Dax's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Dax
morning
:

Arrive in Dax and settle into your charming hotel, ideally located for exploring the city. Take a leisurely stroll through the town's quaint streets to get a feel for the local atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional French breakfast at a nearby café, sampling fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the Roman ruins of Dax, where you can admire ancient thermal baths and impressive architecture. Explore the bustling market in Place de la Fontaine, where local vendors offer fresh produce and artisanal products. Take a break at a nearby park to soak in the sun and enjoy your surroundings.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy restaurant that serves regional specialties, indulging in the flavors of the Landes cuisine. After dinner, take a twilight walk along the riverbank, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and the reflections on the water. Spend your night enjoying a drink at a local bar, mingling with friendly locals and tourists alike.

day 2
Thermal Spa Experience
morning
:

Start your day with a rejuvenating visit to the famed thermal spas of Dax, known for their healing waters. Enjoy a calming soak in the thermal baths and treat yourself to a therapeutic massage that melts away your stress. Breathe in the serene atmosphere and prepare for a day of wellness.

afternoon
:

After your spa treatment, have a light and healthy lunch at a nearby bistro, where you can sample local salads and seafood. Take some time to explore the charming gardens surrounding the spa, letting nature enhance your relaxation. Consider visiting the nearby Musée de Borda to delve into local history and culture.

evening
:

Return to your hotel to freshen up before heading out for dinner. Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dax by visiting a local wine bar to taste regional wines paired with delightful tapas. Wrap up your night with a leisurely stroll through the beautifully lit streets, feeling the lively spirit of the town.

day 3
Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the Dax Cathedral, an architectural gem with stunning stained glass windows and a rich history. Spend some time reflecting in this peaceful setting before heading to a nearby café for breakfast. Enjoy croissants and freshly squeezed juice while mingling with locals.

afternoon
:

After breakfast, immerse yourself in Dax's history by exploring the archaeological museum, which showcases artifacts from the Roman era. Continue your cultural adventure by wandering through the charming old town, where you'll find boutiques and artisans at work. Stop for lunch at a bistro that offers a sourcing menu from the local farmer's market.

evening
:

For dinner, head to a family-owned restaurant that prides itself on traditional cooking methods and seasonal ingredients. Savor the flavors of the region as you enjoy hearty dishes inspired by local recipes. Conclude your evening with a theatrical performance at a local venue, experiencing the vibrant arts scene of Dax.

day 4
Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Take a short drive to the nearby **Parc Naturel Régional des Landes de Gascogne** for a day in the great outdoors. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery of pine forests and lakes. Spend your morning hiking along marked trails, observing local wildlife and soaking in nature.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in a designated area of the park, surrounded by the tranquility of nature. Engage in recreational activities such as canoeing or cycling, depending on your interests and the available facilities. Capture the beauty of the landscape with photographs, as the vibrant colors of the region are truly breathtaking.

evening
:

Return to Dax for a much-deserved dinner at a rustic restaurant featuring an inviting terrace. Relish regional specialties while reflecting on the beauty of nature experienced during the day. Join in local festivities or claim a spot at a local outdoor café to enjoy some live music and a nightcap.

day 5
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Embark on a gourmet journey with a cooking class that will introduce you to the culinary traditions of the region. Learn how to prepare local delicacies using fresh ingredients sourced from local markets. Enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared during the class as part of the experience.

afternoon
:

After cooking up a storm, take some time to explore the quaint streets of Dax, visiting food shops and local markets to discover unique products. Consider a guided food tour to deepen your understanding of the region’s gastronomic offerings, sampling artisanal cheeses and cured meats along the way. Refuel with lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes seasonal ingredients.

evening
:

For dinner, make reservations at a Michelin-starred restaurant to indulge in a multi-course tasting menu handcrafted by a talented chef. Each dish offers a delightful fusion of flavors and local produce, making for an unforgettable dining experience. End the evening with a nightcap at a stylish lounge, enjoying the sophisticated ambiance and great company.

day 6
Day Trip to Biarritz
morning
:

Take a scenic drive to the coastal town of Biarritz, known for its beautiful beaches and surf culture. Arrive early to enjoy the morning sun and grab breakfast at a beachside café, where you can dig into fresh seafood and local pastries. Afterward, take some time to explore the stunning coastline and dramatic cliffs.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the beach, trying your hand at surfing or simply relaxing in the sun. Visit the Rocher de la Vierge for breathtaking views of the ocean and the town below, making sure to take plenty of photos. Stop for lunch at a seaside restaurant overlooking the waves, feasting on traditional Basque dishes.

evening
:

As the sun sets, stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Choose a casual eatery for dinner, where you can indulge in locally-sourced seafood and a glass of wine. Wrap up the evening with a visit to a nearby bar with live music, experiencing the local nightlife.

day 7
Nature Trail to Capbreton
morning
:

Embark on a day trip to Capbreton, a charming coastal town just a short drive from Dax. Start your day with a breakfast of fresh pastries at a local café before setting out on a scenic walking or cycling trail along the coastline. Enjoy the fragrant sea breeze and beautiful ocean views as you make your way through lush landscapes.

afternoon
:

Once you arrive in Capbreton, spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque harbor, taking in the sight of boats bobbing in the water. Take a break for lunch at a beachfront restaurant, sampling fresh oysters and other seafood delicacies. Enjoy a leisurely stroll on the beach or partake in water activities such as paddleboarding or kayaking.

evening
:

Return to Dax in the evening, where you will have the opportunity to dine at a traditional Gascon brasserie. Relish the comforting flavors of a hearty stew while enjoying the homey ambiance. Cap off the day with a relaxed evening walk through the town, soaking in the sights and sounds of Dax after dark.

day 8
Art and History
morning
:

Start your day at the local art galleries and exhibition spaces, getting lost in the creativity and talent on display. Enjoy a light breakfast at one of the galleries, which often host cafes that highlight local flavors. Discover the evolving artistic landscape of Dax and the region.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon visiting the **Basilique Notre-Dame de la Asunción**, an architectural marvel with stunning art and intricate design. Follow this with a trip to the Dax Museum, delving deeper into the area's history and cultural heritage. For lunch, savor traditional Basque-inspired meals at nearby eateries.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a chic restaurant that emphasizes artistic presentations of food. As you enjoy your meal, consider joining an art workshop or cultural event planned for the evening, allowing you to engage with local artists. Wind down at an intimate café, reflecting on the rich culture you've experienced throughout the day.

day 9
Relaxation and Reflection
morning
:

Spend your last morning in Dax with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a favorite café, taking in the flavors of coffee and fresh pastries one last time. Use this time to reflect on your adventures over the past week and make a note of your favorite moments. Enjoy a final stroll through your favorite spots in the town, saying goodbye to the charming streets.

afternoon
:

Take a final visit to a local market for souvenirs and artisan products to bring a taste of Dax home with you. Treat yourself to a delicious light lunch using ingredients you learned about during your culinary adventures. Capture some last photographs of the picturesque scenes before heading back to your accommodation.

evening
:

Before departing, join a special farewell dinner at an upscale restaurant that offers a tasting menu featuring the most popular dishes from your journey. Share your experiences with your travel companions and toast to new memories created in Dax. As you savor your meal, enjoy live music or storytelling that honors the rich culture and history of the region.

Discover Dax

Read more in our Dax 2025 Travel Guide.

Dax Travel Guide