biarritz tourist guide

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

A local’s guide to Biarritz, France: five great things to do

Artist Isabelle de Joantho delights in the Atlantic city’s crashing waves, pinxtos, galleries and green spaces

Isabelle de Joantho is a painter and sculptor who studied at the Bayonne-Anglet-Biarritz School of Art.

La Goulue restaurant (named after a can-can dancer at the Moulin Rouge who used to gulp down her clients’ drinks) serves great, local fare in a Basque-red 1900s dining room. I love the chipirons grillés a la plancha (squid grilled with garlic and parsley) and Spanish-style sea bream. For fresh food, Les Halles covered market is filled with tasting bars, organic bakeries, cheese and charcuterie stalls and fishmongers. Two other places not to miss are Place Bellevue on the seafront for one of Maison Pariès ’ caramel fondant kanougas , flavoured with vanilla or Espelette chilli pepper. And in Bidart, a town a little way down the coast, it’s worth watching a gâteau basque (a cake with a creamy filling and orange zest) being made in front of you at the Moulin de Bassilour watermill.

Inspiration

Overlooking the old fishing port is the impressive, greystone neo-Gothic Église de Sainte-Eugénie – patron saint of Napoleon III’s wife, Eugénie de Montijo, who fashioned Biarritz as a spectacular health and holiday resort in the mid-19th century. My inspirational place lies beneath: the huge, vaulted crypt, which is used as a venue for art shows. I have exhibited there many times and it has an amazing ambiance. Biarritz is now a major hub for galleries and contemporary art, and I always attend La Brouillarta , an annual outdoor art fair on the seafront. There’s also a parcours d’oeuvres d’art, a walking route around the city’s many frescoes and outdoor sculptures.

Green space

Biarritz’s assets include the sea, the mountains, the countryside and the Spanish border, but we have three golden retrievers, so green spaces are very important to us. There are two wonderful lakes just outside the city, Lac Mouriscot and Lac Marion . Mouriscot is popular with joggers and cyclists: it has wide, wild pathways through the woods and plenty of benches overlooking the lake. Marion, which is equally good for dogs and families, has a bucolic lakeside path, some areas of marshland, plus lots of mature trees and lawns. Both can be reached on bus route 5 from the centre of town, heading past Biarritz’s horse racing track .

Neighbourhood

Biarritz’s Grande Plage and casino seafront can become very crowded in the summer, so it is best to visit out of season, but the Port des Pêcheurs to the south is always wonderful. Set on a natural creek, the protected harbour has a “village” of 65 cabins known as crampottes – whitewashed fishing huts built into the rock, with red, blue or bright green shutters. They have hardly changed in 150 years, though a few have been turned into cafes and restaurants. There is a 19-year waiting list to rent one – you have to own a boat and a mooring in the fishing port. The port sits beneath the old whale-watching tower and is the most authentic and charming stretch of the Biarritz seafront. It has a little beach, and lanes draped with floats, fishing nets and the occasional giant anchor.

Le Bar Jean , at the heart of Biarritz’s tapas, paella and beef-eating culture since the 1930s, stays open until well after midnight, as do many of the pintxos (tapas) bars around Les Halles market. It’s popular to go from bar to bar in Biarritz, tasting tapas with Basque cider, which is poured into tiny, round glasses from high above the table so the cider becomes aerated, though it is quite sour and vinegary! Or, if you are at the beach along the city’s Côte des Basques, it’s only 100 steps up to Bar Etxola Bibi, a great place to watch the sunset with a cocktail and plate of pintxos.

Close to the beaches and Les Halles, Villa Koegui (doubles from €85, breakfast €15pp) was renovated this year. It has a stylish lounge, an outdoor terrace and family suites.

• France holidays
• A local's guide
• Pyrenees holidays
• Basque country holidays
• Food and drink
• Europe holidays

Most viewed

A Guide to the 10+ Best Things to do in Biarritz

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 27th October 2023

Categories France

Last Updated on 27th October 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

The seaside resort of Biarritz is located on the windswept French Basque coastline and is the perfect weekend getaway if you’re looking for sun, sand, and seafood. Best visited between May and September, here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Biarritz , as well as what to know before you go.

Thanks to its many surfing opportunities and delicious food scene, The Côte Basque, is often referred to as the ‘California of France’. Thanks to its ties with royalty, Biarritz is also known as ‘the queen of the beaches, the beach of kings’.

If you only have a short time in the city, here are our suggestions for how to spend one day in Biarritz . For more inspiration, be sure to check out our French Basque Country itinerary.

What is Biarritz known for?

Where is biarritz located, how long do you need in biarritz, grande plage, plage du port-vieux, see villa belza, casino barrière, biarritz lighthouse, rocher de la vierge, go shopping, bookstore biarritz, port des pêcheurs, sainte-eugénie church of biarritz, chapelle impériale, eglise orthodoxe de biarritz, museum of biarritz, sample local food and drink, take a day trip to saint jean de luz, getting around biarritz, l’entre deux, nuts biarritz, no. 4 coffee station, hôtel du palais biarritz, how to get to biarritz, how much does a weekend in biarritz cost, what to wear when exploring europe.

Biarritz has been a resort town for well over a century and a half, when Princess Eugenie made bathing popular and seaside excursions became the norm for the well to do of society. Biarritz is also famous for its Basque heritage, great surfing beaches, golf courses, and a fantastic foodie scene.

Another unique thing you’ll see in the Basuqe region are extea, traditional white Basque houses which are timber framed with shutters that are painted a deep red. These can be found up and down the Basque coastline and are incredibly charming.

Biarritz is located on the Atlantic Coastline and is situated just 11 miles (18 km) away from the border with Spain. On a clear day, it’s possibly to see Spain, as well as the Pyrénées.

Located in Southwest France, Biarritz is within the Pyrénées-Atlantiques département in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. Close towns and cities of note include Guéthary , Saint Jean de Luz (and its twinned port of Ciboure ), and Bayonne .

The city is fairly large, meaning that there are a number of attractions, monuments, and cool places to visit and keep you occupied. As such, I recommend setting aside two or three days to visit Biarritz, which will give you enough time to do some side trips to nearby cities as well.

Best things to do in Biarritz

If there’s one thing that visitors first notice when they visit Biarritz, it’s the Grande Plage at the edges of town, and lined by its very own boardwalk, Quai de la Promenade.

Perfect for taking an evening stroll, there are several beachside cafés studded alongside the quay, which serve up tasty cocktails and tapas style snacks.

The beach itself is popular among sunbathers, surfers, and swimmers. There is a lifeguard on duty during the day from May through to October (though check exact times that they’re on duty while you’re visiting the beach as it changes throughout the year). If the sea is particularly rough, then swimming and surfing are forbidden.

The smaller yet nevertheless inviting beach of Port-Vieux is smaller and friendlier towards swimmers and sunbathers than the Grande Plage. Lying in the shadow of the Neo-Medieval Villa Belza, the waters are typically much calmer in this sheltered spot.

While in the area, the place to head to is none other than the Eden Rock Café, which is a popular bar overlooking the water. Unfortunately, you’ll have to check to see when it’s open by walking past as the opening times online seem to be completely wrong!

If there’s one building which is oh-so-iconic and can be spied from almost any viewpoint in Biarritz, it’s Villa Belza. This Neo-Medieval Palace was constructed at the end of the 19th-century and has seen plenty of transformations over its lifetime.

Villa Belza has seen plenty of uses over the years, including as a bunker during Nazi Occupation and as a hotel. Today, the Villa is closed to the public as it is in use as luxury apartments. The best place to see Villa Belza is undoubtedly at sunset from the entrance path which leads towards Rocher de la Vierge.

When it comes to visiting Biarritz, and indeed the entirety of the French Basque coastline, visitors will soon discover that there is plenty of Art Deco architecture to be enjoyed. Casino Barrière was constructed in 1901 before being renovated in the Art Deco style during the 1920s. It is still a working casino today.

Standing at 73 metres above sea level, the Biarritz lighthouse was constructed in 1834 and offers beautiful views of the Basque coastline, as well as the Grande Plage and town of Biarritz below. For a fee, you can climb the 248 steps to get to the top.

The best time to visit the Biarritz lighthouse, which is located on Pointe Saint Martin, if you want to see views of Biarritz below, as well as the coastline of the Cape Hainsart, is at sunset when everything will be bathed in a golden glow.

One of the emblematic landmarks of Biarritz is the Rocher de la Vierge , which is known as the Rock of the Virgin in English. The strangely shaped rock, which looks like a long ship’s hull, is located between the Port-Vieux  (Old Port)  and the Port des pêcheurs  (fishermen’s port)  and is topped with a statue of the Virgin Mary.

If there’s one thing that you can do in Biarritz, it’s to go shopping for souvenirs to take back from your trip. As a luxury resort town, Biarritz boasts all kinds of shops from foodie paradises to designer shops like Hermès.

Particular things to buy from Biarritz include espadrilles (the woven and canvas shoe actually originates in the region), chilli pepper products, local hams, Basque fabrics (there are stores dedicated entirely to linen sprinkled all over town), and woven baskets and bags.

One of my personal favourites when it comes to hidden gems of Biarritz is a charming bookshop which is simply known as Bookstore Biarritz. Located steps away from the Grande Plage, the bookshop is set over two floors and has books on almost every topic, including an extensive section of travel guides to the local Basque region.

Characterised by its ‘crampottes’ (fishermen’s houses), the Port de Pêcheurs was constructed during the reign of Napoleon III, though has served as a fishing port to Biarritz for many centuries.

The port is still dotted with white fishing huts which are adorned in colourful shutters. It is also here where you’ll find some of the best fish restaurants in Biarritz, where you can sit outside during the warmer months and watch the sun set as you’re sipping on some freshly blended Sangria.

There are several ecclesiastical buildings dotted around Biarritz, though the most imposing of them all is probably the Gothic Sainte-Eugénie Church of Biarritz. Built during the reign of Emperor Napoleon III, the church is in the very heart of the city and overlooks the Port-Vieux area.

One of the more out of the way places and best-kept secrets of Biarritz is the Imperial Chapel. The little church was constructed in 1865 to serve as a personal place of worship for Princess Eugenie of Montijo.

The chapel is dedicated to Notre Dame de Guadalupe and is built in the Neo-Byzantine style. Today, the Imperial Chapel is open only occasionally via guided tour to visitors, though it can be admired via its exterior 24/7.

The Russian Orthodox Church of Biarritz is located close to the Hôtel Palais and was built at the end of the 19th-century (in 1892 to be precise). At this time, Biarritz was a popular vacation spot for many wealthy Russian visitors as it was also an Imperial City.

Those who are looking to discover even more about the history of Biarritz and its surrounds can head to the historical museum of Biarritz (Musée Historique de Biarritz).

Set against the backdrop of a former Anglican church, the museum showcases the history of Biarritz. Please note that the majority of the exhibitions in the museum are in French and so it is best experienced if you can read French!

One of the things that makes Biarritz one of the best places to visit in France is the local gastronomy which originates from both the land and the sea. Head to Les Halles (a late 19th-century covered market hall) to shop for local produce including cheeses, jams and sauces, meats, and vegetables).

As well as local savoury items, the most popular sweet dessert to be found in Biarritz is the Basque Cake, which comes in two flavours: cream and black cherry. Otherwise, read on later in the article for our top suggestions for where to eat and drink in Biarritz.

Thanks to its wild winds and crashing waves, the Basque Atlantic Coastline is one of the most popular places in Europe to go surfing throughout the year. If you’ve never been surfing before but wish to try, then you might consider booking a private surfing lesson like this one.

Of course, though there are plenty of things to do in Biarritz, many people visiting the town will want to get a greater feel of the wider Basque region. One of the best day trips to take from Biarritz is to Saint Jean de Luz .

You don’t need to rent a car from Biarritz but can instead take the local bus system. In order to get from Biarritz to Saint Jean de Luz, you’ll need to take two different buses. You can purchase an unlimited transport card for €5,20 at the chronoplus Biarritz bus office, which is located close to the tourist office.

The transport system of Biarritz is fairly easy to navigate, though most attractions are situated close to one another and can easily be explored on foot. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are plenty of ups and downs, steps, and cobbled streets.

There is a tourist office where you can pick up walking guides and information about the town (address: Sq. d’Ixelles). Housed against the backdrop of a former pink mansion, the building itself is truly beautiful. Unfortunately, the staff were not very helpful.

If you would prefer a more touristic experience, then you can get the moderately reviewed tourist train. The tourist train departs from the Grande Plage and, as of 2023, costs €7 for an adult to do the basic tourist circuit (of around 30 minutes).

The tourist train was okay, but definitely not the best activity in Biarritz. Information is very limited and the music gets incredibly repetitive. You’ll need cash as the train doesn’t accept card payments.

Bicycles are available to rent from a number of different places around town, as are electric vibes. Alternatively, you could take a guided tour on a Segway like this one.

Finally, if you’re looking to get a true feel for Biarritz and delve deeper into the history of the place, together with a local guide, then you might consider booking a private guided walking tour. Find more details here.

Where to eat and drink in Biarritz

There is no doubt about it: Biarritz is a true foodie destination. Even if you don’t eat meat or seafood, you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy eating when it comes to visiting the Southwest French town. Here’s a guide to the top places to eat in Biarritz.

If you’re looking for a special dinner that is particularly well cooked, then I highly recommend heading to L’Entre Deux, which is located just a stone’s throw away from the centre of town. Be sure to book in advance as tables fill up fast, especially during the summer.

L’Entre Deux’s main speciality is fresh fish dishes, served together with an extensive wine list.

Healthy vegetarian and vegan food (as well as a few meat and fish options) can be found at Nuts Biarritz. This café serves up an every changing menu, as well as speciality coffees and cakes.

Those searching for good speciality coffee and brunch in the city would do well to head to No. 4 Coffee Station. They serve a variety of delicious dishes (some of which are vegetarian), as well as sweet treats and desserts. The coffee was particularly tasty and there are vegetable milks available.

Of course, one of the most special experiences to have in Biarritz is to dine in the open air, overlooking the sea. Harremanak is set against the backdrop of an old fisherman’s hut turned restaurant in the Port-Vieux area of the city.

The menu is set out tapas style and the idea is that you take a number of small dishes to share between friends or family. What is particularly great about Harremanak as opposed to some of the other tapas places is that there are several non-meat and non-fish options on the menu such as vegetable sharing platters.

Where to stay in Biarritz

For the ultimate taste of luxury during your South Western France stay, there is no place to stay in Biarritz other than the Hôtel du Palais. This grand palace is now listed as a historic monument and was constructed by Napoleon III for his wife Eugénie.

Indeed, the shape of the palace is in an ‘E’. Since 1893, the complex has been used as a luxury hotel and is now owned by Hyatt. Now classed as a 5-star hotel, amenities include a pool, spa, and some rooms have a beach view. Check prices and availability here.

There are a number of ways to get to Biarritz as the town is served by its own train station, as well as an airport. The closest airports to Biarritz are San Sebastian Airport (EAS) and Biarritz (BIQ). Biarritz airport is around 30 minutes away from the city by public transportation, while San Sebastian in Spain is around a half hour drive away.

The airport and train stations are also served by long distance coaches, which offer much lower rates to get to Paris, and further afield to Spain. Biarritz is also just a couple of hours away from the city of Bordeaux by train or car and so could be visited as part of a South West France itinerary .

Of course, the exact answer to this question depends on plenty of factors, such as if you’re visiting in the off-season, how far in advance you book, and whether or not there’s a popular holiday or festival occuring during your travel dates.

During our trip, we stayed in an Airbnb with a bedroom that could sleep two people and a lounge that had a pull out sofa bed. It was less than a five-minute walk from the beach and cost around €80 per night, though would cost more during the high season (July and August).

When it came to meals, we were spoilt for choice. Our meal at Crampotte 30 for 3 people included more plates of tapas than we could all eat and a pitcher of Sangria and came to €21 each. Meanwhile, our meal at Chez Gaby (which included a bottle of wine between 3 people) cost €30 each.

In the summer, you can’t go wrong by pairing a cute midi dress with classic white tennis shoes for a laid-back smart casual look that’s just as chic for walking around a city’s cobbled lanes as it is for wandering coastal paths. I love this dress and have it in several colour ways. In terms of tennis shoes, this is my go-to shoe.

When it comes to winter in Europe, most places (with the exception of a few islands) can get pretty cold and so warm layers is a must. I find that cute ankle boots like these ones are the perfect mix of practical meets cute.

Shoulder seasons (spring and summer) in Europe tend to come with a mix of rainy and sunny days and so, again, layers are a must. Trench coats and sneakers are the best uniform to explore the continent in.

Finally, a cross-body bag like these ones is a must. I personally use a crossbody bag  by this brand  and love its shape, size, and versatility. As well as being convenient and compact, it’s one of the safest ways to transport your valuables, all the while looking chic. I also recommend bringing along a travel adapter  like this one  so you can charge all of your electronics during your stay!

Enjoyed reading about the best things to do in Biarritz? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Natali - She's abroad again

Thursday 12th of May 2022

This couldn't have come at a better time! I was just in the middle of getting the tickets for a weekend trip to Biarritz when I saw your new post. Now I feel like my trip is sorted out :D

Sophie Nadeau

Wednesday 18th of May 2022

Thank you :) I hope you have a wonderful time in Biarritz!

• French Basque Country
• Biarritz Tourism – Things to Do in Biarritz

Overview of Biarritz, France

The atmosphere in Biarritz is rather mixed, but in a good way. The town is comprised mainly of grand houses used by the wealthy as summer retreats. It has an upscale feel to it that is balanced off nicely with a more relaxed and easy-going surf culture that has a long history here. This interesting contrast forms part of Biarritz’s identity.

During your visit, don't miss the opportunity to try this exciting and entertaining sport. Join the surfing culture by participating in a surfing lesson in Biarritz . Whether it's your first time or you already have some experience, you'll find the perfect surfing activity for you .

Wealthy beach-goers, including European and Russian nobility, pre-date the surfing scene in Biarritz. In the middle of the 19 th century the Empress Eugenia de Montijo , wife of Napoleon III, discovered Biarritz and fell in love with its 6 kilometers of sandy beaches, cliffs, and therapeutic sea waters.

Beaches in Biarritz

Plage miramar.

Grande Plage

The Grande Plage is the main beach of the town, popular among tourists and locals alike. It was previously known as the “Côte des Fous” (coast of the crazy), because of the large number of “sick” people who came for the benefits of the waters.

It is located in the heart of Biarritz, close to shopping areas, bars and restaurants. The Grande Plage is situated between the Hôtel du Palais in the north and the Bellevue Congress Center in the south.

Plage Port Vieux

Plage de la Côte des Basques

The Plage de la Côte des Basques is the main surfing beach of Biarritz. This beautiful beach is framed by cliffs and during high tide its sand completely disappears under the water, leaving behind only waves and surfers. Take note that exiting the water at high tide can be difficult as you have to climb on the rocks.

Seize the opportunity and book your surf lesson in Biarritz here .

Plage Marbella

Other beaches.

Anglet is the town just north of Biarritz. It is located just on the other side of Biarritz’s lighthouse and it has several beaches that are in reality more like one long beach that extends for approximately 5 km.

The first beach, called VVF Beach has lifeguards on duty from the June 1 st until September 22 nd  from 10.30 am to 7.00 pm. Several of these beaches are popular with surfers. Check out the website from the town of Anglet for more specific information.

Hotels in Biarritz

Search Hotels, Compare & Save

Biarritz's top things to do & see, hôtel du palais.

In the middle of the 19 th century, when the wife of Napoleon III, Empress Eugenia de Montijo discovered Biarritz, she fell in love with it and its 6 kilometers of sandy beaches. She decided it would be the perfect place to build a sea-side palace to be used as a summer residence. The palace that she built is today known as the Hôtel du Palais.

The construction of this immense palace started in 1855, however, when the dynasty fell apart in 1870, the future of the Hôtel du Palais became uncertain. The new government seized most of the valuables from the interior and finally in 1880, the Empress left Biarritz and the palace was sold. Shortly afterwards, it was transformed into a luxurious hotel-casino.

For years, the prestigious hotel was frequented by European bourgeoisie and royal families. The building was reconstructed after a fire in 1903, remaining fashionable even after World War I. In the 1920’s Biarritz became so popular and exclusive that it was known as “queen of resorts and resort of the kings.”

Unfortunately, after World War II, the hotel had to close down for some time and it was only with the help of the mayor, who organized a campaign to raise money for the rehabilitation of the building, that it could be reopened.

Today, the Hôtel du Palais still represents the luxurious lure of Biarritz and it has become one of the city’s main symbols.

Casino Municipal

Today, apart from the casino, the building holds a theater and a swimming pool.

Fishermen Port

The Fishermen Port ("Port des Pêcheurs" in French) was built in 1870 for inshore fishermen. Today, most of the fishermen are gone and what is left is a cute little port mainly visited by tourists.

There are a bunch of restaurants located in the picturesque fishermen’s houses. If you want to eat fresh fish or seafood, this is definitely the best place to do it.

Rock of the Virgin

According to legend, there once was a ship that was on its way to dock when a huge storm struck, making it impossible for the ship to navigate into the port. Suddenly, a ray of light appeared and showed the fishermen a safe way to the shore. After the miracle, the fishermen decided to erect a statue of the virgin on the rock (1865).

The Rock of the Virgin ("Rocher de la Vierge" in French) is connected to the mainland via a bridge that was commissioned by Napoleon III. The bridge crosses over the water and partly through the rock that was carved out. The bridge is known as the Eiffel Bridge , named after the architect Gustave Eiffel, the same man who built the Eiffel Tower.

From the end of the rock, you can enjoy some of the best views of Biarritz. On a clear day, you can even see mountains of the Spanish Basque Country.

Musée de la Mer Aquarium

The museum guides visitors through the flora and fauna of the oceans of the entire world (from the Gulf Stream to the Pacific Ocean, passing by the North Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, South America and the Cape Horn). Among its most famous “residents,” are the scalloped hammerhead shark, the gray seal and the loggerhead turtle.

If you are planing to visit, don’t miss the feeding of the seals, which happens everyday at 10:30 am and 5 pm.

Old Port & Rue du Port-Vieux

Until the middle of the 19 th century, Biarritz was centered around the Port Vieux. It was here where the whaling ships came to dock and where the fishermen would cut up the whales.

The old port is the perfect starting (or end) point for a walk through the town.

Shopping & Eating Area If you want to go shopping, we recommend a walk down the Rue du Port-Vieux (there are also a lot of shops, bars and restaurants there). From there, you can continue to the Rue Mazagran and Rue Gambetta.

Market (Halles)

The market, “Halles de Biarritz,” has been around since 1885 and is the main covered market of the town. It’s the perfect place to buy local produce.

The Halles de Biarritz is divided in two buildings. In the first one, you will find meat, fruit and vegetables, bread and other Basque specialties. The second building is dedicated to fish and is usually busier in the early morning.

The area surrounding the market has a lot of shops and restaurants and is worth a visit.

The lighthouse (“phare” in French) was built in 1834 and is located at the northernmost point of Biarritz. The 74 meter high lighthouse is open to the public, however, to get to the top you will have to climb all 248 steps.

Even if you don’t want to climb to the top of the lighthouse, it is still a great place to visit. The lighthouse is set upon a cliff right next to the water and there are some great views looking down to Biarritz and the French coast. The best time to visit is at the end of the day so you can catch the sunset.

* If you continue driving from the lighthouse in the direction of Anglet, you will discover a small chill-out bar called “Kostaldea.” This is also another great place to watch the sunset while enjoying a drink. There are concerts sometimes in the evening there as well.

Imperial Chapel

Orthodox church.

Oddly enough, there is a connection between Biarritz and Russia which goes back to the time of the Empress Eugenia, the wife of Napoleon III. Eugenia invited the Russian nobility to spend their summers in Biarritz and this influx of wealth helped the town become what it is today.

Moreover, in 1892, after the alliance between France and Russia and under the initiative of the Tsar Alexander III, the monumental orthodox church (“église orthodoxe” in French) was erected and dedicated to “Saint Alexander Nevski.” Built in byzantine style, it features an impressive blue dome and icons brought all the way from Saint Petersburg.

Although the church is still used today, its interior has seen better days.

Other Places of Interest in Biarritz

Saint Eugénie Church (Église Sainte Eugénie)

This church has a great location, standing on a hill that overlooks the port and Bay of Biscay. Built in 1898 in neo-gothic style, it is dedicated to Sainte Eugenie, patron saint of Eugenia de Montijo, Empress of France.

The Saint Eugénie Church stands in the place where the small chapel of Notre Dame de Pitié originally stood. It was used as a sanctuary for sailors and fishermen, who would go there in hopes that they would be protected from the dangers of the Atlantic Ocean. The chapel was however, destroyed by fire in 1855.

Today, the Sainte Eugénie Church usually hosts temporary exhibitions and concerts, especially during the summer months.

Gare du Midi

Once the train station, the Gare du Midi used to welcome Napoleon III when he visited Biarritz. Since its renovation in 1991, this Art Nouveau building is used as theater and congress center.

Get In & Around

Once you are in Biarritz, most places are reachable by foot. If you want to go from one end to the other, then you can use the local bus service, operated by Txik Txak.

Arriving to Biarritz

PLANE – The airport of Biarritz-Anglet- Bayonne is located 5 km outside of the town. From the airport, you can get to the center of Biarritz using the bus Chronoplus n14. The trip takes about 15 minutes and costs 1 euro.

The next closest airports are the one of San Sebastián / Hondarribia (36 km away) and the one of Bilbao (148 km away). There isn’t any direct transport from any of them to Biarritz.

Find the cheapest airline tickets with WayAway (a flight aggregator that offers travelers the best fares on airline tickets).

CAR – Biarritz is located 6 km away from the A63 highway, which goes from Bordeaux to the Spanish border. In Spain this same highway is named AP-8.

A rental car is really great to have in the Basque Country. It makes for access to some parts of the region such as San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and to the sagardotegis (traditional basque restaurants in the countryside) much easier. Driving along the coast and through the Basque interior is beautiful.

If you do rent a car, we recommend not staying on the highway the whole time and drive through the country side as it is very rewarding and you get to see a part of basque life that you would otherwise not be able to. Some of the highways are also toll roads in the Basque Country. The most expensive one is between Vitoria and San Sebastian and costs around 12 €.

If you take the alternative free route, it takes about 20 minutes longer, but it much more scenic.

Car Rental – Search, Compare & Save

BUS – Most buses leaving or arriving in Biarritz stop at the Square d’Ixelles. There are several day connections to Bayonne, Anglet and other nearby locations offered by the companies ATCRB, Ouibus and Chronoplus.

PESA and CONDA offer buses to San Sebastian , Pamplona and other Spanish cities.

Buy your bus tickets here .

TRAIN – The train station of Biarritz is located 3km outside of the city center, at the Allée du Moura. The local bus service operated by Chronoplus offer buses connecting the train station with other parts of Biarritz.

The high-speed line (TGV) between Paris and Hendaye stops in Biarritz, taking around 5 h 20 min. There are also regional train services along the Basque coast and through Labourd and Lower Navarre to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port.

If you are going to or coming from Spain, you will probably have to change trains in Hendaye.

Buy your train tickets here .

Other Places of Interest in the Surroundings

Map – Things to Do in Biarritz

Is Eusko Guide helping you plan your trip?

If so, please consider booking your hotel through the links to booking.com found on our website or use the following link: https://www.booking.com/?aid=360107

That way, you get the best rates on your hotels and at the same time, it helps us to continue contributing to this site. Everyone wins!

Ultimate Guide: 25 Best Things to Do in Biarritz in 2024

Longing for a coastal escape filled with breathtaking views and an abundance of activities? As someone who recently spent almost a week in Biarritz, I can personally attest that this picturesque town is a true gem. From stunning beaches to a vibrant culture, this charming coastal paradise is worth visiting! And, to help you plan your perfect itinerary, here are the top 25 things to do in Biarritz!

What is Biarritz Known For?

Biarritz is known for its breathtaking beaches and impressive waves that make the town a surfer’s paradise, attracting surfers and beach lovers from all around the world. Apart from its surf culture, Biarritz is also known for its luxurious and elegant vibe. Once a favored destination for European royalty and aristocrats, the town exudes Old World sophistication with its grand architecture, luxurious hotels, and upscale shops. That said, the charming town is also known for its well-preserved Basque heritage, which you can celebrate through the city’s lively gastronomic scene and historic homes!

25 Best Things to Do in Biarritz

Alrighty, now that you have a little bit of background about Biarritz, let’s talk about all the wonderful things to do in Biarritz during your stay!

1. Ascend Phare de Biarritz

To start off, one must-visit place during your stay in Biarritz is Phare de Biarritz. This iconic landmark was built in 1834 and stands tall at 73 meters high! Around the lighthouse, you’ll find lots of park benches, a big grassy area, and a few different viewing points. There’s even a food stand with lots of outdoor seating for those looking to grab a bite to eat while enjoying the view. But, for those keen on catching the absolute best panoramic views of the beautiful Basque coastline, I highly recommend ascending to the top of the lighthouse!

Unfortunately, this does mean you have to climb 258 winding steps, but at least it’s less than the number of steps you have to climb to reach the top of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris ! Not by much…but every step counts right? 🥲 Also, you’ll be happy to know, the steps are fairly even — as in they don’t have varying heights). And, you have a good amount of space to let others pass by, unlike in the Pey Berland Tower in Bordeaux … which nearly made me want to cry LOL. The one bit I will warn you about is the last 10 steps, which is kind of like climbing a steep ladder. There are rails to hold onto, but I could see how it might be challenging for some. Once you get to the top, you’ll be rewarded with incredibly gorgeous views. Seriously, I was a bit shocked to see how blue the water was and just how picturesque this charming coastal town looked!

In terms of tickets, it costs €5 to go up . You can pay with cash or a card, and the lighthouse is open every day. Just be mindful of the final entrance time, which is about 15 – 30 minutes before they close.

🏄‍♀️ NOTE: When I visited, I had to wait about 10 minutes before. This is because only 10 people are allowed up at a time and there’s no time limit for how long you can stay up top.

2. Relax at La Grande Plage

As mentioned at the beginning of this post, Biarritz is known for its idyllic beaches that invite visitors from all over. One of the two major beaches in Biarritz that stretches from Phare de Biarritz to just beyond Casino Barrière is La Grand Plage. This is the beach that’s located on the Northern side of Biarritz, and in my opinion, the beach that’s more accessible from Biarritz’s downtown area. Here, you’ll find an abundance of people sunbathing, surfing (if there are surfable waves lol), and swimming. And, in contrast to the beaches in Nice , Biarritz has fluffy sand beaches! — Okay, there are some rocks toward the edge of the shoreline, but nothing to be really concerned about. Oh, and if you get hungry, you’ll find lots of cafés and restaurants within a 5-minute walk. One of my favorite places that I ate at, Jack the Cockerel , actually overlooks La Grande Plage, so if you’re looking to dine with a view — definitely check out the menu there! Either way, be sure to spend at least some time at the beach because no trip to Biarritz is complete without a little rest and relaxation! 😌

3. Surf the Coast’s Famous Waves

Similar to above, for anyone who is a fan of surfing, a must-do activity while in Biarritz is to surf the city’s famous waves! Biarritz is often hailed as the “Surf Capital of France,” because the city experiences pretty consistent swells throughout the year. As such, when there’s a good swell, it’s not uncommon to witness world-class surfers gliding across the waves in Biarritz, much like the surf culture in Tahiti or in sunny San Diego ! And not say I’m a world-class surfer (because I’m definitely not 😂), but the opportunity to surf these amazing waves was the biggest draw for me and why I initially decided to visit Biarritz Even beginners can enjoy the waves in Biarritz. You’ll find tons of rental surf shops around the city that usually rent everything from foam boards to short boards for about €20 – €30 euros a day. Alternatively, if you’d rather learn from an experienced surfer , you can take some surf lessons. This is what I recommend for anyone who is just starting their surfing journey as they can get you started on the right foot!

✅ 🏄‍♀️ Check rates & availability for these fun surf lessons in Biarritz

🏄‍♀️ PRO TIP: For advanced surfers, be sure to check out the surf breaks in Hossegor, which is about 30 minutes North of Biarritz! This amazing and much lesser-known spot for surfing that some local surfers recommended to me during my stay in Biarritz!

4. Do Some Retail Therapy

Another fun thing to do is to explore all the different shops around Biarritz. Being a coastal city, a large portion of the shops are geared towards beach wear and sell beach-related items. But, you’ll also find plenty of other shops that sell nice clothing, hand-made goods, and items the region is known for, such as espadrilles. And, if you’re in the market for some souvenirs or even if you just want to window shop, I recommend walking down Rue Mazagran . This street is lined with lots of small shops selling an array of goods. I had fun picking out a few postcards to send back home! Just be sure to walk the entire length of the street and then go back to purchase whatever you want. This way you don’t end up like me, who discovered postcards at a place two doors down from where I first bought from were two-thirds the price I had paid and nicer!

5. Take a Tour From a Local

If you’re looking to get an insider’s look into Biarritz, I recommend taking a tour by a local. This is a great way to learn about the history and local culture, especially if you only have a day or two in the city! This is the tour I recommend and booked. It lasts about an hour, so you can easily fit it into your Biarritz itinerary!

✅ Check rates & availability for this lovely walking tour of Biarritz

6. Eat Delicious Seafood

With Biarritz being located along the Western coast of France, it likely comes as no surprise that the region specializes in a wide range of seafood dishes! There are quite different places spread across the city where you can find mouth-wateringly good seafood. And, just walking along the coastline, you’ll likely see at least a couple of boats out on the water! Thus, if you’re a seafood lover or just keen on trying some of the local cuisine, you’ll definitely want to taste the local seafood. One restaurant that serves excellent French cuisine and has good seafood options is Le Café du Commerce ! It’s located right in the heart of Biarritz and offers guests the option of sitting inside or on their outdoor terrace.

7. Day Trip to San Sebastian From Biarritz

Ok — I know this next one is not technically in Biarritz. But — If have an extra day on your Biarritz itinerary and aren’t already planning on passing through San Sebastian, doing a day trip to San Sebastian is a MUST! I know it sounds dramatic, but San Sebastian is an absolute delight and has so much to offer, especially if you are only spending a day in the city. Just to give you some ideas… you can hike to Motako Gaztelua, which is a castle situated on the top of a relatively easy-to-hike mountain. From the top, you’ll be able to admire breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline from several observation decks.

Afterward, you can wander through the historic yet bustling winding streets of the Old Town. There you’ll find impressive cathedrals, plenty of souvenir shops, lively plazas, and my favorite part — mouthwatering Basque food! Now I know that I mentioned that Biarritz is known for its Basque food. But, if I’m being honest — the Basque food in Spain is just in a league of its own. So, if nothing else, come to San Sebastian just to experience the magic of its gastronomic scene ! And for any fellow foodies out there, I cannot recommend enough doing a pintxos and wine food tour . Getting to indulge in tons of Basque food ended up being one of the major highlights of my Europe trip. Plus, there’s honestly no better way to discover a new city than through its food… especially if that city happens to be famous for it! 😌

✅ 🍽 🍷 Check rates & availability for this delicious pintxos and wine food tour in San Sebastian

From Biarritz to San Sebastian

For those interested in doing a day trip to San Sebastian, it’s both easy and affordable. You can either drive there yourself if you have a rental car and are up for a little road trip. Or, if you prefer to make use of the public transportation network, the cities are a mere 45-minute bus ride away from each other! Simply purchase your bus ticket by inputting your travel dates and then you’ll be all good to go!

🚨 PRO TIP: If it’s your first time using Omio, you can sign up here to receive $11 off your first booking ! And if you’re curious about what Omio is and why I book through them… feel free to read my review of the platform , which I’ve been using for 5 years!

Once you have your ticket, I recommend downloading the Omio app just so you have easy access to your ticket(s).

Then on the day of, you’ll want to arrive at Biarritz airport a good 30 minutes before the departure time. The bus terminals are right outside the airport and are impossible to miss. Just make sure to line up at the bus terminal that matches the bus company you booked with. For example, I booked with CONDA, so I lined up at the bus terminal that had a CONDA poster on the pole. Approximately 10-15 minutes before departure time, the bus will show up, you’ll show the driver your ticket, and then you’ll be on your way!

✅ 🇪🇸 Check rates & availability of buses from Biarritz to San Sebastian or Click here if it’s your first time using Omio for a $11 discount!

8. Day Trip to Bilbao From Biarritz

An alternative day trip from Biarritz that’s very doable and costs as little as €11 or $12.50 USD is to Bilbao. For those who don’t know, Bilbao is recognized as the de facto capital of Basque Country! This vibrant city is full of all kinds of colorful buildings, a unique blend of architectural styles, delicious food (hello pintxos !) and regional wines , and my personal favorite, the iconic Guggenheim Museum! Similar to San Sebastian, whether you visiting for just a quick day trip or spending a few days in the city, Bilbao has plenty to offer visitors ! So if you’re ready to foray into Spain, even if just for a few hours, Bilbao is another destination that is easy and affordable to visit !

✅ 🇪🇸 Check rates & availability for buses to Bilbao from Biarritz!

9. Spend Time at Plage de la Côte des Basques

If La Grande Plage is too crowded or maybe you’re looking for a change in scenery, the other major beach that you can spend time at in Biarritz is Plage de la Côte des Basques. This beach is located on the Southern side of the city and is much more spacious than La Grande Plage. That said, to access Plage de la Côte des Basques, you’ll have to either walk down a lot of the steps or down a very long ramp, which can be inconvenient. The good news is that Plage de la Côte des Basques is quite a scenic beach, especially around sunset. So in a way, the views compensate for the effort of getting to the beach! 😉 Around the beach, you’ll also find some food trucks, restaurants, and a couple of surf schools located along a promenade alongside the beach! And for any fellow surfers, this beach has lots of surf breaks that cater to surfers of all levels! Thus, if you don’t see anything to your liking at La Grande Plage or want to test the waters somewhere else, this is your second option!

10. Swim at Plage de Port Vieux

The third beach that’s easily accessible from Biarritz is Plage de Port Vieux. Compared to La Grande Plage and Plage de la Côte des Basques, this beach is much smaller. When you first see it, you’ll notice the rocky surroundings. Since the beach is technically located in a cove, the waters here are protected from high winds and rough waters. As such, if you’re traveling with little ones or simply want to swim in calmer waters, this is a great beach to hit up. Just expect a good amount of people because the beach is very popular amongst locals! And just in case any surfers were wondering, this beach does not permit surfing — so you’ll want to head to one of the other beaches.

☀️ DON’T FORGET… to pack sunscreen! This is the travel-sized bottle of sunscreen I always travel with 🙂 And I recommend bringing a microfiber towel too since they are super compact, dry quickly, and easy to travel with! ** (I suggest a Large or XL as I’m 5’0″ and have a medium-sized one) **

11. Admire Sainte Eugenie Church of Biarritz

Throughout Biarritz, you’ll likely spot a few different churches. Out of all 9 of them, the one most prominently on display and (in my opinion) has the biggest wow factor of them all is Sainte Eugenie Church of Biarritz . This church was completed at the beginning of the 20th century and features impressive Neo-Gothic architecture. Just around the outside, you can see several portals, intricate stained glass windows, and the mighty bell tower. And if you can go inside, I highly recommend it as you won’t be disappointed… unless you’re expecting something like the Duomo in Milan . 😅 Inside, there is a beautiful main altar with a giant organ sitting behind it. You’ll also be able to appreciate the towering stone columns that lead into the high rib vaulted ceilings. This church is located right in the heart of Place Sainte Eugenie, which is essentially a big square that overlooks Le Port de Pêchers and is a stone’s throw away from Rue Mazagran. In the square, you’ll find lots of restaurants, a large gazebo, and a few lovely boutique hotels, such as the 3-star Hotel de l’Ocean .

12. Test Your Luck at Casino Barrière

For those who are feeling lucky and up for a bit of gambling, you can make your way to Casino Barrière . This casino sits right along the beach of La Grande Plage and exhibits an Art Deco façade that’s very emblematic of the 1920s.

Within the casino, you’ll have your choice at hitting the slot machines, playing some game tables, poker, and electronic games. Or, if you just want to grab a drink and bite to eat, the Casino also has a French Brasserie restaurant and bar inside. So, if you’re looking for some more adult-oriented activities, Biarritz’s Casino Barrière is definitely a place to check out!

13. See Place Bellevue Panorama

Not far from Casino Barrière is Place Bellevue Panorama , which I found to be a delightful little observation deck-type area. The panoramic viewpoint overlooks La Grande Plage, and off in the distance, you can see Phare de Biarritz as well as the luxurious Hôtel du Palais .

If you’re coming from the casino, you can reach Place Bellevue Panorama by crossing the street and following the little path that goes to the right! There are lots of beautiful flowers and a couple of benches 🙂

14. Walk Around Le Port des Pêcheurs

Another fun and quaint area to wander around is Le Port des Pêcheurs or Biarritz’s fishing port. Around here, you can find an array of restaurants and food stalls serving excellent seafood, pintxos, and drinks. Directly across from the bay, you’ll be able to see the most adorable “crampottes,” which are local fishermen’s houses! And if you’re a morning person or happen to be out and about in the wee hours of the morning, you can come here and see the fishermen returning from their boats! I was fortunate enough to be at the right spot at the right time and go to see them in action — so that was a neat little glimpse into the local culture. But, if you aren’t a morning person, you’ll be able to see all the little boats docked in the harbor. Either way, I definitely recommend walking through here as it’s a cute scenic spot that’s often filled with lots of locals and tourists!

PRO TIP: If you want to dine at one of the restaurants here, make sure to get there before 7 PM to avoid having to wait in long lines 🙂

15. Enjoy the View at Cloche du Plateau de l’Atalaye

A few minutes walk from Le Port des Pêcheurs is Cloche du Plateau de l’Atalaye , which is another scenic spot worth checking out. From it, you’ll be able to get a pretty awesome view of the coast and see a rock formation kind of spiral out to another rock platform further out in the ocean. There are also several benches if you’re looking to sit back and relax as you listen to the ocean waves crash.

16. Watch the Sunset at Rocher de la Vierge

If you keep walking South (to the left) from Cloche du Plateau de l’Atalaye, you’ll reach one of Biarritz’s most recognizable landmarks, Rocher de la Vierge . This is a rock formation that is known for having a statue of the Virgin Mary perched atop. Again, from this scenic spot, visitors will be able to enjoy picturesque views of the Basque coastline and watch as the waves crash along the scattered rock formations. Also, make sure to actually walk across the bridge and go through the little tunnel! On the far side, there’s plenty of seating and some tower viewers. And if you time your visit with sunset, I would highly recommend it! I happened to be here during sunset and it was absolutely gorgeous. Just expect some crowds because everyone understandably loves a good sunset show!

17. Go to the Biarritz Historical Museum

For anyone interested in learning about the history of Biarritz, consider visiting the Biarritz Historical Museum . It covers a little bit of the 1000+ years of history of the city and its transformation from a small fishing village into a place with imperial palaces and influential leaders. Also, unlike most museums, the Biarritz Historical Museum is housed in a former Anglican church, which certainly adds an extra element of historical importance. As such, this museum is admittedly on the smaller side, but you’ll find a good amount of historical artifacts that have been donated by prominent families in Biarritz.

🚨 NOTE: There are a limited number of displays in English. So if you don’t speak French, the museum might not be worth visiting if you’re someone who values being able to read all the informational signs.

18. Pass by La Chapelle Impériale

A lesser-known tourist attraction is La Chapelle Impériale , which dates back to 1865. It was originally constructed as a place of worship for Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie and is dedicated to Notre Dame of Guadalupe. Today, the church is a historic monument within Biarritz and is open to visitors at certain times during the year. For example, the church is known to hold mass exactly 4 times throughout the year:

• January 9 — the death of Napoleon III
• June 1 — the death of Napoleon III & Empress Eugénie’s only child
• July 11 — the death of Empress Eugénie
• December 12 — feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe

The only other way to view the inside is by going on a tour, which costs €6. You can book your ticket to tour the inside here . But, even if you can’t book a tour, you can pass by to admire the architecture. On the outside, you can see the church’s distinct Hispanic-Moorish style architecture that’s mixed with some Romanesque-Byzantine features.

19. See Église Orthodoxe de Biarritz

Another smaller church that you can check out (when reconstruction is complete because it so desperately needs a little tender love and care…) is Église Orthodoxe de Biarritz. This church, which is located right across the street from Hôtel du Palais , was the third Orthodox church to appear in France… after the Orthodox churches in Nice and Paris. It was founded in 1892 to support the Russian aristocracy that used to live in France or visit Biarritz for its favorable weather. Today, the church still serves as a place of worship for the faithful.

20. Dance at the Night Clubs

Something that almost everyone at my hostel loved doing was dancing the night away at the nightclubs! Despite being a pretty small town, Biarritz is actually pretty lively at night, especially during the summer months when the sun sets super late at night! Some nightclubs you can check out are Carré Coast and DUPLEX Nightclub . Feel free to click the names of clubs to see their location on Google Maps!

21. Try Local Food at Halles de Biarritz

It’s no secret that France is world-renowned for its food scene. I mean, I’ve certainly done my fair share of delicious food tours and wine tours across France! 🤠 But, for those keen on delving into the local food scene, perhaps doing a bit of grocery shopping, head over to Halles de Biarritz . This is a covered food market where you’ll find vendors selling everything from fresh produce, seafood, cheeses, jams, meats, and desserts. And in front of the market, there are usually some pop-up tents with other vendors selling clothing items, jewelry, and other souvenirs. The market is open every day from 7:30 AM – 2 PM. However, you’ll want to get there by 1:30 PM since vendors tend to begin closing shop around there.

22. Appreciate Asian Art in Musée Asiatica

One attraction that I personally believe is a bit underrated is the Musée Asiatica , which is dedicated to Asian art dating back over a thousand years! Within this museum, you’ll find hundreds of art pieces and artifacts from various countries across Asia, including pieces from India, Tibet, Nepal & China. These include everything from paintings and jades ranging from several time periods to tapestries, carvings, and coins. Considering the lack of an Asian community in the area, it’s honestly impressive the size of the collection and the number of exhibits. Plus, to help you understand what you’re seeing, they lend visitors a detailed booklet that explains the various exhibits and works. Or, if you prefer, they also have audio guides. So, if you have even the slightest interest in Asian art, I would recommend stopping by here!

23. Visit the Biarritz Aquarium

If you happen to be traveling with little ones or merely want to see some adorable sea creatures up close and personal, you can spend a couple of hours at the Biarritz Aquarium . It’s located right in front of the Rocher de la Vierge and contains 4 levels with various exhibits and rooms to explore.

Some of the sea creatures you can expect to see include sharks, octopuses, an assortment of fish, and lots of plant and coral species found around the Bay of Biscay!

24. Spot Villa Belza

Just down the road from the Biarritz Aquarium is Villa Belza . This is perhaps one of the most dreamy buildings in Biarritz as it sits on a cliff that overlooks the ocean and offers guests views of both Plage de la Côte des Basques and Plage de Port Vieux. The Neo-Medieval mansion was originally built at the end of the 19th century and has served multiple functions over the years. For instance, it has been used as a filming location in movies, the venue of a Russian restaurant, and an inn. Today, however, Villa Belza functions as a luxury apartment complex for locals, so tourists will only be able to admire the exterior.

25. Day Trip to Saint Jean de Luz

Last but not least, if you need a change of pace or want to discover more of the Basque region, you can day trip to Saint Jean de Luz. This quaint yet very charming town is only 20 minutes by regional train and car or about an hour and 20 minutes away via the regional bus network (which I’ll talk about in a later section). Once there, you can spend the day wandering the cobblestone streets, eating the delicious local food, exploring the plazas and markets, and of course, relaxing at the beach!

Where to Stay in Biarritz

In terms of places to stay, here are my top recommendations for housing accommodations in Biarritz. There are based on places I personally stayed at as well as the research I did both prior to my trip and while visiting! Each place, save for the surf hostel, is centrally located within easy walking distance of the beach! And honestly, even though the hostel is about a 25-minute walk away, it was definitely manageable and not bad at all 🤠

Low-Cost Stay

• Surf Hostel Biarritz — quaint but clean and comfy hostel I loved! | ⭐️ 9.7 / 10
• Hôtel Palmito — 3-star hotel near beach w/ continental breakfast | ⭐️ 8.8 / 10

Mid-Range Stay

• Check out my review of this hotel here
• Hôtel Le Garage Biarritz — excellent 4-star hotel near the beach | ⭐️ 9.6 / 10

Fancy Stays

• Regina Experimental Biarritz — 5-star beach hotel with spa & pool | ⭐️ 9 / 10
• This used to be the summer home of Empress Eugènie and several famous people have stayed here including Coco Chanel & Frank Sinatra!

Feel free to click these buttons to head to your favorite booking platform and see additional housing options there.

Alternatively, feel free to use the interactive map below to view additional housing options. You can input your travel dates and the number of people in your party to see more accurate pricing 🙂

How to Get to Biarritz

There are several ways to get to Biarritz depending on where you’re coming from, but in general, the three main ways are by car, by train, or by plane.

For those who may be doing a road trip across Europe, Biarritz is super driver-friendly and another possible option for getting into the city.

The next way you can travel to Biarritz is via the train. This is the option that I personally went with since it was both an affordable option and super easy.

Now, if you’re already in Europe or simply prefer flying over trains, buses, and cars, it is possible to fly into Biarritz. There is a small regional airport (Biarritz Airport) that has a limited range of flights from places around Europe. Some of the locations you can fly directly into Biarritz from include Dublin, London , Paris, Marseille, Nice, Geneva , Brussels, Luxembourg City, and about 20 other locations! So there are options, it just likely comes at an increased price point in comparison to transport via car or train!

✅ Explore flight options into Biarritz on Skyscanner

How to Get Around Biarritz

Once you arrive in Biarritz, there are two main modes of transportation for getting around the city. The first is simply walking anywhere and everywhere you need to go. Biarritz is a very walkable city and clean city. Thus, you can likely expect to spend very little on public transportation if you are located within walking distance of downtown. Even when I was staying at the Biarritz Surf Hostel, which is located about 25 minutes from downtown Biarritz, I opted to walk everywhere. That said, I will say the city isn’t exactly flat. There are some gradually sloping streets, but I wouldn’t say it’s anything that would leave you gasping for air. It’s more of an “it might take you a few extra minutes to walk up it compared to if it were perfectly flat ” vibe. And, if you do have limited mobility or plan on traveling to and from places further away (i.e. the regional Biarritz airport), there’s a great bus network. It’s called “ Chronoplus” and there’s an app you can download.

Personally, I didn’t download the app since I only used the bus to go from Gare de Biarritz (the Biarritz Train Station) to the downtown area of Biarritz. One ride costs €1.2 and there are plenty of different fare options depending on your needs. As for buying tickets, there are machines around the downtown Biarritz area, or you can buy a bus ticket in cash on the bus! Overall though, I think getting around Biarritz is pretty easy as the town is small, and the majority of the best things to do are within walking distance of one another!

Best Restaurants in Biarritz

Looking to grab a bite to eat and in need of some recommendations? Don’t worry! I got you covered as I ate about 9 different places around town during my stay! But since I don’t wanna information overload yah, here are my top 3 spots that I recommend checking out! You can click the name to see their location on Google Maps!

• Eden Rock Cafe : A super trendy spot that overlooks Plage du Port Vieux. There’s only outdoor seating and they don’t take reservations, so you might have to wait a bit. Also, I found the food to be a bit expensive, but it was still worth it for the views! 😅
• Jack the Cockeral : Another popular spot with both indoor and outdoor seating that overlooks La Grande Plage! They have a big menu with lots of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the prices are pretty fair in my opinion!
• Le Georges: A brasserie that’s located along the main avenue in Biarritz. I ate dinner here and really enjoyed being able to people-watch with all the outdoor seating available. Also, both the food and server were fantastic! 10/10 recommend the Patatas Bravas and Camembert Rôti, Miel & Romarin . My friend and I were in absolute heaven eating these starters and almost forgot to order a main course lol.

Biarritz: FAQ

My genuine opinion is that if you’re looking for a charming small town in France to relax and explore around, then Biarritz is definitely worth visiting. However, if you’re keen on visiting a French city with lots of tourist attractions and hidden gems to discover, a location like Nice or Paris might be better.

Biarritz is special because it’s home to some of the best surf in France. The region often has fairly consistent swell, although every once in a while, there are periods where there’s no swell. In addition, Biarritz is special for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning coastal views. Seriously, it’s Nice without the throngs of people!

In my opinion, Biarritz is fairly affordable for tourists. It’s not on the level of Krakow , but it’s much cheaper to visit than obscenely expensive Paris . For perspective, my 5-day stay in Biarritz cost me $507 (USD), which includes housing, food, excursions, and transportation!

Yes and no. Biarritz is known to have a pretty decent nightlife scene with plenty of clubs and two casinos. But, I wouldn’t say that Biarritz is first and foremost known as a party town!

Biarritz is closer to San Sebastian than Bilbao . But, you can comfortably day trip between San Sebastian, Bilbao , and Biarritz since they are all within 2 hours of one another via car! There are even tours from Bilbao that go to both Biarritz and San Sebastian.

Wrap-Up: 25 Best Things to Do in Biarritz (2024)

All in all, whether you only have a day in Biarritz or are looking to stay a few days for a relaxing getaway , Biarritz has plenty of things to do. Whether it be picturesque beaches and world-famous waves or fun museums, beautiful churches, and historical landmarks. Oh, and we can’t forget the tasty Basque food! Speaking of which, if you’re curious about what else the Basque region has to offer, Biarritz is centrally located such that you can easily day trip to places like beautiful San Sebastian or lovely Bilbao, Spain! Regardless of how you choose to spend your time in Biarritz, I hope this post has helped plan your ideal Biarritz itinerary and that you love the city as much as I did!

Read More About France

• 🏖️ Southern France: Thinking of visiting the South of France ? Learn about visiting Nice and how to spend a day in Monaco !
• 🏰 Toulouse: Wondering whether to visit Toulouse? Learn about whether the pink city is right for you and some of the fun things it has to offer ! You can even visit a nearby medieval town that’s also a UNESCO heritage site!
• 🍷 Lyon: Staying in Lyon and love wine? Be sure to explore the famous wine region right outside of Lyon!

Save This Post for Later!

Kristin is the founder of Global Travel Escapades, a blog dedicated to helping travelers explore beautiful destinations and planning their wildest travel dreams. She has explored 30 countries and is on a mission to visit 50 by age 30. Along the way, she has lived in places like sunny San Diego and the vibrant French capital! Ultimately, Kristin hopes her passion for adventure, delicious food, and all things F1 & tennis inspires others to plan their next travel escapade!

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Biarritz

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Biarritz exudes the elegance and sophistication that you would expect of a celebrated European seaside resort . This Basque Country beach town has been fashionable ever since Empress Eugénie (wife of Napoléon III) decided to spend summer holidays here in the 19th century.

Before it became a resort town, Biarritz was just a sleepy fishing village, albeit in a magnificent setting. The coastal enclave nestles along the Bay of Biscay and looks directly out onto dramatic Atlantic Ocean waves.

Though the regal influence of Biarritz has faded, the city has retained its prestige. In fact, Biarritz is now considered one of the most desirable beach destinations in France and is certainly among the most glamorous. Another claim to fame: Biarritz is the capital of surfing in Europe.

If you're seeking a beach holiday that combines natural beauty and culture, then Biarritz is a fabulous choice. You can spend your days sunbathing on the beach and taking walks along the seafront promenades, with breaks for gourmet meals and afternoon tea. The city brims with inviting cafés, excellent fine-dining restaurants, and fancy pâtisserie boutiques.

Discover the best places to visit and things to do in the legendary beach town of Biarritz.

See also: Where to Stay in Biarritz

1. Grande Plage

2. plage du miramar, 3. biarritz aquarium, 4. biarritz lighthouse, 5. elegant boulevards and squares, 6. miremont tea salon, 7. rocher de la vierge (virgin of the rock), 8. chapelle impériale, 9. surfing beaches, 10. day trip to saint-jean-de-luz, 11. basque country excursion: village of espelette, 12. eglise orthodoxe de biarritz, 13. kid-friendly beaches, 14. cité de l'océan, 15. unesco-listed saint-jean pied de port, 16. musée d'art asiatique (museum of asian art), where to stay in biarritz for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in biarritz.

Biarritz' most central beach, the Grande Plage has attracted high-society vacationers since the Belle Epoque. This wide, sandy beach begins at Bellevue near the Boulevard du Général de Gaulle and extends to the Hôtel du Palais.

In summertime, the beach is covered with sunbathers and their colorful striped cabanas. Lifeguards are on duty from May through October with more extended hours during the high season.

Beach safety: It is important to note that this beach has heavy surf. Water safety is posted on a daily basis. During certain periods of strong currents, bathing, swimming, and surfing are prohibited.

Alongside the beach, the Quai de la Grande Plage promenade is a perfect place to visit for taking a leisurely stroll. This wide pedestrian walkway offers vistas of the breaking waves and the Biarritz lighthouse in the distance.

On a headland at the end of the Grande Plage, the Hôtel du Palais Biarritz offers sumptuous accommodations. Napoléon III commissioned this palace for his wife Eugénie. A classified Monument Historique , the palace has been converted into a luxurious five-star hotel that features a full-service spa, fitness center, and an outdoor swimming pool.

The Hôtel du Palais also boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, La Rotonde – La Table d'Aurélien Largeau, in an opulent Second Empire dining room with ocean views. If you decide to indulge at this refined gastronomic establishment, you will be treated to the finest contemporary Basque cuisine, while watching the surf crash against the shore.

Another gourmet destination on the Grande Plage is the Maison Dodin , which has an outdoor terrace overlooking the beach. This pâtisserie boutique/restaurant (open every day) serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and afternoon tea.

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in the South of France

Spectacular scenery and dramatic shore-breaking waves distinguish the Plage du Miramar. The beach extends from the Hôtel du Palais to the Pointe Saint-Martin.

This sheltered shoreline offers a sense of tranquility. However, keep in mind that rough seas and strong currents (including riptides) make swimming dangerous. Check safety conditions and exercise caution before entering the water. Lifeguards are on duty in July and August from 10:30am until 7:30pm daily. In June and September, there is limited lifeguard surveillance.

Miramar Beach has the charm of an old-fashioned seaside resort — especially in summertime when vintage-style, striped beach tents make their appearance.

The beach attracts sunbathers, and spa-goers, who frequent the nearby Thalassa Sea & Spa center in the five-star Sofitel Hotel .

Just off the coast is a huge rock, the Roche Ronde, a protected nature area and bird sanctuary.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in the South of France

The Biarritz Aquarium stands on a breathtaking piece of oceanfront property opposite the Rocher de la Vierge. The aquarium's spectacular 7,000-square-meter exhibition space rivals the natural splendor of the scenery.

More than 20 aquarium tanks are filled with a wide range of amazing species, from lobsters and sea urchins to turtles and hammerhead sharks. The aquariums represent species from all the Seven Seas.

Check out the outdoor terrace to admire astounding ocean views and to watch adorable marine mammals in action at the seal pool . The twice-daily (10:30am and 5pm) seal feeding time is a popular thing to do — especially for families with children. It's fun to watch how quickly the seals gobble up huge amounts of fish.

Address: Esplanade du Rocher de la Vierge, Biarritz

The emblematic Biarritz lighthouse stands at an essential location overlooking the coastline of Cape Hainsart. The lighthouse is at the tip of the Pointe Saint-Martin, which marks a boundary between the sandy beaches of the Landes Coast to the south and the rocky coastline to the north.

Climb the 248 steps of the lighthouse to reach the viewing platform at the top. The lighthouse commands sweeping panoramas of Biarritz and the Basque coastline.

The lighthouse is open every day from June through September. During the off-season, the lighthouse has more limited opening hours. During periods of bad weather, the lighthouse may close.

The elegant boulevards, streets, and squares of Biarritz exemplify the city's aristocratic heritage. At the center of Biarritz, the spacious Place Georges Clemenceau joins with several of the city's principal streets. From here, it is a short distance to the Place Bellevue , a semicircular square with panoramic views of the beach and the ocean.

To the south of the Place Bellevue, the Boulevard Maréchal Leclerc runs alongside the old fishing harbor. This seaside boulevard is a good starting point for a scenic walking tour along the Biarritz coast.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in France

The Miremont is renowned for its elegant ambience and traditional French pâtisserie. You'll find all of the classics in the pastry case, such as éclairs, Gâteau Saint-Honoré, and strawberry tarts.

This historic salon de thé (tea salon) occupies a 17th-century building with ocean views. The Miremont's dining room looks out onto the Grande Plage and the Hôtel du Palais. Upstairs, the salon features pastel pink decor and seems perfectly appointed for a gathering place of aristocratic ladies.

Founded in 1872, the Miremont was frequented by royalty during Biarritz' glory days. Spain's King Alphonso XIII enjoyed having lunch here. King Edward VII of England appreciated the Miremont's exquisite French pastries. Queen Nathalie of Serbia often purchased caramels for her friends, and Queen Amelia of Portugal had a habit of taking her tea at a window seat with the best view.

You may purchase pastries at the Miremont to take away or enjoy lunch or afternoon tea in the dining room. The Miremont also sells gift boxes of chocolates, caramels, and other candies.

Another prestigious 19th-century tea salon in Biarritz, the Maison Dodin offers a similar selection of classic French pâtisserie. Dodin Biarritz is famous for its Béret Basque (chocolate mousse cake) and spectacular oceanfront location, overlooking the Grande Plage.

Address: 1 Bis, Place Clémenceau, Biarritz

The Rocher de la Vierge is a truly dramatic landmark—a statue of the Virgin Mary set on a steep, narrow rock in the ocean.

According to a local legend, fishermen were guided back to the port during a storm by what seemed to be a divine light. In gratitude, the fishermen installed a statue of the Virgin Mary on the rock.

Napoléon III decided to make the site accessible from the shore and in 1887 asked Gustave Eiffel to create a sturdy metal bridge.

To arrive at the Virgin Mary statue, tourists must walk across the Passerelle Eiffel (pedestrian bridge), suspended high above the pounding ocean waves. The bridge affords awe-inspiring panoramas of the coastline, extending from the mouth of the Adour River to the Spanish frontier.

Other marvelous viewpoints of the Basque coastline can be found nearby at the Esplanade du Rocher-de-la-Vièrge and at the Esplanade du Port-Vieux , where there is a magnificent prospect of the cliff-fringed Côte des Basques extending all the way to the hills of Spain.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in France

Empress Eugénie requested the creation of the Chapelle Impériale for her own personal spiritual worship. Built in 1865, the chapel is dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe (Mexico's patron saint).

This little gem of a chapel reveals an eclectic yet harmonious blend of architectural elements: Romanesque-inspired arches, Moorish design motifs, and glittering Byzantine-style gilded mosaics. The ornate details add up to an enchanting interior, which dazzles the eyes.

The Chapelle Impériale has been classified as a Monument Historique and allows visits during limited hours. From June through September, the chapel is open on Thursday and Saturday afternoons. In March, April, May, October, November, and December, the chapel is open on Saturday afternoons. Guided tours are available.

Mass is held here four times a year on specific dates: January 9th to commemorate the death of Napoléon III; June 1st , the anniversary of the death of Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte, the Prince Impérial (the only child of Napoléon III and Eugénie) who was killed in action during the Anglo-Zulu War; July 11th to commemorate of the death of Empress Eugénie; and December 12th to celebrate the Feast Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe.

Prior to the construction of the Imperial Chapel, the Empress Eugénie, Emperor Napoléon III, and the Imperial family attended mass at the Eglise Sainte-Eugénie near the old port. This neo-Gothic chapel was inaugurated in 1856 and is dedicated to the patron saint of the empress.

Address: Rue des Cent Gardes, Biarritz

The Côte des Basques is considered the birthplace of surfing in France. The impressive waves provide challenging conditions for surfing, and many competitions are held here. Swimming and wading are allowed except during high tide when waves break on the entire shoreline.

Visit the Côte des Basques to admire dazzling oceanfront scenery, with views of the mountainous coastline extending to the Spanish border. Because cliffs surround the beach, a steep pedestrian staircase provides access from the parking lot.

Next to the Côte des Basques, the Plage de Marbella is another favorite of surfers and bodyboarders because of its powerful waves. This unspoiled, sandy beach is wild and rugged and is only accessible by a staircase.

Access to both of these beaches is difficult for people with limited mobility.

Safety notes: Beginning surfers should be advised on how and when to enter and get out of the water to avoid hitting the stones.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is another popular holiday destination on France's Basque coastline. The town has retained its historic charm and the ambience of an old fishing village. Brimming with specialty food shops and traditional restaurants, Saint-Jean-de-Luz offers an authentic taste of Basque culture.

The sandy beaches of Saint-Jean-de-Luz attract many vacation goers during summertime. Its beaches are prized for their gentle waves (thanks to protection from the ocean by a sea wall). Families with kids appreciate that it's safe to swim and wade in the waters.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is just a 30-minute drive south of Biarritz. It's worth taking the time to discover this Basque seaside town, which is quite different from the glitzy resort of Biarritz.

A key ingredient in Basque cuisine, the Piment d'Espelette , takes its name from this picturesque village. The town's traditional red-shuttered Basque houses are often festooned with neatly lined rows of peppers, drying in the open air. The bright red peppers are grown on nearby farms.

The Piment d'Espelette pepper has been designated with an AOP ( Appellation d'Origine Protégée ) label because of its distinctive flavor and unique geographical origin.

To experience the best of local culture and cuisine, visit in late October during the Fête du Piment d ' Espelette (Pepper Festival). The two-day festival includes gourmet tastings, hearty country meals, Basque dance performances, and choir concerts. Market stalls sell Piment d'Espelette peppers and other regional gastronomic products.

Espelette is a 30-minute drive from Biarritz.

This Byzantine-style Russian Orthodox church was designed by the renowned Biarritz architect Tisnès. It was built between 1890 and 1892 for a community of Russian immigrants (mostly aristocrats).

Gilded icons from Saint Petersburg adorn the interior, creating the impression of a glittering jewel box.

The church is open to the public for visits, Thursday through Sunday, in the afternoon. You may also attend prayer services on Sunday mornings.

Address: 8 Avenue de l'Impératrice, Biarritz

This sheltered Plage du Port Vieux is an excellent choice for families with children. The small sandy beach nestles in a rocky inlet of the Port Vieux (Old Harbor) near the city center.

Because the beach is in a protected cove, the waves are gentle, and the waters are safer here than at the Grande Plage and the Plage du Miramar. The conditions are usually calm enough for swimming, and the shallow areas are safe for kids to bathe and splash around, under supervision.

Another family-friendly beach is the Plage de la Milady . This expansive sandy beach features a seaside boardwalk and a playground. The beach is very popular among locals and bodyboarders.

Swimming is permitted at the Plage de la Milady, except when the waters are rough. One caution: The zone of surveillance increases at low tide.

Near the Plage de la Milady, the Cité de l'Océan (City of the Ocean) is entirely dedicated to the science of oceanography. The museum's creative and interactive exhibits make learning about ocean-related topics fun and interesting.

Exhibits focus on specific concepts, such as climate change and the origin of waves. A virtual surfing experience allows visitors to feel what it's like to ride the ocean waves without getting wet. In a small theater, the museum screens a 3-D show, which simulates being in a submarine 1,000 meters underwater.

The Cité de l'Océan is open from February through October. Hours are extended during the high season.

Address: 1 Avenue de la Plage, Biarritz

The Basque village of Saint-Jean Pied de Port definitely merits a day trip, located an hour's drive from Biarritz. This quaint village nestles in a gorgeous verdant setting of rolling hills and woodlands.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saint-Jean Pied de Port features cobblestone streets and traditional Basque red-shuttered historic buildings. The town also boasts a noteworthy 13th-century church — the Eglise Notre-Dame du Bout du Pont .

Saint-Jean Pied de Port was a stop on the medieval Way of Saint James pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Standing at the foot of the Pyrenees Mountains, at an elevation of 1,300 meters, the town marked a difficult stage of the pilgrims' route. Many modern pilgrims still begin their Chemin de Saint-Jacques journey here.

The pristine countryside around the village is also a fantastic place for hiking and nature walks or just for relaxing and meditating in the lush landscape.

In August, the town hosts the Fêtes de Saint-Jean Pied de Port , a traditional Basque festival with dance and music performances.

The surprising Musée d'Art Asiatique displays one of Europe's top collections of Asian art. There are more than 1,000 pieces of artwork representing different historical periods, from ancient to modern times. The collections represent the work of different countries, including China, India, Nepal, and Tibet.

Address: 1 Rue Guy Petit, Biarritz

Biarritz has been a premier seaside resort since the 19th century, when the destination was known as the "Queen of Resorts and the Resort of Kings." Because of this aristocratic heritage, Biarritz has many establishments that cater to a clientele with refined tastes, including luxury hotels on prime oceanfront property. There are also affordable accommodations, just a short walk away from the beach. Below are highly rated hotels in several categories.

Luxury Hotels:

• The Hôtel du Palais is a splendid seaside palace that was built for the Empress Eugenie in 1855. The five-star property dazzles guests with its lavish Second Empire-style interior, sumptuous guest rooms, oceanfront gardens and outdoor pool, gastronomic restaurant, and a pampering spa. The hotel's restaurants and many of the guest rooms have ocean views.
• In a lovely beachfront location, Regina Experimental Biarritz is another architectural standout in Biarritz. The Belle Epoque five-star hotel has spacious guest rooms decorated in Art Deco style. Amenities include an upscale spa with a hammam, an outdoor pool with a terrace, and a bistronomique restaurant with panoramic ocean vistas.
• More modern in style than the other luxury hotels, the Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar Thalassa Sea & Spa Hotel features a thalassotherapy (saltwater therapy) spa with a sauna and wellness treatments, an outdoor saltwater swimming pool, and a poolside restaurant. The beachfront property offers ocean views plus easy access to the Plage du Miramar.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• On a tree-lined street in town, the three-star Hotel Saint Julien is within easy walking distance of many restaurants and the beach. The hotel occupies a typical Basque house with red shutters and a flowering garden. Guest rooms are decorated in an understated contemporary style. A classic French buffet-style petit déjeuner (baguette, fresh fruit, cheese, yogurt, juice, and coffee) is served in a charming salon or on the outdoor terrace.
• In the historic center of Biarritz, La Maison du Lierre is a good choice of accommodation within walking distance of the beach. This small boutique hotel has cheerful guest rooms and a delightful garden where a traditional French breakfast is served.
• The Hôtel Villa KOEGUI Biarritz is another boutique hotel in the center of Biarritz near the Place Georges-Clemenceau, a short walk to the beach. This contemporary four-star hotel has an intimate atmosphere, minimalistic rooms, and a pleasant outdoor patio. A generous breakfast buffet with homemade pastries and local specialities is available.

Budget Hotels:

• The two-star Hôtel Parc Mazon is found in a typical red-shuttered Basque house in a quiet residential neighborhood, within walking distance of the Côte des Basques surfing beach. The hotel's guest rooms are small and basic yet are decorated in an appealing whimsical style. Breakfast is available for an additional cost.
• About a five-minute walk from the beach, the three-star Hôtel Argi Eder offers contemporary-style guest rooms at an affordable price. A continental breakfast is available for an extra fee. Those who are mobility challenged should note that the hotel does not have an elevator.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Cultural Heritage Sites in France's Southwest: Biarritz is found in France's far Southwestern corner, which is relatively remote compared to other tourist destinations in France. It's a long way from Paris (a 90-minute plane flight, 8- to 10-hour drive, or over five hours by train). The closest big cities are Bordeaux (about a two-hour drive or train ride), renowned for its romantic riverside setting and UNESCO-listed architectural treasures, and Toulouse (about a three-hour drive), which has a slow-paced Southern French ambience and a rich cultural heritage.

Pyrenees Mountains and Spanish Basque Country: Biarritz boasts majestic scenery along the Atlantic Coast with the Pyrenees Mountains in the background. Within about a two-hour drive are many sublime nature sights, quaint alpine villages, Romanesque churches, and rejuvenating spa towns in the nearby French Pyrenees .

Biarritz is also at the heart of the French Basque Country, which shares a cultural heritage with the neighboring Spanish Basque region. This distinctive area of Spain is known for its idyllic rural landscape and vibrant cities. Spain's version of a stylish seaside resort, San Sebastian (about a 45-minute drive or 90-minute train ride) attracts crowds to its sandy beaches during the summertime and year-round because of its atmospheric Old Town, superb fine arts museum, and traditional " pintxo " (Basque tapas) restaurants.

For art lovers, it's worth taking the two-hour drive from Biarritz to explore the sights of Bilbao , including the Guggenheim Museum and the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum. The historic town of Pamplona (about a 90-minute drive) is famous for its Running of the Bulls festival but also has an impressive cathedral and other noteworthy attractions.

More on France

HAPPENING NOW

PLACES TO GO

THINGS TO DO

PRACTICAL INFO

NOT TO BE MISSED 

from apr 2 to apr 7

European days for arts and crafts professions

from April 2 2024 to April 7 2024

EXPLORE OUR DESTINATIONS 

Biarritz - Pays Basque

• Côte Atlantique (Atlantic Coast)
• La Rochelle - Ile de Ré
• Niort - Marais Poitevin
• Pau - Pyrénées
• Poitiers - Futuroscope
• Vallée de la Dordogne (Dordogne Valley)
• Vallées du Lot et de la Garonne (Lot and Garonne Valleys)
• Vassivière - Plateau de Millevaches

FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS 

• Biking and hiking
• Wines and spirits
• Craftsmanship
• Leisure parks

HANDY TO KNOW 

• Practical info

Search on nouvelle-aquitaine-tourisme.com

Biarritz - Pays Basque 

On his journey to walk across France, Mathieu Mouillet took the GR10 and crossed the Atlantic section of the Pyrenees,...

The Basque seaside resort, launched by Empress Eugenia, is also the European surfing capital and invites to delight in...

In the Basque Country, at the heart of the Pyrénées Mountains, to the south of the region, close to the Spanish...

All the most prestigious hotels in the Basque Country come with the ultimate luxury of elegant spas where you'll find...

More Articles 

• DISPLAY ALL Biking and hiking Cities Countryside Craftsmanship Cuisine Culture Fishing Fun & Quirky Golf Leisure parks Mountains Nature Ocean Rugby Sea and river cruises Shopping Surfing Wellness Wines and spirits
• DISPLAY ALL Culture vultures Explorers Romantic With friends With the kids

No, camping is not just for summertime holidays! Discover my selection of campsites open all year round. An opportunity...

Here in the Basque Country the rituals, traditions and legends around Lo Halha de Nadau and the Olentzero are still...

OUR FAVORITES 

Peaking at 905 metres, the Rhune is a mythical summit, symbol of the Basque Country. The rack-railway that leads to the...

From the top of the Rhune to the Jaizkibel crests or along the coast from Bayonne to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the best...

Surfing and chili pepper tastings are not the only things to do in Basque Country! There are also many many...

Known for its gastronomy, beautiful beaches and unique culture, the French Basque Country is the perfect destination for...

Three generations of competitors remember the legendary contests that have marked the history of Biarritz, birthplace of...

My address book 

AERIAL PHOTOS / IGN

MULTI-SCALE MAPS / IGN

SLOPE MAP (IGN PLAN)

CADASTRAL PARCELS

ICAO AERONAUTICAL CHARTS

MAP 1950 / IGN

MAP OF THE GENERAL STAFF (1820-1866)

COASTAL MAPS / SHOM/IGN

SCAN EXPRESS STANDARD / IGN

CLASSIC EXPRESS SCAN / IGN

OPEN STREET MAP

GOOGLE MAP - SATELLITE

GOOGLE MAP - MAP

GOOGLE MAP - HYBRID

IGN BELGIUM

How do you get to Nouvelle-Aquitaine by plane? This section is designed to help you benefit fully from one of the...

A train journey is a great way of starting your holiday in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. The region is very easy to reach by train...

Wondering how to get around by train, bus or car in Nouvelle-Aquitaine? Whatever mode of transport you're using, you're...

Tourism, holidays & weekends guide in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques

A prestigious and elegant seaside resort on the Atlantic coast, made famous in the 19th century by the visit of Empress Eugenie, beautiful Biarritz has lost none of its charm over the years. A wild coastline, dotted with rocks shaped by the force of the waves; sumptuous buildings and villas in eclectic architectural styles, ranging from Art Nouveau to Neo-Basque through Art Deco and Baroque; and long, sandy beaches, ideal for relaxing or enjoying your favourite leisure activity...

Departing from Place Bellevue near the Grande Plage beach, discover the natural treasures that have made Biarritz's name, on a seaside stroll along the coastal paths overlooking the ocean. An ideal opportunity to feel reinvigorated and relaxed on a walk with your family or loved one, taking in a number of famous sites like the Basta Rock and the Rock of the Virgin. Amazing views guaranteed...

In Biarritz, you'll be spoilt for choice by day and night! Water sports such as surfing, bodyboarding, sea diving and swimming; land sports like tennis, golf, hiking, horse-riding and Basque pelota; beauty and well-being treatments at a thalassotherapy centre; shopping and eating out; casinos, bars and night clubs for night owls...

When it comes to culture, the resort offers a wide range of attractions, from the Museum of the Sea to the Chocolate Museum, through the History Museum and the Asiatica Oriental art museum. The unmissable Museum of the Sea, based in an Art Deco building, will take you on a journey to the depths of the sea, with over fifty aquariums including the must-see seal pool.

There are lots of events and festivities during the summer season: Scènes Estivales with free concerts, Nuit Féerique on 15 August with an amazing firework display, the Fête au Port and international surfing competitions, to name but a few!

Additional information Biarritz

Lighthouse destination forever marked by the passage of the Empress Eugenie and the great of this world, Biarritz has always been one of the most welcoming cities in France.

The will of Biarritz is to strongly support its development on its tourist attraction, thanks to its beaches, golf courses, thalassotherapy centers, its gastronomic tradition... and strengthen its economy, strongly oriented towards tourism, capitalizing on the diversity of its off-season activities and a dynamic cultural policy.

Things to see and do

Biarritz offers the walker an astonishing diversity of natural landscapes: from St. Martin advanced to the Basque coast, through the Great Beach, the coastline is an endless source of nooks and crannies to explore.

History gave Biarritz an incredible variety of buildings and buildings: the Orthodox church in the Byzantine chapel of the villa medieval art deco Casino City, the unique architectural heritage of Biarritz demonstrates what happened and lives in the present, especially since the establishment in 1997 of the protection zones (protection zone of the architectural, urban and landscape), which allowed the classification of 830 buildings and the implementation of many restoration.

Come and discover the Sea Museum, the Asiatica Museum, the Historical Museum, the Museum Planet Chocolate.

Not to mention the rugby! At the heart of the Southwest, Biarritz is on the land of rugby and invites you to live in his stage Aguiléra the matches of his club: Olympique Pays Basque Biarritz... Aupa BO for all lovers of rugby!

Places of interest

Events and festivities.

A Biarritz, music, dance, film, visual arts or any other form of cultural expression occupy a privileged place in the life of the city throughout the year.

• From 30 march to 12 may 2024
• 5 Place Bellevue, Le Bellevue
• Through his characters, Pablo Elizaga searches for the depths of being beyond appearances. Pilotari, bathers, fishermen, surfers ? His attachment to the Basque country leads him to tell a story that oscillates between strength and poetry, nostalgia and modernity. A lover of the Basque school of painting of the 1930s, and nourished by numerous artistic influences, he has created his own style, which he expresses in large, powerful and contrasting formats, revealing an acute sense of composition. This first monographic exhibition at the Bellevue will enable visitors to discover a rather discreet artist, Pablo Elizaga, who rarely exhibits. - Open daily from 11am to 6pm - Closed on Tuesdays - Free admission - Guided tours by the artist every Saturday at 4pm, from March 30 to May 11. Free, no registration required.
• From 5 to 6 april 2024
• Grande Plage / Port Vieux
• Red Bull Ocean Rescue is back in 2024 for its 3rd edition. - Qualification will take place the day before the race, and will not only give access to the competition, but also to the team trophy, which will reward the club with the most points. - Lifesavers are not just first-aiders. When it comes to coastal lifesaving, they are above all extraordinary athletes, juggling running, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and cliff diving. - The mythical beaches and rough ocean of Biarritz, cradle of the discipline in France. The participants ? 18 men and 8 women - among the best athletes in the discipline - will have to run, swim, jump and paddle (in kayak and paddle) between different points on a course of over 5 km. - Registration fee : 10 ?
• On 6 april 2024
• Lieu de rdv donné à l'inscription, Musée Historique
• The migron stronghold and the city of flowers - It's a neighborhood you don't usually visit, far from beaches, monuments or beautiful views ? Yet Saint Martin, Reptou and Migron are among the oldest inhabited sites in the commune. - Migron was a beautiful fiefdom belonging to the lords of Belay in the 16th century. - A hunting and farming estate, the story of its gradual fragmentation is above all that of the Biarritz of the middle and working classes since the 1930s. - By historian Jean-Loup Ménochet
• 48 Rue Luis Mariano, Prohibido
• They're back again, to great acclaim ! Jazz Manouche ! Swing, Bossa, Bolero, on Manouche Jazz trio, it's all about moving to the expert hands of our dream guitarists, accompanied by double bass. - Admission 10 ? upon reservation via http://www.prohibido-biarritz.fr - Jazz Live at Prohibido Biarritz - The passion for jazz is still alive at Les Docks de Biarritz. - Incredible decor and top-quality soundboards ! A cosy spot for a speakeasy with friends. - The spirit of Jazz will seduce you. - Cocktails and catering on site (extra charge).
• Musée Historique, Rue Broquedis
• Haydn ? S work, originally commissioned by Cadiz ? S Santa Cueva church to consist of "seven sonatas with an introduction and an earthquake at the end", was intended to punctuate its Good Friday service. The composer first wrote it for full orchestra, before proposing a version for string quartet in 1787, the year of its premiere, which will be performed here by the Arnaga Quartet. - Violins : Arnaud Aguergaray, Aurélia Lambert - Viola : Aurélien Grais - Cello : Yves Bouillier
• 23 Avenue du Maréchal Foch, Gare du Midi
• Following the success of "Whitechapel Circle" and "Travelers in Crime", Julien Lefebvre is back with the 3rd opus in his trilogy, l'heure des assassins, a new detective comedy full of twists and turns, set in the hushed world of a famous London theater at the beginning of the 20th century. - December 31,1909, in the heart of London, high society throngs the Somerset Theatre for the traditional New Year ? S Eve party, this time featuring a new play announced as extraordinary : ? Peter Pan ? At the very top of the building, privileged guests enjoy the private salons of the owner, tycoon Philip Somerset. As the bell rings to summon the audience into the room, Somerset is discovered lying on his balcony, poisoned. Who is the murderer ? How did he do it ? What's his motive ? - Laughter, fear and investigation are the order of the day ! - Running time : 1h30
• On 7 april 2024
• Even more talented singers, even more boundless energy and an even more breathtaking show earned this show a nomination for the Reality TV Award in London and a nomination for the Premier Gospel Award in England, as well as being selected to take part in the first Britain ? S Got Talent - The Champions in London and the Schlagerboom in Germany ? - Not content with winning over European audiences, "The 100 Voices of Gospel - Gospel pour 100 Voix" thrilled the 12 million viewers of Britain's Got Talent, winning a double Golden Buzzer for the first time in the show's history. - The 100 singers, dancers and musicians will be at the Gare du Midi with a totally new show !
• On 8 april 2024
• Office de Tourisme et des congrès, Square d'Ixelles
• Presentation of La voyageuse bijoux - Marie Charlotte Bour, a Beaux Arts graduate in product design, worked for over 15 years in a French silver and gold-plated jewelry house. - Her love of travel and creativity inspired her to create her own brand, La Voyageuse. Personalized jewelry with a travel theme. She draws her inspiration from her travels, as well as from her hometown of Biarritz, where she grew up.
• On 9 april 2024
• 1 Square d'Ixelles, Office de Tourisme
• After the Second Empire, it was the Roaring Twenties that gave Biarritz its international reputation. Rediscover the festive atmosphere of the post-war years through the artists and personalities who left their mark on Biarritz : Coco Chanel, Jean Cocteau, Stravinsky, Charlie Chaplin, Sacha Guitry and many others ? - This retrospective will allow you to discover the emblematic architecture of the period : Art Deco. - Duration : 2 hours - Meeting point and departure point Square d'Ixelles at the Tourist Office.
• At a time when the relationship between men and women is being questioned, scrutinized and even abused, come and spend an exceptional evening with a show that has already been performed before more than two million spectators ! - It is a hymn to a better mutual understanding. - Far from defending old clichés, it is totally in line with the fight for equality between women and men. - Its incredible success proves that whatever our cultural, biological or sexual singularities, we are all chasing the same thing : love ! - You will exchange glances ? - You will elbow each other ? - And then you will smile -sometimes, you will burst out laughing -often, and you will even catch yourself thinking ? - You will navigate through the meanders of male and female logic and you will exclaim : "Oh, if I had understood all this earlier…" ! !

Visits, leisure and activities nearby

Biarritz is also an excellent base for exploring the Basque Country. On foot, by car, 4x4, or Pottock, typical small Basque horse, many walks are possible to explore the hills, traditional villages, dances and, of course, gastronomy.

Restaurants

Bed & breakfasts

Vacation rentals

Related articles Biarritz

Must-see attractions in Biarritz

Grande Plage

Grand by name, grand by nature, Biarritz’ vast main beach has been the place at which to be seen since the days of Napoléon II and Eugénie. It's wall to…

Cité de l'Océan

Biarritz' splashiest sea-themed attraction is part museum, part theme park and part educational centre. It takes a fun approach to learning about the sea…

Musée de la Mer

Housed in a wonderful art deco building near the old port, Biarritz' Musée de la Mer is seething with underwater life from the Bay of Biscay and beyond,…

Musée d'Art Asiatica

Out on the edge of town is this unexpected treasure trove of ancient Indian, Chinese and Tibetan statues, monuments and temple artwork. The layout is a…

Rocher de la Vierge

If the swell's big, you might get a drenching as you cross the toy-town-like footbridge (closed in high wind) at the end of Pointe Atalaye to Rocher de la…

Phare de Biarritz

Climbing the 258 twisting steps inside the 73m-high Phare de Biarritz, the town’s 1834 lighthouse, rewards you with sweeping views of the Basque coast…

Chapelle Impériale

Built in 1864 on the instructions of Empress Eugénie, this glitzy church mixes Byzantine and Moorish styles, and the plaza in front has a superb view of…

Plages d'Anglet

North of Pointe St-Martin, the adrenaline-pumping surfing beaches of Anglet (the final 't' is pronounced) continue northwards for more than 4km. Take bus…

Plage Miramar

A little bit north of the Grande Plage, on the way to the lighthouse, plage Miramar is packed on summer days.

Plage de Marbella

Plage de Marbella is about 2km south of Port Vieux. Bus 10 or 13 heading south will get you here.

Plage de la Milady

A flat arc of sand backed by golf courses and a kids' playground, Plage de la Milady is about 2.5km south of Port Vieux. Look out for the grand edifice of…

Hôtel du Palais

Dominating the northern end of the Grande Plage is the massive 19th-century Hôtel du Palais, built for Empress Eugénie and now a luxury hotel – complete…

Église Orthodoxe de Biarritz

This Russian Orthodox church dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint Alexandre Nevsky was built by and for the Russian aristocrats who frequented Biarritz…

Église Ste-Eugénie

The neo-Gothic Église Ste-Eugénie was built in 1864 for – who else? – Empress Eugénie, and sits on a prominent spot in the old port.

Plage de la Côte des Basques

A long, exposed beach popular with surfers and walkers, said to be one of the first where boardriders hit the waves around Biarritz.

Plage du Port Vieux

A good option for families due to its sheltered aspect, this tiny wedge of sand is just under the Musée de la Mer.

More destinations you need to see

Weekend Itinerary in Biarritz, France: How to Spend 3 Days in Biarritz

Looking for inspiration for a  weekend in Biarritz ?  Read our tips below on the things to do in Biarritz , France plus a sample weekend itinerary, where to stay, how to get around, and the best restaurants to try!

Biarritz, France is the beautiful seaside town on the Southwestern side of France. It’s considered a major surfing destination due to its long sandy beaches and surf schools. Enjoy the breeze as you visit their popular beaches, gardens, and landmarks. Biarritz, France really deserves to be in your bucket list!

Other articles you can read:

• 15 Best Things To Do in Biarritz, France
• Things to Do in Paris, France
• 15 Things to do in Dinard, France
• DIY European Travel Guide: Nice, France
• Travel Tips for Italy and France

Table of Contents

3 Day Weekend Trip Guide to Biarritz, France

Day 1 – weekend to biarritz, france.

Eglise Sainte-Eugenie – It is recommended to visit this church on your first day. It has a Romanesque-Byzantine style that would really leave in awe. For you to believe what I’m saying, never miss this place.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ✨Basque Way Of Life✨ (@goodgirlandbadhabits) on Dec 29, 2016 at 8:26am PST

Jardin Botanique – Spend your first day in a relaxing way, after seeing the Eglise Sainte-Eugenie, visit this beautiful garden. You will have the peace of mind that you crave. Inspired by a Japanese garden, you will see different types of Asian plants.

Day 2 – Weekend to Biarritz, France

La Cote des Basques – Relax at the beach, it is really recommended. Especially, if you’re into surfing, you should head out to this place. This beach is the most popular surf beach in the area. You could spend a whole day at this beach and wait for the beautiful sunset.

Day 3 – Weekend to Biarritz, France

Phare de Biarritz – On your last day, don’t forget to visit the Phare de Biarritz. In this place, you’ll get the chance to see the beautiful view of Biarritz. Walking to the lighthouse and climbing up at least 300 steps to reach the top will be all worth it. Never miss the chance!

Where to Stay in Biarritz, France

Where to stay in biarritz, france if you’re a backpacker.

Premiere Classe Biarritz

Premiere Classe Biarritz is located 800 m from Biarritz – Anglet – Bayonne Airport.  Free Wi-Fi is available. Rooms at Premiere Classe Biarritz are air-conditioned and equipped with a TV with cable channels and a private bathroom with shower. 

Price: Starts at $41 per night for Double Room , $0 taxes and charges, free breakfast. It’s non-refundable.

Chambre 200m Grande Plage

Chambre 200 m Grande Plage in Biarritz provides accommodation with free WiFi. The homestay offers an independent bedroom. Guests will have access to a shared bathroom located in the owner’s unit. The nearest airport is Biarritz Airport, 4.4 km from Chambre 200 m Grande Plage.

Price: Starts at $57 per night for Triple Room , plus $1 for taxes and charges , and it’s free cancellation.

Campanile Biarritz

Campanile Biarritz is located 2 km from the town center and 800 m from the Halle Iraty Performance Hall and Biarritz-Anglet-Bayonne Airport. It offers a 24-hour reception. A flat-screen TV with cable channels and free Wi-Fi access feature in all of the air-conditioned rooms at Campanile. Buffet breakfast and a seasonal menu are served in the modern restaurant or on the terrace.

Price: Starts at $69 per night for Superior Twin Room , plus $1 taxes and charges , free breakfast. It’s non-refundable.

Where to Stay in Biarritz, France if you’re on a Budget

Hôtel Mirano

The Mirano is a 15-minute walk from Biarritz city center and the beach. It is 1.5 km from  Biarritz-Anglet-Bayonne Airport and offers en-suite accommodation with free Wi-Fi. The air-conditioned rooms at the Mirano Hotel have a 1970s-inspired décor and are equipped with a TV and a work desk. Guests of this design hotel are invited to relax in the bar and the Mirano also features a shaded terrace.

Price: Starts at $71 per night for Standard Double Room , plus $1 for taxes and charges , add $11 for breakfast , it’s free cancellation, and no prepayment needed, you can pay at the property.

Hôtel Saint James

A 14-room hotel set in an early 20th-century house, Hôtel Saint James is located at the historic center of Biarritz, just a 5-minute walk from the main beaches. Saint James offers rooms with free WiFi and a flat-screen TV. The rooms are located on 3 different floors and not serviced by a lift. In the morning, from 8:45, breakfast is served at the property’s restaurant, Le Café du Commerce.

Price: Starts at $72 per night for Single Room , $0 for taxes and charges , add $9 for breakfast (optional) , and it’s free cancellation.

Hôtel Le Saphir

Le Saphir is located in Biarritz, just 200 m from the Old Port and the sandy beaches. It offers free Wi-Fi access in each en-suite guest room. A continental breakfast is served daily. Guests can enjoy their meal on the hotel’s south-facing patio. The bedrooms all have a private bathroom and a TV. Located in Biarritz’s city center, Le Saphir is in a lively area with several bars and restaurants close by.

Starts: Price at $73 per night for Single Room , $0 for taxes and charges , add $8 for breakfast , it’s free cancellation, and no prepayment needed, you can pay at the property.

Where to Stay in Biarritz, France if you want Luxury

Résidence Vacances Bleues Le Grand Large

Offering panoramic views of Biarritz Cote des Basques Beach and a heated outdoor swimming pool, Le Grand Large is an aparthotel situated in the heart of Biarritz, just 200 m from the Old Harbour with various stores, local markets and tapas bars nearby. The spacious studios at the Le Grand Large feature a loggia with blades viewing the Ocean or the Lighthouse. They all are equipped with a modern private bathroom and a complete kitchenette with ceramic hob. The aparthotel also features a relaxing lounge and library. Biarritz-Anglet-Bayonne Airport is 4 km away.

Price: Starts at $89 per night for Studio (2 adults + 2 children) , plus $1 for taxes and charges , add $12 for breakfast , and it’s non-refundable.

La Maison du Lierre

La Maison du Lierre is located in Biarritz, 300 m from the beach and 5 minutes from the convention centers Bellevue, Casino and Gare du Midi as well as 100 m from Biarritz central market. It offers free WiFi and Canal + channels. The charming Maison du Lierre hotel provides numerous services. These include massages and healthy meals (upon reservation). Breakfast can be enjoyed on the terrace in the summertime. The bedrooms are equipped with en suite facilities, flat-screen TV and telephone. They overlook the sea or the garden. Some have a balcony or terrace. Guests have access to a private living room with a computer corner. 

Price: Starts at $95 per night for Individual Room , plus $1 for taxes and charges , add $13 for breakfast , and it’s non-refundable.

Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar Thalassa

Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar Thalassa offers a thalassotherapy center and an outdoor pool that overlooks the ocean as well as an indoor pool. All en-suite rooms and suites at Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar Thalassa have access to the hotel’s spa and wellness center. The hotel also provides an on-site two restaurants that serve delicious and healthy cuisine for guests to enjoy. A jazzy and cozy piano bar plus a summer bar with a terrace that overlooks the ocean will really make anyone’s stay here very elegant and relaxing.

Price: Starts $215 per night for a Classic Double Room with Wellness Centre Access , plus $5 taxes and charges , add $32 for breakfast , it’s free cancellation and no prepayment needed.

List of restaurants that you can try while in Biarritz, France

Le Bistrot Gourmet

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by LA PASSION LE GOUT (@passionemment_cotebasque) on Mar 18, 2020 at 12:01pm PDT

Serves French and European cuisine. The restaurant is a bit small but serves high-quality food. Every dish is worth your penny.

Operating hours: 

• 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM (Mon, Tue, Thu, and Fri)
• 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM (Sat-Sun)

Address: 18 rue de la Bergerie, 64200 Biarritz, France

La Grappe a Fromages

A paradise for cheese lovers like me! This restaurant serves French and European cuisine. If you love cheese, then you shouldn’t miss this one out! Head out to this restaurant and enjoy an awesome meal.

Operating hours: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM (Tue-Sat) Address: 57 Avenue de Verdun | 57 avenue de Verdun, 64200 Biarritz, France

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Federica Raverta (@fujikominamoto) on Feb 22, 2019 at 7:22am PST

It offers French, European, and Spanish cuisine. There are varieties of dishes that you could choose from and would surely enjoy.

Operating hours: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Sun-Sat) Address: 5 rue du Port Vieux, 64200 Biarritz, France

Palais de Jade

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Isabelita (@isabelita.atzori) on Aug 25, 2016 at 1:26pm PDT

A restaurant that serves Asian cuisine, especially Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese. Have a taste of one of the best Asian dishes in this place.

Operating hours: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Thu-Tue) Address: 2 Avenue de la Reine Victoria, 64200 Biarritz, France

La Cabane A Huitres

Serves local cuisine and seafood. The perfect place to go to if you want fresh seafood. Choose from a variety of seafood on the menu, and enjoy a great lunch or dinner here with your family or friends.

• 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM (Mon and Thu)
• 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM (Tue-Wed and Fri-Sun)

Address: 62 Rue Gammbetta, 64200 Biarritz, France

How to go to Biarritz, France from the UK

Via Ryanair: (one way)

*From London Stansted to Biarritz, France

Ticket Price: £17.99

* Prices are subject to change. You can visit Skyscanner for more details about the ticket prices.

Are you on Pinterest? Pin these!

About the Writer

Hi there! I’m Fatima . My first major travel was in 2016 in the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other country’s cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram .

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER: Many of the articles on Two Monkeys Travel Group are guest posts by a number of Approved Contributors and are hosted by Two Monkeys Travel Group. Approved Contributors control their own work and post freely to our site. This includes all text and images that they use within their own work. All contributors are instructed to follow internationally recognised copyright and intellectual property guidelines. Two Monkeys Travel Group takes its own responsibilities very seriously, so if you feel that any part of this work is abusive in any way, please send us an email so that we can investigate - [email protected]

DISCLOSURE: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links. So when you make a purchase we sometimes make a small commission, at no extra cost to you. The cost to you remains the same, sometimes even cheaper if we have negotiated a special deal for our readers.We use all of the companies we have listed here and that’s why they are in this list, but of course we need to keep Two Monkeys Travel Group running as well as it can, which is exactly what you’re helping with if you do decide to buy or book something through an affiliate link! If you have any more questions about the companies we use or any other companies you’re looking at, just email us and we’ll be happy to help. Please see our full disclaimer page for more information.

Written by Two Monkeys Travel - Contributor

Two Monkeys Travel Group – Community Travel Blog is a travel blog and website. We quickly grew into a valuable source of inspiring travel stories, advice, itineraries and travel guides, with the aim of demonstrating how to live a sustainable life of travel, whilst living your own definition of success. If you'd like to contribute and write a guest post, contact us at [email protected]

How to Find the Best Hotels in New York?

Top california destinations for families to enjoy, scuba diving and snorkeling in the philippines, what are the benefits of booking flight tickets in advance, unforgettable moments: maximizing your monaco vacation, related posts, 7 reasons why herceg novi in montenegro is the next mediterranean hotspot to watch out for (and why you should visit asap), 4 days skiing itinerary in st anton am arlberg, austria, learning to sail in turkey – rya sailing courses in turkey @gototurkeyuk, 7 most visited spots in barcelona, spain, previous post, how to travel by boat from malaysia to indonesia (a traveler’s guide), 9 things to do in barcelona, spain that you should not miss, subscribe to our newsletter.

Receive tips on how you can live a sustainable long-term travel lifestyle!

• First Name *
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

OUR CROSSINGS

Travel and photography blog

Biarritz Travel Guide – Everything You Need To Know For a Memorable Vacation

Last Updated on the 3rd of March, 2024

Well before coronavirus was a threat to international mobility, I could effortlessly come up with a handful of arguments to rationalize the cost – in terms of both euros and tons of carbon emissions added to the atmosphere — associated with travelling.

You know those invaluable life lessons you can only discover through travel like learning to be patient while trying to communicate in a foreign language and adapting to all sorts of situations such as getting sick and dealing with lost luggage?

While there’s still quite a lot I need to grasp about life, once in a while, I yearn to go on a trip where I can ditch my typical frenetic mentality to see or experience as many things as possible within a short period. A trip where instead of racing to do it all, I can wake up without plans for the day. A trip where I can fully immerse myself in art, nature and local culture without the need to constantly check the time.

Our last trip to Biarritz was just that; a family vacation that wasn’t gonna challenge me or give me perspective on my place in the world, and I was OK with that.

Read More: Your Guide to Mont-Saint Michel: France’s Most Picturesque Unesco World Heritage Site

Sunshine was definitely one of the primary reasons why I was so joyous about our upcoming trip to France but so was the ocean – I longed to surf and watch sunsets. I longed to see it, taste it and feel it because the ocean always makes me pause, think and dream. It sets my heart free in a way there’s no match for it.

I also yearned to explore rocky inlets, and I wanted to get up early to watch the sun make its way into a new day.

Once in Biarritz, we quickly settled into a relaxed pattern; early morning breakfast on the balcony followed by the walk to one of the beaches where local surf schools were getting ready for a busy day ahead followed by

We took a step back from our to-do lists and Instagram-worthy photo ops and instead embraced what the local community has to offer.

Read More: France Travel Guide: Best Things To See And Do In Beautiful Nice

Biarritz Travel Guide – Everything You Need To Know For a Memorable Vacation

We started with knowing so little about this Basque country and were surprised at how much we learned in just a week by exploring, surfing and interacting with locals. In this blog post, we would like to provide valuable tips for planning a trip to Biarritz.

We certainly don’t claim to be experts because there is so much more to see and learn about this corner of France than a week could cover but here are useful insights on visiting Biarritz.

Arriving in Biarritz

By plane  | There are direct flights with budget carrier Ryanair from Ireland, the United Kingdom and  Belgium as well as with Flybe from Belfast, Aberdeen and Edinburgh. You can also travel to Biarritz from nearby Spanish towns such as San Sebastian and Pamplona.

Biarritz Airport  | Located only 4 kilometres from Biarritz, it is an ideal place for a weekend break. There is a regular and very convenient bus service, number 14, costing 1 euro one way or 2 euros for a 24-hour pass. You’ll find the bus stop just outside Biarritz Airport , and it runs every half an hour.

By train  | You can also arrive at Biarritz Train station from places like Morcenx, Lourdes, and Dax. The train station is located 3 kilometres from the town centre and is served by night, regional as well as high-speed TGV trains.

Getting around  | Public transport in Biarritz is inexpensive and well-developed. Buses frequently run throughout the city from early morning till late at night, connecting airports, train stations and nearby towns. However, we found Biarritz to be a very compact and walkable city where all the major attractions can be reached on foot.

Read More: A Wee Guide To Some Of The Best Things To See And Do In Brittany, F rance

Where to eat in Biarritz

If you love a good meal then you have come to a perfect place because Basques certainly know how to cook and enjoy the food. There is no shortage of restaurants specialising in authentic Basque cuisine providing an overwhelming feast for the senses from the fresh fish caught in the Bay of Biscay to the famous red and green peppers, roasted, peeled and sautéed in herbs and garlic.

Biarritz is scattered with cosy cafes and lovely bakeries where you can indulge in fresh pastries, cakes, macaroons, and state-of-the-art chocolates. While you will possibly gawk at the price of some of them, the textures, flavours and fillings are perfectly combined to give your taste buds real satisfaction. Check out our tried and tested favourites below.

• Le Surfing |  is a brilliant place right at the bottom of the  Côte des Basque. Food and drinks at Le Surfing are a little bit pricey, but the ocean views at the sunset and the funky surf interior are tough to beat.
• Tea Room and Patisserie  Miremont  is the oldest café in Biarritz, operating since 1880,  overlooking the beach, where you can get a brilliant selection of cakes and ice creams. Just like most things in Biarritz, it is not cheap, but the views over the Grande Plague beach and the pastries are well worth it.
• The Beach House |   We loved this place for its organic food, cosy fireplace, and stylish wooden decks. If you fancy spending a relaxed afternoon soaking up its idyllic vibe, get in touch with  The Beach House , located in Anglet, to make a reservation.
• For fresh bread and pastries | We went to the best boulangeries in our neighbourhood. This “little one on the corner” bakery sells fresh sandwiches, croissants, and little pizzas and the line during lunchtime is usually out the door.

Read More: France Travel Guide: A Week-Long Road Trip Along The Beautiful Basque Coast

Top things to see and do in Biarritz

Biarritz is a beautiful city that’s jam-packed with so many unusual things to see and do that it merely requires a repeat visit and there is so much to share and write about it that I just can’t find a way to do it briefly.

There are a good few landmarks and sites to see in the town – you’ll love  Place Sainte-Eugenie square  where beautiful- inside and out –  Sainte Eugenie church and a good few restaurants are located.

#1. Visit Biarritz Lighthouse

Biarritz lighthouse, built in 1834, marks a place where the ocean meets the land and the view from the top of it delivers fantastic views of its beaches and orange rooftops.

This slender lighthouse clings to the cliff 73 meters above sea level, and you have to climb over 200  steps to the very top for the all-embracing coastal views. The spiral staircase is tiny, and if it is busy, you have to patiently wait in a queue for your turn as the number of visitors is limited due to the small space.

The lighthouse is surrounded by a lovely tree-lined park with wooden benches scattered throughout so you can sit down and enjoy fantastic sea views. Free parking is available on site, and there is a lovely café next door as well as a small food truck serving beverages and food.

#2. Stop by Les Halles Food Market

A vast collection of gourmet food counters with regional cheeses, pastries, oysters, fresh fruit, and vegetables are on sale in Les Halles food market. We could not resist returning every morning to pick up lunch essentials and chat with locals. Les Halles food market opens early every day, and you can even join a local market tour that offers food tasting and insights into culinary traditions.

#3. Relax on Biarritz beaches

Slow down and soak up the warm rays of the sun during the day or settle and enjoy an explosion of colour for those few minutes before the sun goes down after a long day of sightseeing on one of the soft sand beaches in Biarritz. If the main beaches are too crowded then go for a walk to the Miariam beach or head out further afield where you can find miles and miles of soft dunes.

#4. Explore Biarritz Aquarium

Located in a stunning building perched on the cliff-top and displaying various exhibits over several floors, Biarritz Aquarium is a wonderful place to lose yourself for a few hours.

Take your time to wander from one aquarium to another and enjoy the displays of jellyfish and be amazed by the last final fish tank where the sharks, groupers & barracudas swim along with each other.

It is a beautifully well-kept aquarium and when we visited in May it was quiet you could take your time observing the creatures not feeling rushed or pushed out of the way as we have experienced at some venues.

If you time your visit accordingly, you can enjoy one of the main events – the feeding of the seals which usually takes place twice daily. The keeper explains the habits of these amazing marine creatures as they munch on fresh mackerels.

Great day trips from Biarritz

One of the remarkable things about Biarritz is its exceptional coastal location, situated between the Atlantic Ocean, and the Pyrenees and not too far from the Spanish border. Why not take advantage and go for a drive through the mountains or visit one of the many fishing villages along the coast?

• San Sebastian | As the driving distance from Biarritz to San Sebastian is only 50 kilometres, a quick road trip to this beautiful Spanish city is a no-brainer. France and Spain are part of the Schengen zone, so there is no natural border between the Irun and Hendaye. Besides perfect long sandy beaches and a thriving surfing scene, in this charming place, you will find the biggest museum in Basque history, Santa Clara Island and the beautiful old town.
• Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port |   is 55 kilometres from Biarritz. Don’t overlook this beautiful place located in the foothills of the majestic Pyrenees. Saint-Jean-Pied-Port is a charming, little French town, known to be the traditional starting point of Camino Frances.
• Bayonne  | One of the most accessible day trips from Biarritz has to be to nearby Bayonne located at the confluence of the Nive and Adour rivers. You can catch a bus from Aillet to Lachepaillet and the average journey time is just 20 minutes. The best things to do in Bayonne include Bayonne Cathedral, Petite Bayonne and Japanese-inspired Botanical Garden.
• Sare | Make your way to the nearby town Sare from where you can travel to  La Rhune , a 905 m high mountain, accessible via an old train, for fantastic views of the surrounding ocean and rugged coast.

Where to surf in Biarritz

It is said that surfing in Europe began in the 1950s on the beaches of Biarritz , and American screenwriter Peter Viertel was the first to ride the waves.

Did you know that today doctors in Biarritz are prescribing surfing and paddleboarding lessons as a cure for various illnesses, including depression and arthritis? In some cases, sessions replace all medication.  Because of large amounts of seaweed, which adds iodine to the water, it becomes healing. How incredibly genius, yet simple and life-changing is this idea?

If you are planning on riding the waves, there are numerous locations you have to check out. Biarritz offers a great variety of consistent waves. Spring and autumn season is best for uncrowded line-ups while winter brings in powerful waves.

• The Grande Plage |    is the main beach, located in the heart of Biarritz. This is where you will find the towering Casino and the famous Hotel du Palais. When it comes to surfing it’s the most popular spot, so it can get very crowded.
• La Côte des Basques  |   Exposed, untamed and framed by rugged cliffs, this beach is great for beginners at low tide. There are plenty of surf schools offering surf lessons and equipment rental for reasonable prices. In the summertime, when the conditions are right, it is the ideal place for longboard surfing. However, watch out for the high tide, it is when the water comes all the way up to the rocks, make sure you do not get caught up.
• Marbella   Beach   | is a beautiful sandy and scenic beach located to the south of La Côte des Basques. Generally less crowded, Marbella Beach is popular with swimmers, bodyboarders, and surfers. There is no surf school nearby, so you have to bring your equipment.

Where to stay in Biarritz

When it comes to booking accommodation, know what’s really important to you. Are you willing to spend more money on a big and comfortable bed or you can easily share a dormitory with other like-minded travellers just to have that extra cash for a meaningful travel experience?

We stayed in a rented one-bedroom Airbnb apartment, which was lovely and spacious enough for the three of us.  In addition to the great location, close to the beach, funky restaurants, bakery, and shopping, the place had a balcony with a sea view and a little kitchenette.

If you are looking for something much fancier, you can always splurge and stay at a lavish five-star,  19th-century Hotel du Palais  built by Napoleon III  for his spouse, pamper yourself in one of the charmingly elegant French mansions, choose a beachfront hotel or stay in a cheerful country house on the outskirts of the town.

…    …    …    …    …    …    …    …     …    …    …    …    …    …    …    …    …    …    …    …    …    …

Now, over to you!

Have you been to Biarritz? Did you go surfing?  Let us know in the comments below!

Let us know if you are plotting a visit to Biarritz and have travel-related questions!

Share this:

64 thoughts on “ Biarritz Travel Guide – Everything You Need To Know For a Memorable Vacation ”

Really enjoyed virtually travelling to Biarritz with your blog 🧳 🤍 Hope you are all keeping well x

Like Liked by 2 people

Thank you kindly! Although Biarritz is synonymous with elegance and upper-class style you’ll find plenty of surfers and vanlifers there, too. We are doing very well, Ireland is slowly reopening up after being shut at Christmas time. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva 🙂

Thank you for your very nice and informative article. We live in Paris and are planning a vacation to Biarritz this April. My great grand parents owned Ville El Hogar and are are planning to go and see it for the first time.

Yes, I’ve been to Biarritz a number if times. I love the French (and Spanish) Basque country. I did not however surf, I cycled! Very informative piece.

Like Liked by 1 person

I’m glad to hear you’ve been to Biarritz, Sheree. It’s hard to beat its pristine sandy beaches, beautiful coastal villas, and stylish restaurants that offer a sophisticated ambience. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day. Aiva 🙂 xxx

You too Aiva

I love your idea of travel for relaxing and enjoying each day without an extensive agenda! I haven’t been there yet but I would like to see it in the future… 🙂

Hi, Meg, how are you today? 🙂 So many people have this idea of travel as something to be done either in short bursts (weekends, spring break) or as a much-saved-for, one year around the world trip, where they pack as many places into a year as they can (often spending 1-2 days in each location). While this is something that many people aspire to do, there’s another way to learn about and experience the world and it’s called slow travel. A way of travel that emphasizes connection to local people, cultures, food and traditions. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva 🙂

I think as we get older, the relaxation comes easier. As a young couple, we always felt guilty wasting a single moment if there was something to see or do. Now, we take more time to enjoy the visit and it is even better if you are travelling with another couple. Biarritz looks like a great place to explore with lots going on. Thanks for taking us along Aiva. Allan

Hi, Allan 🙂 As the famous Taoist philosopher, Laozi once said, “A good traveller has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving.” All too often, people who travel seem to have a list of things they want to accomplish. It doesn’t matter how they go about it, as long as they can check everything off that list.

Many of these travellers don’t seem to care if their experiences can offer them anything other than the ability to brag about the places they went.

For the past ten years or so, I prefer to take it slow. Firstly it was because I was getting tired of being tired after a vacation. Second, once you start travelling as a family, you have to take each day as it comes. Slow travel is the idea that the only way to directly experience your surroundings is by slowing down, rejecting the tourism industry’s checklist approach, and keeping yourself open to the myriad of new experiences that exist out there in the world. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day. 🙂 Aiva

You are wise beyond your years. We have a neighbour who thinks a 4 day drive through Europe is “doing” Europe. When we ask him what he did or saw, it was all through the car window. Not my idea of a vacation. 😀Allan

Thanks, Allan. It took me twenty years to realise that there is more to traveling then ticking off cities and countries. We once went on a six day trip around Europe where we visited four countries, seven cities, climbed two mountains and came home utterly exhausted and unhappy. You live and learn 🙂

Really good article. Must put it on my bucket list!

Thank you kindly. You would love to explore Biarritz where wide seafront promenades and well-placed benches allow visitors to soak up the stunning natural landscape. Thanks for reading and have a good day. Aiva 🙂

It looks beautiful. Like you, I always used to want to be ‘go, go, go’ on holiday – it drove me mad that my husband would even consider a beach holiday. But as I get older, I want to relax as much as explore, and enjoy feeling well, rather than always tired. Biarritz looks lovely, I’ve never been so will add it to the always growing list 🙂

In a world of overtourism and lists of Instagrammable destinations, it might sound a bit crazy to slow down or stay in one place because there’s always the pressure to make your trip status worthy. Slow travel is a mindset, a lifestyle and by far the best way to travel and see the world. Staying in Biarritz for a whole week without the need to see and do as much as possible was a wonderful experience. Thanks for reading and have a good day. Aiva 🙂 xxx

Thanks for the quick trip to France! Oh those beaches – looks so inviting to just sit down and chill out while enjoying the heat and people watching. Add good food and it sounds amazing. Bernie

This sounds like such a fun trip!! I had no idea Biarritz was such a surfing destination. I flew into Biarritz from Paris when I started the Camino de Santiago and took a train ride from there to St. Jean Pied de Port. My brother and I didn’t really have any time to explore before our train ride, but I wish we had! Sounds and looks like such a beautiful town. It was overcast the day we were there, so these blue sky, sunny pics are very different than how I remember my time there, haha! But I so agree that the Basque food was always delicious.

Miles of smiles, Grace

gracefulrags.com

Wow, how exciting, Grace! Did you walk the Camino de Santiago in France? The Camino Frances or French Way is the most famous of all the Camino de Santiago routes, featuring in many documentaries, books, and movies such as ‘The Way‘ and ‘I’ll Push You‘. Despite the short driving distance, we never managed to make it to St. Jean Pied de Port which is one of the most significant towns on the Camino de Santiago. Maybe once the pandemic crisis comes to an end, we can return once again to Biarritz. Fingers crossed. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. I hope all is well. Aiva 🙂 xxx

Yes, I walked the Camino Frances! I started in St. Jean Pied de Port and hiked 33 days straight until I got to Santiago. 🙂 Such an incredible experience! And I really loved St. Jean Pied de Port – such a cute town with so much to explore.

“…a family vacation that wasn’t gonna challenge me or give me perspective on my place in the world, and I was OK with that.” I love this sentence, Aiva! We all need vacations like this once in a while, and I too need to be reminded that it’s OK just to hang-out, sit on a beach, not have an agenda. Biarritz looks like a great spot to unwind with little pressure. I really like the look of your Airbnb.

Thank you, Caroline. We often tend to over-pack, over-plan, over-drink, have unrealistic expectations and we ruin what should be precious memories in the process. We return home exhausted wondering why we’d been so excited in the first place. By embracing simple living and travelling mindfully we can redefine tourism. Checking off the Top 10 list may provide good photos for social media, but consider the possibility of the empty feeling left behind if we cannot speak more deeply to the place we visited, to its people and to the delightful similarities and mysterious differences between us all. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. 🙂 Aiva xxx

The outdoor market, the aquarium, the beaches and architecture. It all looks so lovely! I’ll bet you had a grand time there. I agree that not every trip has to be about personal growth or stretching yourself. Sometimes you just need a getaway.

Thanks so much. The sweet southwest ocean living and the food makes us return to Biarritz again and again. The Basque specialities are to die for, and if I had to choose three words to describe Biarritz, it would be wild, authentic & delicious 🙂

I’ve been thinking quite a lot about travelling lately. Before the pandemic, there’s been an explosion of travel bloggers. It’s a land filled with tons of budget travellers where it seems much of the goals of travel are to check off the bucket list, snap the Instagram photo, and do so in the cheapest way possible. I’ve believed that we’ve negatively contributed in many ways “tempting” others to create these bucket lists and check em off. For sure I’ve been part of that. There will never be a shortage of things to do and that’s why I would love to inspire others to redefine tourism and the way we travelled before the COVID. We need to seek more to engage than to escape and we can do that by travelling with a purpose. Thanks for reading and have a lovely day. Aiva 🙂 xxx

Despite living in France for four years, not once did I ever visit Biarritz, which boggles my mind! Many of my friends abroad have gone and had nothing but great words to say about it; I guess I never went, just because I never gone that southwest of the country (the most being Toulouse), nor do I surf. But it does look very picturesque, and it would definitely be a worthwhile base to visit other places like Bayonne and Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, all the while soak up that Basque vibe!

This was our fifth trip to France and second to Biarritz and we still didn’t get a chance to see and experience everything – after all, France is the largest land area of any Western European nation. On the first trip to Biarritz, I really wanted to take a little side trip to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, walk its cobbled streets and see the 15th-century gate which is UNESCO World Heritage-listed, but the weather turned for the worse and we had to cancel it. With overseas travel still non-existent, I had to travel to Biarritz through our photos. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva 🙂 xxx

Biarritz looks charming and full of so much character. I would never have guessed that surfing would be popular here, but those beaches look marvellous. That’s so interesting that doctors are prescribing surfing and paddle boarding as a cure for some illnesses. I find being around the water very soothing and relaxing. All the more reason to do it more often!

Biarritz used to be the Monte Carlo of the Atlantic coast but with time, the glamour faded. Thanks to windsurfing and other water sports, however, the city has rejuvenated. It now is the perfect destination for a relaxing weekend break, and there is no need to rush: the city is fairly small and you can easily see everything even on a short visit. One thing worth setting aside time for is the morning market in Les Halles. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva 🙂

Gorgeous – we camped in nearby Bidart – mid 90’s I reckon – coming home from Spain. We spent just a few hours in Biarritz – I remember the lovely beach and we visited the aquarium – Stephen was young … maybe 5 yrs… I think we might have gone to Bayonne the same day so certainly didn’t do justice to either place!! We were in San Sebastian a few years back but travelled via Bilbao. I remember looking at the flights via Biarritz. I admit that I didn’t consider Biarritz a destination in itself until now but you’ve definitely prompted another (proper!!) visit.

I have to admit, there isn’t much to see in terms of tourist attractions, Marie, but Biarritz would be a perfect base to explore the Baque coast and Pyrenees mountains. One of the amazing things we are yet to experience, located not too far from Biarritz, is the La Rhune trail ride that takes visitors to the top of the sacred mountain which stands at 905 metres, providing one of the best panoramas imaginable. The railway is almost a century old, and the views over the nearby mountains and the valleys, across the Basque Country of France and Spain, are staggering. But, in order to enjoy the views, you need a sunny day with blue skies, otherwise, you are just standing in a fluffy cloud! Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day. It’s cold and windy yet again, brrr… Aiva 🙂 xxxx

It all sounds beautiful….

So magical! Top bucket list for when I can travel again. Thank you for taking us to this beautiful, inspiring, enriching adventure. Have a wonderful week 🙏

Thank you kindly. A visit to the Basque coast is sure to leave its impression, and you will fall under the spell of this amazing corner of the southwest. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva 🙂 xxx

Biarritz looks fantastic!! Sometimes no planning (except the accommodation and sometimes a car) is the best planning😊 We definitely need to slow down sometimes, at least this is what we’ve learned in the past year or so. But we also like to sightsee as much as possible when we visit new places, it is hard sometimes to choose between the things to do, as also want to relax. Anyway, we love traveling on our own, as we often adjust the route or the program of the day, based on the morning feelings😊 Thank you for the amazing photo of the beach, I miss a salty breeze in my face soo much!!! Have an lovely day, xx Christie

Hi, Christie, I am so glad to hear from you again, it’s been a while. I hope all is well with you and your family 🙂

Definitively a hot touristic spot during the summer, Biarritz is also worth visiting during the off-season. You will enjoy the quieter atmosphere and it will be easier (and probably cheaper) to stay in the city centre and to visit the city’s historical sites.

Travel has become a ubiquitous part of life for so many people, particularly now that technology has made it seem much more accessible, but seeing travel as a way to keep up with trends and become more popular online can actually stop you from experiencing the true benefits of getting out of your own bubble. I am still learning to slow down and enjoy the journey and the pandemic has made me question what I want out of my future travels. Instead of a fast and furious tour seeing ‘everything there is to see’, changing locations every 2-3 days, I would want to feel like a local, spending leisurely days strolling off the beaten path.

Thanks for reading and have a lovely day. Aiva 🙂 xxx

Indeed, I was more offline in the past month than online, life comes in shuffles, hanging in here! You are so right with keeping up with trends and popularity, but one needs to decide if want to be popular or to enjoy life at the end of the day, right? Although I believe that everyone will be fast and furious when the borders will open again 🙂 Take care, all the best! Christie xx

I have never been to Biarritz before but it seems a very classic destination in France. Your presentation is very tempting too. Thanks for the guide!

The south of France offers endless options for poster-like road trips that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Surrounded by coastal surf towns, historic natural sights, and charming Basque cities – and with the Pyrenees just a short drive away – Biarritz is the perfect starting point for a four-wheel adventure. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva 🙂

Do you know my Swedish friend, Viveka? She was a chef on board the ferries and had a bit of a love affair with Biarritz. I always wished I’d gone there 🙂 🙂

Here in the US, it seems like all we ever hear about France is Paris and the Eiffel Tower… and to be honest, neither of those things excite me all that much. But through blogs like this I’m learning about so many different parts of France and it’s really made me reconsider my initial judgements. This looks like a lovely place to visit and sounds like you guys had a great time!

I know what you mean, Diana. We almost always hear about big cities with plenty of must-see attractions, but not so much about quieter towns. Known for its elegant coastal resorts, the city of Biarritz is the perfect luxurious getaway worth visiting. The city was the summertime destination of Eugénie de Montijo (Napoleon III’s wife). She transformed the fishing village into an elegant beach town that is now synonymous with upper-class style. For her vacation, the empress built a big palace (that has been transformed into a luxury hotel). Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day. Aiva 🙂

• Pingback: Biarritz photo diary: a jaunt through the beautiful surf town in France – OUR CROSSINGS

I always wanted to visit Biarritz – it was such a glamorous spot back in the day. It looks beautiful.

I can’t believe it took me so long to finally visit Biarritz. With its graceful squares and boulevards and with Is clean sandy beaches, handsome coastal villas, and chic restaurants it’s a wonderful place to escape the madness of the world. Thanks for stopping by, Kerry and have a good day. Aiva 🙂 xxx

You have made Biarritz very tempting. I’m afraid I’m going to have to add it to my ever-growing list. International travel better open up soon or I’m simply going to run out of time! Thanks for a lovely and informative post, Aiva!

Thanks so much. Since the 1800s, the astonishing city of Biarritz has been a premier seaside resort. It has an aristocratic heritage that is very much palpable as soon as you enter. And as you may have imagined, residents of Biarritz have an unmistaken refined taste. It is worth visiting if you are big on surfing and would fancy a wide oceanfront view subsumed in a sophisticated ambience. Have a good day. I hope all is well. Aiva 🙂 xxx

What a fantastic article Aiva! Lovely indeed, and the photographs are gorgeous! That area is one of my favourite places on earth. I’ve friends from there and always felt so at home there as well, especially Hendaia and Bayonne. Really enjoyed reading. Take good care and stay safe. All the best, FBC

Thanks so much, Francisco. I am so glad that you know and love Biarritz. Biarritz is a small town but definitely worth visiting. It has a lot of good shops and nice restaurants. The best part, however, the magnificent views you have of the beaches. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva 🙂

Thank you Aiva for bringing us such interesting and informative articles. Brilliant! 😊 All the best! FBC

Biarritz looks beautiful Aiva. We have never heart about this lovely French city before – it sounds like a perfect escape where you can have a great time!

Hi, Matina! It’s been a long time and I am so glad to hear from you again! I hope all is well with you. There’s was no option to leave a comment on any of your latest blog posts. I was just wondering was this intentional?

I love exploring French Basque Country, and you would too. Biarritz offers a less crowded, less tourist window on the diversity of the French/Spanish landscape. Its inhabitant is as distinct as the food on restaurant menus. One often finds more abundance of tapas and paella than the French hearty fare. And it is all worth it, from the daily market you can get the freshest produce and oysters straight from the coast, to the best seafood right off the piers, where fishermen hang out nearby.

Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva 🙂 xxx

Ah very inspiring and helpful,I so hope to visit my step family in Paris this fall and hopefully get to the south, thanks for posting 🙂

Allie of http://www.allienyc.com

Thank you kindly. I hope you get to visit Biarritz one day as it offers visitors an astonishing diversity of natural landscapes: from St. Martin advanced to the Basque coast, through the Great Beach, the coastline is an endless source of nooks and crannies to explore. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva 🙂 xxx

Happy weekend. Adventure is calling….🙏

Thanks so much and right back to you. We can finally start planning summer adventures as Ireland is preparing to open for domestic travel and inter-county travel resumes. Heritage sites all over Ireland have waived visitor fees in line with the Government’s recovery and reopening plan, effective immediately. That’s definitely something to celebrate. It’s time to stay away from the tension of work, to get a free weekend pass to dedicate to your loved ones. Have a blissful weekend. Aiva 🙂

That sounds truly exciting. It will be a wonderful Summer for sure.🙏

I’ve been to Biarritz one, when me and my family went to visit my sister who lived in San Sebastian. We only stayed a couple of hours, but I remember thinking that I really wanted to go back and visit this city in a chill and relaxed way! That region of France is absolutely gorgeous too! Thanks for sharing! 😊

Biarritz sounds like a nice train stopover in going from Lisbon to Paris? Do you know of the rail connections we might take then?

Lisbon to Paris by train sounds quite exciting, but given the train network in Portugal, you might find travelling to France through Spain more convenient. Before the pandemic crises, there was an overnight train to Biarritz from Lisbon with a stopover at Hendaye. The journey was around 15 hours! Cheers and have a nice day. Aiva 🙂

Spain does make better sense here. Yet my wife and I have found traveling through Madrid at times a problem.

Thanks for the blogger friendship and inspiration. Have a wonderful weekend. It’s weekend work for me but hope to get some sunshine on my lunch break.

Thanks so much for such wonderful and inspiring words and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

Really relateble I just started my own travel blog and then covid hit and I could not travel anymore from my country. No travel planning for me at all 😦

I am terribly sorry to hear that. If you have a case of wanderlust but can’t currently afford a trip abroad or can’t currently take the time off work, perhaps you’ve just forgotten the obvious – to explore closer to home! A weekend road trip can often be just as adventurous and exciting as taking a two week trip to a foreign country. Just remember, everything is what you make it. Cheers and have a good day. Aiva 🙂

Leave a comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

A Guide to Biarritz, a Scenic Surfer’s Paradise

By Michaela Trimble

Few resort towns have as glittering a history as Biarritz . Less than 20 miles north of the Spanish border on France’s sweeping Atlantic coast, the once quaint fishing village became a haven for the 19th-century elite when Napoleon III and his wife, Eugénie de Montijo, chose a sandy bluff overlooking the town’s two golden beaches as the site for their new summer home, Villa Eugénie, in 1854. In the following century, the town’s Belle Époque charm attracted a glamorous creative set that included Coco Chanel, Frank Sinatra and Ernest Hemingway, who characterized Biarritz as a Lost Generation playground in “The Sun Also Rises.” According to local lore, it was the screenwriter Peter Viertel, in Biarritz to shoot the film adaptation of Hemingway’s novel in 1957, who spread the word about the exposed beach break at the town’s Grande Plage; soon, surfers were flocking to Biarritz in search of good waves.

Today, Biarritz’s old-world elegance and relaxed beachy vibe attract a mixture of surfers, international urbanites and vacationing Parisians. Visitors come to lay beneath colorful striped parasols by day, and meet for sundowners at Biarritz’s hilltop cafes by night. With its locally run boutiques selling espadrilles, ceramics and hand-dyed indigo textiles — and a new wave of restaurants and buzzy wine bars reimagining traditional Basque delicacies — this beguiling seaside town is a timeless destination that’s forever reinventing itself.

Hôtel du Palais

Set into the dunes overlooking the northern end of the Grand Plage, the Hôtel du Palais is the last remaining grande dame of Biarritz’s royal past. Converted into a hotel in 1883, the former Villa Eugénie has kept its imposing mansard roof and terraced umber facade but now boasts 154 guest rooms, which channel the villa’s original Second Empire style with gathered silk curtains and upholstered Louis XIII furnishings. Downstairs, the hotel’s two restaurants, Jardin de l’Océan and Villa Eugénie, offer elevated takes on beloved French seafood dishes. An ongoing restoration promises a new oversize pool in June 2018 and a solarium with views of the breaking waves along the Côte des Basques.

Château Du Clair De Lune

Set in a 20-acre garden just three miles outside of town, this former 19th-century manor house offers a quieter version of Biarritz. The nine guest rooms in the main house feature period details including parquet mosaic floors and chandeliers, while the eight rooms in the property’s modernized former hunting lodge each have a private terrace. A short walk away, a private villa, surrounded by woodland, houses a further two rooms. The hotel’s restaurant, AROSTA, occupies a red-shuttered 18th-century farmhouse and serves French comfort food like hearty Basque cod pie and grilled sausages and potato purée.

Hôtel Le Madrid

Six miles south of Biarritz in the bluff-top village of Guéthary, the Hôtel Le Madrid , a five-room boutique property in the Basque chalet style — all whitewashed timbered walls and wooden shutters — presides over the nearby wave at Parlementia, a right-handed reef break that entices surfers here from around the world. Formerly a local sailors’ bar, the Madrid became a clubhouse for artists and poets in the 1920s and maintains a sociable, but laid-back, atmosphere. Rooms come with eclectic antique furniture and claw-foot bathtubs, while the lively restaurant below is papered with vintage newspaper clippings about Guéthary’s storied past.

Basque Country tradition and Nordic cuisine come together at this Scandinavian-inspired pintxos bar , where local seafood is served fermented, pickled or salted. Seated at high wooden tables in the bright, turquoise-tiled dining room, guests can order a procession of imaginative small plates like monkfish foie gras, smoked eel with caramelized pear, and trout gravlax topped with vinegary dill sauce.

Partners Fanny and François Lemarié opened Chéri Bibi, in 2015, as the Basque coast’s first cave à manger — a hybrid wine shop, bar and restaurant. The wide-ranging list of French natural and organic wines can be enjoyed with a tempting selection of appetizers including Galician sardines and sheep’s milk cheese from the nearby medieval village of La Bastide Clairence. There is also an Israeli-inspired dinner menu, offering heartier options like whole roasted eggplant in tahini sauce, sliced black pudding with peppers, and velvety, succulent Kintoa pork filet, the pork of choice in Basque Country. 011-33-5-59-41-24-75

Alaïa Restaurant

The sun-flooded terrace of the breezily stylish Alaïa Restaurant, one of Basque Country’s newest beachfront dining options — on Socoa Beach in Ciboure, a 30-minute drive south of Biarritz — offers views of bobbing fishing boats along the Saint-Jean-de-Luz waterfront and the imposing Fort Socoa, a 17th-century military fortress. Pull up a rattan bistro chair to dine on dishes including candied lamb shoulder with red onion pickles and grilled mashed potato pancakes, and line-caught hake with cabbage and white-wine fondue. 011-33-5-59-47-43-79

This minimalist Japanese- and Basque-inspired concept store in Saint-Jean-de-Luz comprises an organic vegetarian restaurant, a boutique and an artist residency space. After enjoying a donburi rice bowl or matcha tea in the serene blond-wood dining room, shop the boutique’s selection of small-run Japanese ceramics. The store also stocks an in-house clothing label, Vague & Lame, which offers a range of beachy unisex pieces in soothing sea-tones, as well as thickly striped basque linen kimono jackets designed in collaboration with the Parisian label Anaïs Guery.

Jox & An

Inspired by the classic French resort style of the 1920s, Jox & An , in central Biarritz, sells a selection of locally made, rope-soled espadrilles and sandals for women. Made in a 125-year-old espadrille factory in the town of Mauléon, 80 miles east of Biarritz, the colorful canvas shoes — classic and flat, or wedge-heeled with winding ankle ties — embody traditional Basque craftsmanship and simplicity.

The stalls at this gourmet covered market serve everything from typical Basque pintxos — like boquerones, sweet white anchovies drenched in olive oil and vinegar — to fresh daily oysters. Opened in 1885, the market is a Biarritz institution and the place to pick up fresh local ingredients for a beach picnic; arrive hungry to try cured Bayonne ham from Boucherie Carrère Didier, regional goat’s milk cheeses at the specialty store Chailla, and local wines and small plates — like smoked prosciutto served with roasted red beets, limoncello jelly and hazelnut bread — at the lively Basque tapas restaurant Les Contrebandiers.

Rocher de la Vierge

Connected to the mainland by a long iron footbridge, this golden stone outcrop in the Bay of Biscay is topped with a statue of the Virgin Mary as iconic as Biarritz itself. Legend has it that local fishermen first placed the statue atop the stone in 1865 as a sign of thanks following a particularly harrowing whaling expedition. The walk is best enjoyed at sunset; as the ocean mist comes in and the light fades, visitors can look back at Biarritz as its lights begin to sparkle along the waterfront.

Explore T Magazine

Fashion’s Latest Muses:  An industry long known for revering willowy bodies is taking a new interest in muscle with female bodybuilders  as models.

Objects That Inspire:  Simone Bellotti, the creative director of Bally, shares his influences  including club DJs, fishing apparel and ceremonial masks.

Rome’s Esquilino Neighborhood:  Set between the Colosseum and the tracks leading to Termini station, Rome’s Esquilino neighborhood occupies the Esquiline Hill, one of the city’s seven ancient mounds . Here’s where to go.

Fashion for the Sun:   A touch of transparency  balances the season’s rich, saturated hues.

Furniture From the Last 100 Years:  Three designers, a museum curator, an artist and a design-savvy actress convened to make a list of the most enduring and significant  objects for living.

Writing in a Tuscan Villa:  Albert Moya has optimized his apartment , part of a 14th-century estate in the hills of Florence, for work and lounging.

Biarritz travel guide

Visit Biarritz (Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France)

Biarritz is a popular and lively resort on the Atlantic coast in south-west France (in the Pyrénées-Atlantique department of Aquitaine). The town has a great deal of charm and is much loved by visitors because of the town, the beach and coast, and its reputation as surfing capital of France.

The wealth of Biarritz was founded in the middle ages with the whaling trade. As early as the 18th century the focus of the town was turning towards the beaches as doctors started recommending the Biarritz seafront as a cure for various ailments. Napoleon bathed in the sea here in 1808 and by the middle of the 19th century the reputation of Biarritz as a fashionable destination was firmly established

Explore Biarritz

France This Way review: as you will quickly realise, we are very enthusiastic about Biarritz and would recommend that if you are visiting the coast of south-west France you stay either here in Biarritz or as an alternative further north in Arcachon , another of our favourite resort towns. Even better, stay a few days in each of them!

Biarritz beaches

Almost any visit to Biarritz will start on or near the beach. The Grande Plage in the centre of the town is superb and provides much of the appeal of Biarritz. The northern half of this beach is called Plage Miramar.

It is a long sandy beach with a lighthouse on a rocky outcrop, Point St Martin, at one end and Pointe Atalaye and the Rocher de la Vierge at the other and a few well situated large rocks in the ocean to add to the interest and beauty of the scene.

The Grande Plage has areas for swimming and separate areas for surfing. The Art Deco style casino is in a central position on the beach and is a perfect spot to sit on the terrace, sip a glass of wine or have lunch and watch the waves breaking onto the beach. It’s not too expensive either given its lovely position.

In fact there are several beaches in Biarritz, including a small beach to the south of the town centre in the Port Vieux, much loved by swimmers. Until the 1850s this was the beach where whales were brought ashore to be cut up and sold!

A little further, the other side of the Pointe Atalaye headland and the port, you will find the Plage de la Cote des Basques. The backdrop to this beach is less beautiful with more modern apartment blocks but it is a very long sandy beach and to the south you can see the mountains of the Pyrenees.

Walk along the coast

The coast path in Biarritz goes all the way from the lighthouse on the headland to the north, behind the Grande Plage, passed the Port de Pecheurs, Pointe Atalaye and the Rock of the Virgin and on to the Plage de la Cote des Basques. This walk is one I would be happy to do every day of my life.

The views of Biarritz from the lighthouse are exceptional, and around Pointe Atalaye there are lots of little coves and walkways to some of the rocks including the Rocher de la Vierge with the statue of the Virgin, which has become the symbol of Biarritz.

Down below is the Port des Pecheurs with a few lovely little fishing cottages – now restaurants which are great for sea-food, dishes with a Basque influence and tapas. They overlook the tiny little walled marina, home to a few smallish boats and yachts.

The rocks are covered in lots of vegetation whose colours blend beautifully with the blues and greens of the sea. Down the slopes from the town to the sea yuccas and agaves grow happily amongst beautiful lush hydrangeas – a combination unlikely to be found in many places as hydrangeas need water and agaves don’t!

Places to visit in Biarritz except the beach

Although the focus of the town is definitely seaward, Biarritz has various highlights to discover in the town itself including numerous grand hotels and villas that you will see throughout the town, often overlooking the sea.

Above the Plage Miramar and the Pointe St Martin you can see the very impressive Hotel du Palais which was the Villa Eugenie built by Napoleon III for Eugenie who he met in Biarritz.

One of our favourite places is the small Place Bellevue from where you have one of the best views across the town centre and Grande Plage. The Bellevue building next to the square is an imposing exmple of the Belle Epoque style, and a statue by Oteiza overlooks the view. Just west of here the cathedral church of St Eugenie is a bit somber but the Place Saint-Eugenie next to the church is a nice spot to sit and relax.

Advertisement

In recent years part of the city centre has become pedestrianised, helping relieve some of the congestion you might have experienced if you last visited Biarritz several years ago. The town has lots of nice shops and is very pleasant to stroll around.

The market halls are a centre of ativity and open every morning, and to the east of here you can see the Gare du Midi, once a train station and now a congress centre. Among the other places of interest you will come across are several museums, dedicated to such varied subjects as chocolate, asian art and the ocean. The last will be the most fun with children, especially the visits to the Aquarium and the Cité de l'Océan.

There are also smaller churches of some interest such as the Russian Orthodox domed church, built in the neo-Byzantine style in 1891 for the Russian community in Biarritz. Another is the Imperial Chapel built in 1864 for Empress Eugenia in a Moorish-Byzantine style and deicated to the Mexican black virgin, Notre Dame de Guadelope. These churches are quite close together and behind the Hotel du Palais.

Attractions near Biarritz

Many visitors come to Biarritz for the surfing because of the good wave conditions along this part of the Atlantic. Various surfing competitions and events are also held that contribute further to the town's surf reputation, such as the annual Biarritz Surf Festival.

Note that not all Biarritz beaches allow surfing, some because of the undercurrents and others because of crowds and the risk of injury. If you have never surfed but would like to give it a try, there are training schools that will help you get started. The main surfing beaches are found at Anglet just beyond Pointe St Martin.

You should also take the time to walk along the riverfront and explore the town and historic centre of nearby Bayonne during your visit.

Biarritz is well known as the golf capital of France, and there are several very highly regarded golf courses to choose from in the vicinity.

See more of the popular resorts and beaches in Aquitaine

See more seaside resorts in France . You can find more travel ideas in the Pyrenees-Atlantiques guide and the Aquitaine guide .

Photos of Biarritz

Click any picture to start the gallery

Arrange a visit to Biarritz

Book hotels, car hire and flights.

• Book a visit

Hotels in Biarritz

Booking.com: best prices

For great prices on car hire throughout France and Corsica please visit our recommended partner at RentalCars.com

Reserve excursions

Map of biarritz and places nearby, visit near biarritz with france this way reviews.

Anglet, close to Biarritz, has several kilometres of beaches on the French Atlantic coast

Bayonne cathedral

Bayonne cathedral is an imposing gothic style cathedral with a beautifully restored apse and an impressive cloister

Bayonne is a lovely historic city with a cathedral, a substantial old town and a charming riverside promenade

Saint-Jean-de-Luz

A long established beach resort, Saint-Jean-de-Luz also has a lively and popular town centre to explore

Saint-Jean-de-Luz church

The church of Saint John the Baptist in Saint-Jean-de-Luz has a remarkable interior with a baroque altar and tiered balconies

Saint-Pee-sur-Nivelle

Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle is a small basque village with a popular leisure lake

... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Pyrenees-Atlantiques

Address: Biarritz, Bayonne, Aquitaine, 64200, France || GPS coordinates: latitude 43.4817, longitude -1.55611

Plan your visit to Biarritz, Pyrenees-Atlantiques

Sightseeing & tourist attractions to visit nearby.

• Anglet : ville fleurie 4* (3 km)
• Bayonne cathédrale de Sainte-Marie (monuments on French pilgrim routes) : heritage site (6 km)
• Bayonne : secteur sauvegarde (7 km)
• Jardins de la villa Arnaga: remarkable garden (19 km)
• Marais d'Orx: site of natural beauty (19 km)
• Sare : most beautiful village (19 km)
• Ainhoa : most beautiful village (20 km)
• La Bastide-Clairence : most beautiful village (25 km)
• Sorde l'Abbaye - abbaye St Jean (monuments on French pilgrim routes): heritage site (41 km)
• Vallée des Aldudes: site of natural beauty (43 km)
• Porte St Jacques - St Jean Pied-de-Port (monuments on French pilgrim routes) : heritage site (44 km)
• Parc du Sarrat: remarkable garden (47 km)

The French version of this page is at Biarritz (Francais)

French Places

We can help you visit any town, village or region of France...

Popular & Useful

① Ideas & inspiration ② Maps of France ③ Explore by region ④ Route planner ⑤ Places (by dept.)

France This Way copyright 2006 - 2024

• Cookies & privacy
• Index of places

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

Travel Guide To Biarritz

Until World War II, Biarritz was the Monte Carlo of the Atlantic Coast, transformed by Napoleon III in the mid-19th century into a playground for monarchs and the glitterati, including Frank Sinatra, Bette Davis, Gary Cooper, Rita Hayworth and Ernest Hemingway. Today, the town has an air of faded glamour, and is a charming blend of both the chic and the shabby. Its shore remains truly beautiful, with white breakers crashing on sandy strands.

Where to stay in Biarritz

HOTEL CAFE DE PARIS

5, Place Bellevue (00 33 5 59 24 19 53; fax: 00 33 5 59 24 18 20; email: [email protected] ). This luxury hotel has 18 rooms all overlooking the sea. Of its two restaurants, the Gastronomic restaurant has a Michelin star. ££

HOTEL DE LA MARINE

On the corner of rue des Goélands and rue du Port-Vieux (00 33 5 59 24 34 09). A family-run, friendly, small hotel. £

HOTEL DU PALAIS

1 avenue de l'Imperatrice (00 33 5 59 41 64 00; www.hotel-du-palais.com ). Formerly the Villa Eugenie, built by Napoleon III in the mid-19th century for his wife whom he met and courted in Biarritz. Hotel du Palais is on Miramar beach, between the iconic lighthouse and the Grande Plage popular with surfers. Palatial and ornate. Coco Chanel, Ava Gardner and Frank Sinatra have all stayed here. There are 154 rooms, including 33 suites and 12 attic rooms designed to resemble ships' cabins. Formal La Villa Eugenie serves Michelin-starred food, La Rotonde serves classic French, with wonderful ocean views. There is a beachside swimming pool, with cabanas and a restaurant. £££

HOTEL PALYM

7 rue du Port Vieux (00 33 5 59 24 16 56; fax: 00 33 5 59 24 97 12). Slightly more expensive but superbly placed overlooking the Plage du Port-Vieux. £

LA VILLA VAUREAL

14 rue Vaureal (00 33 6 10 11 64 21; www.villavaureal.com ). Just south of the centre, and two steps from the cliffs that plunge down to the wonderful Plage de la Cote des Basques. Warm and homely ambience, with wood panelling and the aroma of tea-tree oil. There are two bedrooms and three suites painted in fruity colours (cherry, raspberry, mango), with boldly striped kitchenettes. Breakfast can be eaten outside. The large, leafy garden is an unusual feature in this part of town. Ask for the Mirabelle suite if you favour a more muted palette. £

LES VOLETS BLEUS

Chemin Etchegaraya, Arcangues (00 33 5 59 43 39 25; www.lesvoletsbleus.fr ). Ten kilometres out of town, in the pretty Basque village of Arcangues, with views of La Rhune mountain. This is rustic chic at its best: unusual linen blinds and retro kitchenware in a replica Basque farmhouse. There are three spacious bedrooms and two suites, all with striking, comtemporary bathrooms (one has a monsoon shower). The hotel serves a delicious breakfast festuring homemade jams, yogurts, cake and local goat's cheese. There is also a sleek outdoor pool. £

RADISSON SAS HOTEL

(00 33 5 59 01 13 13; fax: 59 01 13 14; www.biarritz.radissonsas.com ). Overlooking the famous La Côte des Basques surfers' beach, the Radisson SAS Hotel is a modern four star hotel, good for business travellers. It is a short walk from the town centre shops, nightlife, and casino. 150 rooms have free broadband and wireless Internet access. There is a heated swimming pool on the rooftop terrace with gorgeous views of the coastline. The poolside Transat Café serves light snacks. £

SOFITEL THALASSA MIRAMAR

13 rue Louison Bobet, 64200 Biarritz, France (00 33 5 59 41 30 00; fax: 59 24 77 20; www.sofitel.com ). Located on the beach, with amazing views over the ocean, the refurbished Sofitel Thalasso Miramar has 109 rooms, 17 suites and a state-of-the-art thalassotherapy centre. There are two restaurants: Le Relais serves gourmet cuisine; Les Pibales offers calorie-counted meals. For more information on the spa, see the Affordable Spas special feature. £

VILLA LE GOELAND

12 plateau de l'Atalaye (00 33 5 59 24 25 76; www.villagoeland-biarritz.com ). High above the sea, with views of the statue of the Madonna on the rocks and the Port-Vieux whaling beach. A 1900s villa with conical turrets, evoking Biarritz's golden era. There are only four spacious and elegant rooms, with parquet floors, wood panelling and period furniture. Continental breakfast, with home-made jams, are served on the terrace, where there are lovely views to the north, south and west. £

Where to eat out in Biarritz

Finding a reasonably priced place to eat isn't easy, but there are a few places. Try the friendly Bistrot des Halles on rue du Centre, by the market; or the nearby Bar Jean at 5 rue des Halles. Alternatively, try Creperie Bleue de Toi at 30 rue Mazagran in the old town.

On the Place Clemenceau, the town's main square, you can nibble a cake or sip a lemon tea at Dodin's pâtisserie or Miremont's salon de thé.

Things to do in Biarritz

The focus of Biarritz is the Casino Municipal, on Grande-Plage. The loveliest places to stroll around are the streets between here and the Plage du Port-Vieux. Just beside the Plage du Port-Vieux, the most sheltered and intimate of the beaches, a rocky promontory sticks out into the sea, ending in an iron catwalk anchoring the Rocher de la Vierge, an offshore rock adorned with a white statue of the Virgin, which has become Biarritz's trademark. Just below is the picturesque harbour of the Port des Pecheurs, backed by tamarisks and pink and blue hydrangeas. Beyond lies the Grande Plage, an immaculate sweep of sand that stretches past the casino, all the way to the lighthouse on the Pointe St-Martin.

How to get to Biarritz

AIRPORT Biarritz has its own airport situated just outside the town. AIRLINES FROM THE UK Ryanair (0871 246 0000; www.ryanair.com ) flies daily from Stansted to Biarritz. Air France (0871 66 33 777; www.airfrance.com/uk ) flies daily from Heathrow to Biarritz, via Paris.

• 1.2 By train
• 1.4 By plane
• 2.1 On foot
• 6.1.1 City centre
• 6.1.2 Marinella Beach
• 6.2 Mid-range
• 6.3 Splurge
• 8.1 Hostels

Biarritz is a large beachside town on the Bay of Biscay, on the Atlantic coast in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques département of Nouvelle-Aquitaine , in south-west France . It is known for the Hôtel du Palais, built for the Empress Eugénie around 1855, its casinos, and its surfing culture.

Get in [ edit ]

Biarritz is adjacent to Bayonne and Anglet and 11 miles (18 km) from the border with Spain.

By car [ edit ]

Biarritz is about 7½ hours from Paris, at about 480 miles (775 km). Biarritz is easily accessed via the D911 road, off the N10. These routes are close to the A63 - a road connecting Belin-Béliet to Bayonne to the border of Spain. In a general idea, heading towards Bayonne, and then directing on the local by-roads to Biarritz is the most straightforward route. The following are general roads to follow to reach Biarritz:

• Paris - A10, N10, A63 (E05)
• Lyon - A7, A9, A61, N117, A64 (E15-E80)
• Marseille - A54, A9, A61, N117, A64 (E15-E80)
• Bilbao - A1 (E70)
• Madrid - N1, A1 (E70)

By train [ edit ]

Biarritz train station is 3 km (2 mi) from the town centre. The local bus company runs the number 2 bus to the beach front for €1. For information on trains to and from Biarritz, visit the SNCF website .

• Paris → Biarritz

Prices are between 55 and €70 for the TGV full-fare, with night train fares starting at €15 one way.

By bus [ edit ]

Buses arrive on square d'Ixelles, in the centre of Biarritz. There are buses from Bayonne , Anglet , Pau , Saint-Jean-de-Luz , Hendaye . Spanish bus company PESA [1] run a twice-daily service (leaving from outside the Biarritz Tourist Office) that follows the coast to San Sebastian and Bilbao in Spain .

By plane [ edit ]

Direct flights from:

• Charleroi - 2 flights a week with Ryanair.
• Geneva - one flight operated by Air France during the summer.
• Dublin - 4 flights per week with Ryanair - flying time 2 hr.
• London Stansted - daily flights with Ryanair - flying time 1hr 45min.
• Lyon - daily flights with Air France - flying time 1hr 20min.
• Marseille - with Air France.
• Nice - daily flights with Air France - flying time 1 hr.
• Paris Orly - 4 to 5 flights a day with Air France - flying time 1hr 20min
• Paris Charles de Gaulle - 3 flights a day with Air France and easyJet - flying time 1hr 20min.

You can get to the city from the airport by bus or taxi. A single bus fare is approximately €1.5.

You can pre-book a Biarritz Airport Transfer with Sea-Lifts - book online or call the English/French/Italian speaking service. Or book a door-to-door transfer with Biarritz Airport Transfers .

Get around [ edit ]

On foot [ edit ].

Biarritz is very pedestrianised, and it is easy to get around the town centre, to the beaches, and to the best spots for surfing or shopping. This means whatever your holiday needs is a short and pleasant walking distance away. However, it can be quite hilly in places.

There is an excellent bus network called Chronoplus ( [2] for timetables and routes), serving Biarritz as well as the neighbouring Anglet and Bayonne (which form a conurbation called 'BAB'). Bus journeys are a flat €1 payable in cash on the bus. This ticket is valid for one hour to allow passengers inter-change between bus services and routes.

Cheaper multiple journey tickets are also available from the bus kiosks at Biarritz Mairie (beside the tourist office) and at Bayonne Mairie, but cannot be bought on the bus. These include a 10-journey ticket (€8); a seven-day travel pass (€11); and a 24-hour pass (€2). These tickets are also sold at 39 tobacco shops/cafes in the Biarritz-Anglet-Bayonne (BAB) area.

Bus Line C links the airport with the Biarritz train station at La Negresse and the main Bayonne train station. The slightly less frequent No 8 bus also serves the Airport every 20–30 minutes.

See [ edit ]

Biarritz is famous for its coast and the rocks in the sea. There is the church of Sainte Eugenie, a Russian Orthodox church, and the Museum of the Sea (entrance about €6) with a lot of interesting animals like different kinds of fish, anemones, sharks, and seals in aquariums. Other topics include fishing in the last centuries, birds, catching whales. Then there is a Museum of Asian Art and a lighthouse (entrance €2).

Do [ edit ]

The beaches are excellent and this is a major surf resort. The main beach, Grand Plage, gets very crowded, but there is also a long surfers' beach on the Boulevard du Prince de Galles, called Cote de Basque, that has almost no sand at high tide, but is superb at low tide. The surf beaches at Anglet are easily accessible by bus, and surfboards that aren't too big are allowed on the local buses in the summer at least. There is a small beach by the Esplanade du Porte Vieux that is good for swimming when the surfer's beach is closed.

There are several thalasso-therapy centers, with sea water, seaweed and related treatments.

• Thermes Marins , Rue de Madrid. Offer a reasonable half-day pass for €17, including use of warm sea water pools, sauna, and steam room. The sauna is rather worn, but serviceable.
• Chiberta , 104 Blvd des Plages , ☏ +33 5 59525110 .  
• Biarritz Olympique plays rugby union (15 a side) in the French second level, Rugby Pro D2. They had a long history in the top tier of the French system, Top 14, but haven't been at that level since 2014. BO play home games at the Parc des Sports Aguiléra in town; during their stint in Top 14, they took an occasional home match across the Spanish border to Estadio Anoeta in Donostia-San Sebastián . Ticket information is available here (French only).

There is a large aquarium and a tourist land-train

• Nature Sport Activities , Rue de la Marne. Rent bike and surfboards. Surfschool, pelote basqua, rafting, sea kayaking, wave ski, and Takamaka [dead link] .

Buy [ edit ]

• Central Market , rue des Halles. Has a wide range of fresh food, and is well worth a visit even if you don't want to buy anything. It is only open from 07:30 to 13:30.
• Galleries Lafayette , Place G Clemenceau. Has a large and decently priced supermarket in the basement.

Eat [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ], city centre [ edit ].

• 43.481782 -1.557378 1 Santosha Biarritz , 12 Av. de Verdun . Pan Asian ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 43.480792 -1.558736 2 Pitaya Thaï Street Food , 9 Av. du Maréchal Foch . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 43.47814 -1.556845 3 Los Tacos Chingones , 10 Av. de la Gare . ( updated Feb 2023 )

Marinella Beach [ edit ]

• 43.496407 -1.538665 4 Bombom , 1 Pl. de la Chapelle . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 43.501137 -1.539839 5 L'Euphrate , 38 Av. des Dauphins . ( updated Feb 2023 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 43.483486 -1.558527 6 Pizzeria des Arceaux , 20-24 avenue Édouard-VII , ☏ +33 5 59 24 11 47 . The pizzas are very good, as is the fish and the large desserts. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 43.473503 -1.565785 7 Auberge 22 , 22 Rue Harispe . French cuisine ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 43.480951 -1.558845 8 L'Entre Deux , 5 Av. du Maréchal Foch . French cuisine ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 43.484066 -1.55676 9 La Table Basque , 4 av de Marne , ☏ +33 5 59 22 23 52 . Has a very good and Basque-influenced carte and proper 3-course menus. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. ( updated Nov 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 43.483141 -1.565273 10 Chez Albert , 51, bis All. Port des Pêcheurs . ( updated Feb 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

There are several places to go clubbing in Biarritz. One example is a great club called Le Copa located in the centre of the town. At the same place you can find many bars, as a pub crawl night is a must if you visit Biarritz. Another good club is the one under the Casino, and the best thing of all is that it is for free and does not close at two or three o'clock like the bars do.

Sleep [ edit ]

Hostels [ edit ].

• Surf Hostel Biarritz , ☏ +33 5 59 22 55 70 . Ave de Migron. Surfer accommodation with bed + breakfast + bike + board all incl. €33.  
• Hostel Biarritz ( Hostelling International ), 8 Rue Chiquito de Cambo , ☏ +33 5-5941-7600 . A bit out of the way.  

Hotels [ edit ]

• [formerly dead link] Hôtel Atalaye , 6 rue des Goélands , ☏ +33 5 59 24 06 76 . All en-suite hotel, the best rooms (including a few tiny singles) have small balconies and face the place and sea. Singles €35-50, Doubles €42-70, Triples €55-84.  
• Hôtel Gardénia , av Carnot, 05 , ☏ +33 5 59 24 10 46 . Two-star, old-fashioned and quiet hotel with a mix of rooms, not all with their own bathrooms. Singles €33-57, Twins €49-59, Triples €51-63.  
• Hôtel Maïtagaria , av Carnot, 05 , ☏ +33 5 59 24 26 65 . Mostly smart rooms in a quiet location, with back garden. Doubles €47-64, Triples €74-80.  
• Hôtel du Palais , 1 Avenue de l'Impératrice, 64200 Biarritz , ☏ +33 5 59 41 64 00 . A wife Eugénie, converted into a hotel in 1883. doubles start at €320 . ( updated Jan 2016 )
• Hostellerie Victoria , 12 av de la Reine Victoria, 05.59.24.08.21. More expensive hotel in a Neo-Gothic mansion, huge rooms equipped with comfortable beds and iron bathtubs.

Connect [ edit ]

As of March 2024, Biarritz, Bayonne and their approach highways have 5G from all French carriers.

Go next [ edit ]

Bayonne , the Pyrenees , and Spanish border towns such as San Sebastian and Hondarribia are all easily accessible from Biarritz. Saint Jean de Luz is a nice harbour town worth seeing.

• Has custom banner
• Has mapframe
• Has map markers
• Airport listing
• See listing with no coordinates
• Articles with dead external links
• Sleep listing with no coordinates
• Articles with formerly dead external links
• Has routebox
• Usable cities
• Usable articles
• City articles
• Pyrénées-Atlantiques
• All destination articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Dreamer at Heart |

13 Incredible Things To Do In Biarritz France

Last Updated: December 10, 2023 By Alison Browne 1 Comment

Biarritz France. The name just rolls off the tongue with pizazz. It conjures up visions of an exotic life with a French twist.

Its name does not lead you astray. Biarritz is sublime. Sandy beaches stretch out lazily, the Pyrénées soar in the not-too-far distance, surfers wait patiently for the big waves, the historic lighthouse beckons with its evening beam, and coloured beach parasols invite you to sink into the golden sand.

Is that exotic enough? Add in the distinctive Basque culture and Biarritz’s proximity to Spain and you have plenty of exploring to keep you satisfied for days on end.

Where is Biarritz France? Biarritz is situated in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France on the Basque Coast . It has been a popular beach destination since Napoleon III and the Empress Eugénie started coming in 1854. Their trip would have taken over 20 hours by train, which makes the 4-hour trip from Paris seem like a breeze.

I hope this Biarritz travel guide will have you falling for charming Biarritz France as I did!

13 Top Things To Do In Biarritz France

1. be on the lookout for the basque culture.

Biarritz, known as the California of France, is a coastal paradise and that in itself makes it a desirable destination. But, its appeal deepens with the palpable and distinctive Basque culture . Taste the Basque cakes with their smooth, creamy filling, listen for the Euskara language and watch for the Basque cross . Even the names of stores such as the espadrille store, Chistera, have a Basque connection. Chistera is the wicker basket used to scoop the ball in the popular local sport pelota!

It was a Sunday morning at Les Halles de Biarritz, the market hall, where a group of Basque men had gathered and were singing at the top of their voices (acapella) that stopped my sister and me in our tracks.

The sheer vocal passion of the Euskara language floating through the market had us pulling up a stool at the corner café/bar, L’Ameuse-Geule. It was noon, the perfect time for a mini-draft beer (une pression) and one-euro tapas, all the time serenaded by the nearby voices.

Where To Stay In Biarritz France

My sister and I stayed at this delightful hotel in Biarritz. The location was excellent as was everything else about the hotel.

Here is a list of other hotels in Biarritz .

How about booking this apartment close to the Biarritz beach with a balcony and rooftop terrace? This elegant apartment has a view of the lighthouse and this Basque townhouse sleeps up to 6 – perfect for a family!

2. What To Do In Biarritz: Sip An Apéro At The Beach

One of the very first things to do in Biarritz is head to the beach . We arrived in the early evening and found a great place for sunset. We grabbed a table by the ocean at Carlos – Waves and Sunset and sank into the French Basque Country lifestyle. It was the perfect way to start a visit to Biarritz.

Once you’ve seen one glorious sunset, you’ll be heading each evening to the seashore for another.

3. Peruse The Market, Les Halles de Biarritz

One of the best things to do in Biarritz France is to explore the market, Les Halles de Biarritz. What I loved about the market hall in Biarritz France were the fabulous outdoor stalls where delicious jams, casual clothing, woven bags from Madagascar and hand-sewn change purses made the browsing beyond tempting. Different vendors are there on different days, keeping it lively and interesting.

Inside the covered market which is open from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily (longer hours in the summer) is the best place to pick up local produce and delicacies for a beach picnic. Basque cakes, fresh vegetables, local chicken, olives, and local sheep cheese such as Ossau-Iraty will fill your basket in no time. I discovered Ossau-Iraty on my cheese adventures in Paris and it ranks as one of my favourite French cheeses . Little did I know, I’d be eating Ossau-Iraty right in Biarritz!

4. Hang Out At La Grande Plage (The Big Beach)

One of the essential things to do in Biarritz is relax at La Grande Plage. It’s perfect. Charming striped umbrellas. A sandy expanse . Waves rolling in. A few surfers. Lots of swimmers.

Surrounded by restaurants and cafés and centrally located in the heart of Biarritz , la Grande Plage is the perfect spot to chill.

Do whatever it is that you love to do at the beach. Read. Chat. Walk. Sip a kir. It’s holiday time.

Things To Do In Biarritz

Book a Tour in Biarritz : Book a private guided walking tour of Biarritz or a Biarritz, Bayonne and Basque Country driving tour. I would love to have gone to Saint Jean de Luz. Take the bus or your car from Biarritz and enjoy this walking tour of Saint Jean de Luz .

5. Things To Do In Biarritz: Admire The Lighthouse

One of the best things to do in Biarritz is visit the historic white lighthouse, Le Phare de Biarritz . Perched on a rocky outcrop called Pointe Saint-Martin, the Biarritz Lighthouse stands proudly, 73 metres above sea level. Built in 1834, the Biarritz Lighthouse offers tremendous views over the Atlantic Ocean, the Pyrénées, and the picturesque Basque coastline.

Sit in the park by the Biarritz Lighthouse amidst pink hydrangeas, have a refreshment at the café and lean on the railing to soak up the vista. Feeling energetic? Climb the 248 steps to the top of the lighthouse for magnificent views (5€). Find the opening hours here .

Pro Tip: Washrooms are available by the Biarritz Lighthouse.

6. Visit The Rocher de la Vierge In Biarritz

Visiting the Rock of the Virgin Mary was one of my favourite things to do in Biarritz. Go in the evening. Walk across the metal bridge (originally a wooden bridge) to the grand rock with the statue of the Virgin Mary perched atop. The statue of the Virgin Mary was originally placed on the rock in 1865 as a tribute to fishermen, seeking the protection of the Virgin for those venturing out to sea.

The metal bridge, known as the Eiffel Bridge , was designed by Gustave Eiffel. I love finding his other architectural marvels around France!

Crashing waves and breathtaking views of the Pyrénées, the Biarritz coastline and the Spanish coast in the distance will keep you lingering for a while at the Rock of the Virgin Mary. Wait for the sparkling evening lights of Biarritz to glimmer and the enchanting beam of the Biarritz Lighthouse to circle. The entire experience leaves a lasting impression.

7. Gawk At The Hotel de Palais

When you are wondering what to do in Biarritz, you really can’t miss The Hôtel du Palais , often referred to simply as the Hotel de Palais. This building stands out, to say the least! It is a historic and luxurious hotel with a prestigious position overlooking the Bay of Biscay.

Originally constructed in 1855 by order of Napoleon III for his wife, Empress Eugénie , the hotel was intended as a summer residence for the couple. The proximity to Spain was favourable for Empress Eugénie who was Spanish.

The Hôtel du Palais has undergone several transformations over the years, including being converted into a luxury hotel in the late 19th century. It has welcomed numerous illustrious guests such as Coco Chanel throughout its history.

Pro Biarritz Tip : If you’re not staying in the hotel, you can make a reservation and go for a drink.

8. Things To Do In Biarritz: Enter The Chapelle Impériale

Discovering the Imperial Chapel was one of my favourite things to do in Biarritz. This little tucked-away chapel is off the beaten path in Biarritz. The Chapelle Impériale in Biarritz was commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III and built for his wife, Empress Eugénie. This historic chapel stands as a testament to the couple’s love for Biarritz, which they helped transform from a simple fishing village into a fashionable seaside resort during the mid-19th century.

The Chapelle Impériale was built in 1865 and is still in much of its original state. Situated in a tranquil garden, the Imperial Chapel exudes a feminine aura. Drink in the attention to detail. Glass from Murano (Venice), the intertwined initials N and E and an interior with painted pineapples, birds and golden bumblebees. The painted initials in the interior include the L of their only son, Louis.

During the summer, it’s open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m . The only way to enter is with a guide who is waiting for you at the door.

9. Step Into The Sainte-Eugénie Church

And yet another building commissioned by Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie! The Sainte-Eugénie Church was constructed as part of the broader transformation of Biarritz into a fashionable seaside resort under the influence of the imperial couple. Centrally located, Sainte-Eugénie Church, built in the neo-Gothic architectural style , is dedicated to Saint Eugenia. It looks over Port Vieux (the old port).

10. Watch The Surfers At Côte Des Basques

La Plage de la Côte des Basques in Biarritz is where surfing first appeared in Europe in 1957. Plage de la Côte des Basques is a popular destination for surfers of all levels , attracting both beginners and experienced surfers. It’s a great place to hang out and watch surfers and surf students dash out into the waves to catch whatever surf is on offer.

Wander down the long staircase to reach the beach and just watch the fun. Or partake.

There are surf rental shops and surf schools right on the promenade.

Take a lesson with Hastea Surf School , Lagoondy and La Vague Basque

Besides the lively surfing atmosphere, Plage de la Côte des Basques is a stunning location to hang out. Biarritz outdoes itself with scenic beauty.

11. Things To Do In Biarritz: Nibble On Basque Tapas – Pintxos

Do you have one Euro handy? If so, one-euro tapas are one of the most fun and delicious things to do in Biarritz! The proximity to the Spanish border lends a decidedly Spanish influence to the gastronomy in Biarritz. Right by the covered market, stop by Comptoir de Foie Gras . Perch on a stool and dive into a local beer and a planche – smoked ham, foie gras, local cheese and baguette.

Stroll to the other side of the market and find Bar Jean . It’s been around since the 1930s and is a mandatory stop for any visitor to Biarritz. Dive into a platter of tapas and local seafood such as calamari, mussels and oysters.

And don’t forget to try some tapas at L’ Ameuse-Guele , right at Les Halles de Biarritz. Could things to do in Biarritz be any more fun and tasty?

Read More | You’re right by the ocean. Why not dive into a steaming pot of mussels like the Fren ch or savour a cool platter of oysters …

12. Eat Fish In Port des Pêcheurs

Port des Pêcheurs is a picturesque reminder of Biarritz’s fishing heritage. With the influence of the imperial couple, Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, the small fishing village of Biarritz was transformed. The aristocracy started flocking to Biarritz France. Even today there remains a chic elegance about Biarritz.

At the Port des Pêcheurs (Fishermen’s Port), the row of white cottages , where the fishermen used to live, are now mostly restaurants and cafés. Come in the evening, dine, and take in a stunning Biarritz sunset.

13. Buy Espadrilles In Biarritz France

What to do in Biarritz? Go shopping! I bet you’ll leave with a pair of new espadrilles ! Maybe two!

I love espadrilles. They just shout out SUMMER time. If you’re a shoe lover, it’s just not possible to leave Biarritz without a colourful pair of these iconic shoes tucked in your suitcase.

Wander into Art of Soule on rue Gambetta and be wowed by the fabulous patterns, colours and selection. Espadrilles Chistera on rue Mazagran is another tempting spot. The elegant white awning and window displays invite you to peruse and try on a variety of espadrilles.

If you’re in the area, on August 15th why not celebrate the annual “ Fête de l’Espadrille ” in nearby Mauléon?

Other Things To Do In Biarritz

• Visit the Biarritz Aquarium
• Play golf at one of the golf courses that has a view over the sea
• Stop by the Casino Barrière, an Art Deco building
• plan day trips to nearby locations such as Saint-Jean-de-Luz or Bayonne

How To Get To Biarritz France:

By Train From Paris:

Trains leave from Montparnasse Station in Paris and are either direct (4 hours and 10 minutes) or have one change in Bordeaux. Book the direct ticket to Biarritz France. Book your train tickets here.

Arrival in Biarritz France:

Straight across from the train station is a bus stop. Buy a ticket in the machine. We took bus #5 which dropped us off a 5-minute walk to our hotel.

Wrong Train – Right Direction:

Don’t do what my sister and I did…

On our trip to Biarritz, we had a train change in Bordeaux. Simple right?

We cruised into the station at Bordeaux and headed to the track for our next train. No one was there to check our tickets, the train was headed to Biarritz and was full. I should have known as the car number was not visible on the carriage. But there was a panic as the whistle was being blown. People were madly looking for a place to stand. To stand…We crammed into a car, or the in-betweenness of two cars and came face to face with a host of others.

As we lumbered off down the track, I saw the electronic sign saying that we were riding a TER (regional train) to Biarritz. We had reservations on a TGV. We were on the wrong train.

We shuffled around, leaned against the doorway and decided to ride it out or stand for 2 hours. In the end, we arrived in Biarritz, 15 minutes earlier than planned.

Our return trip was a direct train: Biarritz to Paris (4 hours, 10 minutes) with no mix-ups. Except that the man in front of me was travelling with three huge dogs and one lay right where my feet were supposed to go…

By Car From Bordeaux:

Southwestern France makes for a great road trip! One option would be to rent your car in Bordeaux and then make your way towards the Basque region and Biarritz. Another option would be to take the train to Biarritz and rent a car to explore the area. Click here to rent your car .

I hope you love these things to do in Biarritz France as much as we did. Three days barely scraped the surface. I know I’ll be returning to the Basque region of France soon.

More Travel Info…

Travelling in france.

What else have I written about France?  Find the full list right here.

If you are exploring a particular region of France, here are 19 fabulous things to do in Normandy , beautiful towns to visit in le Dordogne and a 7-day itinerary through Provence.

Love a beach holiday? Here are 16 best beaches in France . Where will you go next?

Travelling To Paris?

I have some great tips on Paris, right here . A few of my most popular articles on Paris include Paris streets , the hip area of Canal Saint-Martin , and the always popular and uber-charming le Marais . Don’t miss where to find the best croissant in Paris !

Like This Post? Pin It!

You might also like...

Alison Browne

Creator and Founder of Dreamer at Heart Alison, a Francophile from a young age, is following a long-held dream and has been living in Paris since 2020. Her passion for uncovering Paris and discovering the regions of France has resulted in an expertise about France that she loves to share in her articles. Also a solo traveller, Alison shares her experiences of solo travel to many corners of the world. Alison helps over 65000 readers a month plan their trips.

Reader Interactions

August 1, 2021 at 2:33 pm

Hi Alison, You capture Biarritz beautifully! A fabulous place to visit and I’d love to go back! We were just getting started…Pam

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Have Paris travel questions? France? Solo travel?

Contact me at

[email protected]

Dreamer at Heart is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.ca and affiliated sites. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates.

Ethno Travels – Le Slow Travel pour Tous !

Voyage Ethnographique Pays Basque Asie

Top 6 Things to Do in Biarritz France + Travel Guide

Welcome to biarritz travel guide.

You will make the most of this guide on Biarritz if you want to know the top things to do in Biarritz, the best tips to discover this beautiful coastal town of the Basque Country and/or want to discover its true soul.

This guide is designed to describe what makes it an attractive city, its fascinating history, places to visit, the best hotels and restaurants, when and how to get there, and so on.

Please come back regularly for new information and updates.

Combine this information with your own experience and you will enjoy the city and the Basque Country like a local.

Where is Biarritz France located?

Biarritz France is a coastal resort located in the Basque Country’s urban community, in the department of the Pyrénées Atlantiques in the New Aquitaine region, in the southwest of France. Less than 25 kilometres from Spain along the Basque coast, it includes 4 kilometres of beaches and coves opening onto the Atlantic Ocean and the Bay of Biscay.

The Biarritz location, mild climate, beautiful coastline, surfing, golf, architecture, the persistence of the Basque Country’s strong cultural identity, rugby, thalassotherapy and luxury industry make it a popular seaside destination for tourists and celebrities alike . In August 2019, the city even served as a setting for the G7.

Best things to do in Biarritz.

The city of Biarritz offers many opportunities for entertainment, visits and swimming, as does the entire Basque-Landes coast, easily accessible by car and public transport. The most famous villages in the hinterland, such as Espelette or Saint Jean Pied de Port, and the Pyrenean mountains are only a few kilometres from pretty picturesque roads.

The best attractions in Biarritz are the Grande Plage and Côte des Basques, the Rocher de la Vierge, the lighthouse and the aquarium of Biarritz, all five located in the centre. There are many other popular attractions in Biarritz outside of these, such as the Fishermen’s Port, the Imperial Chapel or the City of the Ocean.

The presence of these main attractions in the centre makes it the ideal base to visit Biarritz and its surroundings . There are the best hotels, a wide range of restaurants, bars and places to relax.

Below, I tell you about the history of Biarritz, before sharing everything you need to know to enjoy the best in Biarritz: places to see, where to stay, when to come, etc.

Walking along the Biarritz beach is one of our favourite activities, thanks to the diversity of the landscape , the ever-changing colours , the sunsets over the Pyrenees and the sensational panoramic bars and restaurants.

Inhabited since prehistoric times , the town was for a long time a village divided in two: the peasants on the side of the Basta Rock (the footbridge rock opposite the church of Saint Eugénie), the sailors near the port, on the Atalaye and up to the rock of the Virgin. Hence its name Miarritze, the two rocks .

Like many cities in the Basque Country, for a long time people lived there on whaling , which they skin in the creek of Port-Vieux. The disappearance of cetaceans caused the city to decline, until at the end of the 18th century doctors declared the sea baths of the “queen of beaches” as therapeutic . The mentally ill are then thrown into the icy waves, in the hope that the shock will bring them to their senses!

Soon after, tourism replaced medication, attracting aristocrats and common people, French and foreign. One welcomes Napoleon and Josephine, Victor Hugo and Juliette Drouet, Flaubert, Stendhal… and the Montijo family.

In 1854 , one of the daughters of this family returned with her husband, Louis Napoléon Bonaparte. It was love at first sight and the couple decided to build their summer residence, Villa Eugénie, now Hotel du Palais and Palace Biarrot . All the court, kings, queens and princes of other countries decided to follow his example and built their own private mansion around the Avenue de l’Impératrice.

In 1870 , the city had nearly 10,000 inhabitants and received 50,000 tourists . During the Belle Epoque and the Roaring Twenties, it became “ the beach of kings “, welcoming among others the greatest stars of cinema, fashion, finance, literature and the arts, the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Windsor . Hotels are getting bigger and more luxurious.

With the stock market crash of 1929 and the great depression that followed, the celebration was over. In the 1950s , the last aristocrats left the city in the face of the advent of mass tourism .

Today, the city has about 25,000 inhabitants, a high proportion of whom are seniors .

You can read more about its story here

Today, if you visit the city, you will find a city centre concentrated around the previous villa Eugénie, beautiful old private mansions and the Grande Plage, and several beaches and coves to the north and south, stretching from the lighthouse to the Côte des Basques . There is a wide choice of accommodations for all budgets such as the fabulous Hotel du Palais or Windsor Grande Plage and plenty of places to relax, have fun and enjoy the beach.

Chapter 1: What to do in Biarritz?

The city has many places to visit, from beaches to churches, a superb Asian museum and more. Discover some of them below.

Rocher de la Vierge

The lighthouse

Côte des Basques Beach

Biarritz main beach

Biarritz Port

Chapter 2: where to stay in biarritz.

There is a wide choice of hotels, from luxury hotels with private beaches, thalassotherapy or spa to economy hotels and youth hostels. Read my guides below.

Best luxury hotels

Chapter 3: how to go to/from biarritz.

You will find here some articles about Biarritz airport and Biarritz train station.

See How I Can Help You Organize Your Tour

Help with the preparation of the tour

Connection with my local contacts

Guiding your group in French or English

Chapter 4: How to go from Biarritz to…

In this chapter, I compare the modes of transport for each destination. You will know if you should choose between the plane, train or bus.

Chapter 5: Places to visit near Biarritz.

The travel guides below are for cities near Biarritz.

SAINT JEAN DE LUZ

Chapter 6: Biarritz or… ?

Depending on your needs, Biarritz can be your homebase for visiting the Basque Country. But you should consider these other cities.

BIARRITZ OR SAINT JEAN DE LUZ?

Chapter 7: best time to visit biarritz..

If I were you, I would avoid the French holidays, especially July and August, when the beaches are crowded.

Biarritz can be visited all year round but the best way to enjoy both a beautiful weather and a quiet atmosphere is in May-June or in September-October.

Christmas time is also one of my favourite time as Biarritz organize a magnificent Sound and Light Show called “Biarritz en lumière”. Each year, the program can be found here .

Keep in mind that Biarritz is the town in France where it rains the most, even more than Brittany that is reputated for its rain. See how our Basque Country is beautifully green and how many famous golf courses we have!

Do I need a visa?

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa. Check below. It’s free, fast and easy!

Do I need to read the whole guide?

If you are visiting Biarritz soon and want to know the top things to do in Biarritz and around, I recommend that you read this guide from beginning to end. You will find all the practical information you need to organize your trip, presented in a concise and simple way.

Otherwise, you can choose the chapters or articles corresponding to your current need.

You can find more information on other destinations in the Basque Country across this site

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Please enter an answer in digits: 20 − 17 =

• Biarritz Congress

• Holiday rentals
• Tourist residences
• Guest Houses
• Collective accomodation

• Art gallery
• Cafés, bars, tea rooms
• Cinéma le Royal in Biarritz
• Media library
• Night clubs in Biarritz
• Shopping in Biarritz

• Wellness & thalasso
• Sites and Museums
• All sports and nature in Biarritz
• Walks in Biarritz and around
• Discover the pays basque

• Catering for all tastes
• Gastronomic restaurants in Biarritz
• Seaview restaurants in Biarritz
• Snacks in Biarritz
• Tapas bar in Biarritz
• Traditional restaurants in biarritz

book - buy online

// Biarritz Tourist Information

Office de tourisme et des congrès  de Biarritz Square d'Ixelles - 64200 Biarritz 

Since July 18, 2016, the service of the Tourist Office of Biarritz is certified NF Service .

This certification is issued by AFNOR Certification , an independent certifying body, after a complete review of the proposed service and our organization. The NF Service certification provides proof that our service meets the requirements set in a strict specification. The quality of our service is checked every year. NF Service helps to distinguish serious, reliable and quality services :  www.marque-nf.com

Quality Politics and commitments of Biarritz Tourisme  ( french)

Commitments  of Biarritz Tourisme classified in category I  ( french)

Sustainable Tourism Policy  ( french)

Your opinion interests us:

Concerned about the continuous improvement of the services we offer you and in order to help us always better meet your expectations, please take a few moments to complete this questionnaire.

Claim Management: possibility of using mediation :

“ After entering in contact with the service ( after sale or after travel service ) and not obtaining a satisfying response or any response at all in a delay of 60 days the client can solicitate the tourism and travel mediator at this address : MTV Médiation Tourisme Voyage BP 80 303 75 823 Paris Cedex 17 France

• Tourist Information
• Ticket Office
• Pratical Information

// Tourist Information

Tél : +33 5 59 22 37 10 / [email protected]

Open 1st / 11th novembre : 9.30 am  to 1.30 pm

The tourist Office is closed :  December 25 th and January 1 st .

// Ticket Office

 Tél : + 33 5 59 22 44 66  / [email protected]

Closed sundays and public holidays

Book your tickets for shows, music concerts, theater online

// Pratical Information

Emergency Numbers

•    EMS - Tél. : 15 •    Fire Service- Tél. : 18 •    Private Clinic : Polyclinique d’Aguilera  - 21, rue de l’Estagnas - Tél. : + 33 825 135 064 •    Hospital - Centre Hospitalier Côte Basque - Route Cambo - 13, av. Interne Jacques Loëb  - 64100 Bayonne - Tél. : + 33 5 59 44 35 35 •    Clinical urgencies  - Tél. : + 33 825 134 600 •    Doctor on call : + 33 5 59 24 01 01 •    SOS Médecin Côte Basque  - Tél. : + 33 5 59 03 30 00 •    Pharmacy, Dentist and Vet on call :  call police : + 33 5 59 01 22 22 •    Poison Control Center : Tél. : + 33 5 56 96 40 80 •    Police - Tél. : 17 •    Police  - Rue Louis Barthou  - Tél. : + 33 5 59 01 22 22 •    Local Police and Lost Properties - Square d'Ixelles  - Tél. : + 33 5 59 47 10 57

Local Administrations 

•     Town Hall  : Avenue Edouard VII  Tél.: + 33 5 59 41 59 41- open from monday to friday - de 8h30 à 12h30 et de 13h30 à 17h (journée continue pour l'état civil le lundi). Website •     Post Office  : Main Office - 17, rue de la Poste - Tél.: + 33 5 59 22 41 12 Biarritz Saint-Charles - 1, rue du Lycée - Tél.: + 33 5 59 22 74 30 Biarritz Saint-Martin - 40, avenue Kennedy - Tél.: + 33 5 59 41 75 00 Biarritz La Négresse - 8, rue des Mouettes - Tél.: + 33 5 59 23 16 52  

•    Currency exchange

Change Office - 27, place Clémenceau - Tél.: + 33 5 59 22 27 27 ( actuellement fermé) Change Plus - 9, rue Mazagran -Tél. : + 33 5 59 248 247 - du lundi au vendredi de 9h à 18h (sans interruption) / le samedi de 9h à 12h All banks provide currency exchange

•    Baby-sitting

Espaces Jeunes - 31 bis rue Pétricot - Tél. 1 : + 33 5 59 41 01 67 ( from monday to friday) /  Tél. 2 : +33 5 59 22 37 10  (Tourism Office - week-end)  -

•    Wifi, Access internet

Town Hall - only consultation : + 33 5 59 41 59 41 Atabal – Centre de Musiques Actuelles – 37 allée du Moura  - Tél. : + 33 5 59 22 12 79 Fax : + 33 5 59 22 10 53 Biarritz Informatique - 5 Avenue de Verdun - Tél : +33 5 59 43 91 97

FREE WIFI : AREA Grande Plage / Côte des Basques / Mairie / Javalquinto (Tourisme Office)  

•    Youth Information Office

Espace Jeunes – 31 bis rue Pétricot - Tél.: + 33 5 59 41 01 67 Informations from monday to friday  9 am  to 12 am /  2 pm to 5 pm.  [email protected]  

•     Libraries

Médiathèque : 2, Rue Ambroise Paré - Tél.: + 33 5 59 22 28 86 – Fax : + 33 5 59 24 55 94 -  Web site

Sound Library (for visually impared) - Villa Sion - 79 bis, rue d’Espagne - Tél.: + 33 5 59 43 76 84

•    Laundry Compagnie des Lavoirs  - 4 Rue Borde d'André   - Tél. : + 33 5 59 41 19 64

La Goutte d'Eau  - 94, avenue de Verdun  - Tél. : + 33 5 59 24 5723 /  11, avenue de la Marne- Tél. : + 33 6 09 11 8283 / Ouvert 7j / 7 de 7h à 21h.- 4, rue Jaulerry - Tél.: 06 09 11 82 83  - Open 7j/7

Laverie Saint-Charles  - 1, rue de la Bergerie -Tél.: + 33 5 59 24 49 49 - Open 7 /7  

  Biarritz clean city     Tél. : + 33 800 111 899 /    Even on holidays remember to waste sorting 

Paroisse Notre Dame du Rocher - 4 Rue Saint Martin - Tél. : + 33 5 59 23 08 36 Relais Saint-Martin (Rue Saint Martin) et Chapelle du Braou (avenue du Braou) - Tél.: + 33 5 59 23 05 19 Relais Saint-Charles (Avenue de la Reine Victoria) -Tél.: + 33 5 59 24 00 46 Relais Saint-Joseph (Rue Victor Hugo) et Sainte Eugénie (Place Sainte Eugénie) - Tél. : + 33 5 59 24 07 43 Relais Sainte-Thérèse - Rue Larreguy- Tél.: + 33 5 59 23 14 28

​ Consult the schedules of church events  Eglise Orthodoxe Russe - 8 Avenue de l'Impératrice- Tél.: + 33 5 59 24 16 74 - Website Synagogue - 9 Rue Pellot - Tél.: + 33 5 59 55 03 95 - Website Eglise Evangélique - 2 Rue Paul Bert - Tél.: + 33 5 59 24 93 49 Eglise Réformée de France - 23 Rue Peyroloubilh - Tél.: + 33 5 59 25 40 22 - Website Eglise Protestante - 27 Avenue de Migron Bat E - Tél. : + 33 5 47 64 33 81 - Website Biarritz Anglican Church : Eglise Saint Joseph – 9 avenue Victor Hugo - Site Website

• Aujourd'hui

Search form

+ 33 (0) 5 59 22 37 10

Square d'Ixelles 64200 Biarritz

Open every day except December 25 th and January 1 st

• accommodation
• OUR COMMITMENTS
• Legal notice
• documentation
• book all over basque country