- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Villas
Why Visit Biarritz
Once a Basque whaling port, Biarritz was transformed by Empress Eugénie in the 1850s into an imperial resort. This legacy is seen in the Second Empire style of the Hôtel du Palais. A key part of any Biarritz tourist guide is the Russian Orthodox Church, built for aristocrats who followed Eugénie. This mix defines the city's unique architectural landscape.
Biarritz's coastline is a haven for surfers, especially at La Côte des Basques, Europe's surfing birthplace. Beyond the waves, the Sentier Littoral trail offers stunning coastal walks. At low tide, the Plage du Miramar reveals hidden rock pools, a natural aquarium often overlooked by visitors exploring the area.
Biarritz's cuisine is deeply rooted in Basque culture. Les Halles market is the heart of its food scene, offering fresh seafood and local Ossau-Iraty cheese. This is what is Biarritz famous for. For a true local taste, try Ttoro, a traditional fish stew, paired with a glass of crisp Irouléguy wine.
- BiarritzFrance
- BiarritzFrance
- BiarritzFrance
- BiarritzFrance
Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Octmild, fewer crowds
- Jul-Augwarm & busy
- Wintercool, occasional rain
- #ComfortableShoes
- #Sunscreen
- #LightJacket
- #BeachTowel
- #ReusableWaterBottle
- 3-5 days for highlights
- 6-7 days with beaches & day trips
- Euro (€)
- French
- English widely spoken
- #LaGrandePlage
- #RocherdelaVierge
- #BiarritzAquarium
- #PharedeBiarritz
- #VillaBelza
- #MuseedelaMer
- Surf lessons
- Stroll along the promenade
- Visit the local market
- Try Basque cake
- Watch the sunset at the beach
Recommended Hotels in Biarritz by Experience
Things to do in Biarritz
Discover
Exploring Biarritz reveals a stunning coastline with iconic sights. Visit the Phare de Biarritz for panoramic views, walk to the Rocher de la Vierge via a footbridge, and discover local history at the Musée Historique de Biarritz.
Experience
Surf the waves at Côte des Basques, a European surfing cradle. Sample local cheeses and charcuterie at Les Halles market, watch a game of Basque pelota, and enjoy summer festivals like the Biarritz en Été with outdoor concerts.
Rocher de la Vierge
Rock formation with a statue, reached by an Eiffel bridge.
Phare de Biarritz
19th-century lighthouse offering panoramic coastal views.
Côte des Basques
Iconic beach known as the birthplace of European surfing.
Les Halles de Biarritz
Bustling indoor market with local Basque delicacies.
Aquarium de Biarritz
Art Deco aquarium featuring local and tropical marine life.
Plage du Port Vieux
Sheltered cove beach, ideal for calm swimming and families.
Cité de l'Océan
Modern museum with interactive exhibits about the ocean.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
Reach Biarritz Pays Basque Airport (BIQ), then take Chronoplus bus line 3 for the 15-min trip from Biarritz airport to city center. A train to Biarritz via TGV from Paris arrives at Gare de Biarritz, connected by bus line 5 to the downtown area.
Getting Around
The city is highly walkable, but for longer distances, the Chronoplus bus network offers excellent public transport in Biarritz. Use the free Biarritz shuttle bus (Navette St-Charles) for a quick loop around the main sights. Buy single or day tickets.
Local Essentials
Driving in Biarritz is challenging with narrow streets and scarce parking. Consider car rental in Biarritz mainly for Basque Country day trips. For first-timers who plan a trip to Biarritz, relying on buses and walking in the city is most efficient.
Where to Stay in Biarritz
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore Biarritz's Basque flavors. Taste fresh chipirons à la plancha and end with a rich Gâteau Basque. Locals embrace the apéritif, a pre-dinner ritual of drinks and small bites, setting the stage for late, relaxed dinners.
Enjoy
The best restaurants in Biarritz include Chez Albert for bustling seafood feasts, book ahead. Grab a drink at Le Surfing for relaxed surf-chic vibes, sunset views. Eat at historic Miremont Patisserie, an elegant spot with an ocean panorama.
Chez Albert
Iconic portside restaurant for fresh seafood platters.
Bar Jean
Bustling spot for traditional Basque tapas and pintxos.
Le CAB
Modern street food burgers with a creative Basque twist.
LTB La Table Basque
Refined contemporary dining with a focus on local produce.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Biarritz cultural activities rooted in Basque traditions. Must-see events include the Fêtes de Bayonne, a massive street festival with red and white attire, and local Pelota tournaments, showcasing the fast-paced Basque sport.
Enjoy
Discover contemporary Biarritz attractions. Enjoy open-air concerts during Les Scènes Estivales, featuring genres like jazz and pop-rock, or experience the magic of Biarritz en Lumières' light shows.
Fêtes de Bayonne
One of France's largest festivals in July with parades.
Biarritz en Lumière
December-January festival of lights with building projections.
Les Casetas
June food festival with bodegas on the Côte des Basques.
Biarritz Piano Festival
Classical and contemporary piano concerts in late summer.
Le Temps d'Aimer la Danse
September dance festival with international companies.
FIPADOC
International documentary film festival held in January.
Biarritz Jai Alai Cesta Punta
See the world's best players in this fast-paced sport.
Elegant and Relaxed City
Biarritz is a fantastic place with elegant buildings and a really relaxed feel. It's so easy to walk everywhere, from the main beach to the old port. The food at Les Halles market is fresh and delicious. A great combination of city and seaside.
Incredible Surf Culture
The surf culture here is amazing. The waves at Côte des Basques are perfect for longboarding, and even just watching the surfers is a great way to spend the day. The whole town has this laid-back, ocean-focused energy. So refreshing.
Perfect for a Chic Escape
Biarritz is the ideal spot for a relaxing getaway. The thalassotherapy centers are top-notch and so rejuvenating. Strolling past the grand hotels and the casino makes you feel like you've stepped back in time. It's chic without being stuffy.
Stunning Coastal Views
The coastline is just beautiful. The walk out to the Rocher de la Vierge offers some amazing views of the ocean and the city. It's a great place to just wander and enjoy the fresh sea air. The rugged cliffs are beautiful, even in winter.
Lovely for a Family Walk
We found it to be a wonderful spot for a family trip. The Grande Plage is huge and great for kids to run around on, even when it's too cold to swim. It feels very safe and clean, and there are plenty of cafes nearby for a warm drink.
Enjoyable City Break
A really solid city break. The Basque influence is noticeable everywhere, especially in the food. Tried a Gâteau Basque from a local patisserie and it was delicious. The city has a distinct identity that makes it feel special and different.