Travel to and tour Biarritz - France

Discover Biarritz's Wonders

Biarritz

Current Weather

90.25 °F - Clouds Min/Max: 82.29 °F / 90.25 °FFeels: 95.54 °F Humidity: 51%5 Day Forecast

Trips

Hotels

Activities

Transfers

Description

In medieval times and up to the 17th century, Biarritz was an unassuming fishing and whaling community. Spotters would perch on the Atalye plateau above the village and use smoke signals to tell the villagers when whales were nearby. In the 18th century, Biarritz took its first steps towards becoming a tourist destination when the Comtesse de Montijo spent two lazy family holidays here. During the following century, the town's popularity grew as kings and queens of nations, as well as the stars of the silver screen kept visiting. Bette Davis, Frank Sinatra, and Rita Hayworth also came here to explore the Monte Carlo of the Atlantic. Today, the city is primarily a tourist destination, but it still manages to maintain its character and steer clear of tackiness. Biarritz is also a famous spot in the world of surfing. Surfers congregate at several beaches, from Biarritz all the way up to Hossegor. The Grand Plage is a classic beach, while the Miramar Beach–an extension of the Grande Plage–is the most fashionable one among those of the entire Atlantic coast.

Useful information

Population:

25,810

Currency:

1 Euro = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

European Emergency Number: 112
Fire brigade: 18
Medical: 15
Police: 17

Opening Hours:

Shops in Biarritz are usually open from 9am to 12:30pm. After a long lunch break, they stay open from 3pm to 7:30pm.

Do & See

Biarritz Aquarium

The Biarritz Aquarium, also known as le Musée de la Mer, is a great place to take your family for an impressive marine display. The diverse sea life is portrayed in an elegant and entertaining manner. Eagle rays measuring 90cm in width share their tank with about 30 sharks, barracudas, seals, and many more.

Biarritz Lighthouse

The lighthouse of Biarritz, le Phare de Biarritz, is another location where you can enjoy views of the city. Climb the small hill and, if you dare, take a look into the lighthouse on top. Also, take a look around and experience that great atmosphere.

Biarritz Sports Nature

Get some fresh air and enjoy the Basque landscape. The Takamaka team at Sports Nature equips you with everything you need for an exciting day out: bikes, surfboards, or kayaks can be borrowed, and you can even book a canyoning or sky-diving trip! The experienced team helps you with hiking maps and advice for day routes.

Casino Barrière

The Casino Barrière is located just at the waterfront, so it allows for some amazing views of the ocean. It does not only offer a good time for those who like classic table games like Blackjack, Roulette, and Poker, but you can also come here and relax in their heated sea-water pool with an ocean view.

City of the Ocean

The museum Cité de l’Océan et du Surf can answer questions like: where does the water in the oceans come from? Did Atlantis really exist? Would we be here if the ocean never existed? More than one of your senses will be engaged in the fun journey toward learning about the depths of the ocean. 3D animations and interactive devices will guide you along your way.

Hôtel du Palais

Eugénie, the wife of Napoleon III, created Hôtel du Palais at the end of the 19th century, and it still towers over the northern end of Grand Plage. A visit is well worth the time. In fact, it is essentially a must-see – the interiors and the atmosphere are reminiscent of a bygone era.

Plateau de l'Atalaye

The views of the Atlantic waves crashing over the cliffs below are dramatic. This is where the whale watchers would have been on the lookout, at a small building called cloche d'Alarme. A statue of the Virgin Mary, raised in 1865, perches on one of the cliffs that can be reached via a bridge. Nearby is also the quaint Place Sainte-Eugénie and the old fishing port Port des Pêcheurs. Take a casual walk around and do not forget to pass the park Esplanade de la Vierge or the local aquarium close by.

Port des Peuchers

This small fishing port is a quiet and romantic place to rest on a busy day. The area is perfect for hiking and gives you a great view in the evening. Several small restaurants and cafés will await you with local delights, and why not enjoy a glass of wine while watching the sunset?

Dining

Chez Albert

Locals love to frequent bistro Chez Albert in the old fishing port. This seafood restaurant serves portions of oysters, clams and crabs large enough to satisfy anyone. From the outdoor patio, you get a nice view of the harbour.

L'Impertinent

L'Impertinent will give you an excellent gastronomic experience in Biarritz. It offers healthy and creative tasting menus prepared from fresh, local ingredients. Only 10 months after opening its doors, the restaurant was awarded with a star in the Michelin guide.

Le Bar Jean

This bar is a Biarritz dining institution and has been around for over 30 years. Located in the Market Halls, this place is a must for lovers of tapas and Spanish delights. Why not try their wonderful paella with some sangria?

Le Pim'pi Bistrot

Le Pim'pi Bistrot offers a well-selected menu, and the traditional French dishes are homemade without exception. The variety of local wines is impressive, and the service staff is warm and friendly.

Les 3 Salsas

If you've already had enough of the lovely French food, then this Mexican restaurant is a nice change. You can get spicy food and delicious tacos, and you shouldn't miss out on the sangria either.

Les Rosiers

This elegant restaurant invites you to a traditional Basque dinner. The dishes are simple but creative and carefully prepared by the skilled chefs. The friendly staff will help you with the choice of the perfect wine to accompany your meal, which makes an evening at Les Rosier a memorable experience.

Cafés

Dodin Biarritz

When strolling around at the Great Beach of Biarritz, la maison Dodin is the perfect place for taking a short (or long) break. Take in great views of the ocean while enjoying a cappuccino and choosing sweets out of a huge range of homemade pastries, macarons, ice cream, and sorbets.

La Coupole

La Coupole is right in the heart of Biarritz, at the famous square Georges Clemenceau and close to both the Great Beach and the Casino. Surrounded by many stores and local shops, the modern and easygoing café offers fresh food with a lot of flavours that will serve every need: breakfast, lunch, coffee break and dinner.

Le Café du Commerce

Le Café du Commerce provides great service nearly all day long, starting with small and bigger breakfast menus in the morning and ending with a great variety of French and international dishes in the evening. The casual and relaxed atmosphere perfectly reflects the spirit of the surrounding Les Halles, which is very dynamic and just as interesting.

Maison Dezamy

Maison Dezamy is said to have the best ice cream in town, offering many different flavours made with fresh ingredients. However, the offer of homemade cakes and both breakfast and lunch menus is also well worth attention.

Miremont

Miremont offers breakfast, lunch, and snacks. They have a tearoom in a charming old-time setting located in a 17th-century building. The menu holds treasures of pastries, cakes, hot chocolate specialities, and other tasty treats.

Bars & Nightlife

Carré Coast

On the Biarritz main beach, you can find the luxury nightclub Carré Coast. If you are up for some dancing, relaxed conversations, and a cocktail on the beach, this is the right place for a weekend out. The club is open until the early morning hours and invites you for some serious partying.

Casino Barrière

Crampotte 30

Crampotte 30 has a simple recipe with a great effect: wine and tapas. Located in the fishing port of Biarritz, the bar opens early in the morning and closes late at night. A relaxed atmosphere, the ocean view, and the traditional Spanish delights make it worth a visit.

Duplex Nightclub

This Biarritz nightclub will get you out of your comfort zone and into the party life. A diverse crowd of 20-somethings to those over 30s frequents the place, especially on weekends. Watch out for DJ sets, special guests, and dance nights!

La Petite Plage Biarritz

Upscale French restaurant and cocktail bar with a terrace and breathtaking beach views.

Shopping

Galeries Lafayette Biarritz

One of the many high-class Lafayette Galleries is located in Biarritz. From Armani to Levis and Esprit, you can find various quality and well-known brands inside. Here, you get chic and elegant fashion accessories and shoes for women, men, and children.

Gazel Décorateurs

Whether you are planning to get some new furniture or just want to see the latest trends in interior decoration, Gazel is your place. The designer store offers high-quality home accessories, and it will tailor specific products to your needs.

IKKS

With its appealing store front and modern décor, IKKS is the perfect spot for a bit of window shopping. If you decide to step in, you will be surprised by the great selection of international brands and sportswear for men, women, and children.

La Cave de Mon Père

This delicatessen shop will warm the hearts of true gourmets. The charming store is located in the Quartier St-Charles and offers a careful selection of regional wines. Step in and take home some Basque-quality products.

Les Halles Food Market

Enjoy Basque flavours at this authentic market, as a great offer of fresh produce plus a friendly atmosphere make this place a favourite spot for locals. Stock up on sausage, cheese, Serrano ham, and other delicacies and treats at the popular indoor food market of Les Halles.

More and Less

Whether riding the perfect wave or preferring to remain on firm ground, More and Less provides you with the ideal sports gear. The experienced staff will help you choose your surf- or longboard and equip you with everything else you might need. Stay a bit longer for some advice on how to get started.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

Although the ocean in Biarritz never freezes, the best time to visit the city is during spring and summer: roughly from May until September, when Biarritz and tourism reach their peak, whereas from November until February rain and colder temperatures dominate, inviting visitors to drink hot chocolate in cosy cafés.

Passport & Visa

Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter France, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle-East, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.

Biarritz Airport (BIQ)

The airport in Biarritz is located only 5 kilometres southeast of the city and serves nearby Anglet and Bayonne as well. Several buses and a train get you into the city. You can get to Biarritz-La Négresse train station from the airport by using Chronoplus line C. The journey takes about 10 minutes. To travel to Biarritz, Anglet and Bayonne, you can use the Chronoplus urban transport network, the local bus service. Bus Line #14 runs between the airport and Biarritz centre. It operates Monday to Sunday. Taxis are available outside the terminal building.

Public Transport

Chronoplus is the name of the public transportation system that covers Biarritz and the Basque Country. It operates over 40 lines. From Biarritz, you can get to cities and towns, including Bayonne, Anglet, Saint-Pierre-d'Irube, Boucau, Tarnos, and Bidart by bus. There is also the Spanish bus company PESA, which runs twice a day to Bilbao and San Sebastian in Spain. This bus departs just outside Biarritz Tourist Office.

Taxi

In Biarritz, you can hail a taxi right on the street, hire the first taxi in taxi cab lines next to hotels and major attractions, or request a cap by phone. Karine Ilharragorry Taxi cab Services, Sud Taxi cab and Atlantic Taxi cabs Biarritz are all tried and tested companies. The main ridesharing app in Biarritz is called Yuse.

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, C / E

Pharmacy

Pharmacies have alternating opening hours during nights and weekends. Addresses are posted at the pharmacies, in the Sud-Ouest newspaper, and at the visitor information bureau. Pharmacie Kennedy is well reputed and has long opening hours.

Post

Stamps can be bought at tobacco shops and kiosks. Biarritz’s main post office is located in the city centre near Rue des Halles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Biarritz?

The best time to visit Biarritz is from late spring to early autumn, especially between May and September, when the weather is warm and ideal for beach activities.

What are the top attractions in Biarritz?

Top attractions in Biarritz include the Grande Plage, the Rocher de la Vierge, the Biarritz Aquarium, and the elegant Hôtel du Palais.

How many days should I spend in Biarritz?

A stay of 3 to 4 days is ideal to explore Biarritz, enjoy its beaches, visit key attractions, and take a day trip to nearby towns like Bayonne or Saint-Jean-de-Luz.

What local dishes should I try in Biarritz?

In Biarritz, try local Basque specialties like Piperade, Axoa, and seafood dishes. Don't miss out on tasting the Basque cake, a local dessert favorite.

How can I get around Biarritz?

Biarritz is compact and walkable, but you can also use local buses for longer distances. Renting a bike is a popular option for exploring the coastline.

What is the best way to reach Biarritz?

Biarritz is accessible by train from major French cities like Paris and Bordeaux. The Biarritz Airport also offers flights from various European destinations.

Are there any unique customs or etiquette I should be aware of in Biarritz?

Biarritz has a laid-back vibe, but it's polite to greet locals with a simple 'Bonjour.' Respecting local dining customs, such as not rushing meals, is appreciated.

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