Biarritz

Biarritz Travel Guide: Your Ultimate Vacation Planner

Planning Your Trip to Biarritz

General Information

  • Country: France
  • Time Zone: GMT +2 (summer), GMT +1 (winter)
  • Languages: French, Basque
  • Currency: Euro (€)

Biarritz Weather & Best Time to Visit

Knowing what to expect weather-wise can make your trip even better. Here’s a seasonal breakdown:

  • January: Cool and wet, average temperature 8°C (46°F).
  • April: Mild and pleasant, average temperature 12°C (54°F).
  • July: Warm and sunny, average temperature 20°C (68°F).
  • October: Mild and rainy, average temperature 16°C (61°F).

Biarritz: A City Overview

Biarritz, a glamorous seaside town on the Basque coast of France, is where elegance meets surf culture. Once a favored destination for European royalty, including Empress Eugénie, it boasts stunning Belle Époque architecture, luxurious hotels, and world-class surfing beaches.
The city offers a captivating mix of history, gastronomy, and outdoor activities. From exploring iconic landmarks to indulging in local delicacies and catching some waves, Biarritz provides an unforgettable experience. The powerful Atlantic waves draw surfers from around the globe, while the chic shops and vibrant nightlife appeal to those seeking a more sophisticated ambiance. Whether you’re a history buff, a thrill-seeking surfer, or a foodie, Biarritz has something for everyone.

Best Time to Visit Biarritz: Seasonal Highlights

Seasonal Pros and Cons

  • Spring (April-May): Pros: Mild weather, fewer crowds. Cons: Occasional rain.
  • Summer (June-August): Pros: Warm and sunny, perfect for swimming and surfing. Cons: Crowded, higher prices.
  • Autumn (September-October): Pros: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, good surfing conditions. Cons: Possibility of storms.
  • Winter (November-March): Pros: Quiet, lower prices. Cons: Cool and wet weather.

Getting to Biarritz & Visa Information

Biarritz is easily accessible by air, train, and car. Biarritz Airport (BIQ) offers flights to major European cities.
Train services connect Biarritz to Paris and other destinations in France and Spain. Make sure to check visa requirements
based on your nationality before travelling.

  • Biarritz Airport (BIQ): 7 Allée du Moura, 64200 Biarritz, France

Discovering Biarritz: History, Culture & Top Attractions

Fun/Historical Fact: Empress Eugénie’s Influence

In the mid-19th century, Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III, fell in love with Biarritz and built a palace on the beach. This transformed the small fishing village into a fashionable resort for European royalty and aristocrats.

Famous Personalities from Biarritz

  • Miguel de Unamuno (Spanish essayist, novelist, philosopher)
  • Pauline Ado (Professional Surfer)

Top 10 Biarritz Attractions: Sightseeing & Activities

  1. Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin’s Rock): A rocky outcrop with a statue of the Virgin Mary, offering panoramic views.
    • Address: Rue du Port Vieux, 64200 Biarritz, France
  2. Grande Plage: The main beach, known for its golden sand and iconic striped tents.
    • Address: Avenue de la Reine Victoria, 64200 Biarritz, France
  3. Hôtel du Palais: A luxury hotel built by Empress Eugénie, a symbol of Biarritz’s glamour.
  4. Biarritz Aquarium: Discover the marine life of the Bay of Biscay and beyond.
    • Address: Esplanade du Rocher de la Vierge, 64200 Biarritz, France
  5. Cité de l’Océan: An interactive museum dedicated to the ocean and surfing.
    • Address: 1 Avenue de la Plage, 64200 Biarritz, France
  6. Port des Pêcheurs (Fishermen’s Port): A charming harbor with traditional restaurants and colorful boats.
    • Address: Port des Pêcheurs, 64200 Biarritz, France
  7. Chapelle Impériale: A beautiful chapel built by Empress Eugénie in a mix of Romanesque-Byzantine styles.
    • Address: 53 Rue de l’Impératrice, 64200 Biarritz, France
  8. Musée Historique de Biarritz: Learn about the history of Biarritz from its origins to the present day.
    • Address: Rue Broquedis, 64200 Biarritz, France
  9. Phare de Biarritz (Biarritz Lighthouse): Climb to the top for stunning views of the coastline.
    • Address: Avenue de la Reine Nathalie, 64200 Biarritz, France
  10. Asiatica Musée d’Art Oriental: Discover a collection of Asian art.
    • Address: Rue Guy Petit, 64200 Biarritz, France

Biarritz Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path

  • Villa Belza: A mysterious and picturesque villa perched on a cliff, rumored to be haunted.
    • Address: 1 Rue Edouard VII, 64200 Biarritz, France
  • Plage de la Côte des Basques: A popular surfing beach with stunning views of the Spanish coast. Best at low tide.
    • Address: Avenue de la Côte des Basques, 64200 Biarritz, France
  • Halles de Biarritz: A local market offering a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, and regional specialties.
    • Address: Rue des Halles, 64200 Biarritz, France

Local Festivals & Events in Biarritz

  • Biarritz International Festival of Francophone Cinema: A celebration of French-language films (September).
  • Fêtes de Biarritz: A traditional Basque festival with music, dancing, and food (late June).
  • Wheels and Waves: A unique festival blending surfing, skateboarding, and motorcycle culture (June).

Day Trips from Biarritz: Exploring the Basque Region

  • Saint-Jean-de-Luz: A charming Basque fishing village (30 minutes).
  • Bayonne: A historic city with a beautiful cathedral and Basque museum (15 minutes).
  • Espelette: Famous for its red peppers and traditional Basque architecture (45 minutes).
  • San Sebastian (Spain): A vibrant city known for its beaches, tapas, and culture (1 hour).

Photography Spots & Insta-Worthy Places in Biarritz

  • Rocher de la Vierge: For panoramic coastal views.
  • Grande Plage: For the iconic striped tents.
  • Villa Belza: For a mysterious and picturesque backdrop.
  • Côte des Basques: For stunning sunset shots.
  • Port des Pêcheurs: For colorful boats and traditional charm.

Planning Your Stay in Biarritz: Accommodation & Transportation

How Many Days to Stay in Biarritz?

We recommend a stay of 3-5 days to fully experience Biarritz and its surroundings.

Top Places to Stay in Biarritz: Hotels for Every Budget

Budget-Friendly Hotels in Biarritz

  • Hotel Edouard VII: 14 Avenue Edouard VII, 64200 Biarritz, France
  • Hotel Barnéa: 2 Rue Dalbarade, 64200 Biarritz, France

Mid-Range Hotels in Biarritz

Luxury Hotels in Biarritz

Getting Around Biarritz: Transportation Options

Biarritz is easily walkable, especially the city center. Local buses are available for longer distances.
Taxis are readily available. Bike rentals are a great way to explore the coastline.

Essential Travel Tips for Biarritz

What to Pack for Your Biarritz Trip

Comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, hat, light jacket, rain gear (especially in spring and autumn).

Useful Apps for Your Biarritz Adventure

  • Google Maps: For navigation.
  • Citymapper: For public transport.
  • LaFourchette/TheFork: For restaurant bookings.

Local Tips, Safety, & Cultural Etiquette in Biarritz

Learn a few basic French phrases. Be aware of your belongings in crowded areas. Dress respectfully when visiting religious sites.

Biarritz Food, Fun & Finds: Restaurants, Nightlife & Shopping

Top Restaurants in Biarritz: Where to Eat

  • Bar Jean: Traditional Basque cuisine, lively atmosphere.
    • Address: 5 Rue des Halles, 64200 Biarritz, France
  • Le Surfing: Seafood restaurant with ocean views.
    • Address: 27 Boulevard du Prince de Galles, 64200 Biarritz, France

Must-Try Dishes in Biarritz: Basque Cuisine

  • Axoa de veau: A traditional Basque veal stew.
  • Gâteau Basque: A cherry or cream-filled cake.
  • Pintxos: Basque tapas.

Biarritz Nightlife & Entertainment: After Dark Activities

  • Casino Barrière Biarritz: Gambling and entertainment.
    • Address: 1 Avenue Edouard VII, 64200 Biarritz, France
  • Le Caveau: Popular nightclub.
    • Address: 8 Avenue du Maréchal Foch, 64200 Biarritz, France

What to Buy in Biarritz: Souvenirs & Local Products

  • Basque linen: Tablecloths, towels, and other textiles.
  • Espadrilles: Traditional Basque shoes.
  • Espelette pepper: A regional specialty.
  • Makila: A traditional Basque walking stick.
  • Halles de Biarritz: for local produce

Cities You May Like