Things To Do
in Biarritz
Biarritz is a stylish seaside town on the Basque coast known for its grand beaches and elegant imperial heritage. It blends surf culture with sophisticated dining, art nouveau architecture, and a vibrant market scene. The town is famous for its seafood, Basque cuisine, and dramatic coastline that invites outdoor adventures all year round.
With a cosmopolitan vibe, it appeals to surfers, families, and culture lovers seeking sun, sea, and delicious gastronomy.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a leisurely breakfast at one of Biarritz's picturesque seaside cafés, savoring fresh pastries and local coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll along the Grande Plage, soaking in the salty ocean breeze while watching surfers ride the waves. Explore the nearby Rocher de la Vierge, a stunning rock formation that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Indulge in some retail therapy at the vibrant Les Halles market, where you can sample local delicacies and pick up unique artisanal products. Afterward, head to the Aquarium of Biarritz to discover the fascinating marine life that inhabits the Bay of Biscay. Spend some time relaxing at one of the nearby beaches, soaking up the sun and enjoying the vibrant beach culture.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant with a terrace overlooking the sea and enjoy a sumptuous Basque meal, featuring fresh seafood and local wines. After dinner, stroll along the beach promenade, where the lively atmosphere is accentuated by street performers and bubbling laughter. End your day by sipping a cocktail at a chic bar, contemplating the beauty of the ocean under the starlit sky.
Begin your day with a visit to the Musée de la Mer, where you can learn about the rich maritime history of Biarritz. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café before heading to the charming streets of the old town with their colorful buildings and quaint shops. Take your time wandering through the lanes, absorbing the local culture and history.
After lunch, participate in a Basque cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes, connecting you with the region's culinary heritage. Once your culinary adventure concludes, stroll to the nearby Phare de Biarritz (lighthouse) for panoramic views of the coastline. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, perhaps trying your hand at surfing with a local instructor.
As night falls, treat yourself to a gourmet meal in the heart of Biarritz, where you can delight in modern French cuisine infused with Basque flavors. Post-dinner, take a scenic walk along the cliffside paths, listening to the waves crash against the rocks. Find a nearby bar hosting live music for an entertaining night filled with local talent.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 in mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range) per night | $120-250 |
| 🚆Public transport pass (1 day) | $5-12 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Long, sandy beaches with excellent surf culture
- Rich Basque culture and gastronomy
- Compact, walkable city center with striking architecture
- Vibrant markets and seaside ambiance
- Peak-season crowds can be intense
- Higher prices in summer and near popular attractions
- Hilly streets may be challenging with luggage or strollers
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est...?" - Where is...?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Biarritz
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic rock formation with a statue and sweeping views of the Atlantic—perfect for dramatic coastline shots at golden hour.
Wide sandy beach with elegant Belle Époque architecture; best photographed from the promenade or from the northern end near the fishing port.
Historic lighthouse framed by sweeping sea views; great for sunrise or sunset silhouettes and coastal panoramas.
Colorful fishing boats and quay activity offering lively, intimate harbor scenes.
Food in Biarritz
Biarritz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Basque specialty where crab meat is mixed with herbs and spices, often served in its shell with warm bread or rice.
Must-Try!
A pepper-tomato-onion sauté finished with eggs or ham, a quintessential Basque-chef signature dish.
A classic Basque veal hash cooked with peppers and onions, typically served with potatoes or bread.
A traditional cake with vanilla or cherry filling, enjoyed as a dessert or tea-time treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market district near the city center offering fresh seafood, cheeses, produce, and ready-to-eat bites.
A larger market complex with local produce and prepared foods, popular with residents and visitors alike.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' and a smile. In shops and restaurants, a courteous tone and brief conversation in French are appreciated.
French is the main language; Basque is spoken in some communities. When dining, wait to be seated, say 's’il vous plaît' and 'merci'.
Safety
Tipping in Biarritz
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is typically included in the bill (service compris) at many restaurants; leaving a small extra tip (5-10%) for good service is common but optional. In bars or cafés, rounding up is appreciated but not required.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted (Visa, Mastercard). Cash is also common, especially at markets and small cafés. ATMs are plentiful around the city.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming coastal flora; shoulder-season crowds are lighter, making it ideal for outdoor walks and early-season surf.
Warm, sunny days with lively beaches and a bustling Old Town; expect peak crowds and higher prices, but excellent beach and night-life options.
Continued pleasant weather with cooler evenings; great for food markets, coastal hikes, and fewer crowds than summer.
Breezy and cooler with occasional rain; the town remains charming, with indoor dining, cafés, and cultural venues as primary draws.
Biarritz at Night
Hiking in Biarritz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular mountain near Saint-Jean-de-Luz offering panoramic views; reachable by a heritage train or trail.
Scenic coastal path with sea views, wildlife, and photo opportunities; suitable for all ages.
Airports
How to reach Biarritz by plane.
Located in Anglet, about 5-6 km from central Biarritz; convenient for international and domestic flights.
Farther inland; about an hour by car; useful for domestic connections.
Large international hub about 2-3 hours away by car or train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Year-round visitors drawn to beaches, markets, and Basque culture.
Residents with deep Basque heritage, contributing to local traditions and events.
Two significant groups shaping the social and cultural life of the town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class waves at Côte des Basques; surf schools and rental shops abound.
Traditional Basque pelota games played in local clubs and arenas.
Calm bayside waters ideal for SUP beginners and enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Biarritz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Basque and French restaurants offer vegetable-forward dishes, ratatouille, piperade without meat, and egg-based options. When ordering, specify no seafood stock or meat products, and ask for vegetable-forward specials or salads. If unsure, opt for cheese plates, vegetables, legumes, and simple pasta dishes.