France travel guide

Biarritz

An elegant seaside resort on the Atlantic coast – a destination where historic luxury, Basque character and vibrant surf culture meet in a distinctive coastal atmosphere.

Biarritz is beautifully set on the Atlantic coast in south-west France, where French elegance meets raw nature and spectacular waves. Once a summer retreat for European nobility, the city now combines a sophisticated atmosphere with a relaxed and lively surf culture that shapes its identity.

Along the iconic Grande Plage, you can stroll between historic hotels, elegant promenades and lively beach bars, while the Atlantic crashes against the rocks at Rocher de la Vierge – the city’s most famous landmark. Biarritz is also regarded as one of Europe’s great surfing pioneers, attracting both beginners and experienced surfers throughout the year.

Start the day with coffee and a croissant overlooking the sea, spend the afternoon on the beach, in the boutiques or on the golf course, and end the evening with fresh seafood and Basque specialities. Biarritz combines style, history and coastal nature in a way few places can match.

Biarritz guide

Experiences

10 things to do

Biarritz combines elegant seaside style, Basque culture and raw Atlantic nature in a way few places in France can match. Here you will find wide beaches, iconic viewpoints, historic buildings, surf culture and a lively centre with good restaurants and markets.

The city is perfect for relaxed beach days, active experiences and small excursions along the beautiful Basque coast.

Grande Plage – the city’s main beach, with golden sand, an elegant promenade and a lively atmosphere throughout the day.
Rocher de la Vierge – an iconic rocky viewpoint with spectacular views of the Atlantic and the dramatic Biarritz coastline.
Port des Pêcheurs – the old fishing harbour with small authentic restaurants and a charming maritime atmosphere.
Aquarium de Biarritz – discover marine life from the Bay of Biscay in one of the city’s most popular family-friendly attractions.
The surf beaches of Biarritz – ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers who want to experience the city’s legendary surf culture.
Hôtel du Palais – a historic imperial palace built for Napoleon III and one of Biarritz’s best-known landmarks.
Côte des Basques – one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, with wide views, waves and dramatic coastal scenery.
Les Halles de Biarritz – a lively food market filled with Basque specialities, fresh produce and local atmosphere.
Golf de Biarritz Le Phare – a classic golf course with green fairways and a beautiful setting close to the sea.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz – a charming coastal town about 20 minutes away, perfect for an atmospheric day trip.

Gastronomy

Restaurants

Food experiences

Biarritz has an exciting food scene where Basque traditions meet modern French cuisine. Choose between elegant fine dining restaurants, lively bistros, seafood places by the harbour and informal addresses serving local specialities.

L'Impertinent – Michelin-starred restaurant with modern French cuisine and great focus on precision, flavour and presentation.
La Table d'Aurélien Largeau – Elegant fine dining experience with a focus on seafood and refined ingredients.
Chez Albert – Classic seafood restaurant in Port des Pêcheurs, popular for fresh fish and an authentic harbour setting.
Miremont – Historic address in Biarritz known for classic French service, views and famous sweets.
La Tantina de Burgos – Basque specialities, tapas and a lively social atmosphere.
Chistera et Coquillages – A good choice for oysters, shellfish and other flavours from the sea in stylish surroundings.
Les Halles de Biarritz – Food market with several small places to eat and genuine local atmosphere under one roof.

Tip: In Biarritz, try local pintxos and the classic dessert Gâteau Basque – true flavours of the Basque Country after a day by the sea. Pair them with a glass of Irouléguy wine or a relaxed evening walk around Port des Pêcheurs for an even more local experience.

7-day guide Biarritz travel guide

A week in Biarritz

Welcome to a complete travel guide to Biarritz – the elegant coastal city where Atlantic waves meet Basque culture and French art de vivre. This guide is designed for travellers who want to experience more than beach life.

In one week you have time for relaxation, gastronomy, culture, surfing and rewarding day trips. Biarritz offers a unique combination of dramatic coastal scenery, historic charm and a relaxed atmosphere, from elegant promenades to local markets and good restaurants.

What you will experience

Iconic places such as Rocher de la Vierge and the beautiful Basque coast.
Local markets, Basque flavours and restaurants serving fresh seafood.
Surfing, culture, short excursions and sunsets over the Atlantic.

Get ready for a week filled with sea breeze, good meals and genuine south-west French atmosphere – ideal if you want to combine holiday, experiences and slow travel.

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