Biarritz Holidays

Biarritz, the jewel of France’s Basque Coast, is a stunning seaside town known for its golden beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant surf culture. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a foodie escape, Biarritz offers a perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and outdoor excitement. With its elegant Belle Époque architecture, world-class waves, and rich Basque traditions, this charming destination is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of the French Atlantic.

Highlights

• Surfing Paradise – Biarritz is one of Europe’s top surfing destinations, attracting wave lovers from around the world. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, the beaches here are perfect for catching waves.

• Luxury and Elegance – Once the playground of European royalty, Biarritz is home to stunning palaces, five-star hotels, and a glamorous casino along the waterfront.

• Basque Culture & Cuisine – Experience a unique blend of French and Spanish influences, from delicious pintxos and seafood feasts to lively Basque festivals and markets.

• Breathtaking Coastal Views – The town’s dramatic cliffs, lighthouses, and golden beaches create a postcard-perfect setting for walks, photography, and sunset watching.

Getting around - Biarritz

Biarritz is a compact and walkable city, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the main attractions, beaches, and shopping streets are within a short distance from one another. For longer journeys, the Chronoplus bus network offers affordable and efficient transport around Biarritz and nearby towns like Bayonne and Anglet.

Biarritz Pays Basque Airport is just 5 km from the city center, with regular flights from major French and European cities. The train station (Gare de Biarritz) connects the town to Bordeaux, Paris, and Spain, making it an ideal stop on a coastal road trip. Taxis, bike rentals, and electric scooters are also available for getting around in style. If you’re planning to explore the Basque countryside or visit nearby towns, renting a car is a great option.

Things to do for families in Biarritz

Biarritz is a fantastic destination for families, offering a mix of beach fun, wildlife encounters, and cultural attractions that children will love. Start your family adventure at La Grande Plage, the city’s main beach, where kids can build sandcastles, paddle in the waves, or take surf lessons with professional instructors.

A must-visit for families is the Biarritz Aquarium, where you can get up close with sharks, sea turtles, and colorful marine life. The Cité de l’Océan is another great educational attraction, featuring interactive exhibits, virtual reality surfing experiences, and underwater exploration.

For an outdoor adventure, take a stroll along the Rocher de la Vierge, a famous rocky outcrop connected by a picturesque footbridge, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. If your family enjoys hiking, head to the Ilbarritz Park, where kids can run freely while parents enjoy the scenic coastal trails. For a sweet treat, visit one of Biarritz’s famous pâtisseries for fresh chocolates and Basque cakes.

Things to do for couples in Biarritz

Biarritz is one of France’s most romantic coastal towns, offering stunning views, intimate dining spots, and dreamy beachside walks. Start your romantic getaway with a sunrise stroll along La Côte des Basques, one of Biarritz’s most scenic beaches, where you can admire golden cliffs and surfers gliding over the waves.

For a touch of old-world glamour, visit the Hôtel du Palais, a former imperial palace built for Empress Eugénie, where you can sip cocktails on the terrace or indulge in a luxurious spa treatment. Another must-visit is the Biarritz Lighthouse, where you can climb 248 steps to enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of the coast and the Pyrénées mountains.

As evening falls, enjoy a wine and tapas night at a cozy Basque bistro, tasting the region’s finest Irouléguy wines and local seafood specialties. For a more adventurous date, try a private surf lesson for two, or take a scenic boat ride along the coast, soaking in the romance of Biarritz’s coastal charm.

Things to do for groups in Biarritz

Biarritz is the perfect destination for a group getaway, offering a mix of outdoor adventures, lively nightlife, and fantastic dining experiences. For an active start, take a group surf lesson at one of the many surf schools along La Côte des Basques—even beginners can enjoy the thrill of riding Biarritz’s famous waves.

If your group enjoys exploring, rent bikes and ride along the scenic coastal trails, stopping at hidden beaches and viewpoints along the way. Another fun group activity is a day trip to Bayonne, a historic town just 10 km away, where you can discover colorful half-timbered houses, ancient ramparts, and lively tapas bars.

For a relaxed afternoon, visit Les Halles Market, where you and your friends can sample local cheeses, seafood, and Basque charcuterie before enjoying a picnic by the beach. When night falls, head to Bar Jean or Les Halles’ tapas bars, where the atmosphere is buzzing with music, cocktails, and dancing—making it the perfect spot for an unforgettable night out with friends.

Things to do for foodies in Biarritz

Biarritz is a gastronomic paradise, blending the best of French and Basque cuisine with fresh seafood and local specialties. Start your foodie adventure at Les Halles Market, where you can taste artisan cheeses, Basque cured ham, fresh oysters, and traditional pintxos (small tapas-style dishes).

Seafood lovers should head to Chez Albert, one of Biarritz’s most famous seafood restaurants, known for its grilled fish, seafood platters, and Basque-style mussels. Another must-visit is Bar du Marché, where you can enjoy authentic Basque tapas and cider in a lively setting.

For a sweet treat, visit Miremont Pâtisserie, a legendary café dating back to 1872, famous for its chocolate éclairs, praline tarts, and rich hot chocolate. And if you’re a wine enthusiast, take a short drive to the vineyards of Irouléguy, where you can sample bold reds and crisp whites unique to the Basque region. Whether you prefer fine dining, market delicacies, or relaxed bistro meals, Biarritz’s food scene is sure to impress.