· FR

Biarritz

Biarritz, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France

Biarritz, nestled in the picturesque region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine in southwestern France, is a charming seaside town known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. This elegant coastal destination ha…

#Beach destination#Surfing#Luxury travel#Historic architecture#Gastronomy

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Biarritz.

Top Hotels in Biarritz

Top Flights to Biarritz

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Biarritz.

Tours

Biarritz Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the Basque coastline and the Pyrenees.

Rocher de la Vierge

A must-see rock formation with a statue of the Virgin Mary, offering stunning sea views.

Shopping

Les Halles de Biarritz

The iconic market for fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal goods.

Outdoor

Surfing at Grande Plage

Experience world-class surfing at one of Europe's top surf spots.

Parc Mazon

Relax in this serene park, ideal for picnics and leisurely walks among lush greenery.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Biarritz.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

Information not available.

Languages

French, Basque, Spanish, English

Average weather

Biarritz

Jan

12°5°

Feb

13°6°

Mar

15°7°

Apr

16°8°

May

19°11°

Jun

22°14°

Jul

25°17°

Aug

26°18°

Sep

24°16°

Oct

20°12°

Nov

16°9°

Dec

13°6°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Biarritz.

What people love

Biarritz, located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France, offers a variety of attractions and advantages for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Biarritz include:

Beautiful Beaches: Biarritz is known for its stunning beaches with golden sand and clear blue waters. Popular beaches like Grande Plage and Plage de la Côte des Basques are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and other water activities.
Surfing Paradise: Biarritz is a renowned surfing destination in Europe, attracting surfers from around the world. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, you can enjoy riding the waves at spots like La Côte des Basques and La Grande Plage.
Rich History and Culture: Biarritz has a rich history as a former fishing village turned upscale resort town. Visitors can explore historic sites like the lighthouse, the Russian Orthodox Church, and the Museum of the Sea to learn more about the town's past.
Gourmet Cuisine: Biarritz is a food lover's paradise, with a wide range of dining options from traditional Basque cuisine to Michelin-starred restaurants. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties like Basque pintxos, seafood, and gateau Basque.
Scenic Landscapes: Biarritz is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the rugged cliffs of the Basque coast and the lush green countryside of the Pyrenees foothills. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, cycling, and golfing in the picturesque surroundings.
Vibrant Nightlife: Biarritz has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to enjoy after dark. Whether you prefer sipping cocktails by the beach or dancing the night away, Biarritz has something for everyone.

Overall, traveling to Biarritz offers a perfect blend of sun, sea, culture, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation experience.

What to know

There are a few potential cons to traveling to Biarritz, France. Here are some detailed points to consider:

Cost: Biarritz is known as a luxurious destination, which means that prices for accommodations, dining, and activities can be on the higher side compared to other destinations in France.
Crowds: Biarritz is a popular destination, especially during the peak tourist season in the summer months. This means that the city can get crowded, and popular attractions and beaches may be busy.
Weather: The weather in Biarritz can be unpredictable, with occasional rainfall and cooler temperatures even in the summer months. This may affect your ability to enjoy outdoor activities such as beach days or hiking.
Language Barrier: While many people in Biarritz may speak English, the primary language spoken in the region is French. If you are not fluent in French, you may encounter some challenges with communication.
Limited Public Transportation: Biarritz is a relatively small city, and public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities. Renting a car may be necessary to explore the surrounding areas.

Overall, while Biarritz is a beautiful and unique destination, it's essential to consider these potential cons when planning your trip.

Biarritz is a town located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of southwestern France. It has a rich history that spans several centuries, marked by its transformation from a small fishing village to a renowned seaside resort.

Early History and Development

Medieval Period: Originally, Biarritz was a small fishing village. Its earliest known mention dates back to the 12th century. The town's economy was primarily based on whaling, which was a significant industry in the region until the 17th century.
16th Century: Fishing and whaling were prominent, with Biarritz's sailors venturing to distant waters, including Newfoundland, to hunt whales.

Growth of the Seaside Resort

19th Century: Biarritz's transformation began in the mid-19th century when it became popular with European nobility. The turning point came when Empress Eugénie, the wife of Napoleon III, chose Biarritz as her summer residence. In 1854, they built the Villa Eugénie, which attracted high society and transformed Biarritz into a fashionable resort.
Infrastructure Development: Following the imperial couple's patronage, Biarritz saw significant development, including the construction of luxury hotels, casinos, and public baths. The town's reputation as a glamorous destination grew, with visitors including royalty, aristocrats, and artists.

20th Century to Present

World Wars Impact: During both World Wars, the tourism industry was affected, but Biarritz quickly regained its status as a premier destination post-war.
Surfing Destination: In the 1950s and 1960s, Biarritz became known as a surfing hotspot. The waves of the Atlantic, combined with the scenic beauty of the Basque Coast, attracted surfers from all over the world.

Notable Historical Figures

Empress Eugénie: Her choice to establish a summer residence in Biarritz was pivotal in its transformation into a fashionable resort town.
Victor Hugo: The famous French writer visited Biarritz and mentioned its beauty, contributing to its growing reputation.

Important Landmarks

Hôtel du Palais: Originally the Villa Eugénie, this landmark hotel was built for Empress Eugénie. It remains one of Biarritz's most iconic buildings.
Church of Saint-Martin: This historic church dates back to the Middle Ages and is one of the oldest buildings in Biarritz.
Casino Municipal: Built in the Art Deco style in the 1920s, the casino symbolizes the town's luxurious past and remains a key attraction.
Phare de Biarritz (Biarritz Lighthouse): Constructed in 1834, it offers stunning views of the Bay of Biscay.
Rocher de la Vierge (Rock of the Virgin): A natural rock formation with a statue of the Virgin Mary, it's a popular viewpoint and symbol of Biarritz.

Today, Biarritz continues to be a sought-after destination, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and as a center for thalassotherapy. Its blend of historical charm and modern appeal continues to draw visitors from around the world.