Biarritz holidays

How to reach Biarritz

• Flight time: Flights to Biarritz from London take around 2 hours.

• Transfer time: The journey from Biarritz Airport (Aéroport de Biarritz Pays Basque) to the city centre takes 10 minutes by taxi or 20 minutes by bus.

• Price: Taxiing to the centre costs around €20–€25; a one-way bus ticket costs €1.30.

Best time to visit Biarritz

The right time for your Biarritz holidays depends on your reason for visiting: art and culture, alfresco dining or the legendary surf scene.

• April to May sees temperatures climb from 16 to 18°C, but is slow to shake off the winter rain. With sea temperatures a wetsuit-wearing-level bracing 14–16°C, this is more the season for coastal walks and sightseeing than swimming and surfing unless you’re a diehard water fan.

• June to August is the best time to visit if warm weather (low to high 20s) is your top priority. You’ll have to dodge the odd summer shower (and through the peak season crowds), but with coastal waters averaging a balmy 23°C, these are great months for beach holidays.

• September to October sees the sun shining, but it’s a little cooler (20°C or thereabouts) and quieter. Swimming season runs until late October (sometimes into November), and you'll get a better swell if you’re here for surfing.

• November to March is relatively mild (15°C in November, 11°C in February, 14°C in March) but experiences substantial rainfall. Apart from a few surfers – powerful waves roll in all winter – you’ll have the city and its sights pretty much to yourself.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: The official language is French, but there are some Basque speakers. English isn’t widely spoken, so it's worth learning a few French phrases or, at a pinch, downloading a speech translation app.

• Currency: France is in the eurozone.

• Getting around: Biarritz is small enough to explore on foot, but if you’d prefer not to walk everywhere, the TXIK TXAK public transport network will get you pretty much anywhere in the city and the broader Pays Basque. One-trip tickets cost €1.30 and are valid for 1 hour 30 minutes from the first swipe. If you’d prefer not to be locked into timetables, you can easily pick up a taxi, or if you're feeling more adventurous, bike rentals are available for around €10–€15 a day.

• Electricity and plug types: Standard mains electricity is 220–240V, 50Hz. Plugs are two-pin Type C and E.

• Time zone: France keeps Central European Time (GMT+ 1 hour) but switches to Central European Summer Time (GMT+ 2 hours, British Summer Time +1 hour) from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October.

• Required travel documentation: UK citizens need a valid passport (issued less than 10 years before the entry date and valid for at least 3 months after the departure date) but don’t need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in a rolling 180-day period.

Best things to do in Biarritz

There’s much more to Biarritz holidays than sun, surf and scenery.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Rocher de la Vierge (Rock of the Virgin): Linked to the mainland by a wooden footbridge, this iconic rock formation offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay and the distant Pyrenees.

• Phare de Biarritz (Biarritz Lighthouse): Standing tall on the Pointe Saint-Martin, 248 steps up, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular vistas stretching to the Spanish border.

The best districts

• Le Port-Vieux (Old Port): Spiralling up from intimate Plage du Port Vieux, its narrow streets lined with boutiques, surf shops and bistros, this bustling district is the ideal place to get a feel for the town.

• Les Halles: Centred on the Marché aux Halles, Les Halles is the beating heart of Biarritz's culinary scene and the perfect spot to taste regional delicacies like Bayonne ham and locally produced cheese.

Parks and gardens

• Jardin Public Pierre Forsans: Centrally located with mature trees and colourful flowerbeds, this is a pleasant place to catch your breath between sightseeing.

• Parc du Lac Marion: Just outside town, Marion is a more pastoral scene with its serpentine lake, fenland and woodland-fringed pastures.

Museums

• Musée Asiatica: A love letter to Asian art, the museum hosts incredibly diverse works, everything from Hindu bronzes and Tibetan spirit masks to Chinese porcelains and ivories.

• Musée Historique de Biarritz: Housed in the former Anglican Church of Saint-Andrew, the museum chronicles the town’s history with haphazard charm.

Historical monuments

• Église Sainte-Eugénie: Dedicated to Empress Eugénie, who played a crucial role in the town’s development as a fashionable resort, this striking neo-Gothic church is one of Biarritz's most significant landmarks. The stained-glass windows are superb.

• Villa Belza: Built into a rocky outcrop, this whimsical 19th-century mansion has become an emblem of Biarritz. While it’s now privately owned, its Gothic appearance and stunning location make it a popular photo spot.

Day trips in the area

• Bayonne: A short drive or train ride inland, French Basque Country’s riverside capital offers chocolate-box half-timbered houses, labyrinthine medieval streets and a vibrant food scene.

• Hendaye: Set on the right bank of the River Bidasoa, the natural border between France and Spain, and linked by ferry with the pretty Spanish town of Hondarribia, Hendaye has a few sites of interest, including a castle, but its main claim to fame is its 3km-long stretch of sandy beach.

Activities for families in Biarritz

Biarritz is a fantastic destination for families. There are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained while adults relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

• Playgrounds: Parc Mazon is a good option with play areas for different ages and plenty of space to run around.

• Family-friendly beaches: Biarritz’s main beach, the Grand Plage, offers plenty of space for families to play and swim, but if you have younger children, the more sheltered Port-Vieux Beach may be a better fit.

• Aquariums and zoos: The Aquarium de Biarritz is home to fascinating marine life, including sharks, rays and local species from the Bay of Biscay. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and the chance to see feeding sessions.

• Interactive museums: Educational and fun, the Cité de l’Océan offers interactive exhibits about the ocean and its ecosystems. Virtual reality experiences and scientific workshops make it particularly engaging for older children.

Free things to do in Biarritz

From stunning coastal walks to historic sites, you can enjoy much of the town’s offerings for free.

• Festivals and free events: The city hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year, including music and art performances in open-air venues, especially in summer.

• Explore Biarritz on foot: A promenade runs the length of the Grand Plage from the Art Deco Casino Barrière to the Second Empire–style Hôtel du Palais.

• Beaches: Biarritz’s beaches are free to access, so pack a picnic and enjoy a day of sunbathing, swimming and sandcastle building at no cost.

Wellness in Biarritz

• Traditional body care: For a taste of the region’s wellness heritage, head to Le Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar Thalassa Sea & Spa or luxurious Thalmar and indulge in thalassotherapy treatments using seawater, seaweed wraps and marine mud.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Surfing: Biarritz is world-famous for surfing, particularly at La Côte des Basques. Beginners (local surf schools offer lessons) and seasoned pros alike can catch waves here.

• Hiking: A relatively easy hike, the Sentier du Littoral (coastal path) runs from Biarritz to Saint-Jean-de-Luz along the cliffs with spectacular views of the ocean and the rugged coastline.

• SUP: Calm days on the water are perfect for trying stand-up paddleboarding. You can rent boards from various places along the beach and paddle along the scenic coastline.

• Golf: Biarritz has several fantastic courses. Golf de Biarritz Le Phare is one of the most historic in France, set on a stunning coastal plot. For a more rugged experience, Golf d’Arcangues offers gorgeous views of the Pyrenees.

• Cycling: The Vélodyssée, a long-distance cycle path, runs through Biarritz, making it an excellent route for scenic coastal rides.

Beaches in Biarritz

Biarritz, a stunning coastal city on the Basque Country's Atlantic coast, is renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and rich surf culture. Whether you're looking to relax on sandy shores, catch some waves, or enjoy scenic coastal walks, the beaches of Biarritz offer something for everyone during your Biarritz holidays. Here’s a guide to some of the top beaches to explore:

Grande Plage

• Iconic beach: Grande Plage is Biarritz's main beach and a true highlight of the city. Known for its beautiful golden sands and stunning views of the Bay of Biscay, it's a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching.

• Amenities and activities: The beach is well-equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, and beach clubs offering refreshments and snacks. It’s also a great place for families, with lifeguards on duty and facilities such as showers and restrooms. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at surfing or paddleboarding with equipment rentals available nearby.

Côte des Basques

• Surfing hotspot: Côte des Basques is famous for its excellent surfing conditions and breathtaking views. This beach is particularly popular among surfers due to its consistent waves, making it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced surfers.

• Relaxing atmosphere: The beach has a more laid-back vibe compared to Grande Plage, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun. During low tide, you can explore the rocky outcrops and tide pools, making it a fun spot for families and nature lovers alike.

• Stunning sunset views: As the sun sets, Côte des Basques offers some of the most picturesque views in Biarritz, making it a perfect place for an evening stroll along the shoreline.

Miramar Beach

• Family-friendly location: Miramar Beach is another beautiful spot in Biarritz, known for its calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere. This beach is less crowded than Grande Plage, making it a great place for families with young children.

• Charming surroundings: The beach is bordered by a lovely promenade lined with palm trees and cafés, providing a perfect setting for a relaxing day by the sea. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the nearby restaurants or sip a refreshing drink while taking in the views.

Port Vieux

• Secluded escape: Port Vieux is a small, charming beach located near the old port of Biarritz. It’s a great spot for those looking to escape the busier beaches and enjoy a more intimate setting.

• Calm waters: The sheltered waters make it ideal for swimming and paddleboarding, and the beach is a favourite among locals. With stunning cliffs surrounding the beach, it offers a picturesque backdrop for relaxation.

Plage de Marbella

• Natural beauty: Located a bit further from the city centre, Plage de Marbella is a more secluded beach surrounded by cliffs and lush vegetation. It's the perfect spot for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty during their Biarritz holidays.

• Relaxation and picnicking: The beach is less developed, providing a peaceful environment for sunbathing and picnicking. Enjoy the stunning views while listening to the sound of the waves crashing against the shore.

With its stunning coastline and diverse beach options, Biarritz is an ideal destination for beach lovers. Whether you're lounging on the sands of Grande Plage, catching waves at Côte des Basques, or enjoying the serenity of Port Vieux, the beaches of Biarritz promise an unforgettable experience. Embrace the sun, sea, and vibrant Basque culture as you create lasting memories during your Biarritz holidays.

Local dishes in Biarritz

One of the highlights of holidays to Biarritz is experiencing the rich flavours of Basque cuisine, which perfectly blends French and Spanish influences.

Some typical dishes

• Piperade: A Basque classic, the core ingredients are tomatoes, onions, peppers, Espelette pepper and garlic. It can also be mixed with eggs and served with ham.

• Marmitako: Traditionally eaten by fishermen at sea, this warming tuna and vegetable stew is perfect for cooler days.

Pintxos dishes

• Tortilla de Patatas: Made with eggs, potatoes and onions, this is closer to an Italian frittata than a French omelette.

• Croquettes de Jambon (Croquetas de Jamón): Crispy on the outside, these log-shaped fritters hide a creamy béchamel and ham centre.

Meat dishes

• Txuleta: With a deep beefy flavour, this steak is to die for.

• Axoa de Veau: Spiced with Espelette pepper, this veal stew is a speciality of Southwest France.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Chipirons Grillés a la Plancha: Grilled squid with garlic and parsley is a firm favourite along the Basque coast.

• Bacalao al Pil-Pil: This traditional Basque dish is made with salt cod, garlic and olive oil.

Street food

• Crêpes Sucrées: A little sugar in the batter gets the ball rolling. These sweet pancakes can be jazzed up with anything from powdered sugar and whipped cream to preserves and fresh fruit, spreads or syrups.

• Crêpes Salées (Galettes): Typically made with wheat flour or buckwheat and sugar-free, these crepes have a slightly nutty flavour that lends well to fillings like cheese, ham and spinach.

Sweets and desserts

• Gâteau Basque: Common across the Pays Basque, this buttery, shortcrust pastry cake, filled with vanilla-flavoured pastry cream or black cherry jam, is best described as a gourmet pop-tart.

• Basque macarons: A little chewier, crispier and less prettified than their Parisian sandwich cousins (no pastel hues and creamy fillings), Basque “Mouchous” let the ingredients – egg whites, sugar and ground almonds – do the talking.

Local drinks

• Txakoli: Light, fresh and slightly sparkling, these Basque wines pair perfectly with seafood.

• Sagardo: More like an Austrian cider than its British counterpart, Basque cider is dry, sharp and fresh. Traditionally poured with great panache from a height to aerate the drink and enhance the flavour, filling your glass is half the fun.