We’ve all dreamed of a perfect beach vacation, and I’m here to tell you that Biarritz, France is the ideal spot to make those dreams come true. I can’t wait to share why Biarritz should be at the top of your vacation list.In this Biarritz travel guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip. So, let’s dive in and start planning your dream vacation to Biarritz!
Getting to Biarritz: Transportation Options
By Plane
When it comes to flying to Biarritz, we’ve got some great options. The Biarritz Airport is conveniently located just 4 kilometers from the city center, making it an ideal choice for a weekend getaway . I’ve found that budget carriers like Ryanair offer direct flights from Ireland, the United Kingdom, and Belgium. If you’re coming from the UK, Flybe also operates flights from Belfast, Aberdeen, and Edinburgh .
When you getting to the city, there’s a regular bus service, number 14, that runs every half hour from just outside the airport. It’s super affordable too – just 1 euro for a one-way trip or 2 euros for a 24-hour pass .
If you can’t find a direct flight to Biarritz, don’t worry. I’ve discovered that Bordeaux airport is another good option. From there, you can easily catch a train to Biarritz . For those coming from Paris, you have choices. You can fly from Orly with Transavia or from Charles de Gaulle with Air France and EasyJet. The flight takes about an hour .
By Train
Traveling to Biarritz by train is not only convenient but also offers some scenic views along the way. The Biarritz railway station is right in the city center and is served by various types of trains including high-speed TGV, night trains, long-distance Intercités, and local TER services .
If you’re coming from Paris, you’re in luck. There are several trains daily from Paris Montparnasse station to Biarritz. The journey takes about 4 hours with no changes, and it’s a really pleasant trip . For the best deals, I recommend booking your tickets through sncf-connect.com about 4 months in advance, especially if you’re planning to use TGV or Intercités trains .
Here are some sample train fares I’ve found:
From Nearby Cities
If you’re already in the region or planning a multi-city trip, getting to Biarritz from nearby cities is quite straightforward. The local TER train services connect Biarritz to cities like Bordeaux, Dax, Bayonne, and Hendaye .
For those coming from Spain, you can easily travel to Biarritz from nearby Spanish towns such as San Sebastian and Pamplona . The train station in Biarritz is well-connected to the city center. You can take the number 2 bus from the station to reach the town center or the beachfront .
If you prefer more flexibility, there are 24-hour taxi ranks available outside the station . For budget travelers, I’ve found that local busses are a great option to reach nearby small towns like Bayonne, Anglet, Pau, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, and Hendaye .
Remember, whichever mode of transport you choose, it’s always a good idea to book in advance for the best deals. Happy travels to Biarritz!
Where to Stay: Accommodation Guide
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Biarritz, we’ve got options for every budget and style. From luxurious beachfront properties to cozy budget-friendly spots, I’ll guide you through the best accommodations this beautiful coastal town has to offer.
Luxury Hotels
For those seeking a truly indulgent experience, Biarritz doesn’t disappoint. The crown jewel of luxury accommodations is undoubtedly the Hôtel du Palais. This historic palace, commissioned by Napoleon III in 1854, now offers 142 opulent rooms with breathtaking ocean views . As I walked by, I couldn’t help but marvel at its grandeur. If you’re looking to splurge, their Michelin-starred restaurant is a must-try.
Another gem in the luxury category is the Regina Experimental. Recently renovated in 2023, this Belle Époque property sits perched on a cliffside, offering stunning vistas of the Atlantic . I love how they’ve managed to blend historic charm with modern amenities. The atrium that spans all four floors is particularly impressive.
For those who prefer a more intimate setting, the Beaumanoir Small Luxury Boutique Hotel is a hidden gem. Located in the Winter Park district, it’s a bit further from the beach, but the heated swimming pool more than makes up for it .
Mid-Range Options
If you’re looking for comfort without breaking the bank, Biarritz has plenty of excellent mid-range hotels. One of my favorites is the Hôtel Le Windsor Biarritz. This family-run hotel has been welcoming guests since the late 1940s, and their experience shows in the warm hospitality . Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw from the beach.
The other most wonderful option is Hotel de la plage. I was impressed by their recent 2022 renovation, which gave the rooms a bright, coastal feel with boho touches . Some rooms even have balconies overlooking the Rocher de la Vierge – perfect for enjoying those famous Biarritz sunsets.
For those who appreciate a literary touch, the Hôtel Littéraire Jules Verne is a unique choice. Each room is themed around the famous author’s works, adding a fun twist to your stay .
Budget-Friendly Choices
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or location in Biarritz. I’ve found some fantastic affordable options that still put you right in the heart of the action.
La Maison du Lierre is a beautiful belle epoque house that consistently ranks as one of the best value hotels in Biarritz . It’s just a short walk from the beach and close to public transport, making it easy to explore the town.
Hotel Saint-Julien is another budget-friendly gem. Its charming red shutters caught my eye as I walked by, and guests rave about its quiet location and proximity to the beach .
For those who prefer a bit more independence, the Résidence Grand Large Vacances Bleues offers apartment-style accommodations with kitchenettes . It’s a great option for longer stays or if you want to save money by cooking some meals yourself.
Remember, Biarritz is a popular summer destination, so prices can skyrocket during peak season. I’d recommend booking early, especially if you’re eyeing one of the more popular hotels. And trust me, splurging on a room with an ocean view is worth every euro – there’s nothing quite like waking up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore.
The most top things to enjoy and Do in Biarritz :
Beaches
Biarritz is a beach lover’s paradise, and I can’t wait to tell you about some of the best spots to soak up the sun and surf. The Grande Plage is the crown jewel of Biarritz beaches, stretching almost 500 meters long . It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just people-watching. The beach is divided into sections for surfers and bathers, ensuring everyone can enjoy the water safely .
For a more intimate experience, I recommend checking out Plage du Port Vieux. This tiny beach is nestled between small cliffs and rocks, offering a picturesque setting for a peaceful swim . It’s ideal for families with children due to its sheltered location and calmer waters .
If you’re after a wilder, more natural beach experience, head to Marbella Beach. It’s a bit further from the center, which means fewer tourists and a more local vibe . The currents can be strong here, so it’s best suited for experienced surfers .
Surfing Spots
Biarritz is known as the surfing capital of Europe, and for good reason . The city and its surrounding areas offer a variety of world-class surf spots suitable for all levels. La Côte des Basques is considered the birthplace of surfing in France . It’s a great spot for beginners and experienced longboarders alike, with consistent waves that provide approximately 150 surfable days per year .
For more challenging waves, I suggest heading to Anglet, just north of Biarritz. It’s where surfing legend Tom Curren chose to live in 1988, and it offers some of the most consistent spots in Southwest France . Les Cavaliers, at the north end of Anglet, can hold bigger swells and is less wind-sensitive than other spots in the area .
If you’re new to surfing, don’t worry! Biarritz has plenty of surf schools catering to families and individuals of all ages . It’s a great place to catch your first wave or improve your skills under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Cultural Attractions
Beyond its beaches and waves, Biarritz offers a rich cultural experience that shouldn’t be missed. One of the must-see sights is the Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin of the Rock) . This dramatic landmark features a statue of the Virgin Mary set on a steep, narrow rock in the ocean. To reach it, you’ll cross a bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel, offering breathtaking views of the coastline .
For a glimpse into the city’s aristocratic past, visit the Hôtel du Palais. This former imperial residence, commissioned by Napoleon III for his wife Eugénie, now serves as a luxurious five-star hotel . Even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth admiring its grand architecture and imagining the glamorous gatherings it once hosted.
Art and nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Biarritz Aquarium. Located on a stunning piece of oceanfront property, it houses over 20 aquarium tanks filled with a wide range of marine species . Don’t miss the seal feeding times at 10:30am and 5pm – it’s a highlight, especially for families with children .
Biarritz truly offers something for everyone, from its beautiful beaches and world-class surfing to its rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, you’ll find it in this charming Basque coastal town.
Day Trips from Biarritz:
San Sebastian
One of the best surprises I discovered when visiting San Sebastian was that the incredible, vibrant, and culinarily inspiring Basque culture doesn’t stop at the French border. It’s just a 45-minute drive from Biarritz, making it an ideal day trip destination . The compact nature of the region means you can easily explore multiple locations in a single day, regardless of where you choose to stay .
Bayonne
Bayonne, a charming city in Southwestern France near the Spanish border, is another excellent day trip option from Biarritz . While many people associate Bayonne with the Fête de Bayonne, where everyone dresses in white and red and parties in the streets for days, I think the best reason to visit is to explore the incredible chocolate shops .
The Académie du Chocolat de Bayonne, created in 1993, promotes the area’s history and local artisans . For a classic, drinkable chocolate experience, I recommend stopping at the charming Cazenave tea room . Don’t miss Monsieur Txocola, one of the best chocolatiers in Bayonne, known for their bean-to-bar, in-house, ethical bean production and transformation .
Bayonne is also home to some impressive cultural attractions. The Cathedral of Saint Mary of Bayonne, a Gothic architectural marvel, is the seat of the Bishops of Bayonne, Lescar, and Oloron . Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Musée Bonnat-Helleu, an art museum housing one of the largest collections in southern France . For nature lovers, the Jardin botanique de Bayonne, a 3000 m² botanical garden, is open Tuesday through Saturday in the warmer months with free admission .
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a picturesque town in the French Basque Country, is easily accessible from Biarritz by train. The journey takes about 1 hour and 19 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 41 kilometers . On weekdays, the first train leaves Biarritz at around 06:09, with the last departure at about 19:22 . Weekend schedules differ slightly, with trains departing from 06:18 to 20:32 .
There are frequent services on this route, with about 42 trains per day traveling between the two cities, leaving approximately every 5 minutes . Prices for a single ticket start from $15.50 . The journey usually involves one change of train, but there’s typically enough time to make the connection without long waits .
When planning your trip, keep in mind that train tickets from Biarritz to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port can be more expensive when purchased on the day of travel . Booking in advance is recommended, with tickets available about 3 months before the travel date .
These day trips offer a perfect blend of culture, history, and culinary delights, allowing you to experience the rich diversity of the French Basque region beyond Biarritz.
FAQs
How long should I plan to stay in Biarritz?
To fully appreciate Biarritz, with its beautiful beaches and attractions, a stay ranging from three to seven days is recommended. For those with limited time, there are efficient ways to enjoy a shorter visit.
Is it worth visiting Biarritz in France?
Absolutely, Biarritz is a stunning seaside town on the Basque Coast of France, renowned for its surf schools and expansive sandy beaches. It’s an ideal spot for both surfing enthusiasts and those looking for a peaceful beach getaway.
When is the ideal time to visit Biarritz?
The best periods to visit Biarritz are during the spring (May to mid-June) and autumn (late September to October). During these times, hotel rates aregenerally more affordable, the weather is agreeably mild, and the summer tourist crowds are absent. However, it’s wise to bring a raincoat.
What makes Biarritz a unique destination?
Biarritz is celebrated for its dramatic coastline, stunning beaches, and powerful surf, making it a top destination for surfers. Beyond the waves, the town impresses with its rich cultural heritage, scenic natural surroundings, and distinctive Southern French cuisine.