Biarritz, the pearl of the Atlantic

Nestled in the heart of the Basque Country, facing the powerful waves of the Atlantic Ocean, Biarritz is a destination that leaves no one indifferent. Whether you're planning a business trip, school trip, or family vacation, This seaside town offers a prestigious and authentic setting.

This article will help you discover why Biarritz should be your next destination and how to get there with complete peace of mind.

I. Between ocean and history: The charm of Biarritz

Biarritz possesses a fascinating dual identity. On one hand, it is the birthplace of surfing in Europe, On the one hand, it's a laid-back city, its rhythm dictated by the ocean. On the other, it's a imperial seaside resort with prestigious architecture.

1. A little bit of history

Originally, Biarritz was just a modest whaling village. Everything changed in the 19th century when Empress Eugénie fell in love with the place. Her husband, Napoleon III, had a summer residence built there in the shape of an E (the current Hôtel du Palais). From then on, Biarritz became "the queen of beaches and the beach of kings," attracting all of Europe's aristocracy.

2. Its major strengths

• A privileged microclimate: Mild in winter and rarely scorching in summer.
• A strong Basque culture: A preserved identity that can be felt in the architecture, language and gastronomy.
• An ideal geographical location: At the gateway to Spain and the Pyrenees.

Discover the city of Biarritz

II. Practical guide: What to do, what to see and where to eat in Biarritz?

1. What to see in Biarritz? The 6 must-see historical monuments and panoramic views 🏛️

Here is our selection of iconic places in Biarritz that you absolutely must not miss during your trip: 

1. The Virgin's Rock

• Address : Esplanade de la Vierge, 64200 Biarritz.
• Schedules : Open access all year round.

A true emblem of the imperial city, the Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin's Rock) is a natural wonder that owes its name to the statue of the Virgin Mary erected on its summit in 1865. This artwork was installed in memory of the sailors from Biarritz. survivors of a terrible storm thanks to a mysterious protective light.

Originally, the rock was connected to the mainland by a wooden bridge, but Napoleon III, wishing to make it an anchorage for a port of refuge, ordered the rock to be cut through. In 1887, the wooden footbridge was replaced by a metal structure resistant to the ocean's onslaught, attributed to the workshops of Gustave Eiffel.

Today, crossing this footbridge suspended above the foam offers a spectacular iodine experience, with a sweeping view across the entire bay, from the Landes coast to the Spanish mountains.

Learn more about the Virgin's Rock

2. The Biarritz Lighthouse

• Address : 65 Allée du Phare, 64200 Biarritz.
• Prices: Access to the top of the lighthouse costs €5 for adults (for ages 16 and up), €3 for children (Ages 4 to under 16). Entry is free for children up to 4 years old. Tickets can be booked online and are valid 6 months.
• Schedules : From January to April, The Biarritz Lighthouse is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 2pm to 5pm (6pm at the time change). During the school holidays, It is open every day at the same times. During the month of May, The lighthouse is open Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays from 2 pm to 6 pm. Then every day from 10 am to 7 pm. July and August.

Erected in 1834 at the top of the cliff at Pointe Saint-Martin, this white giant, 73 meters high It marks the precise geological boundary between the straight, sandy coastline of the Landes region and the rugged, rocky coast of the Basque Country. Its maritime importance is paramount: its lantern, equipped with a Fresnel lens, projects a white beam. visible every 10 seconds from over 50 kilometers out at sea to guide ships in the Bay of Biscay.

For the bravest visitors, the ascent of its 248 narrow steps The spiral staircase is rewarded with the most beautiful panorama in the region. On one side, the Grande Plage and the Hôtel du Palais unfold at your feet; on the other, the gaze embraces the beaches of Anglet and the immensity of the ocean.

Learn more about the Lighthouse

3. The Biarritz Aquarium (The Sea Museum)

• Address : Esplanade du Rocher de la Vierge, 64200 Biarritz
• Prices: 

• Schedules : 9:30am – 7pm

Inaugurated in 1933, This establishment is the’one of the oldest aquariums in France. Housed in a magnificent Art Deco building overlooking the ocean, it has been completely renovated and expanded to offer a 7,000 m² immersive experience.

The site traces the maritime history of the region and the wildlife of the Bay of Biscay before taking you to the coral reefs of the Caribbean and the Indo-Pacific. Highlights of the visit include a spectacular two-level shark tank and, above all, the daily feeding of the Atlantic grey seals on the panoramic terrace. It is an exceptional educational tool, ideal for raising awareness of marine biodiversity among school groups and families.

Learn more about the Aquarium

4. Villa Belza

• Address : 1 Boulevard du Prince de Galles, 64200 Biarritz.

Perched on the Asse rock, surrounded by the waves between the Old Port and the Basque Coast, Villa Belza is the the most mysterious monument in the city. Built between 1882 and 1895 by the architect Alphonse Bertrand for Alphonse Dufresne, This neo-medieval style residence impresses the imagination with its a quixotic dungeon and its pepperpot turret.

Its name, Belza, means "black" in Basque, which has fueled many legends of witchcraft. During the Roaring Twenties, it became the heart of Russian nights in Biarritz, transformed into a cabaret by Igor Stravinsky's brother-in-law. It was a popular haunt of the Prince of Wales and...«international aristocracy. After surviving several devastating fires and decades of neglect, it has been fully restored into luxury apartments and remains a favorite subject for photographers.

Learn more about the Villa

5. The Imperial Chapel

• Address : 15 Rue des Cent Gardes, 64200 Biarritz.
• Prices: 

-Adult: 6€
-Adolescents (aged 12 to 17): 3€
-Students, job seekers, people with disabilities: 4€

Average visit duration: 60 min.

This discreet architectural gem, listed Historical Monument, was built in 1864 At the express request of Empress Eugénie de Montijo, who wished to have a private place of worship near her summer residence, the chapel, designed by architect Émile Boeswillwald (a student of Viollet-le-Duc), boasts a unique and eclectic architecture, harmoniously blending Romanesque, Byzantine, and especially Hispano-Moorish styles, in homage to the Empress's Spanish origins.

Inside, the walls are decorated with superb azulejo-style earthenware and paintings on a gold background. Dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe (patron saint of Mexico), it testifies to the splendor of the Second Empire and the crucial role that the imperial couple played in the metamorphosis of Biarritz.

Learn more about the Chapel

6. The Fishermen's Port

• Address : Allée des Portes Louis-Napoléon, 64200 Biarritz.
• Prices: Free.
• Schedules : Every day

Built in 1870 thanks to funding from Napoleon III, This small artificial harbor is a true enclave of temporal transition, nestled below the grand imperial boulevards. It was here that the heart of old Biarritz beat, when the city thrived on... artisanal fishing.

Today, although pleasure boats and diving boats have replaced deep-sea trawlers, the site has retained all its authenticity thanks to its "crampottes". These small fishermen's huts The whitewashed walls and colorful shutters still belong to locals. The port is the ideal place to stroll sheltered from the winds, watch the ocean rush into the breakwater and soak up the atmosphere of a sailors' village preserved from the urban bustle.

Learn more about the Port

2. What to do in Biarritz? 6 cultural, sporting and recreational activities 🎒

1. The City of the Ocean

• Address : 1 Avenue de la Plage, 64200 Biarritz.
• Prices: 

• Schedules : 10am – 7pm

Designed by the famous New York architect Steven Holl, The City of the Ocean is a science theme park Unique in its kind, its exterior architecture evokes the shape of a giant wave. Unlike a traditional museum, this space focuses on interactivity, playfulness, and cutting-edge technologies to help people understand the secrets of the ocean (wave formation, ocean currents, ecosystems).

Ideal for groups and company outings, The site offers virtual reality surf simulators (Virtual Surf), a dynamic 4D cinema, and immersive 360° animations like Virtual Trip, which plunges you into the middle of sharks. It's a captivating experience which perfectly combines scientific education and thrills.

Learn more about the City of the Ocean

2. Learn to surf at Côte des Basques Beach

• Address : Boulevard du Prince de Galles, 64200 Biarritz

Biarritz is internationally recognized as the European surfing capital, and the Côte des Basques is its sacred cradle. It was here that in 1956, during the filming of the movie The Sun Also Rises, the American screenwriter Peter Viertel slid the very first surfboard onto French waves.

Supervised by majestic cliffs Offering spectacular views of the Spanish mountains, this beach is the ideal spot for beginners or those looking to improve their surfing skills. Numerous surf schools offer group lessons suitable for all ages (with professional instruction and equipment included). Note the local peculiarity: At high tide, the beach disappears completely underwater and surfers have to climb back up the steps built along the rock.

3. Explore and shop at the Biarritz Market Hall

• Address : Rue des Halles, 64200 Biarritz
• Schedules : The Biarritz market halls are open every day from 7:30 am – 2 pm

Built at the end of the 19th century and completely modernized, the Biarritz Market Halls are the economic, social, and culinary heart of the city. Divided into two separate buildings, One section is reserved for fishmongers and the freshness of the catch, the other for greengrocers, butchers and cheesemongers; the market halls come alive. every morning in a festival of scents and colors.

For a traveler, it's the perfect place to understand Basque culture through its flagship products: Espelette pepper, Ossau-Iraty sheep's cheese, Basque cake, and artisanal charcuterie. The essential ritual is to stroll through the area in the late morning to enjoy oysters or tapas directly from the stalls, among the locals.

Learn more about Les Halles

4. Try your luck at the Casino Barrière

• Address : 1 Avenue Édouard VII, 64200 Biarritz

Majestically situated on the sands of the Grande Plage, the Casino Barrière is a a masterpiece of 1920s Art Deco architecture. As a privileged witness to the high society life and extravagant parties that have made the seaside resort internationally renowned, the establishment has managed to survive through the ages, preserving its old-world elegance while modernizing its infrastructure.

Beyond its gaming rooms (state-of-the-art slot machines, Blackjack tables, English Roulette and Texas Hold'em Poker), the casino houses a a restaurant and a bar whose terraces offer a breathtaking panoramic view of the waves. It is a central cultural venue that regularly hosts shows, seminars and gala dinners.

Learn more about the Casino

5. Attend a Basque Pelota match at Plaza Berri

• Address : 42 Avenue du Maréchal Foch, 64200 Biarritz
• Practical information: Maximum 14/15 people (otherwise please inquire), ages 10 and up, all equipment provided, sportswear and water bottle required

It's impossible to stay in the region without discovering the Basque pelota, the traditional sport which embodies all the strength and vibrancy of the local identity.

Built in 1932, the Plaza Berri is a historic covered pelota court, famous for its superb wooden frame and upper galleries where bettors once crowded together. Pelota encompasses several specialties, but the most spectacular remains Cesta Punta, where the ball (the pelota) is propelled against the wall at speeds exceeding 250 km/h using a large, curved wicker glove. Attending a tournament at the Plaza Berri allows you to experience the thrill of Basque songs, the clatter of the ball against the fronton, and the fervent atmosphere of the local fans.

Learn more about the Plaza Berri

6. Explore the historic Lighthouse Golf Course

• Address : 2 Avenue Edith Cavell, 64200 Biarritz
• Prices: See website

Created in 1888 by the British community who had taken up their winter quarters in Biarritz, the Golf du Phare is the’one of the oldest golf courses in continental Europe. Designed by architect Willie Dunn, this route of 18 holes (Par 69) extends over 34 hectares right in the heart of the city, a stone's throw from the Lighthouse.

While its relatively flat terrain makes it easy to handle, the course demands considerable technical skill due to the numerous strategically placed bunkers and, above all, the ever-present influence of the westerly wind that sweeps across the course. Bordered by centuries-old trees and sumptuous period villas, this golf course is a verdant haven of peace steeped in sporting history.

Learn more about the Biarritz Golf Course

3. Where to eat in Biarritz? The 6 culinary institutions and gourmet addresses 🍽️ 

Since a love of good food often makes itself known, here is a selection of places where you can enjoy local specialties in a relaxed atmosphere: 

1. Maison Balme / Chez Sébastien (Biarritz Market Halls)

• Address : Biarritz Market Halls, Rue des Halles, 64200 Biarritz.

Located inside the covered market itself, This stall perfectly embodies the art of Basque-style "nibbles." Run by passionate locals, this stand is a favorite stop for gourmets looking to enjoy an authentic tasting break amidst the morning bustle.

You can order some there platters of exceptional charcuterie Bayonne ham aged for months, genuine Kintoa black pork, or perfectly dried country sausages. Accompanied by a glass of Irouléguy white wine or a Spanish Rioja, it's the ideal place to understand why Basque gastronomy is above all a story of sharing, conviviality, and respect for the raw ingredients.

Learn more about the restaurant

2. Jean's Bar

• Address : 5 Rue des Halles, 64200 Biarritz.

A true institution of Biarritz's nightlife and daytime since the years 1930, Bar Jean is located directly opposite Les Halles. From late afternoon onwards, the establishment fills with a cheerful and eclectic crowd gathered around its huge zinc bar. The specialty here is... pintxos (Basque tapas): slices of bread topped with tortilla, grilled sweet peppers (padrones), grilled cuttlefish (chipirons) or pan-fried foie gras.

The interior décor, with its Spanish azulejos tiles and vintage bullfighting posters, sets the scene for a festive evening. It's the perfect place for a group looking to experience a A lively and colourful cocktail dinner.

Learn more about Bar Jean

3. Chistera and shells

• Address : 13 Rue des Halles, 64200 Biarritz.

Run by the same family for several generations, Chistera et Coquillages is the go-to restaurant for anyone looking to enjoy traditional, generous, and slow-cooked Basque cuisine. The decor pays vibrant homage to local sports (pelota, rugby) and the culture of the inland villages.

The à la carte menu features classic regional dishes prepared with meticulous attention to detail: the famous Basque chicken with peppers and confit tomatoes, veal Axoa (a minced meat dish seasoned with Espelette pepper), or even cod à la koskera. The portions are generous, the welcome is warm and the typically Basque atmosphere guarantees a memorable meal based on authenticity.

Learn more about the restaurant

4. The Carlos

• Address : 7 Boulevard du Prince de Galles, 64200 Biarritz.

Ideally perched on the cliff overlooking the legendary Côte des Basques beach, Le Carlos is the ultimate trendy lifestyle spot in Biarritz. With its carefully curated décor blending influences retro, bohemian and maritime, This establishment offers a hybrid concept combining a beach bar, restaurant, and late-night club. People come in the late afternoon to sip a signature cocktail to the sounds of DJ sets, while admiring the surfers below.

The kitchen offers a modern and fresh menu, facing the ocean (tuna tataki, sea bream ceviche, gourmet burgers). But the true luxury of Carlos remains its terrace, offering one of the most beautiful sunsets in the region over the vast Atlantic.

Learn more about Le Carlos

5. The Miremont House

• Address : 1B Place Bellevue, 64200 Biarritz.

Founded in 1872, Maison Miremont is the oldest and most prestigious tea room from Biarritz. Listed for its interior mosaic decorations and period woodwork, this historically rich place has seen all the crowned heads of Europe pass through its doors, from the King Alfonso XIII of Spain to Queen Victoria of Englande, who was a regular there. The playwright Edmond Rostand even said that at teatime, Miremont was "less a salon than a small parliament of queens".

Facing the large glass roof opening onto Bellevue Square and the ocean, Here, you can enjoy a traditional hot chocolate of exceptional creaminess, accompanied by legendary pastries such as the "Biarritz" or the "Saint-Honoré". A refined and unmissable journey through time.

Discover the Maison Miremont Instagram account

6. The Pariès House

• Address : 1 Place Bellevue, 64200 Biarritz.

Founded in 1895 Founded by Jacques Pariès, this establishment is one of the most renowned and respected confectionery brands in the entire Basque Country. Passed down from generation to generation, the chocolate and confectionery shop has managed to preserve its artisanal production secrets. The shop on Place Bellevue is a must-see for any visitor wishing to take home gourmet souvenirs. People flock there for their Authentic Basque Cake, Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, available with almond cream or Itxassou black cherry jam. Don't miss their exclusive specialties: Mouchous (small, soft macarons with sweet almonds) and Kanougas (soft caramel fondant cakes invented in 1905).

Learn more about Maison Pariès

III. How to get here? Travel time from major cities

To best organize your group trip, here is an overview of travel times to reach Biarritz by road from the main French cities:

IV. What are the advantages of bus rental for a stay in Biarritz?

Traveling to Biarritz in a group is a great idea, but the logistics can quickly become a headache (difficult traffic in high season, complicated parking in the city center, driver fatigue). Hiring a minivan or bus with a private driver is the ideal solution..

⭐ Comfort and cohesion: Everyone travels together in a modern, air-conditioned and equipped vehicle (Wi-Fi, power outlets). The trip begins as soon as you board.

⭐ Economical and ecological: Divided by the number of passengers, the cost per person is often much lower than by train or plane. Furthermore, a single coach pollutes far less than ten individual cars.

⭐ Total flexibility: You determine your schedule, pick-up points, and route. Your driver drops you off as close as possible to the attractions (Rocher de la Vierge, Les Halles, etc.) without you having to look for a parking space.

V. Why choose Francebus as your transport provider in Biarritz?

To ensure your trip to Biarritz is a complete success, choosing the right transport provider is crucial. We position ourselves as your trusted partner thanks to our recognized expertise in the national market.

👉 A modern and suitable fleet: From minibuses for small groups to large "luxury" coaches with more than 50 seats, we have the perfect vehicle for your project.

Discover our fleet of vehicles.

👉 Local professional drivers: Our drivers are rigorously selected for their punctuality, courtesy and knowledge of the specific road conditions in the South-West region.

👉 A customized and responsive service: Transfer from Biarritz train station, Biarritz-Pays Basque airport, or pick-up directly from your city of origin anywhere in France: we adapt to your specifications.

👉 Safety and peace of mind: All our vehicles meet the strictest safety standards. Travel with peace of mind; Francebus takes care of the journey.

Discover our bus rental services in Biarritz.

Choosing Francebus means to make sure : 

✅ comfort 

✅ reliability 

✅ punctuality 

✅ safety 

✅ peace of mind 

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Don't hesitate any longer and travel with Francebus! 

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