Biarritz holidays and city breaks

The Beaches:

Holiday like a royal and soak up the beautiful Basque sunshine from the golden sands of the Grande Plage which stretches along the Bay of Biscay. Rent one of the traditional colourful stripped tents on this central beach and enjoy proximity to stylish shops and restaurants. For a smaller quieter beach, opt for the rocky cove of Port Vieux or the tranquil Plage du Miramar. And for stunning views stroll the promenade along Plage La Milady. 

Surfing:

If you’re seeking some thrills from your Biarritz holiday, pack your surfboard and get down to La Cote Des Basques. Surrounded by cliffs, this is a surfers paradise and the birthplace of the sport in Europe, when a Caifornian screenwriter brought the first board here in the 1950s. Overlooking the coast of Spain, the 800metre stretch also offers serene walkways but keep in mind when the tide is high the beach disappears.

Cuisine:

As a gem of the Basque Country, Biarritz offers a fusion of cuisine from both French and Spanish traditions as well as its own specialities such as Pintxos, their version of tapas. The unique dishes range from salt cod and tuna stew to burnt cheesecake and sparkling cider.

Day Trips:

Biarritz is a great base from which to discover more of the Basque coastline. Take a day trip over the Spanish border to San Sebastian and sample the celebrated cuisine, or to the quaint fishing town of Saint Jean De Luz and soak up the atmosphere among the traditional wooden houses in the town centre.

Culture:

Discover the glamourous history of the seaside resort with a visit to The Hotel du Palais, built in 1854 by Napoleon III and his wife Eugenie de Montijo. Explore it’s more traditional history with a walk around the old own of Port Vieux and admire the old fishermen houses known as crampottes or simply immerse yourself in the beach lifestyle that has earned Biarritz the title of European California.

Virgins Rock:

Marvel at the marble wonder of the Rocher de la Vierge, a Statue of the Virgin Mary erected to watch over the fishermen of the once whaling community. Enjoy panoramic views of the coast, with the Pyrenees to the south and Biarritz lighthouse to the north. The monument is connected to the mainland by a footbridge.

Saint Eugenie’s Church:

This magnificent neo-Gothic church was built in 1898 in honour of Empress Eugenie de Montijo. Overlooking Port Vieux, the building is an icon of the city so whether you stay for a mass or just take a look inside to admire the stained glass, it’s definitely a must see for any visitor.

The Casino:

Standing proudly along the Grande plage, the Casino municipal is not only a fully operating casino but a symbol of the city’s post war revival. The Art Deco building was a major tourism draw before facing demolition in the 1980s, only to be saved as a listed historical monument in 1992. Now you can enjoy a little flutter along with dinner and a show.

The Aquarium:

A must see for curious children and marine lovers of all ages, the Musee de la Mer contains around 60 aquariums that are home to native species such as octopus and seahorses and exotic creatures such as the boxer crab and zebra pipefish. The perfect spot for a fun Biarritz family holiday activity.

Fisherman’s Port:

This cosy little cove is tucked under the cliffs and provides the perfect spot to sit and enjoy the ambience from one of the restaurants. Let the day slip by as you watch the fishermen bring their boats in and out of the tiny port with much grace and expertise.

Basque Chicken:

Tuck into this slow roasted chicken with tomatoes, peppers and the local staple ingredient espelette peppers. Usually served with rice and salad.

Pintxos:

These small bites are popular in bars and restaurants throughout the Basque region. Nibble the night away on small pieces of bread topped with anchovies, fried peppers, cheese and the local delicacy Bayonne Ham.

Oysters:

Cited as the regions best oyster spot, Biarritz has plenty of the delicacy on offer, whether you prefer to enjoy them at a market stall or in a fine dining restaurant served with some local white wine.

Marmitako:

Indulge in this hearty Basque tuna stew with potatoes, red peppers, onion, garlic and fresh parsley, served in a metal pot which is actually the direct translation of the name.

Torrijas:

The region’s version of French toast consists of brioche soaked in eggs and milk that once fried, is covered in an orange cinnamon syrup.

Bus:

The best way to get around Biarritz is the Chronoplus bus, which serves most of the city as well as the neighbouring Bayonne and Anglet.

Trams:

The Txik Txak trams links the centre of Biarritz to Bayonne in 30 minutes and it’s 100% green energy powered.

Rentals:

Take your transportation into your own hands and rent a car, bar or scooter.