Welcome to Biarritz—the stylish seaside town on France’s Basque coast, where surf culture meets Belle Époque elegance. Whether you’re visiting for a short getaway or a longer stay, this guide will walk you through the must-see sights, local lifestyle favorites, places to eat, where to enjoy an evening out, and practical transport tips to help you experience Biarritz like someone who lives here.
The Top Things to Do in Biarritz
Rocher de la Vierge
A short walk from the town centre, Rocher de la Vierge is a rocky promontory connected by a footbridge to the beach, that offers one of the most photographed panoramas in Biarritz. Access to the site is free, and it is best visited during daylight hours to fully enjoy the views.
Phare de Biarritz
The lighthouse is located at Pointe Sainte-Marie and requires climbing 248 steps to reach the top, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the coast and the Pyrenees on clear days. While the surrounding grounds are free to explore, access to the tower’s viewing platform is limited and only open seasonally, with a modest admission fee of €5 for adults. During the high season, short waiting times may occur.
Côte des Basques
This historic surf beach faces the bay and is a lively hub for surfers and spectators alike. It is also a gathering place for many local surf schools. Access to the beach is free, and group surf lessons typically cost between €25 and €45 for a two-hour session, depending on the school and the season. Private lessons are more expensive. To ensure optimal conditions, it is important to book surf lessons according to the tide and the time of day.
Aquarium de Biarritz
Located on the waterfront near the Grande Plage in an Art-Deco building, the Aquarium de Biarritz features species from the Bay of Biscay, seals, and a variety of educational exhibits. Tickets cost around €17 for adults, with reduced rates for children, students, and seniors. Families can benefit from special passes, and combined tickets with the nearby Cité de l’Océan offer excellent value. It is recommended to check the official website for current prices, opening hours, and seasonal promotions before visiting.
Cité de l’Océan
Situated north of the city, the Cité de l’Océan is a modern, interactive museum dedicated to oceans, surfing, and marine science, featuring immersive exhibitions and simulators. Adult tickets cost €15, with reduced rates available for children, students, and families. Combined tickets with the Biarritz Aquarium are available for €28 for adults and provide a convenient way to visit both attractions. Most visitors spend between one and a half to three hours exploring the interactive exhibits and immersive installations.
Surfing & Lessons
Côte des Basques is the town’s surf cradle: beginner waves near shore, more challenging breaks at higher tide. Surf schools such as Ocean Adventure and Surf Training offer small-group lessons on La Grande Plage, usually with a maximum of six to eight participants, as well as equipment rentals. Prices for adult group sessions typically range from €25 to €45 for a 1.5 to 2-hour class, depending on the season and instructor level. Wetsuits are provided in most cases, but it’s best to bring or rent one if you’re surfing during the cooler shoulder months.
Coastal Walks and Viewpoints
These coastal walks are free of charge and offer some of the best views in Biarritz. A popular route starts at the Rocher de la Vierge, then continues along the scenic promenade to the Plateau de l’Atalaye before reaching the lighthouse at Pointe Sainte-Marie. Plan for about one to two hours to complete the loop. The paths can be uneven in some areas, so wearing sturdy, comfortable shoes is recommended—especially if you intend to explore the cliffside sections.
Boat & Coastal Trips
Several local operators depart from the Port des Pêcheurs, offering a range of boat excursions and sunset cruises along the Basque coast. Prices vary depending on the length of the trip and the season—short scenic outings typically start around €20–€30 per person, while private charters or longer coastal tours can cost upwards of €100. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during summer months when demand is high.
Stroll Les Halles & Market Culture
The covered market of Les Halles de Biarritz, open daily from around 7:30 am, is the beating heart of the town’s culinary scene. Bustling with locals and visitors alike, it showcases the best of Basque gastronomy—from freshly caught seafood and local cheeses to colorful produce, cured meats, and pintxos served at lively tapas stands. It’s a must-visit spot for breakfast, a casual lunch, or simply soaking up the authentic market atmosphere.
Ride or Walk the Coastline
Locals often rent bikes or take unhurried walks along the scenic coastline, following palm-lined promenades that overlook the Atlantic. The sea breeze, gentle hills, and panoramic views make it an easy and enjoyable way to explore the town’s quieter corners—from hidden coves to elegant seaside villas—and to experience Biarritz at a slower pace beyond the main beaches.
Sunset Aperitif at the Beach
As the day draws to a close, make your way to the coast—particularly the quays near Port des Pêcheurs—where locals gather to unwind with a drink or a glass of regional wine. As the sky turns golden and the sun dips into the Atlantic, the relaxed atmosphere, the sound of the waves, and the view of fishing boats bobbing in the harbor create a simple yet unforgettable end to the day.
Le Festi’Lashai
More than just a bar, Le Festi’Lashai is a beloved local Basque music festival that celebrates the spirit and culture of the region. With live performances, communal dancing, and an atmosphere rooted in local pride, it’s one of the most authentic ways to experience Biarritz’s lively, community-driven nightlife.
What to Eat in Biarritz
- Poulet Basquaise: A stew of chicken, peppers, and tomatoes typical of the region.
- Axoa: Veal cooked with peppers and onions, a Basque-country classic.
- Piperade: Pepper, tomato, and onion sauté, often served with eggs or ham.
- Fresh oysters and seafood: Especially near the port and coast.
- Pintxos: Basque-style tapas, often based on seafood or local ingredients.
- Jambon de Bayonne & Ossau-Iraty cheese: Local charcuterie and sheep’s milk cheese from the Pyrenees.
- Gâteau Basque: A decadent tart (filled with either cream or cherry jam) for dessert.
Biarritz Restaurants & Cafés
Chez Albert
Chez Albert is a seaside institution perched on the old fishing port, with terrace views over the ocean. Specialising in wild-caught fish and shellfish, the menu features oysters, grilled turbot, sardines from Saint-Jean-de-Luz, and homemade desserts. Main courses generally range from €20 to €35, while seafood platters and specialty dishes are priced higher. Due to its popularity and limited seating, advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons.
Le Café de Paris
Le Café de Paris is an iconic brasserie facing the sea, offering a mix of Basque-inspired dishes and brasserie classics. It strikes the perfect balance—refined enough for a lovely dinner, yet casual and authentic enough to remain a true local favorite.Main dishes are typically priced between €20 and €35. The menu highlights seasonal ingredients, and the spacious terrace offers one of the best spots in town for dining with a view of the sea.
Chez Scott
Chez Scott is a small, chef-led restaurant with seasonal menus and a focus on local produce—a good option for a refined but friendly dining experience. Tasting and set menus change with the season, but main dishes generally range from €25 to €45, depending on the chef’s selection and local market produce.
La Table d’Aurélien
La Table d’Aurélien Largeau offers one of Biarritz’s finest dining experiences—a contemporary Michelin-starred restaurant that celebrates local Basque ingredients with creativity and precision. It’s refined enough for a memorable celebration, yet grounded in the region’s culinary traditions. Tasting menus range from about €80 to over €180, depending on the season and wine pairings, and reservations are strongly recommended.
Les Halles de Biarritz
Les Halles de Biarritz is perfect for casual, local eating, go to the covered market (Les Halles) for oysters, pintxos, cheeses and takeaway bistronomy. It’s an ideal place to sample local produce without breaking the bank—most tapas, pintxos, and market snacks range between €5 and €15, making it perfect for a casual and flavorful lunch.
The Best Bars in Biarritz
Biarritz offers a vibrant mix of classic taverns, beachside lounges, and refined cocktail bars, each contributing to the city’s easygoing yet stylish nightlife scene.
Bar Jean
Bar Jean is a long-standing favorite among locals, Bar Jean is known for its generous tapas, flavorful paella, and buzzing atmosphere. The crowd is friendly and the energy high, making it an ideal spot for a casual night out. Tapas and drinks are reasonably priced, with shared plates ranging from €6 to €18.
The Rooftop by Olatua
Olatua is ideal for stunning sunset cocktails with panoramic ocean views, head to one of the hotel rooftops overlooking the Grande Plage—many open seasonally from spring through early autumn. Expect creative cocktails priced around €10–€18, with additional options for small sharing plates or tapas.
Eden Rock Café
The Eden Rock Café is a charming establishment serving inventive, well-crafted drinks priced between €8 and €15. Perched above the famous Port-Vieux beach, the bar offers a stunning ocean view. Arrive early to see the sunset and be sure to get a table!
Blue Cargo
The Blue Cargo is a laid-back beachfront restaurant by day; by night, Blue Cargo transforms into one of Biarritz’s most iconic beach clubs. Set right on the sand of Côte des Basques, it attracts locals and visitors alike for sunset cocktails before the music turns up and the dance floor comes alive.
The Carré Coast
Le Carré Coast is located just steps from the Grande Plage, Carré Coast is an upscale lounge bar that combines elegance with coastal cool. Perfect for sipping champagne or craft cocktails with ocean views, it transitions later in the evening into a more festive, DJ-led ambiance.
Practical Transport & Tips for Exploring Biarritz
- Walkability: Biarritz is compact and most central sights (Grande Plage, Port des Pêcheurs, Rocher de la Vierge) are within a 10–20 minute walk of one another.
- Scooters are a popular and practical way to get around Biarritz—locals often favor them over cars for navigating the narrow streets and coastal hills, avoiding parking hassles while enjoying quick, breezy rides between beaches and the town center.
- Public transport: Local bus services connect the city and nearby beaches and museums. Check local timetables for routes to Cité de l’Océan and airport links.
- Parking & cars: Parking in the center is limited and expensive in high season; many locals prefer walking, bikes, or scooters. If you rent a car for excursions, plan parking in advance.
- Gear notes: If you plan to surf, check with your school about board transport rules on buses; many schools provide boards and wetsuits.
Valentine Marchou is a French journalist with a keen eye for culture, lifestyle, and society. After honing her skills in several French newsrooms, she now aims to tell stories that bridge French and English-speaking worlds through art, food, and everyday life.
