- Biarritz evolved from a quiet whaling port into a luxury seaside resort following Empress Eugénie's decision to build her vacation home there in 1854.
- The city is a major hub for the international surf industry, hosting its first major surfing competition in 1957 after an American screenwriter introduced the sport there.
- Its unique architectural profile blends Basque, Belle Époque, and Art Deco styles, reflecting its transition from a fishing village to an aristocratic playground.
- The city’s climate is influenced by the warm currents of the Bay of Biscay, resulting in milder winters compared to much of northern and central France.
- Biarritz hosts the annual Biarritz Surf Festival, which has become a focal point for global surf culture since its inception in the early 1990s.
About Biarritz
Biarritz is a sophisticated coastal city in southwestern France, renowned as the birthplace of European surfing due to its powerful Atlantic swells. It rose to prominence in the mid-19th century as a royal getaway for Empress Eugénie, whose influence remains visible in the architecture surrounding the Église Sainte-Eugénie de Biarritz. Today, the town balances its regal history with a robust marine science sector, prominently showcased at the Biarritz Aquarium and the interactive City Ocean. Visitors can traverse the dramatic coastline from the iconic Phare de Biarritz down to the rugged vantage point of the Rocher de la Vierge.
Highlights of Biarritz
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Places of interest
This pedestrian bridge offers a unique vantage point over the rugged Atlantic coast and the statue of the Virgin Mary.
Zoos
The facility features a dedicated seal feeding area and a comprehensive collection of marine life from the Bay of Biscay.
Places of interest
Climbing the 248 steps of this 1834 lighthouse provides panoramic views of the entire Basque coastline.
Museums
This specialized museum offers immersive exhibits exploring the ocean's role in global climate and marine biodiversity.
Beaches and ponds
This beach is a popular local spot for swimming and watching the powerful Atlantic surf in a more relaxed setting.
Temples
Built in the late 19th century, this neo-Gothic church stands as a historical centerpiece near the Old Port.
Beaches and ponds
Located near the Hôtel du Palais, this beach is ideal for visitors seeking a scenic swim in an area with royal history.
Top things to do in Biarritz
The 67 highest-rated places in Biarritz, ranked by travellers.
1
Places of interest
The Rocher de la Vierge is a rocky outcrop in Biarritz connected to the mainland by a metal footbridge designed by Gusta...
2
Zoos
The Biarritz Aquarium is housed in a prominent 1930s Art Deco building located directly on the rocky coastline overlooki...
3
Places of interest
The Phare de Biarritz is a 73-meter-tall active lighthouse located on the Cape Hainsart promontory. Built in 1834, it ma...
4
Museums
Villa Arnaga is the neo-Basque estate in Cambo-les-Bains where playwright Edmond Rostand wrote his final works, includin...
5
Museums
Cité de l’Océan is a science museum in Biarritz designed to increase public understanding of the ocean through immersive...
6
Beaches and ponds
Milady Beach is a sandy coastal stretch in southern Biarritz characterized by a paved promenade and a dedicated playgrou...
7
Venues
La Gare du Midi is a multi-disciplinary performing arts venue housed within a historic former railway station in Biarrit...
8
Temples
Église Sainte-Eugénie is a Neo-Gothic Catholic church situated on a cliff overlooking the Port des Pêcheurs in Biarritz....
9
Beaches and ponds
Plage de l'Uhabia is a significant sandy beach located at the estuary of the Uhabia River in Bidart, south of Biarritz....
10
Beaches and ponds
Miramar Beach is a sheltered, crescent-shaped cove located between the Grand Plage and the Phare de Biarritz. The beach...
11
Beaches and ponds
Ocean Beach, locally known as La Grande Plage, is the primary central beach of Biarritz, characterized by its position d...
12
Venues
Parc des Sports d'Aguilera is the primary sports complex in Biarritz and the home ground of the Biarritz Olympique Pays...
13
Parks
The Pierre Forsans Public Garden is a tranquil urban green space located in the heart of Biarritz, serving as a landscap...
14
Beaches and ponds
Plage du Port Vieux is a sheltered, crescent-shaped cove located between the Grande Plage and the Côte des Basques in Bi...
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Museums
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Temples
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Parks
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Zoos
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Temples
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Venues
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Temples
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Temples
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Venues
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Temples
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Places of interest
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Historical places
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Temples
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Museums
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Venues
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Museums
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Biarritz on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Biarritz
Late June to early September offers the warmest weather for surfing and beach activities, though May and October provide pleasant conditions with fewer crowds.
3-4 days to experience the coastal cliff walks, major museums, and surrounding Basque Country excursions.
The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with a reliable local bus network (Chronoplus) connecting the beaches and outlying districts.
Stay in the Grande Plage area for immediate access to the heart of the town's social life, or choose the Port Vieux district for a more intimate, sheltered atmosphere.
Biarritz is generally considered an expensive destination, particularly regarding accommodation and fine dining during the summer peak season.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 67 curated attractions in and around Biarritz, ranked by traveller ratings.
Rocher de la Vierge is the highest-rated place to visit in Biarritz right now.
The largest category is museums, with 18 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Paris, Lyon, Lormont.
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