City Guide


Biarritz is one of Europe's most beautiful and stylish cities, resting on the French/ Spanish border this coastal town embraces three cultures (French, Basque and Spanish). Moreover its mild climate makes it a good destination all year round. People are drawn to the stunning beaches, the surf, the golf, elegance and pure style.
Furthermore low cost carriers such Ryanair and Easyjet has made this enchanting city far more accessible - opening up the possibility to visit for short breaks at very reasonable rates. From international festivals, Basque fiestas, art exhibitions, trade fairs, surfing competitions and golf tournaments, to shows, street theatre, forums... there is always something going on in Biarritz.

 

Biarritz Top Sites to see during your stay in Biarritz

Grande Plage & Light House

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A walk along the Grande Plage to the Light House is a must. The scenary and architecture leave you in no doubt why Biarritz gets its reputation. On a clear day you can easily see Spain and the Pyrenees. The Grande Plage is a magnificent beach in front of the Casino, the Hotel du Palais and the city.
Considered one of the best spots in the world for surfing, the Biarritz area attracts amateurs & professionals alike from 4 corners of the world who appreciate the exceptional quality of the waves there.
Hotel du Palais

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Amongst the sites to visit the grandest address in town has to be Hotel Du Palais which was formerly the summer mansion of Napoleon III and Empress Eugenia; guests have included Queen Victoria, Frank Sinatra and Ernest Hemingway. The Hotel du Palais overlooks Biarritz' main beaches and the Atlantic beyond. Its luxury and ageless charm coupled with the areas’ outstanding sports facilities make the Palais an international Mecca for vacationers and sports enthusiasts alike.
Galerie Lafayette
Shopping

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In Biarritz, major boutiques with big designer names from Paris can be found on Place Clemenceau (Galerie Lafayette) in the centre of Biarritz, as well as along the elegant rue Mazagran and avenue Edouard VII ( Hermes & Gerad Darel ).
All the world’s surf wear labels, including surf wear gurus Quiksilver, Roxy, O’Neill and Billabong, can be found in the many surf shops by Grand Plage Beach and around Place du Port Vieux. Whether you are a surfer or not, you can certainly look the part!
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Dining with sharks !
The Aquarium / Musee de la Mer

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The Biarritz Aquarium and the City of the Ocean are two exceptional places to visit. On 10th August 1933, the Biarritz Aquarium opened its doors to the public for the first time. Over the years, the Aquarium has continually succeeded in reinventing itself.
In 2008, the city of Biarritz decided to expand the Aquarium. After 2 years of massive construction works, visitors are now able to journey along the famous Gulf Stream, from the Bay of Biscay through to the Caribbean and Indo-Pacific...
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Rocher de la Vierge & Old Port

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Near the pretty bay and beach at the Old Port you can walk out to the "Rock of the Virgin". This is usually a very calm and beautiful experience however the waves are known to crash over the walkway at very high tides. This was built in 1864 and it said to ensure the 'safe return' of the local fishermen.
If you head up the 'Rue du Port View' you will find Back Packers and the cheaper hotels. This area is full off life at night with great places to eat.
Chocolate Museum

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History of the Basque Country and the Chocolate are intertwined and confused. To discover the bond between them visit the chocolate museum in Biarritz ...
The journey begins with a welcome tasting, followed by film which will reveal the secrets of history. You will also find a unique collection of molds, boxes, machinery, chocolate pots, enameled plates .... and other spectacular sculptures in chocolate!
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City de la Ocean

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One of Biarritz’s truly unique sites designed by celebrated New York architect, Steven Holl, who has married the shape of the waves of the Basque Coast. The museum overlooks the ocean to which it is dedicated. Inside you will find 12 universes based on the historical and scientic data, providing the visitor the keys to better understand the sea’s and the oceans of the world.
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