Biarritz is a beautiful coastal city in southwestern France. Known for its stunning beaches, excellent cuisine, and rich cultural history. When in Basque Country, you have to travel to Biarritz. The best things to see and do in Biarritz truly are unmissable attractions.
The Best Things To Do In Biarritz
La Grande Plage – Biarritz’s most famous beach
La Grande Plage is one of the most famous and popular beaches in Biarritz, France. It is the perfect place to relax, swim, surf, or simply people-watch. This wide and long stretch of golden sand, stretches over a kilometer along the Bay of Biscay. It offers waters that are ideal for swimming, surfing and paddleboarding.
The beachfront promenade is wide and goes from end to end. It has numerous restaurants, cafés, and shops. Which, provides plenty of opportunities to spend a full day at the beach.
Overall, La Grande Plage is a vibrant and beautiful beach that caters to all preferences. If you’re looking to sunbathe, swim, surf, or simply soak up the atmosphere, here is the place for you.
Rocher de la Vierge
Rocher de la Vierge is a natural landmark. According to legend, it is named after the Virgin Mary. She appeared to a local fisherman in the 19th century and instructed him to build a bridge to the rock. The rock features a statue of the Virgin Mary. It also has a small chapel that was built into the rock in the 19th century.
You can walk across a footbridge that extends to the rock. It offers breathtaking views of the coastline and sandy beaches of Biarritz. The rock provides excellent photo opportunities of the waves crashing against the cliffs and the iconic lighthouse.
Le Phare de Biarritz
This Biarritz lighthouse is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. A visit to the Biarritz Lighthouse provides a glimpse into the city’s maritime past and provides stunning views that should not be missed.
The lighthouse has an interesting history, having served as a lookout tower for preventing smuggling. It has also been used as a weather station, and a point for scientific research.
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Built in 1834, it stands at an impressive height of 73 meters above sea level. Climbing to the top of the lighthouse is a must-do activity for you. But be prepared for a steep and narrow climb. If you want to reserve tickets to climb the lighthouse you can do so here.
Les Halles de Biarritz – The Best Market In Biarritz
Les Halles de Biarritz is a covered market that sells fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local specialties. This must-visit destination offers an authentic taste of the local culture and is known for its bustling atmosphere.
Dating back to the 1800s, Les Halles de Biarritz has a rich history as a hub of commerce and culture. With dozens of stalls offering a variety of goods, visitors can find everything from fresh seafood and meat to cheese.
In addition to its wide selection of food and drink, the market is also home to several restaurants and bars. Some on the region’s best cuisine are here.
Les Halles de Biarritz is also a popular venue for events and activities throughout the year. Events include cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and live music performances.
Hotel du Palais
Hotel du Palais features elegant and historic architecture that speaks to its rich history. Originally built as a summer home for Napoleon III and Empress Eugenie in the 19th century. The hotel has been renovated and restored to maintain its classic French style.
The hotel’s grandeur is immediately apparent upon arrival, with its majestic entrance and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Inside, you can admire the hotel’s ornate details, including the chandeliers, frescoes, and intricate moldings.
Musée de la Mer
The Biarritz Aquarium, also known as Musée de la Mer, is fascinating. It also may be the best thing to do on a rainy day. With over 150 different species of fish, invertebrates, and marine mammals, as well as interactive exhibits and educational displays. It is an excellent choice for families and anyone interested in marine life.
One of the top highlights of the Biarritz Aquarium is the Shark Tunnel. Here you can walk through a glass tunnel surrounded by various shark species swimming overhead. The aquarium also features a tropical exhibit, displaying brightly-colored fish and coral. There is also a touch pool where visitors can interact with starfish, crabs, and other sea creatures.
Apart from the exhibits, the Biarritz Aquarium also offers a range of educational programs and activities such as guided tours, and workshops. It’s an ideal attraction for those who want to explore the natural world and learn more about marine life.
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Overall, the Biarritz Aquarium is an unmissable attraction in Biarritz, providing a unique and informative experience. It offers an immersive look into the underwater world of the Bay of Biscay and beyond.
Villa Belza
Villa Belza is a remarkable historic building situated on the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Biscay. Commissioned by wealthy Englishman Ernest Faber in the late 19th century as a holiday home for his family. The villa’s neo-gothic architectural style. It was influenced by medieval castles and Gothic cathedrals. It gives it an imposing appearance that reflects its owner’s power and wealth.
Now privately owned it is not open to the public. However, Villa Belza remains a popular tourist destination for its impressive architecture and stunning views. Additionally, its unique architectural style and dramatic location make it a favorite spot for photographers and filmmakers.
The villa has appeared in several films and TV shows over the years. It has an important cultural significance and legacy as one of the most impressive historic buildings in Biarritz.
Sainte-Eugénie Church
Sainte-Eugénie Church is a 19th-century Neo-Gothic church. It was designed by Gustave Pierre Dagrant and commissioned by Empress Eugenie. Empress Eugenie was the wife of Napoleon III. Its interior features intricate carvings, ornate altars, beautiful murals, and stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes.
The church’s grand organ, built by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll. It is a popular destination for classical music concerts and cultural events. Sainte-Eugénie Church is a must-see if you love to study architecture and classical design.
Port des Pêcheurs
Port des Pêcheurs, is a small picturesque harbor located near Sainte-Eugénie Church. It was once the main fishing port of Biarritz and remains a popular.
The port’s size and intimate feel make it a very charming area. It is a perfect area to have lunch, dinner, or an afternoon snack. Port des Pêcheurs is the perfect place to gain a better feel of where Biarritz’s maritime culture comes from.
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Casino Barrière
Casino Barrière is a popular venue and not just for gambling. It is one of the most iconic building along La Grande Plage promenade.
Apart from gaming, Casino Barrière also hosts events throughout the year. The terrace provides a breathtaking view of the beach and ocean.
The Best Outdoor Activities In Biarritz
Surfing
Biarritz is a world-renowned surfing destination. It has consistent waves, warm water, and beautiful beaches. Biarritz is often considered to be the birthplace of European surfing. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, Biarritz is a terrific area to explore and ride.
The town’s most famous surf spot is La Grande Plage. Other popular surf spots in Biarritz include Cote des Basques. Cote des Basques is a long, peeling reef break that is popular with all skill levels. Another location worth checking out is La Milady. This spot has a beach break that is ideal for intermediate surfers.
Golf de Biarritz le Phare
This world-renowned golf course should be on your golf course bucket list. Designed by Willie Dunn Jr. in 1888, it is one of Europe’s oldest golf courses. It has hosted prestigious tournaments including the French Open and the Biarritz Cup.
The course’s narrow fairways, challenging bunkers, and undulating greens provide a unique and enjoyable golfing experience. Golf de Biarritz le Phare also offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and Biarritz lighthouse,
Golf de Biarritz le Phare also offers a driving range, putting green, and a pro shop. The clubhouse provides a warm welcome to visitors with a restaurant and bar serving delicious food and drinks.
Wanting more? Read the 2 Day to Biarritz, France on Weather Permitted.