Best Travel Guide Biarritz | ArrivalGuides.com

BiarritzGuide was updated: 2025-06-23

They all used to come here: from Coco Chanel and Ernest Hemingway to Frank Sinatra and the royals. Biarritz used to be the Monte Carlo of the Atlantic coast. With time, the glamour faded, bringing in a new, fresh wave of travellers. Thanks to windsurfing and other water sports, however, the charming city has rejuvenated. It is now the perfect destination for a relaxing weekend break, and there is no need to rush: the city is fairly small and you can easily see everything even on a short visit.

Do & See

Biarritz is located in Basque territory, 18km from the Spanish border. The sunny location on the Bay of Biscay makes it perfect for surfing and this culture is deeply rooted in the city’s ambience. Several prestigious surf tournaments have been hosted by Biarritz. Other popular sports practised here are Basque pelota, golf, and rugby.

Hôtel du Palais

Eugénie, the wife of Napoleon III, created Hôtel du Palais at the end of the 19th century, and it still towers over the northern end of Grand Plage. A visit is well worth the time. In fact, it is essentially a must-see – the interiors and the atmosphere are reminiscent of a bygone era.

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Plateau de l'Atalaye

The views of the Atlantic waves crashing over the cliffs below are dramatic. This is where the whale watchers would have been on the lookout, at a small building called cloche d'Alarme. A statue of the Virgin Mary, raised in 1865, perches on one of the cliffs that can be reached via a bridge. Nearby is also the quaint Place Sainte-Eugénie and the old fishing port Port des Pêcheurs. Take a casual walk around and do not forget to pass the park Esplanade de la Vierge or the local aquarium close by.

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Russian Orthodox Church

The Russian orthodox church of Alexander Nevsky may seem a bit out of place, but just before the Russian revolution in 1917, many aristocrats arrived here and bought that piece of land where they built up the church.

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Biarritz Aquarium

The Biarritz Aquarium, also known as le Musée de la Mer, is a great place to take your family for an impressive marine display. The diverse sea life is portrayed in an elegant and entertaining manner. Eagle rays measuring 90cm in width share their tank with about 30 sharks, barracudas, seals, and many more.

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City of the Ocean

The museum Cité de l’Océan et du Surf can answer questions like: where does the water in the oceans come from? Did Atlantis really exist? Would we be here if the ocean never existed? More than one of your senses will be engaged in the fun journey toward learning about the depths of the ocean. 3D animations and interactive devices will guide you along your way.

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The Basque Coast

It is hard to say what is the coast's biggest attraction, the great surfing spots or the amazing views. Whichever is your cup of tea, do not miss this excellent waterside area.

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France

Biarritz

Do & See

Hôtel du Palais

Plateau de l'Atalaye

Russian Orthodox Church

Biarritz Aquarium

City of the Ocean

The Basque Coast