When to go? Biarritz through the seasons
Spring and autumn: serenity and golden light
Thanks to its temperate oceanic climate, Biarritz reveals its most beautiful shades from April to June, then from September to October. Less crowded, the city invites you to stroll, walk along the coast, or enjoy the regular waves, ideal for surfers.
Summer: vibrant, salty and festive
In July and August, Biarritz comes alive with night markets, beach concerts and surfing lessons. The mild temperatures (around 25°C° °C) are perfect for enjoying the beach, a trip out to sea or an aperitif on the terrace at Etxola Bibi, facing the waves.
Winter: peaceful, elegant and contemplative
Quieter, winter reveals a more intimate Biarritz: invigorating walks, thalassotherapy with breathtaking views of the Atlantic, exhibitions and cultural getaways.
Day 1 – From the Atlantic to Les Halles: immersion in Basque culture
Morning: Waves, sea air and panoramic views
Start at the Côte des Basques, the birthplace of surfing in Europe, where early risers brave the waves. Climb up to the Rocher de la Vierge for breathtaking views of the bay. Then explore the Port des Pêcheurs, with its traditional crampottes, small colourful huts that have retained all their charm.
Lunch: Local flavours at Les Halles
The Halles de Biarritz await you: sample grilled squid, Bayonne ham and sheep's cheese, seasoned with a hint of Espelette pepper, all accompanied by a glass of Irouléguy, a crisp, full-bodied Basque wine. Finish on a sweet note with a Basque cake, with black cherries or cream.
Afternoon: Marine wellness and endless horizons
Treat yourself to a thalasso break at the Sofitel Miramar or the Thalmar centre, both overlooking the ocean. Then take a stroll along the coast road to the Biarritz lighthouse for a last glimpse of the infinite horizon.
Evening: Sunset & Basque cuisine
On the terrace at Port-Vieux or facing the sea, indulge in some veal axoa, piperade or grilled hake. At nightfall, the Docks de la Négresse light up with concerts and craft markets.
Day 2 – Heritage, nature and ocean culture
Morning: Belle Époque & maritime museums
Explore the Imperial district: the Art Deco Casino, Hôtel du Palais, elegant villas and imperial chapel are all testament to its past. Then head to the Villa Belza, perched above the waves. Ocean lovers will enjoy the Biarritz Aquarium and the Cité de l'Océan. Foodies will want to visit the Chocolate Museum.
Lunch: Feet in the sand, feast on your plate
Have lunch on Ilbarritz beach or at the Pavillon Royal, surrounded by the sea. On the menu: oysters, Spanish-style mussels, grilled fish... accompanied by a white wine from the South-West to bring out the flavours.
Afternoon: between pine trees and sea spray
Stroll around Lake Mouriscot or on Milady Beach, a special place to reconnect with nature. Feel like walking? Take the coastal path to Bidart or Guéthary, between wild cliffs and secluded coves.
Evening: a festive seaside atmosphere
At Etxola Bibi, enjoy a last drink to the sound of the waves. Then explore the narrow streets of the town centre, with its pintxo bars, live music and fireworks on the beach, depending on the season.
Where to dine and enjoy a drink?
In the evening, Biarritz takes on a festive or laid-back atmosphere, depending on your mood. In a crampotte (small café) in the Port des Pêcheurs or on an elegant terrace by the ocean, the charm works its magic. Around Les Halles, the atmosphere is lively: pintxos, local wines and bursts of laughter. Further up, intimate rooftop bars and quiet wine cellars welcome night owls in search of views and music.
Excursions around Biarritz
- Bayonne, a city of art and character, known for its ramparts, cathedral and chocolate.
- Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a small port full of charm and romance.
- La Rhune, accessible by rack railway, offers breathtaking views of the coast and mountains.
- San Sebastián, a Spanish gem combining Belle Époque architecture and refined pintxos.
Why choose Biarritz?
Easily accessible by train, plane (airport 3 km away) or car, Biarritz is a complete destination: surfing, culture, wellness, nature and gastronomy. Here, you can enjoy sheep's cheese while gazing out at the ocean, smell the Espelette pepper in the air, toast with Irouléguy wine and savour a Basque cake with breathtaking views. Whether you love the great outdoors, history, thalassotherapy or culinary delights, Biarritz is a vibrant and rejuvenating distillation of the Basque way of life.
Where to stay? Campsites and accommodation in Biarritz
Find campsites near Biarritz to organise your stay according to your preferences: nature, comfort or sea views.