Biarritz, a stunning coastal city in the southwest of France, is renowned for its beautiful beaches, surf culture, and luxurious spa facilities. Once a favored retreat for European royalty, Biarritz combines a rich history with vibrant modern life. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from surfing the Atlantic waves to exploring the charming streets filled with boutiques and cafes.
The destination guide
Biarritz
Travel guides for Biarritz
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At a glance
Currency€ EURCode: EUR
Time zoneCentral European Time
Languages
- French
Setting
- Atlantic coast
- Basque surfing beaches
- Lighthouse cliffs
- Elegant promenades
Known for
- Surfing & Beaches
- Luxury Resorts
- Basque Culture
- Ocean Views.
Population109K109,116 residents
VisaDuration: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area · Documents: Valid passport issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months after planned departure, plus proof of accommodation, onward or return travel, and sufficient funds if requested
How Biarritz scores
8/10OverallExcellent
Weather8/10
Value for money6/10
Food & cuisine8/10
Culture & arts6/10
Cultural experience7/10
Nature & outdoors8/10
Adventure4/10
Nightlife6/10
Shopping6/10
Family friendly5/10
Romance8/10
Editorial scores on a 10-point scale, weighed against destinations of the same kind.
Travel safety snapshot
Overall84/100High rating
Women travellers82/100
LGBTQ+ travellers80/100
Theft78/100
Medical care88/100
Physical harm88/100
Political freedom80/100
SafePlace indicators use their source 100-point scale; higher is more favourable. Planning context, not a live travel advisory — check official government guidance before you go.
When to go
Best months to visit: April, May, June, July, August, September and October.
- January: 7.1 to 11.6 degrees Celsius, 82.6 millimetres of rain, best-time score 2 out of 5.
- February: 6.6 to 12.5 degrees Celsius, 37.9 millimetres of rain, best-time score 2 out of 5.
- March: 7.3 to 14.2 degrees Celsius, 17.5 millimetres of rain, best-time score 3 out of 5.
- April: 9.3 to 15.4 degrees Celsius, 40.3 millimetres of rain, best-time score 4 out of 5.
- May: 10.8 to 15.9 degrees Celsius, 33.8 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- June: 14.1 to 19.8 degrees Celsius, 31.3 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- July: 16.1 to 22.7 degrees Celsius, 17.1 millimetres of rain, best-time score 4 out of 5.
- August: 17.6 to 22.9 degrees Celsius, 20.6 millimetres of rain, best-time score 4 out of 5.
- September: 15.8 to 22.6 degrees Celsius, 26.4 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- October: 12.8 to 18.8 degrees Celsius, 19.2 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- November: 10.4 to 15.1 degrees Celsius, 54.9 millimetres of rain, best-time score 3 out of 5.
- December: 8.1 to 12.6 degrees Celsius, 37.1 millimetres of rain, best-time score 2 out of 5.
Month-by-month conditions and packing advice
- January
- Cool weather, some rain January in Biarritz: winter storms and cooler weather make a classic beach trip less balanced. Crowds: January is firmly in the low tourist season for Biarritz, offering a calm, unhurried experience for visitors. The cooler temperatures and frequent rainfall make it better suited for cultural pursuits—such as exploring local markets, visiting the city’s renowned thalassotherapy spas, or enjoying the café scene—than for sunbathing. Accommodation prices are generally at their lowest, and availability is excellent. Surfers will find powerful winter swells, though conditions are challenging and best for experienced riders. Some seasonal restaurants or attractions may have reduced hours, so travelers should plan indoor and outdoor activities with flexibility in mind. Pack: Waterproof jacket with hood for rain protection; Warm sweater or fleece for layering; Sturdy waterproof walking shoes; Compact travel umbrella; Scarf and gloves for brisk coastal winds; Casual attire suitable for cafés and indoor attractions
- February
- Cool weather, some rain February in Biarritz: winter storms and cooler weather make a classic beach trip less balanced. Crowds: February is the quiet season in Biarritz, offering travelers a slower pace and far fewer crowds at landmarks like the Rocher de la Vierge or the covered Les Halles market. Accommodation prices are more favorable, making it a good time for budget-conscious visitors. The weather supports cultural sightseeing, coastal walks, and culinary exploration rather than extended beach lounging. Some seasonal restaurants may operate on reduced hours, but local institutions remain open year-round. Surfing conditions can be excellent for experienced riders, though the chilly water demands full wetsuits. Booking flexibility is high, and last-minute deals are more common during this period. Pack: Warm, waterproof jacket for cool rainy days; Layered sweaters and long-sleeve shirts; Comfortable waterproof walking shoes; Compact travel umbrella; Full wetsuit for surfing; Scarf and gloves for breezy coastal walks
- March
- Cool weather, mostly dry March in Biarritz: cooler transition weather narrows beach plans. Crowds: March offers a quieter travel experience in Biarritz, with cooler temperatures well-suited for coastal walks, café culture, and exploring the city’s architectural and cultural heritage without summer crowds. It sits firmly in the shoulder season, meaning moderate accommodation prices and greater availability. Surfing remains a key draw, though the water is chilly, requiring wetsuits. While beach lounging isn’t yet practical for most visitors, the calm conditions and low rainfall make it an excellent month for photography and relaxed sightseeing. Advance bookings aren’t essential except for boutique stays or spa appointments, allowing for a more spontaneous itinerary. Pack: Light sweater or fleece for cool mornings; Waterproof windbreaker for coastal breezes; Comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrain; Wetsuit for surfing or water activities; Scarf for added warmth in the evenings; Smart-casual attire for Basque dining spots
- April
- Cool weather, some rain April in Biarritz: spring buildup or peak summer can work with surf and crowd planning. Crowds: April sits firmly in Biarritz’s spring shoulder season, meaning fewer tourists than in summer but noticeably more activity than in winter. Accommodation rates remain moderate, and popular attractions like the Rocher de la Vierge and Les Halles market are pleasantly uncrowded. The mild temperatures and manageable rainfall make it a good month for walking tours, coastal hikes, and surfing—though wetsuits are still essential in the brisk Atlantic. Restaurants and shops operate on regular schedules, and while beach lounging is limited by the cooler air and water temperatures, the city’s cultural and dining scene is in full swing. Booking ahead is only necessary for high-end stays or Easter weekend, when local travel picks up. Pack: Light waterproof jacket for spring showers; Comfortable walking shoes with good grip; Layered clothing for fluctuating temperatures; Compact travel umbrella; Wetsuit for surfing in cool waters; Scarf or shawl for breezy coastal walks
- May
- Cool weather, some rain May in Biarritz: beaches, surfing, Basque food, coastal walks, markets, and nearby villages balance warm water with manageable crowds. Crowds: May is shoulder season in Biarritz—temperatures are mild, the surf scene is active, and visitor numbers are comfortably low compared to the bustling summer months. Accommodation rates are generally more reasonable, and availability is higher, making it a good time for travelers who prefer quieter streets and flexible booking. Outdoor activities like coastal hiking, cycling, and beginner-to-intermediate surfing are ideal, with cooler air helping maintain stamina. Some days may be overcast or interrupted by rain, so indoor attractions—such as the Cité de l’Océan museum or the covered Les Halles market—are worthwhile backups. Dining reservations are easier to secure, and local festivals or markets offer a more intimate, local-driven experience than peak season. Pack: Light waterproof jacket for coastal showers; Comfortable walking shoes for mixed terrain; Layered clothing for variable temperatures; Compact travel umbrella; Scarf or light shawl for breezy evenings; Casual yet neat attire for dining and markets
- June
- Warm and pleasant, some rain June in Biarritz: beaches, surfing, Basque food, coastal walks, markets, and nearby villages balance warm water with manageable crowds. Crowds: June marks the start of Biarritz’s summer tourism ramp-up, with conditions perfect for beach activities, surfing, and scenic walks along the coastal paths. While not yet at peak season, visitor numbers increase steadily, meaning accommodation prices begin to climb and reservations become more important. The Atlantic waters remain cool but inviting for wetsuit-clad surfers, and cultural events like early summer festivals begin to fill the calendar. Outdoor dining thrives under long daylight hours, and most attractions operate at full seasonal schedules. This is an excellent time for travelers seeking a balance between lively atmosphere and manageable crowd levels, with the added benefit of mild weather that suits both active exploration and leisurely afternoons by the sea. Pack: Light sweater or cardigan for cooler evenings; Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets; Compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket; Beachwear and quick-dry towel for coastal visits; Sunglasses with UV protection; Smart-casual attire for upscale restaurants and events
- July
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry July in Biarritz: spring buildup or peak summer can work with surf and crowd planning. Crowds: July marks peak summer season in Biarritz, with warm, stable weather ideal for beach activities, surfing, and exploring both the coastline and inland Basque villages. Expect bustling beaches, lively nightlife, and a full calendar of cultural events, including music festivals and traditional Basque celebrations. Accommodation prices are at their highest, and advanced bookings are essential for prime locations. While conditions are perfect for swimming and outdoor dining, crowd density along the promenade and in popular restaurants can be high. Early mornings or late evenings are best for quieter experiences, and midday sun—though moderated by ocean breezes—still warrants UV protection. Pack: Lightweight summer clothing in breathable fabrics; Comfortable sandals and walking shoes; Swimwear and quick-dry beach towel; Broad-brimmed hat and high SPF sunscreen; Light sweater or shawl for cooler evenings; Compact rain jacket for occasional showers
- August
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry August in Biarritz: spring buildup or peak summer can work with surf and crowd planning. Crowds: August marks the peak summer season in Biarritz, attracting both international visitors and locals from across France. Warm, dry weather makes it ideal for beach days, surfing, coastal hikes, and exploring Basque culture. Crowds are at their highest, especially along the seafront and popular dining streets, and accommodation rates follow suit. Booking well in advance is essential, particularly for ocean-view hotels or surf lessons. While the atmosphere is vibrant, visitors seeking quieter moments should explore early in the morning or venture to lesser-known beaches. The stable weather also supports day trips to Bayonne, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, or inland Basque villages without the risk of heavy rain disruptions. Pack: Lightweight linen or cotton outfits for daytime warmth; Comfortable sandals or walking shoes for varied terrain; Swimsuit and quick-dry beach towel for ocean visits; Light sweater or shawl for cooler evenings; High SPF sunscreen and polarized sunglasses; Compact umbrella or light rain jacket for passing showers
- September
- Warm and pleasant, some rain September in Biarritz: beaches, surfing, Basque food, coastal walks, markets, and nearby villages balance warm water with manageable crowds. Crowds: September marks the shoulder season in Biarritz, offering near-peak weather with fewer crowds than mid-summer. Sea temperatures remain inviting for swimming and surfing, while reduced tourist density means easier restaurant reservations and more space on the beaches. Accommodation prices often begin to dip, though weekends can still draw French holidaymakers. Outdoor activities like surfing lessons, coastal cycling, and cultural festivals remain in full swing, but there’s less competition for prime spots. Occasional rain showers are short-lived and rarely disrupt plans. This is an optimal month for travelers seeking a balance between summer vibrancy and off-season calm, with the added benefit of warm evenings for al fresco dining. Pack: Light sweater or cardigan for cooler evenings; Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets; Compact travel umbrella for brief showers; Swimwear for beach and spa visits; Breathable shirts and dresses for daytime warmth; Light rain jacket for coastal drizzles
- October
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry October in Biarritz: beaches, surfing, Basque food, coastal walks, markets, and nearby villages balance warm water with manageable crowds. Crowds: October is shoulder season in Biarritz, offering a balance of pleasant weather and reduced visitor numbers compared to peak summer. Mild temperatures and relatively low rainfall make it ideal for exploring the Old Port, enjoying coastal walks, or surfing in the renowned autumn swells. Accommodation prices are more favorable than in July and August, and restaurants are less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed dining experience. While beach lounging is still possible on sunny days, the cooler evenings invite cozy indoor dining and cultural activities. Visitors should plan for slightly shorter daylight hours and carry a light rain layer for sporadic showers. Overall, it’s an excellent month for those seeking authentic local life without sacrificing comfort. Pack: Light waterproof jacket for occasional showers; Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets; Layered clothing for cool mornings and mild afternoons; Scarf or light shawl for coastal breezes; Compact umbrella for unpredictable weather; Smart-casual attire for dining in local restaurants
- November
- Cool weather, some rain November in Biarritz: cooler transition weather narrows beach plans. Crowds: Late autumn in Biarritz means fewer tourists, more relaxed streets, and easier access to cultural and culinary attractions. This shoulder season offers good value on accommodations compared to summer, though some smaller seaside businesses may reduce hours. Surf conditions remain strong for experienced riders, but the cooler air and water require proper gear. Outdoor exploration is still rewarding, but travelers should be ready for light rain and variable skies. It’s a fine time for food-focused itineraries, market visits, and day trips into the Basque countryside, with the added benefit of minimal crowding and a slower, more local rhythm. Pack: Waterproof jacket for sudden showers; Layered clothing for fluctuating temperatures; Comfortable waterproof walking shoes; Warm scarf and light gloves for cooler evenings; Compact travel umbrella; Wetsuit for surfing in cooler waters
- December
- Cool weather, some rain December in Biarritz: winter storms and cooler weather make a classic beach trip less balanced. Crowds: December falls firmly within Biarritz’s low tourist season. The cooler temperatures and occasional showers mean fewer beachgoers, resulting in quieter streets, reduced accommodation rates, and an unhurried atmosphere ideal for travelers seeking authenticity over crowds. It’s an excellent time for cultural immersion—visiting the city’s Art Deco architecture, museums, and indoor markets—without queuing or peak-season surcharges. Outdoor activities like cliff walks and coastal photography are still enjoyable with the right clothing, though ocean swimming is limited to the hardiest. Surfers will find some of the year’s most powerful waves, though conditions suit advanced skill levels. Early booking isn’t necessary, making last-minute plans viable. Pack: Waterproof jacket for coastal showers; Warm sweater or fleece for layering; Sturdy walking shoes for wet pavements; Compact umbrella for variable weather; Scarf and beanie for wind protection; Smart-casual attire for indoor dining and cultural venues
Peak season
- June
- July
- August
Off-peak
- January
- February
- November
Know before you go
About
Biarritz, on France’s Basque coast in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, is an elegant seaside resort of about 26,000 facing the Atlantic swells of the Bay of Biscay. Once a whaling and fishing village, it became a fashionable retreat after 1854, when Napoleon III and Empress Eugenie built the Villa Eugenie, now the palatial Hotel du Palais, drawing European royalty to its beaches. Landmarks include the Rocher de la Vierge, a rocky outcrop topped by a statue of the Virgin and linked to shore by a footbridge attributed to Gustave Eiffel’s workshop, the Biarritz lighthouse and a blue-domed Russian Orthodox church. Biarritz is also the birthplace of European surfing, introduced at the Cote des Basques in 1956, and remains the continent’s surf capital. Grande Plage and Belle Epoque villas complete its refined seaside character.
Best time to visit
June to September
Season by season
Summer (July-August) is hot, very crowded, and the sea is warm enough for swimming; Spring and Autumn offer excellent surfing conditions with fewer crowds, though rain is frequent.
Crowds
High
Getting there and around
Getting there
Biarritz is accessible via France’s TGV high-speed rail network and regional airports. The city connects to Paris and major French cities via train and highway networks.
Getting around
Surf between beaches aboard Txik-Txak’s ultra-modern electric Tram’bus system—Line T1 connects Biarritz to Bayonne in under 30 minutes, while T2 links southern Landes to city center. Navigate 30+ urban Chronoplus routes serving Bayonne, Anglet, Biarritz, and surrounding Basque villages for just €0.99 per journey regardless of distance or transfers. Rent Pony’s 800 electric bikes from 150 parking points via smartphone app, or use Vélibleu self-service e-bikes along the coast from Hendaye to Tarnos. Catch free summer beach shuttles connecting three walkable city-center beaches, or board Chronobus lines 3, 4, 36 from the airport (15 minutes, cheapest option to downtown). Experience authentic Basque transport via TER Nouvelle Aquitaine trains: Line 51 (Hendaye-Bordeaux) serving coastal stops, Line 53 (Bayonne-Pau-Tarbes) for mountain connections. Walk the compact center between Grande Plage, Côte des Basques, and Port des Pêcheurs, where Basque surfing culture meets French coastal elegance in this perfectly walkable resort town.
Top experiences in Biarritz
Rocher de la Vierge
The crown jewel of Moorish art in Europe. A palace complex of exquisite stucco, tilework, and gardens (Generalife). It sits against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. It is breathtaking.
La Grande Plage
Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece. It is a basilica like no other—organic, towering, and filled with color from stained glass. It is the symbol of Barcelona. The interior feels like a stone forest.
Biarritz Lighthouse
Spain’s national art museum. It houses the world’s best collection of Spanish art (Velázquez, Goya, El Greco) and masterpieces by Bosch and Titian. It is one of the most significant museums in the world.
Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
The final destination of the Camino pilgrimage. The cathedral facade is a Baroque masterpiece. The atmosphere in the square, filled with arriving pilgrims, is emotional and unique.
Seville Cathedral & Alcázar
The largest Gothic cathedral in the world (housing Columbus’s tomb) and the neighboring royal palace (Alcázar) with its Mudejar architecture and lush gardens. They represent the layers of Seville’s history.
Editor-curated picks carried over from our original guide. Where a full place guide exists, the card links to it.
Where to stay
Hôtel du Palais Biarritz
1 Avenue de l'Impératrice, 64200 Biarritz, France
A landmark tower on the Barcelona seafront. It is modern luxury with incredible views of the city and Mediterranean. It has a 2-Michelin star restaurant (Enoteca Paco Pérez). It defines the Olympic Port skyline.
Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar Thalassa
Plaza de la Lealtad 5, 28014 Madrid, Spain
The most prestigious hotel in Madrid. Located near the Prado. It recently underwent a massive renovation. It is the definition of Belle Époque luxury. It has hosted royalty and dignitaries for a century.
Regina Experimental Biarritz
Plaza Arquitecto García de Paredes 1, 18009 Granada, Spain
Located just outside the Alhambra walls in Granada. It was built in 1910 to resemble the palace itself. The views over the city and the Sierra Nevada are unbeatable. It is historic and atmospheric.
Editor-curated stays carried over from our original guide. Where we have reviewed the hotel, the card links to the review.
Tips from the field
Highlights
- The dramatic coastal rock formations, particularly the Rocher de la Vierge, and the opulent architecture of the Hôtel du Palais built by Napoleon III.
Best activities
- Surfing the legendary breaks at La Côte des Basques, walking across the Eiffel-designed bridge to the Rocher de la Vierge, and relaxing on La Grande Plage.
Local experiences
- Browse the vibrant Les Halles market in the morning to sample local Basque pintxos, cheeses, and fresh seafood.
Practical tips
- The town is very walkable, but the coast is hilly. Biarritz is also known as one of France's rainier cities, so packing a light raincoat is wise even in summer.
Photography tips
- The Rocher de la Vierge is stunning at sunset, while the Biarritz Lighthouse offers the best high-vantage point for sweeping coastal panoramas.
Timing
- 3 days is a good amount of time to see the sights and soak in the beach atmosphere.
Keeping it authentic
- Biarritz is a unique mixture of Basque cultural identity, historic 19th-century royal glamour, and a laid-back, world-class surf scene.
Culture, customs and safety
Cultural heritage
Biarritz transformed from Basque whaling village to Europe’s royal resort when Napoléon III built Villa Eugénie for his empress in 1854. The city pioneered European surfing culture in 1957, blending Basque maritime traditions with California cool. Art Deco architecture from the 1920s casino era defines the seafront, while traditional Basque festivals feature pelota games and force basque stone-lifting competitions. The Orthodox Church’s blue dome serves the Russian aristocracy who never left after the 1917 revolution. Local chocolatiers maintain Bayonne’s chocolate traditions, introduced by Sephardic Jews fleeing the Spanish Inquisition. The annual Biarritz Surf Festival celebrates both ancient Basque ocean connections and modern surf culture.
Local customs & etiquette
In Biarritz, greet with ‘Bonjour’ and always say ‘please’ (s’il vous plaît) and ‘thank you’ (merci). Dining is leisurely and appearance matters in French culture.
Safety notes
Biarritz is generally a very safe seaside resort town. The main risks are ocean-related (strong Atlantic undercurrents and rip tides) and petty theft on crowded summer beaches.
Activities