Written by Camille Laurent, Celine Fournier, Marcus Kayode, Sebastien Simon
29/08/2025
Dany B., Pexels
Biarritz is a coastal gem where elegant history meets a thriving surf scene, offering beautiful beaches, a rich Basque culture, and diverse activities. It is ideal for those seeking relaxation, active pursuits, and an authentic cultural experience amidst stunning natural beauty.
The Les Halles market is a lively hub where visitors can explore local delicacies and engage with locals. The charming Port des Pêcheurs, with its restaurants, and the Côte des Basques beach, popular among surfers and beachgoers, also provide relaxed environments for social interaction.
Top 6 Things to do in Biarritz
Biarritz offers a blend of exhilarating surf experiences, a deep dive into local Basque culture, exploration of historical landmarks with stunning coastal views, and opportunities for relaxation by the sea.
1. Surfing at Côte des Basques
As the historic birthplace of European surfing, one can experience the thrill of catching waves on the renowned Côte des Basques. This spot is suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. Joining a local surf school provides essential safety instruction and technique guidance, maximizing the experience of the consistent Atlantic swells.
Cost: Group surf lessons (1.5 hours) typically range from €42 to €50 per person, with prices potentially higher during peak season in July and August. Equipment is generally included in lesson prices. Specific rental costs for self-serving are not consistently available, but lessons often provide all necessary gear.
Transport: Côte des Basques beach is within comfortable walking distance from Biarritz city center, easily accessible via scenic coastal paths.
2. Exploring Les Halles Market
One can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Les Halles, Biarritz's bustling indoor market. It is an excellent place to sample authentic Basque delicacies such as local cheeses, cured meats, and freshly caught seafood, engaging directly with local producers. The market and its surrounding neighborhood become a lively hub, particularly in the mornings and evenings, for food enthusiasts and social gatherings.
Cost: Entrance to the market is free. The cost of food items and tastings varies depending on purchases, for example, enjoying oysters at a local stall.
Transport: Located centrally, Les Halles is easily accessible on foot from most accommodations within Biarritz.
3. Visiting Rocher de la Vierge & Port des Pêcheurs
Taking a stroll across the iconic metal footbridge, attributed to Gustave Eiffel, leads to the Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin's Rock). This impressive rock formation, crowned with a statue of the Virgin Mary, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Biarritz coastline and the expansive Bay of Biscay. Adjacent to it, the charming Port des Pêcheurs, with its unique 'crampottes' (small fishermen's houses), presents a picturesque setting for a walk and an opportunity to savor fresh seafood at local restaurants.
Cost: Access to the Rocher de la Vierge and Port des Pêcheurs is free. Dining expenses at the port's restaurants vary.
Transport: Both locations are situated within easy walking distance from the city center, often reached via beautiful coastal paths.
4. Climbing the Biarritz Lighthouse (Phare de Biarritz)
Ascending the 248-258 steps of the 73-meter-high Biarritz Lighthouse offers visitors sweeping 360-degree views of the Basque coast, the majestic Pyrenees, and the extended Landes coastline. Standing proudly on Point St Martin, the lighthouse serves as a significant landmark marking the convergence of the ocean and land.
Cost: Entry tickets are approximately €2.50 to €5 per adult and €2 to €3 for children.
Transport: The lighthouse is a pleasant 20-minute walk from Biarritz's city center. Additionally, public buses stop a short 5-minute walk away, and free shuttle buses are often available from the city center during the season.
5. Strolling along Grande Plage and admiring Villa Belza
One can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Grande Plage, Biarritz's principal beach, celebrated for its scenic beauty, vibrant atmosphere, and distinctive striped beach tents. From this vantage point, the dramatic Villa Belza, a stunning neo-medieval mansion dramatically perched on the rugged coastline, offers exceptional photographic opportunities and a glimpse into the city's elegant past.
Cost: Walking on the beach and viewing Villa Belza are free activities. Renting beach tents and chairs is possible, with a tent costing around €15 and an additional €10 for two chairs.
Transport: Both the Grande Plage and Villa Belza are centrally located within Biarritz and are easily accessible on foot from most areas.
6. Visiting the Biarritz Aquarium (Musée de la Mer)
Exploring the Biarritz Aquarium provides a captivating journey into marine life, showcasing a diverse array of fish, sharks, and seals across its numerous aquariums. It offers an educational and engaging experience, particularly enjoyable for families, highlighting the rich biodiversity of the Atlantic Ocean and the importance of local marine conservation.
Cost: Adult tickets are €17, children aged 4 to 12 cost €12, and reduced tickets for teenagers (13-17), students, and job seekers are €15. Children under 4 enter for free.
Transport: The Aquarium is conveniently located near the Rocher de la Vierge, making it easily accessible on foot from the city center.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
