Day 1 in Biarritz

Welcome to Biarritz! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

Spend the afternoon getting acquainted with this ultimate French beach resort. As you wander through the city check out the elegant boulevards, streets and squares that exemplify the city`s aristocratic heritage. The urban center of Biarritz is the grand Place Georges-Clemenceau, at the hub of town. From here, just a short walk away is the charming Place Bellevue, a semicircular square with panoramic views of the beach and the ocean. To the south of the Place Bellevue is another scenic area of Biarritz along the Boulevard Marechal-Leclerc. Situated in the steep rocky inlet between the Rocher du Basta and Cap Atalaye, above the old fishing harbor, this seaside boulevard boasts magnificent views. This boulevard is a perfect starting point for a picturesque walking tour along the Biarritz coast. The best place to appreciate the scale and diversity of Biarritz is on the Pleateau de L`Atalaye, high above the plage du Port-Vieux. Then walk across the footbridge to the Rocher de la Vierge, the tip of this adapted rocky outcrop offers views of the Bay of Biarritz and the Côte des Basques.

As the evening approaches grab some beachfront bites as you watch the surfers and fabulous sea views as the sun goes down. The Port des Pecheurs is an adorable area for dinner seaside with many of these restaurants offering fresh catch from earlier in the day. Afterwards, enjoy a nightcap at one of the scenic terrace bars.

Day 2 in Biarritz

Wake up early and start your day exploring more of the area. Head over to Les Halles de Biarritz to discover the produce and delicacies that generate regional pride. This is not only a place to purchase groceries, it`s a social hub of the town, and a great place to people watch while tasting the yummy offerings of cheese, pate, fresh meat, fruit and vegetables.

After wandering the local markets, stop in the historic 17th-century Miremont Tearoom, one of the oldest establishments in Biarritz. The Miremont is renowned for its classic pastries such as éclairs, Gateau Saint-Honore, and strawberry tart, as well as a selection of rare teas. Enjoy some lunch in the tearoom where the royalty once sat in Biarritz` glory days. The view is stunning looking out onto the Grand Plage beach and the Hotel du Palais.

Spend the remaining part of your afternoon exploring some of the exceptional museums of the town. One highly recommended museum is the Musée de la Mer (Museum of the Sea) that was established in 1935 to focus on the marine life found in the Bay of Biscay. The museum offers excellent insight into the importance of the ocean waters featuring a natural history collection, a touch pool, special exhibit of sharks, and the very popular seal feedings.

Another outstanding museum is the Musée Asiatica (Oriental Art Museum) which displays one of Europe`s top collections of Asian art. There are more than 1,000 pieces of artwork spanning history from prehistoric and modern times. The collections also represent the work of different countries, including China, India, Nepal and Tibet.

Head to the Historical Museum if you`re interested in getting to know Biarritz from its earlier years. Housed in the former Anglican Church, the museum has an extensive collection of documents, antique objects, and works of art. Some noteworthy items include a handwritten letter by the Empress Eugenie and a painting by Emperor Napoleon III as well as medals and jewelry. The museum’s collections share the history of Biarritz from its beginnings as a small fishing village to the fashionable Bell Epoque resort that became known as the `resort of kings and the king of resorts.`

Spend your evening trying your luck at the Biarritz Casino. Situated in front of the Grand Plage, the casino is an expansive and luxurious art deco building. You`ll be transported to the roaring twenties as you enter through the doors and follow the red carpet with delight of electric slot machines, huge chandeliers and a whirlwind of lights that flash at every Jackpot. The casino offers a delicious restaurant with a stunning view, a great place to sip on a glass of wine and take in the sights!

Day 3 in Biarritz

Spend the day soaking up the stunning natural landscape at one (or a few) of the pristine sandy beaches of Biarritz. The Grande Plage is one of Biarritz` largest and main beaches that has attracted high-society vacation goers since the Bell Epoque. Plage du Miramar is a lovely beach to relax and enjoy the refreshing seaside atmosphere. Although the beach offers a sense of tranquility, the rough seas and strong currents can make swimming dangerous. This beach primarily attracts sunbathers and spa-goers and is less touristy; it also maintains its old-fashioned charm with vintage-styled striped beach tents. For surfers and strong swimmers, head to La Cote des Basques.This beach is as untamed as you can get, said to be the first place where anyone surfed in Europe. Plage de Marbella is another favorite of surfers and bodyboarders because of its powerful waves.

Le Port Vieux and Plage de la Milady are both great beach choices for families with children as they are more sheltered with gentler waters for swimmers.

After a relaxing day at the beach, enjoy an elegant evening at the Hôtel du Palais. Eugenie`s summer palace and still the most striking building in the city hosting many well-known names over the years which today operates as a hotel. Here you can enjoy an extraordinary meal with a stunning view overlooking the ocean at their Michelin starred restaurant. It is also a perfect place to sit back have a drink (or more if you can affort it) and take in the spectacular sea views.

Additional Days in Biarritz

Should you be able to spend additional days in Biarritz we recommend you visit the Basque village of Saint Jean Pied de Port. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this medieval village has charming cobblestone streets and an important church - the Eglise Notre Dame du Bont du Pont. This was also known as an important stop on the Saint James route to Santiago de Compostela, considered one of the most difficult stages of the pilgrims` journey.

Another day trip to consider is the beautiful spa town of Salins-les-Thermes situated on a wooded hillside. The sap here offers thermal baths that are considered a place to improve health. The thermal spring`s salty waters treat specific medical conditions. Surrounded by lovely scenery, Salins-les-Thermes is also an ideal place for nature walks and relaxation.

Your Last Day in Biarritz

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.