Biarritz, a gem of the Basque coast, is a popular destination combining charm, culture, and breathtaking scenery. In 2022, it invites you to discover its numerous treasures, from golden beaches to historic monuments. This guide offers an overview of must-see places to immerse yourself in the magic of Biarritz, while allowing you to savor its culinary delights and enjoy its activities. Whether you’re a fan of water sports, passionate about history, or seeking relaxation, Biarritz will fulfill all your expectations.
The Rock of the Virgin
<p perched above the ocean, the Rock of the Virgin is an iconic symbol of Biarritz. Approaching it, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of the Biarritz Bay and the Pyrénées, majestically rising on the horizon. Historically, this rock served as an observation post for whales and was connected to the coast by a wooden bridge in the 19th century. The statue of the Virgin, crowning this monument, is actually a metal replica dating from 1887, giving the whole a unique appearance.The Great Beach
The Great Beach is the heartbeat of Biarritz. Its fine, golden sands stretch across a welcoming bay, perfect for a day of relaxation. Flanked by majestic monuments such as the Hôtel du Palais and the Casino Barrière, this beach also offers a multitude of water activities and outdoor walks, not to mention its famous striped tents available for rent. Imagine enjoying an ice cream while strolling along the pier, lulled by the sound of the waves.
The Fishermen’s Port
The Fishermen’s Port, built under Napoleon III, embodies the authentic charm of Biarritz. Accessible via a panoramic trail starting from the Museum of the Sea, this harbor houses a series of cottages transformed into seafood restaurants. It’s the perfect place to taste local specialties while admiring the silhouette of pleasure boats moored in the water.
The Basque Coast
The Basque Coast is famous for its wild beaches ideal for surfers. To fully appreciate its beauty, climb up to the avenue of Notre Dame, where you’ll have a striking panoramic view of the beach at low tide. Whether you’re there to slide on the waves or for a simple picnic, this place exudes serenity and happiness.
Biarritz Aquarium
If you’re a marine enthusiast, the Biarritz Aquarium is a must-see. Its Art Deco architecture already makes it a major attraction. Inside, you can observe a multitude of marine species from the Atlantic, the Caribbean, and the Indo-Pacific. Don’t miss the famous shark cave, where an observation of these fascinating predators awaits you!
The Biarritz Lighthouse
Rising 79 meters above the cliffs, the Biarritz Lighthouse is a witness to the maritime history of the region. Still operational, this lighthouse was automated in 1980 and is open to visitors eager to climb its 248 steps. The ascent is worth it for the panoramic view offered by the sky at sunset.
The Hotel du Palais
<p overlooking the beach, the Hotel du Palais was once the summer palace of Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III. This historic building remains the most iconic place in Biarritz. Staying here, in this luxurious setting, will give you an understanding of the rich past of this seaside resort. After the fall of the Second Empire, the hotel was transformed into a luxury establishment.The Biarritz Market Halls
Unmissable for food lovers, the Biarritz Market Halls, opened in 1885, is a lively place offering a wide range of regional products. From cheeses to seafood, each visit is a sensory experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste fresh oysters just shucked and to prepare a most delicious picnic.
The Asiatica Museum
For a cultural excursion, the Asiatica Museum is a real gem. It houses an impressive collection of Asian objects, notably from Tibet and China, including jade sculptures and Buddhist paintings on silk. This museum is a journey through cultures, spanning from ancient to contemporary times.
Visit Anglet and its surroundings
Nearby, Anglet invites you to discover its iconic beaches. The Chambre d’Amour offers splendid panoramas, especially at sunset, while the Plage des Corsaires is a renowned surf spot, with long stretches of sand suited for swimming and relaxation.
| Destination | Main Attraction | Activities |
| Rock of the Virgin | Panoramic view | Whale watching |
| Great Beach | Main beach | Swimming, ice creams |
| Fishermen’s Port | Seafood restaurants | Sunset dining |
| Basque Coast | Surf beach | Surfing, picnics |
| Biarritz Aquarium | Shark cave | Seal observation |
| Biarritz Lighthouse | Historical monument | Panoramic view |
| The Hotel du Palais | Summer palace | Luxurious stay |
| Biarritz Market Halls | Regional market | Culinary tasting |
| Asiatica Museum | Asian collections | Cultural visit |
| Anglet | Beaches | Surfing, walks |
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Discover Biarritz, an iconic seaside resort in the Basque Country that harmoniously blends natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a beach enthusiast, a history lover, or simply curious, this city is full of treasures to explore in 2022. Embark on a journey to discover the must-see sites that make this destination unique.
The Rock of the Virgin
Pioneering the discovery of Biarritz, the Rock of the Virgin is a must-see place. Overlooking the bay, this iconic cape offers stunning views of the Basque Coast and the Pyrénées in the background. Historically, this rock served as a platform for whale observation and is now crowned by a statue of the Virgin watching over sailors. Don’t forget to admire the panorama from the top of the bridge linking it to the mainland.
The Great Beach
Unmissable for sun lovers, the Great Beach is the vibrant heart of Biarritz. With its golden sands and iconic buildings such as the Hotel du Palais, this area is perfect for relaxing or indulging in various water activities. Explore the pleasures of an afternoon at the beach, from a dip in the ocean to enjoying a delicious ice cream along the pier.
The Fishermen’s Port
Charming and authentic, the Fishermen’s Port is an invitation to enjoy local gastronomy. Located near the Museum of the Sea, this small port, historically built for fishermen, has retained its picturesque atmosphere. Treat yourself to a meal at sunset in one of the restaurants located in the old fishermen’s cottages, while enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the place.
The Basque Coast
The Basque Coast, although attached to a wealthy seaside resort, is no less wild and exposed.
What to do around Biarritz, around Anglet? To appreciate the size of the beach at low tide, climb up to the avenue of Notre Dame at the top of the cliff and admire the marine landscape from a bench.
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The Biarritz Aquarium
If you love Art Deco architecture, you’re likely to fall in love with this attraction facing the Rock of the Virgin even before entering. The number of tanks and living enclosures is surprising, and you will explore different zones, with marine life from the North Atlantic, the Caribbean, and the Indo-Pacific.
The shark cave is highly appreciated by visitors, and it’s always fun to observe the seals during feeding times, making for an entertaining and educational experience.
The Biarritz Lighthouse
At the Saint-Martin Point, which marks the boundary between the rocky coast of Biarritz and the smooth sands of the Landes, the Biarritz Lighthouse stands on a rocky promontory 79 meters above the water. Guiding navigators since 1834, this lighthouse’s current lenses are over a century old, dating from 1904, with a range of 42 kilometers.
What to do in Biarritz around the lighthouse? It has been fully automated since 1980, and you are free to go inside if you feel like climbing the 248 steps to reach the gallery bridge. You can also stay below, as this promontory is one of the best spots in Biarritz to watch the sunset.
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The Hotel du Palais
The summer palace of Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III, is still the most remarkable building in the city. While it was once isolated on the dunes, today it is at the heart of the seaside resort that has developed around it. After the fall of the Second Empire, it reopened as a luxury hotel-casino.
The Biarritz Market
The Biarritz Market, built in 1885, is worth visiting even if you don’t need anything in particular. In fact, the market is a small cathedral, a social center, and the place to discover regional products and delicacies.
What to do at the Biarritz Market? Between cheeses, pâtés, fresh meats, fruits, and vegetables, you might decide to change your plans and opt for a picnic. You can also visit the adjacent seafood market to taste oysters that are shucked for you.
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The Asiatica Museum
The Asiatica Museum, one of the few museums in France focusing on Asia, is a delightful surprise, with extensive collections of objects from China, Nepal, and Tibet. The largest galleries are dedicated to the Indian subcontinent and occupy the entire basement of the building.
From Tibet and China, you will discover prehistoric jade sculptures made for tombs and a fabulous collection of Thangkas, Buddhist paintings on silk.
Visit Anglet and its surroundings
On the other side of the Saint-Martin Point are the typical beaches of Anglet. The Silver Coast begins here and extends to the Gironde Estuary, north of Bordeaux.
What to do around Biarritz, around Anglet? Next to the Biarritz lighthouse, the Chamber of Love offers breathtaking views of the cape from its panoramic promenade. The Corsaires Beach is also a prime surfing spot, offering waves similar to those at the Basque Coast, but with a vast expanse of golden sand.
