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WHERE TO STAY
There are a lot of great stays in Biarritz, but these three are always at the top of my list. All are boutique hotels: walkable to the beach, the market, and everywhere else you’ll want to be.
Hôtel de la Plage · Biarritz
Hôtel de la Plage
Right above Port Vieux, this boutique hotel blends thoughtful design with a laid-back coastal vibe. The interiors take cues from the sea and surrounding Basque hills, with warm tones, natural textures, and an easy, lived-in feel. The rooftop is a favorite for sunset drinks with an ocean view, and the beach is quite literally at your feet.
Hôtel de Silhouette · Biarritz
Hôtel de Silhouette
There’s history in the walls of this boutique stay set in one of the oldest buildings in Biarritz, yet the energy feels fresh. The garden restaurant is perfect for long lunches, and the adorable bar is always a good call. Tucked behind Les Halles, the hotel is central but peaceful—a little oasis in the middle of it all.
ALFRED HOTELS - Port Vieux · Biarritz
Alfred Hotels – Port Vieux
New on the scene and in a prime location, this hotel was recently reimagined into a clean, minimal space that feels effortless. Steps from the beach and close to everything you’ll want to walk to: cafés, surf shops, morning swims, all the works.
DAY 1
No. 4 Coffee Station · Biarritz
No. 4 Coffee Station
Start with breakfast at No. 4 Coffee Station, which pulls in visitors for all the right reasons. Both breakfast and brunch here are thoughtfully prepared and perfectly nostalgic, with vinyl records spinning, pancakes stacked high, and a retro ambiance.
Les Halles · Biarritz
Les Halles
In Biarritz, there’s no better way to start the day than with a stroll through Les Halles. Here, you will find everything: fresh oysters on ice, awesome baked goods, Basque charcuterie, and even a lovely terrace to sip coffee or wine. It’s always bustling and gives you such cool insight into local life.
Bali Bowls · Biarritz
Bali Bowls
For lunch or an afternoon snack, head to this spot near Port Vieux. It’s where I go when I crave something fresh and nourishing. Acai bowls, smoothies, and eco-conscious packaging make it a top pick for a healthy refresh after a swim at the beach, as well. It consistently hits the spot.
Rocher de la Vierge · Biarritz
Le Rocher de la Vierge (The Rock of the Virgin)
Next, visit this can’t-miss Biarritz landmark. The dramatic rock formation features a white statue of the Virgin Mary, accessible via a metal footbridge designed by Gustave Eiffel. It provides expansive views of the coast, the city, and the endless ocean.
Plage du Port Vieux · Biarritz
Port Vieux
For an afternoon swim, head to this prime swimming spot. It’s small and beautifully protected, offering such an authentic vibe. The calm waters and accessible stone steps make it ideal for relaxing with a baguette and a good book. It’s pure bliss.
Côte des Basques · Biarritz
Côte des Basques
For a beach moment in the evening, Côte des Basques offers the finest sunset in town, with breathtaking views of endless ocean and the Pyrenees in the distance. It’s quite literally where surfing in France originated. American screenwriter Peter Viertel introduced the sport here in 1957, and the waves have been inviting surfers ever since. It remains a popular spot for beginners.
EPIC - ROOFTOP DE LA CÔTE DES BASQUES · Biarritz
Epic
Head to this go-to spot for a pre-dinner drink. Overlooking Côte des Basques, it’s where both locals and visitors unwind with a chilled glass of wine as the day fades beautifully. Expect great people-watching and even more spectacular views. You won't be disappointed.
Chéri Bibi · Biarritz
Cherí Bibi
For dinner, this is hands-down one of Biarritz’s coolest experiences. It’s candlelit, so perfectly intimate, and always seasonal. The menu shifts based on the freshest ingredients, meaning no two visits are ever quite alike. You need to check out their wine cave and pick a bottle to enjoy with your meal. Just a quick note: tables fill up fast here, so a reservation is a must.
DAY TWO
Calma Studio
A great way to start your morning is at this Pilates studio in Biarritz. It’s a smaller space, so you really get that 1-on-1 experience. The instructor, Monika, is a sweetheart who speaks both English and French (and a few other languages), so no matter where you come from, you are welcome!
Lobita Atelier · Biarritz
Lobita Atelier
Grab a casual breakfast or coffee at Lobita, which is super popular with the ex-pat crowd. Bonus: their Les Halles location has a grab-and-go stand if you’re on the move. This café blends that ideal neighborhood feel with an international flair.
Grande Plage · Biarritz
Grande Plage
Next, this beach represents the very heart of Biarritz. It was once the favored playground of European royalty: Napoleon III famously built Hôtel du Palais here for Empress Eugénie. It’s particularly delightful in the morning before the crowds gather, or just before sunset as those striped umbrellas begin to fold. The walk along the waterfront from here is iconic, with the sea stretching out on one side and historic villas lining the other.
Nelly's · Biarritz
Nelly’s
For lunch, Nelly's is smash burger heaven! This spot is great for either lunch or dinner, perfect for a quick grab-and-go. Another suggestion: grab it to go and head back to the beach, either Côte des Basques or Grande Plage. The entire experience is quintessential Biarritz: straightforward, delicious, and honestly, best savored with sandy feet.
Deus Ex Machina
Enjoy some midafternoon shopping, starting at Deus Ex Machina. This place functions as an equal-parts café, concept store, and relaxed hangout. You can expect good coffee, cool graphic tees, and a strong presence of surf and moto culture.
Maison Adam - Clémenceau · Biarritz
Maison Adam
If you're looking for authentic Basque sweets, Maison Adam is it. This place is legendary, and they've been making their famous Basque macarons since 1660!
BTZ Biarritz · Biarritz
BTZ Biarritz
Discover modern essentials here: cool sweatshirts, chic totes, and gifts with that ideal coastal feel and clean design.
Madame, Monsieur. - Biarritz · Biarritz
Madame Monsieur
The owners have an incredible eye, curating a collection where Parisian chic beautifully blends with coastal ease. This boutique is truly packed with trendy pieces, sweaters, shoes, coffee table books, and so much more. You'll want to take everything home!
L'Artnoa · Biarritz
L’Artnoa
For pre-dinner drinks, head to this very popular wine bar—where the staff are just as passionate about the wine as they are the pours themselves. Delicious charcuterie and a welcoming atmosphere make it easy to linger, particularly after a walk along Côte des Basques.
Haragia · Biarritz
Haragia
For dinner, this hidden gem of a steak restaurant is loved for good reason. The côte de boeuf is a Basque classic, and Haragia just nails it: rich, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. Tucked away on a side street in the heart of town, it's a very small space (perhaps only five tables) so booking ahead is smart. Prepare for a lively atmosphere once you're inside. It’s an evening you won’t soon forget.
DAY THREE
Noisette Pâtisserie · Biarritz
Noisette
For a buttery, flaky croissant or chocolatine, this is your best bet. It offers a warm, affordable experience and always satisfies, especially with a coffee in hand. So French, and so rewarding to visit.
Open Me · Biarritz
Open Me!
Next, stop into this curated home store right there on Rue Gambetta. It’s definitely a must-visit for anyone into home decor shopping. The owner, Hélène, has put together an exquisite selection of placemats, tablecloths, charming vintage crockery, and really unique candles.
Bleach - café cantine vin à Biarritz · Biarritz
Bleach Café
For lunch, Bleach is such a cool discovery in Biarritz. It serves as a casual cantine and bar with a remarkably peaceful and sunny ambiance, especially on its delightful terrace. This is a top recommendation for coffee, wine, sandwiches… it offers everything you could want!
Miramar Beach · Biarritz
Plage Miramar
Spend the afternoon at the beach. Just north of Grande Plage, Plage Miramar offers a serene stretch of sand. It’s definitely quieter and has this authentic charm that locals really love.
Phare de Biarritz · Biarritz
Phare de Biarritz
For a cool photo op, this is a short coastal walk north of Miramar. With panoramic views, it’s perfect for seeing the whole coastline!
Hôtel du Palais & Bar Napoléon III
Stop for pre-dinner drinks at the beautiful Hôtel du Palais, where the Bar Napoléon III is perfect for a celebration. Take your drink on the terrace overlooking the pool or walk through the gardens. It's a full experience: elegance, history, and ocean views all in one.
POZA · Biarritz
Poza
For dinner, Poza is your spot. It offers a dining experience that really takes the evening up a notch. Dinner starts with a low-lit, refined vibe, and as dessert approaches, the music gets louder and the crowd is buzzing with energy. The côte de boeuf and côte de cochon are definite highlights. This is a solid choice if you’re looking for a vibrant night that kicks off with an amazing meal and ends with dancing.
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