Biarritz

In medieval times Biarritz was an unassuming fishing and whaling community. Spotters would perch on the Atalye plateau above the village and use smoke signals to tell the villagers when whales were nearby. Whaling was important to the village’s existence into the 17th century. In the 18th century Biarritz took its first steps towards becoming a tourist destination when Comtesse de Montijo spent two lazy family holidays here. During the following century the town’s popularity grew. Kings and queens of nations and the silver screen were visitors. Bette Davis, Frank Sinatra and Rita Hayworth all came to explore the Monte Carlo of the Atlantic. Today the city is primarily a tourist destination, but still manages to maintain its character and steer clear of tackiness. This is mainly because most visitors come from nearby Spain and from the rest of France.

Biarritz is also a stop in the world of surfing. Grand Plage and Place do Port Vieux is where surf shops such as O’Neill and Quik-silver are located. There is no need to rush in Biarritz. The city are fairly small, and you can easily see everything there is to see even during a short visit. One thing worth setting aside time for is the morning market in Les Halles. Try the city’s speciality, fresh curd sheep’s milk.

Grand Plage is the classic beach, and Miramar Beach the most fashionable, on the entire Atlantic coast. Surfers congregate at several beaches, from Biarritz all the way up to Hossegor.

Two factors – the ocean and the proximity to Basque Country – influence the food in Biarritz. This is a good thing, as Basque cooking has lately been praised as the best in Europe. Sometimes it’s not easy to find simpler, less pricy restaurants in Biarritz, but they do exist. The area around Port Vieux, Biarritz’s old port, is full of bars, as is place Clemenceau. Just outside the city near the casino, are a handful of large discos, with all their advantages and disadvantages. The relaxed surfer attire is worn by the wealthiest of visitors alike, who have discarded the tackier Riviera style.

If shopping’s your thing you could do worse than to come to Biarritz. The range of products covers everything from Basque handicraft to cool surf shorts and expensive designer labels. Surf brand Quiksilver has ties to the area and their wares can be found in many of the shops, as well as in their own store by Grand Plage Beach. Other brands, including O’Neill, have shops on the beach and around Place du Port Vieux. The most expensive shopping is along avenue Edouard VII, including Natacha at number three and Hermès at 19, as well as along rue Mazagran and around place Clèmenceau. Stock up on sausages, cheese, Serrano ham, and other delicatessen treats at the indoor food market.

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Biarritz airport information

Biarritz – Anglet – Bayonne Airport is located between the towns of Anglet and Biarritz.

Biarritz airport by car
The airport is located just off the N10. Take the turn off onto the D910 (either south or north of the airport) to get to Biarritz town centre. Anglet can be reached by following the N10 in northerly direction.

Biarritz airport by coach
The STAB bus company operates shuttle services between the airport and Biarritz, Anglet and Bayonne. A one-way ticket costs €1.20 ¹

Biarritz airport by taxi
The taxi rank is located outside the passenger terminal.

Pre book your door-to-door airport transfers with easyJet’s partner Holiday Taxis. We cater for the Business and Leisure Traveller.

¹Please note that fares may be subject to change without notice.