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10 Top Things to Do and See in Biarritz

Surfing lesson at Cote des basques beach
Surfing lesson at Cote des basques beach | © Joanes Anduez

Very popular among French people, Biarritz’s easy-going way of life, the plethora of activities available in the city, and its surroundings and magnificent sites attract more and more tourists from all over the world. If you’re already planning your trip over there, here are the top ten reasons why you should head to the Bay of Biscay this summer.

Find Your Style in the Ocean

If you’re coming to Biarritz, you will probably swim at la Grande Plage or in some of the less crowded beaches of the area, but the city has more to offer. Taking a surfing lesson is a must-do for many tourists but if not, you can try bodyboard or stand-up paddle instead.

Surfing lesson at Cote des basques beach

Run on the Beach

You might want to squeeze some exercise during your stay, so why not go for a run on the beach? The best time to do so is early in the morning (this is suitable if you are a morning person or if you still have some energy coming back from your night out) or at sunset, right before heading to dinner.

Pamper Yourself at the Spa

Spending the day at the beach and partying all night long can be exhausting at times. Take a break from all this and indulge in some of the region’s specialties. Try a seawater treatment and come out rejuvenated.

Alaena Spa in Biarritz

Wander Around in Les Halles

This is the perfect place in the heart of the city to walk around, grab something to eat, and meet the locals. If you are an early bird and feel like cooking with local products during your holiday, you should definitively go to its market, open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Become a Festayre

Anyone who has spent a night out partying can be considered as a festayre. But if you really want to blend in the region’s partying culture, join as many local ferias as possible, dress up in white and red (the region’s official colors), sing along with the locals, and engage in some serious partying! Incredible memories and partial amnesia guaranteed.

Feria time

Visit Le Rocher de la Vierge (the Virgin’s Rock)

It is a must while you’re staying in Biarritz. You will for sure enjoy the walk to this rock formation in the Bay of Biscay, considered by many as a touristic curiosity. Offering an amazing view over the mountain and the ocean, it will take your breath away.

Plan an Excursion to San Sebastian

if you are staying longer than a weekend, you should definitively plan a day trip to San Sebastian. Another culinary haven of the region, you might want to try some pintxos and enjoy some of the other local food. If you are into cultural tourism, you will be pleased with the numerous museums and exhibitions in Donostia/San Sebastian that was elected in 2016 “Europe’s capital of Culture.”

San Sebastian port

Get Married on the Beach

If you’re a nature lover and are looking for a romantic original for your special day, Biarritz is the place to say “I do.” There are several agencies that will help you plan a memorable ceremony and answer to your needs for your special day. Florina from the Vahine Ori Tahiti will be more than happy to make all the arrangements for you!

Beach wedding

Attend a Rugby Match

It might be possible if you come during the summer (rugby players go on vacation too) but if you stop by some other time during the year, going to a rugby match is something to do. Depending on who you’re talking to, you will be told to support the “B.O” (for Biarritz Olympique Pays Basque Rugby), the city’s rugby club or “l’Aviron” (for Aviron Bayonnais), the other big club of the region located in Bayonne and historical rival (some will say enemy) of the “B.O.”

Wear Espadrilles

Some locals might roll their eyes when they will see you wearing espadrilles but you’re a tourist, so you’re supposed to do “touristy” things aren’t you? Originally worn by locals as an all-around shoe, it has become a highly fashionable accessory around the world. If you feel like going a little further and wearing a Basque beret, don’t.

Espadrilles

Biarritz can’t wait to see you!

About the author

Jennifer is a speechwriter and a public speaking coach based in Bordeaux, France. She is also a former professional tennis player. She is the founder of The Speech House which helps people (in English and French) to overcome their fear of public speaking and become better communicators. You can follow her on Instagram @jennifer_migan and on her storytelling platform Unique Stories @uniquestories.co.

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