Perched above the Bay of Biscay in the French Basque, the seaside resort town of Biarritz is soaked in elegance and intrigue as a former summer retreat for French royalty. With its sprawling promenade, glistening sand beaches and posh eateries, it’s also a central surfing spot in Europe.

Things to do

The main gathering place in Biarritz is the waterfront and its Quai de la Plage promenade filled with trendy cafes and espresso shops. It runs alongside Grande Plage, a cabana-filled beach. For a quieter beach experience, head over to Miramar Beach and the nearby Roche Ronde and Plage Bernain nature preserves.

Visit the small Le Port Vieux, which welcomes families with its secluded cove and gentle waves. Ride the crashing waves or enjoy the surf action at the rugged Cote des Basques, stroll the scenic Boulevard Marechal-Leclerc for spectacular sunset views or climb the Biarritz Lighthouse.

Visitors of all ages will love the Chocolate Museum, where you can discover the secrets of chocolate making while sampling rich European hot chocolate. The Oriental Art Museum showcases around 1,000 pieces of Asian art spanning centuries, while kids can enjoy seal feeding, shark exhibitions and sea life interactions at Museum of the Sea.

Book a table at 5 Miremont Tearoom for a classic afternoon tea ceremony with French pastries and signature house caramels. Afterwards, visit Virgin of the Rock, an imposing statue of the Virgin May gazing at the sea.

Getting around

Taxis and shuttle buses traverse the city centre of Biarritz. You can rent a car at Biarritz-Anglet-Bayonne International Airport, about six kilometres away.