How to See Biarritz in One Day: Perfect Walking Itinerary of France’s Basque Jewel

Published on May 3rd, 2025 by Ersilia

For years, Biarritz existed in my imagination as a more private version of the French Riviera’s glamour – all that Belle Époque elegance and Atlantic drama without the overwhelming crowds. I’d heard whispers about its royal connections and surf culture, and honestly, I’d always wanted to experience it for myself!

So when I planned a weekend getaway from Toulouse (where I live), I finally made it happen. The challenge? I had only one day to discover this legendary French Basque Country seaside town. But you know what? Sometimes having limited time forces you to craft the perfect itinerary, and that’s exactly what I did.

Here’s my perfect Biarritz itinerary for one unforgettable day: we’ll start at the covered market for authentic local flavors, explore magnificent Belle Époque architecture, cross the iconic Virgin Rock bridge, visit the historic lighthouse, and even catch glimpses of legendary Villa Belza perched dramatically on the coast. Ready to follow my footsteps through this fascinating Basque jewel? Let’s go!

Is One Day in Biarritz Enough?

Honestly? It’s a mixed bag! Yes, you can absolutely hit all the major sights in one day (as you’ll see in my itinerary below), but I have to admit—it can feel a bit rushed at times. This one-day schedule is carefully planned to maximize your experiences, but it definitely comes with trade-offs.

What you’ll sacrifice on a tight one-day visit is depth over breadth. This itinerary gives you little time to actually explore museum interiors in detail (you’re more likely to admire them from the outside) and completely skips activities like lounging on the beach or taking surf lessons at the birthplace of European surfing. Let’s be real—there’s barely time for a proper seafood lunch, let alone catching waves!

My recommendation? While one day absolutely can work (especially if you’re pressed for time like I was), I’d encourage you to spend 2-3 days in Biarritz to truly absorb everything this elegant seaside town has to offer. Or include it on a French Basque Country Roadtrip! That extra time lets you:

• Actually take that surf lesson at Côte des Basques
• Spend a leisurely afternoon on Port Vieux Beach
• Explore the Sea Museum without rushing
• Enjoy long dinners at the fishermen’s port restaurants
• Maybe even book that spa treatment at one of the grand hotels!

But if one day is all you’ve got? Don’t worry—this itinerary will give you a fantastic taste of Biarritz’s charm. You’ll still leave with incredible memories and probably already planning your return trip for a longer stay!

The Map For Your One Day Itinerary in Biarritz

Before we begin, let me share a game-changing tip: download the Navaway app for audio guides and carefully crafted itineraries. This is not sponsored by I really love their way of showing french cities.

Here is the itinerary that I advice. You can save this Google Maps for your day in Biarritz and just follow along.

You can have the entire photo map itinerary with top things to see and do in Biarritz, saved on your phone ! Plus, I wrote the itinerary in a logic order allowing you to see the best of Biarritz in one day without in a cercle (no back and forth!).

Morning: Cultural and Culinary Delights

Les Halles (The Covered Market)

I always believe the best introduction to any destination is through its food (basque country cuisine has a bit of France and a bit of Spain!), which is why I recommend starting your Biarritz adventure at Les Halles. This vibrant covered market is the beating heart of local gastronomy and opens bright and early at 7:30 AM every morning (staying open until 2:00 PM).

What struck me immediately was the incredible array of Basque specialties on display – from piment d’Espelette (the famous local pepper) to artisanal sheep’s milk cheeses that will make your taste buds dance! The vendors here aren’t just selling food; they’re sharing their passion and heritage with every transaction. Many speak enough English to help you navigate, but a few basic French phrases will win you extra smiles.

My strategy? Grab a coffee from one of the small vendors inside, then wander the stalls collecting picnic supplies for later – a crusty baguette, some jambon de Bayonne (the region’s famous cured ham), and perhaps a slice of gâteau basque (a traditional filled pastry). Your future self will thank you when you’re enjoying these treasures overlooking the ocean!

Close to Les Halles you’ll also find one of Biarritz’s most emblematic cake shops, Maison Adam. They craft a variety of Basque Country cake specialties with modern twists that are absolutely worth sampling. Their macarons are particularly heavenly!

Bellevue Square (Place Bellevue)

From Les Halles, it’s a short walk to Bellevue Square, aptly named for its jaw-dropping ocean panoramas. This square functions like a massive balcony over the beach with views stretching all the way to the lighthouse. On my first visit, I literally stood here for fifteen minutes just taking in the vastness of the Atlantic stretching before me.

The square is surrounded by some gorgeous Belle Époque buildings that speak to Biarritz’s glamorous past. If you have time, the Musée Bellevue offers interesting exhibits on local art and history, though with just one day, you might prefer to soak in the views instead.

If you’re looking for a perfect picnic spot for later, there’s a pathway with a staircase just beneath the square with benches offering the same amazing view but with a bit more tranquility.

Mazagran Street

Wandering down from Bellevue Square, you’ll find yourself on the charming pedestrian Mazagran Street. This is where you’ll discover the more intimate side of Biarritz, away from the grand promenades and palatial buildings.

The street is lined with boutiques selling everything from traditional Basque espadrilles (I couldn’t resist picking up a pair in classic red and white) to contemporary crafts. It’s the perfect place to find a unique souvenir that goes beyond typical tourist trinkets.

What I love about this area is how it connects the grand, touristy Biarritz with the more authentic, local side of town. Take your time exploring the little shops and perhaps stop for an espresso at one of the sidewalk cafés to watch the world go by. This slower pace is what the Basque lifestyle is all about!

Sainte-Eugénie Church

As you continue your morning walk, you’ll come across the impressive Sainte-Eugénie Church, a neo-Gothic masterpiece built between 1898 and 1903. Step inside to escape the sun for a moment and admire the beautiful stained glass windows that cast colorful patterns across the stone interior.

What many visitors miss is the church’s elevated position, which offers spectacular views of the port below. Stand on the church grounds and look out to the water for a moment of peaceful contemplation.

From here, you can take the pathway down to discover the hidden Port des Pêcheurs (which we’ll explore more later). The contrast between the solemn grandeur of the church and the rustic charm of the fishing port perfectly encapsulates Biarritz’s fascinating dual identity.

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Midday: Coastal Splendors

The Basque Coast (Côte des Basques)

By midday, you’ll want to head to the legendary Côte des Basques beach, widely recognized as the birthplace of European surfing back in 1957. I highly recommend approaching from the top of the cliff to fully appreciate the panoramic vista that unfolds before you.

On clear days, the view is truly spectacular, with the Spanish mountains visible in the distance. The first time I saw this view, I actually gasped out loud! The beach stretches out below like a golden crescent, usually dotted with surfers testing their skills against the Atlantic waves.

This is the perfect spot to break out that picnic you assembled at Les Halles earlier. Find a comfortable spot on the beach or on one of the benches along the clifftop path and enjoy your Basque treats with an unbeatable ocean soundtrack.

Whether you’re a surfer or not, there’s something magical about watching riders catch waves here where European surfing began. The atmosphere is relaxed yet vibrant – exactly what vacation should feel like!

Villa Belza

Continuing along the coast, you’ll encounter the dramatic Villa Belza, a neo-medieval mansion perched precariously on a rocky outcrop between 1880-1895. I have to confess – this was actually the reason I first came to Biarritz! I spotted a photo online and was so captivated that I had to discover where this gothic-looking castle by the sea was located.

The villa’s history is as fascinating as its appearance. Local legends speak of witchcraft ceremonies and mysterious happenings, which isn’t surprising given its brooding presence and proximity to a spot ominously named “The Devil’s Hole.”

This is without doubt one of the most photographed buildings in Biarritz, and for good reason. The contrast between the dark stone of the villa and the blue Atlantic creates a scene straight out of a romantic novel. Make sure your phone or camera is charged – you’ll want multiple shots of this incredible landmark from different angles!

Port Vieux Beach (Plage du Port Vieux)

A short walk from Villa Belza brings you to Port Vieux Beach, a sheltered cove that offers a completely different experience from the surfing beaches nearby. This family-friendly spot was once a whaling beach but today provides one of the safest swimming experiences in Biarritz.

What makes this beach special is its unique setting, nestled between rocky cliffs that provide protection from the stronger Atlantic currents. If the weather’s warm enough, this is an ideal place to cool off with a swim.

On the left side of the beach, perched on the rocks, you’ll find Eden Rock Café with truly incredible views over both the ocean and the Virgin Rock. If you decide to stop for a drink or bite, try to avoid typical French meal times (roughly 12-2pm) to ensure you snag a table with the best view.

Virgin Rock (Rocher de la Vierge)

No visit to Biarritz would be complete without crossing the metal bridge to the famous Virgin Rock. What many visitors don’t realize is that the bridge was designed by Gustave Eiffel – yes, the same man behind the Eiffel Tower!

The rock features a statue of the Virgin Mary that was placed here in 1865. Originally, this outcrop served as a whale-watching platform where locals would scan the horizon for their quarry. Today, it offers visitors spectacular 360-degree views of the Biarritz coastline.

This spot is incredibly photogenic, both from the rock itself and from the coastline before crossing the bridge. I spent nearly an hour here, mesmerized by the waves crashing against the rocks below and the endless blue horizon. There’s something powerfully moving about standing at this spot where land meets sea, feeling the spray of the ocean and the force of nature.

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Afternoon: Maritime and Historic Discoveries

Sea Museum and Aquarium (Musée de la Mer)

After lunch, head to the Sea Museum and Aquarium, housed in an impressive Art Deco building completed in 1933 and extensively renovated in 2011. The museum provides fascinating insights into Biarritz’s whaling history and broader maritime traditions.

Inside, you’ll find diverse marine life from various ocean ecosystems including the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Indo-Pacific. The highlight for many visitors (myself included!) is the shark cave – there’s something primally thrilling about watching these magnificent creatures glide silently overhead.

If you can time your visit to coincide with one of the feeding sessions, it’s well worth it. Watching the care and knowledge the staff brings to these interactions adds another dimension to the experience. Even if you’ve visited other aquariums, the unique connection to local maritime history makes this one special.

Atalaye Plateau

Just a short distance from the Sea Museum, you’ll reach the Atalaye Plateau, offering some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in all of Biarritz. This elevated headland was historically used as a whale watching lookout, continuing the fascinating whaling narrative that runs through Biarritz’s history.

I found this to be the perfect spot to take a brief rest and recharge before continuing the journey. Sit on one of the benches and simply absorb the magnificent coastal vistas spreading out before you. On a clear day, you can see the entire sweep of Biarritz’s coastline, from the lighthouse in the north to the Spanish mountains in the south.

Don’t forget to capture some memorable photos here – the elevation provides a unique perspective on the town and beaches below that you won’t get anywhere else.

Old Fishermen’s Port (Port des Pêcheurs)

Descending from the plateau, you’ll discover the utterly charming Old Fishermen’s Port, a harbor built by Napoleon III in the 1800s. What makes this spot so special are the colorful traditional fishermen’s cottages (known locally as “crampottes”) that once housed the fishing families and now serve as delightful seafood restaurants.

This is Biarritz at its most authentic – a reminder of the town’s origins before it became a playground for royalty. The little harbor feels like stepping back in time, with fishing boats bobbing gently in the protected waters.

If you’re a seafood lover, this is the place to sample the freshest local catch. The restaurants here serve everything from perfectly grilled fish to platters of oysters and other shellfish. I still dream about the seafood stew I enjoyed here, watching the sun start its descent towards the horizon.

Basta Rock (Rocher du Basta)

Near the fishermen’s port, you’ll find Basta Rock, a small islet connected to the beach by an arched stone bridge. What’s interesting about this spot is how it changes with the tides – at high tide, the bridge spans the sea, while at low tide it crosses over sand.

If you’re lucky enough to visit during low tide, you can access steps that lead down to the beach. The islet itself is small but abundant in natural beauty, with benches for resting and stairs leading to a small viewpoint offering stunning coastal vistas.

I found this to be one of the more peaceful spots along the busy Biarritz coastline – a little haven where you can catch your breath and simply enjoy being in the moment.

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Evening: Elegance and Sunset Views

Casino Barrière

As the afternoon transitions to evening, make your way to the Casino Barrière, an impressive Art Deco building constructed in 1929. Even if gambling isn’t your thing, the architectural beauty of this historic casino makes it worth a visit.

The casino stands as a testament to Biarritz’s status as a luxury resort destination during the Belle Époque period. Inside, the ornate décor evokes the roaring twenties, with beautiful skylights and floor mosaics that speak to a more glamorous era.

Consider enjoying a drink on the casino’s terrace, which offers lovely ocean views. I liked how this place was organised around the promenade that passes the Casino and continues to the Lighthouse.

Palace Hotel (Hôtel du Palais)

Just a short stroll from the casino, you’ll reach the magnificent Hôtel du Palais, originally built as the summer residence for Napoleon III in 1854. The building’s distinctive E-shape was a tribute to Empress Eugénie, for whom it was constructed.

What began as an imperial villa later transformed into a luxury hotel that has hosted countless royals and celebrities over the decades. Even if you’re not staying here (and let’s be honest, most of us aren’t!), it’s worth admiring the grand exterior and perhaps peeking into the lobby to glimpse the continued elegance of Biarritz’s golden age.

Standing before this palatial structure, you can’t help but imagine the lavish parties and royal gatherings that once took place within its walls. It’s a tangible connection to the historical transformation of Biarritz from fishing village to imperial resort.

Orthodox Church

Behind the Hôtel du Palais, on Rue de Russie, you’ll discover a surprising architectural treasure: the Orthodox Church of St. Alexander Nevsky. Built in 1892, this church stands as a reminder of the strong Russian influence on Biarritz during the late 19th century.

The Russian aristocracy frequently visited Biarritz during the “Russian season” (September to November), and their cultural imprint remains visible in this beautiful church with its distinctive onion dome and orthodox crosses.

Stepping inside (if it’s open) offers a moment of tranquility and a glimpse into a different spiritual tradition. The iconography and atmosphere provide a fascinating contrast to the Catholic churches elsewhere in town, highlighting Biarritz’s cosmopolitan character.

Imperial Chapel

Near the Orthodox Church, you’ll find the Imperial Chapel, built by Empress Eugénie in 1864. This intimate chapel showcases a beautiful blend of Romano-Byzantine and Moorish architectural styles and was dedicated to the black Mexican virgin, Our Lady of Guadalupe.

What strikes visitors about this chapel is the stark contrast it presents to the grandeur typically associated with Biarritz. While small in size, it possesses a quiet dignity and historical significance that makes it worth visiting.

Classified as a historic monument since 1981, the chapel serves as a more personal testament to the imperial connections that shaped modern Biarritz. It offers a moment of contemplation toward the end of your busy day of exploration.

The Biarritz Lighthouse (Phare de Biarritz)

As the perfect conclusion to your one-day Biarritz adventure, make your way to the iconic lighthouse built in 1834. Standing 73 meters above sea level, this white tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Biarritz.

If you’re visiting during summer months when the lighthouse is open until 7 PM, do climb the 248 steps to the top. The effort is richly rewarded with spectacular sunset views that will provide an unforgettable finale to your day.

The panorama from the lighthouse encompasses the entire bay, from the Spanish coast to the south all the way up the French coastline to the north. As the sun begins its descent into the Atlantic, casting golden light across the water and buildings of Biarritz, you’ll understand exactly why this town has captivated visitors for centuries.

There’s a pleasant bar in the square nearby where you can enjoy a drink or a light bite while reflecting on your Biarritz adventure. Watching the lighthouse beam begin to shine as darkness falls provides the perfect bookend to a day filled with discoveries.

Final Thoughts

Phew! What a day, right? In just one whirlwind adventure, you’ve experienced Biarritz’s fascinating transformation from humble fishing village to imperial playground to modern surf paradise. You’ve wandered elegant Belle Époque promenades, crossed bridges designed by Eiffel himself, and discovered hidden coves where locals have been connecting with the Atlantic for centuries.

What strikes me most about Biarritz is how it manages to be both grandly historic and refreshingly laid-back at the same time. You can admire a palace in the morning and watch surfers ride waves in the afternoon. This unique blend of elegance and ocean culture creates an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in France.

While you could certainly spend more time exploring the nooks and crannies of this Basque jewel (and the surrounding region deserves days of exploration in its own right!), this walking tour captures the essential spirit of Biarritz. You’ve now seen firsthand why emperors, aristocrats, artists, and surfers have all fallen under its spell.

As for me? I’m already planning my return trip. There’s something about those dramatic Atlantic views and the way the light plays on the Belle Époque buildings at sunset that keeps calling me back. Maybe next time I’ll see you there, walking the same path but discovering something new around every corner!