Must-see attractions in Biarritz

Biarritz Must-Sees

Biarritz combines its heritage as a 19th-century imperial resort with its status as a premier surfing destination. This collection features the city's architectural highlights, including the Neo-Gothic Église Sainte-Eugénie and the Byzantine-inspired Chapelle Impériale. Explore the rugged coastline via the metal footbridge to the Rocher de la Vierge or climb the 1834 lighthouse for views over the Bay of Biscay. The selection also covers the Art Deco Casino Barrière and local culinary institutions like the historic Pâtisserie Miremont and the vibrant central market halls.

Biarritz Must-Sees — Map

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A

Rocher de la vierge

Dramatic rock formation topped with an 1865 statue of the Virgin Mary. It is accessible via an iron footbridge designed by Gustave Eiffel’s workshops, offering panoramic views of the Basque coast.

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

B

Phare de la Pointe Saint-Martin

Built in 1834, this 73-meter-tall lighthouse stands on Cape Hainsart. Climbing the 248 steps provides a view stretching from the Spanish coast to the sandy beaches of the Landes.

David Lally / CC BY-SA 4.0

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Grande Plage

The city's central sandy beach, flanked by the Hôtel du Palais and the Casino. Historically known as the "Côte des Fous," it is a primary site for surfing and seaside recreation.

Harrieta171 / CC BY 2.5

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Hôtel du Palais

The Hôtel du Palais Biarritz is a historic luxury hotel beside the Atlantic beach in the resort town of Biarritz, on the Côte Basque in the…

Peccadille / CC BY-SA 4.0

E

Chapelle Impériale

Built in 1864 for Empress Eugénie, this chapel features a distinctive architectural mix of Romanesque-Byzantine and Hispano-Moorish styles, dedicated to the Mexican Virgin of Guadalupe.

Jamin / CC-BY-SA-3.0

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Biarritz Aquarium

Biarritz Aquarium, also known as le Musée de la Mer, is an aquarium in Biarritz. The building, in art deco style, was opened in 1933.

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Casino Barrière de Biarritz

An Art Deco landmark built in 1929 on the waterfront. It features large bay windows overlooking the ocean and houses a casino, theater, and restaurant.

Thomon / CC BY-SA 4.0

H

Église Sainte-Eugénie

A Neo-Gothic church built between 1898 and 1903 on the site of an old chapel. It is dedicated to the patron saint of Empress Eugénie and overlooks the Port Vieux.

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

I

Pâtisserie Miremont

Historic 19th-century pastry shop and tea room listed as a monument. It retains its original Belle Époque interior and has served European royalty since 1872.

Graciane Mendoza / CC-BY-SA

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Halle de Biarritz

Traditional covered market offering local Basque specialties. The site consists of two halls, one dedicated to fish and the other to regional produce and cured meats.

David Lally / CC BY-SA 4.0

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Plage du Port Vieux

A small, sheltered sandy cove protected from the Atlantic swells by rocky outcrops. Its calm waters make it a favored spot for families and year-round swimmers.

O. Morand / CC BY-SA 3.0

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Église orthodoxe russe

Built in 1892 for the Russian nobility, this Orthodox church features a prominent blue dome and a rich collection of icons originally brought from Saint Petersburg.

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Rocher du Basta

A rugged rock formation situated between the main beaches, accessible via a stone bridge. It offers views of the Port des Pêcheurs and the coastline.

Other Lists

Heritage Sites in Biarritz Best Beaches and Coastal Landmarks Local Gastronomy