Spending 48 hours in Biarritz is like stepping into a French dream where surfers, aristocrats, and food lovers happily coexist. This once-glamorous retreat for European royalty now has an effortlessly cool, sun-kissed vibe, where Basque culture meets ocean breezes and plates of seafood. There’s an undeniable charm in the mix of rugged Atlantic coastlines and chic Parisian flair, making every street corner, every ocean view, and every meal a moment worth savouring.
Begin the morning at Milwaukee Café, a cosy spot that takes coffee very seriously. Pair a flat white with one of their homemade pastries or a slice of their famous banana bread. If you prefer something more typically French, go for a buttery croissant or a pain aux raisins. Properly caffeinated, wander towards the Grand Plage, Biarritz’s main beach, where surfers carve through the waves while sunbathers lounge on the golden sand. Stroll along the promenade, stopping at the elegant Hôtel du Palais, once Napoleon III’s summer residence. Even if you’re not staying there, the history and grandeur are worth admiring. Step inside for a quick glimpse of opulence or sip a coffee on their terrace, feeling like royalty for a fleeting moment.
Continue towards the Rocher de la Vierge, a rocky outcrop connected by a metal bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel himself. The views of the Bay of Biscay are spectacular, and the crashing waves below only add to the drama. Nearby, the Aquarium de Biarritz offers an immersive journey through the marine life of the Atlantic, with sea turtles, sharks, and a glass tunnel that makes you feel as though you’re walking through the ocean itself.
From here, make your way to Les Halles de Biarritz, the city’s beating heart of gastronomy. This covered market is a feast for the senses—think glistening oysters, aged Basque cheese, and freshly baked baguettes. Snack on a few pintxos from one of the market stalls and sip a glass of Irouléguy wine to truly embrace the Basque spirit. If you have time, explore the narrow streets surrounding the market, where small wine bars and boulangeries tempt you at every corner.
Lunch calls for a table at Chez Albert, a no-nonsense seafood institution by the Port des Pêcheurs. The menu is simple: ultra-fresh fish, perfectly grilled, and served with a side of ocean views. Try the moules-frites or a steaming plate of Basque-style chipirons (baby squid). A crisp white wine, preferably from the Jurançon region, is non-negotiable.
The afternoon is best spent at the Cité de l’Océan, an interactive museum dedicated to the sea. If museums aren’t your thing, swap it for a more active adventure and try a surfing lesson at Côte des Basques, the birthplace of European surfing. If that sounds too exhausting, find a spot on the cliffs and watch the surfers ride the Atlantic swells. Alternatively, head to the elegant Villa Belza, a stunning 19th-century mansion perched on a rocky promontory, adding a touch of Gothic romance to the landscape.
As the sun starts to dip, head to the Phare de Biarritz, the city’s 73-metre lighthouse, for a panoramic view of the coastline. Then, for aperitif hour, Bar Jean is the place to be. Order a plate of Iberian ham, a glass of Txakoli, and soak in the lively atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for something quieter, L’Impertinent, a Michelin-starred restaurant, offers innovative dishes paired with an excellent wine list.
Dinner at L’Entre Deux is an excellent choice. This intimate bistro champions seasonal ingredients and impeccable technique. The foie gras and veal are standout dishes, but the menu changes often, so trust the chef and go with the flow. If there’s room for dessert, the gâteau Basque—a custard-filled pastry delight—is essential. If you’re feeling adventurous, explore the after-hours scene with a visit to a tucked-away speakeasy like Bar de la Côte, where expertly crafted cocktails and soft jazz set the perfect mood.
The next morning, ease into the day with breakfast at Miremont, an elegant patisserie that’s been serving sweet treats since 1872. Their hot chocolate is legendary, thick and indulgent enough to count as a meal. A freshly baked croissant or pain au chocolat on the side wouldn’t hurt either. For something savoury, their quiche Lorraine is a delicious choice.
With energy restored, explore the charming streets of the Port-Vieux district, where pastel-coloured houses tumble down towards the sea. Pop into boutique shops selling espadrilles, Basque linens, and handcrafted ceramics. Then, take a short drive inland to Bidart or Guéthary, two picturesque Basque villages with stunning coastal views and a more laid-back pace. Enjoy a stroll along the coastal path, where hidden beaches and rugged cliffs offer postcard-perfect scenery.
Lunch at La Plancha in Ilbarritz is a must for one final seafood feast. Located right on the beach, the setting is as spectacular as the food. The grilled turbot or a plate of juicy prawns, washed down with a cold glass of rosé, is the perfect way to say au revoir to Biarritz.
A final stroll along the Plage de la Milady, where the Atlantic breeze lingers and the ocean endlessly churns, is the last chapter of this “48 hours in Biarritz” escape. For a truly indulgent farewell, book a treatment at the Thalassa Sea & Spa, where seawater therapies and massages will leave you feeling utterly renewed. Leaving isn’t easy, but there’s always the promise of another sunset over the waves, another glass of wine, and another bite of gâteau Basque waiting for next time.
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