Where to Stay in Biarritz, France: Best Areas and Boutique Hotels

With a few different choices when it comes to where to stay in Biarritz, I’m sharing my intel on how to pick the best neighborhood and accommodation after a weeklong return trip to the sparkling resort city. Biarritz has several incredible hotels and remarkable vacation rentals, and below I’m breaking down why to pick a hotel near Les Halles or one of the main beaches like Grand Plage and Côte des Basques (Hint: This trip, we loved our stay at Le Talaia and this 3 Bedroom Luxury Villa near town).

Along the coast of the French Basque Country, Biarritz has a legacy as an elegant seaside city. In 1854, the wife of Napoleon III built a summer palace on the beach. Since then, the city has hosted vacationing royals and more, flocking to this French Atlantic city. Set along a gorgeous coastline, it’s easy to see why Biarritz has drawn people in for so many years. 

Today, Biarritz is also known as one of Europe’s biggest surfing destinations. As you wander along the coast, you’ll spot surfers catching waves along the ruggedly beautiful beaches. Biarritz is also a short distance from the Spanish border. I’d say it’s the perfect destination to combine with a trip to San Sebastian (also known as Donostia). 

It’s important to keep in mind that Biarritz has definitive neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm. During my trip, we stayed over a week in the Biarritz area. We spent half of our time in the Côte des Basques area at Le Talaia and half our time inland at this 3 Bedroom Luxury Villa. In this guide, I’ll outline my recommendations for where to stay and some of my picks for the best hotels in Biarritz.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for Where to Stay in Biarritz:

For a first trip, I’d stay close to the city center for easy access to the beaches, restaurants, and main sights. Côte des Basques to Bibi-Beaurivage is my pick for a quieter stay (we loved our time there at Le Talaia).

1. La Grande Plage, best for a first-time trip
   Hotels: Hôtel du Palais ($$$$), Regina Experimental ($$$), Le Garage ($$), Hôtel Le Windsor Biarritz ($)
   Airbnbs: 2 Bedroom Apartment With Ocean View Terrace, or Chic 1 Bedroom Apartment by the Ocean, Stunning 2 Bedroom Oceanfront Apartment
2. Les Halles and Port Vieux, best for in the mix
   Hotels: Hotel de Silhouette ($$), Hôtel Roc Seven Biarritz ($$), Hôtel Saint-Julien ($$), Hôtel de la Plage ($$)
   Airbnbs: Chic 1 Bedroom Apartment Steps from Port Vieux, Cozy 1 Bedroom With Parking, Charming 1 Bedroom Apartment with Views
3. Côte des Basques to Bibi-Beaurivage, best for families
   Hotels: Le Talaia Hotel & Spa Biarritz ($$ / Where I Stayed), Hôtel et Résidence Parc Mazon-Biarritz ($$), Hôtel Kemaris ($$)
   Airbnbs: 1 Bedroom Luxury Lodge Style Apartment, Chic 2 Bedroom Designer Apartment in Bibi, 2 Bedroom Apartment near Côte des Basque

Incredible Destination Hotels Nearby to Consider

Another option worth considering is staying in the surrounding area at one of the truly stand-out properties near Biarritz or even a private villa (like this 3 Bedroom Villa with Heated Pool we stayed at).

1. Brindos, Lac & Château ($$)
2. Hotel Indarra ($$)
3. L’Auberge Basque ($$)

Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip

Don’t miss my guide to the best things to do in Biarritz, for my full recommendations for what to eat and what to do! If you’re planning a trip to the Basque Country, don’t miss my full set of guides for San Sebastián (things to do, where to stay, where to eat, and day trips).

Travel Tip: The best way to explore Basque Country is by driving yourself. We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. Renting a car and driving in Spain is quite easy. Book your car with Discover Cars here.

Where to Stay in Biarritz, France: Best Areas and Hotels

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My Top Tip for Visiting Biarritz: Book Hotels Months Ahead

For Biarritz, the top priority for reservations is hotels and then restaurants. The top hotels in Biarritz book months in advance for summer peak months, as the room counts are on the lower side. After that, look to book your dinner reservations at least two weeks in advance.

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Best for a First-Time Trip: La Grande Plage

The Grande Plage is the area around Biarritz’s iconic beach. This beach is right off the city center with a grand promenade and is absolutely picture-perfect. You’ll find swimmers, surfers, and sunbathers alike, and a great selection of restaurants and cafes not too far from shore. You’ll have walkability up to Les Halles but impeccable access to the beach. It’s where more of the touristy experiences are, like the Petit Train and Grand Casino.

What to Consider About Staying at the Grande Plage

Staying by the Grande Plage is perfect if you’re looking to be in the heart of it all. You’ll be right by the gorgeous beach, and with convenient access to restaurants and shopping. It’s important to keep in mind that the area can get quite busy and noisy during the summer months. So, if you’re looking to avoid crowds, it might not be the best option.

The Best Hotels at the Grande Plage

1. Hôtel du Palais ($$$$) — If you want to stay somewhere luxurious yet steeped in Biarritz’s history, this is the place. This historic villa was built as a summer palace by Napoleon III and his wife Eugénie, founded in 1854. Today, it’s a gorgeous luxury hotel run by the Unbound Collection by Hyatt, with stunning rooms, a spa, and a pool.
2. Regina Experimental ($$$) — Another luxurious stay, Regina Experimental sits in a Belle Époque property that dates back to 1906. It has gorgeous rooms with interiors from Parisian designer Dorothée Meilichzon, many with ocean views. The hotel also includes an outdoor pool and brasserie.
3. Le Garage ($$) — This boutique hotel is set within a 1930s building that was originally a private garage. This smaller property has just 27 rooms and has a stylish design with a retro and Art Deco feel. It’s just a short distance from the beach, too.
4. Hôtel Le Windsor Biarritz ($) — A historic hotel just a short walk from the beach, this family-run boutique property features modern and well-appointed rooms. The hotel also has a restaurant, Chez Eugénie.

The Best Vacation Rentals at the Grande Plage

1. 2 Bedroom Apartment With Ocean View Terrace
2. Chic 1 Bedroom Apartment by the Ocean
3. Stunning 2 Bedroom Oceanfront Apartment

Highlights of Things to Do at the Grande Plage

• Spend a day beachside — Grab a beach towel and some food for a picnic, and spend some time lounging by the ocean. Sunbathe, watch the surfers, and enjoy some of what makes Biarritz so special.
• Try out surfing — If you’re up for it, La Grande Plage is a great spot to try out a surfing lesson and get into the water!
• Walk through the neighborhood — Take a stroll along the beach promenade, taking in the beautiful scenery and admiring the Hôtel du Palais. Then, wander up into the town and stop in local shops.

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Best for In the Mix: Les Halles and Port Vieux

This is the area right around the famed Les Halles food market out towards the rocky cove of Port Vieux. This is a central part of Biarritz with convenient access to Les Halles and the restaurants around it, as well as the quieter historic fishing area of Port Vieux. I adore this part of Biarritz because you feel like you’re a part of the local life. You’ll have great choices for restaurants and cafes, but also be under a 15-minute walk to the best beaches and sights.

What to Consider About Staying in Les Halles and Port Vieux

This is a character-rich area right in the center of Biarritz. Staying in Les Halles and Port Vieux means you’ll be in an incredibly walkable area, with access to the coast, as well as restaurants, shops, and more. If you’re looking for a historic, buzzy, and character-filled area, this is a great option.

The Best Hotels in Les Halles and Port Vieux

1. Hotel de Silhouette ($$) — This small boutique hotel is in a beautiful historic building, dating all the way back to the 17th century. Inside, you’ll find contemporary rooms with fun yet elevated design, some of which have balconies or ocean views.
2. Hôtel Roc Seven Biarritz ($$) — This tiny boutique hotel has just 9 rooms, each with a view of the ocean and impeccably designed. You’re just a few minutes from Port Vieux beach, too.
3. Hôtel Saint-Julien ($$) — Housed in a 19th-century Basque property on a quiet, tree-lined street, this hotel is simple yet modern. It offers a delicious breakfast and a cocktail bar, and is perfectly situated in the city.
4. Hôtel de la Plage ($$) — This hotel was recently renovated and reopened, with a modern coastal design. Some rooms offer views of the ocean, and you’re just steps from Port Vieux beach.

The Best Vacation Rentals in Les Halles and Port Vieux

1. Chic 1 Bedroom Apartment Steps from Port Vieux
2. Cozy 1 Bedroom With Parking
3. Charming 1 Bedroom Apartment with Views

Highlights of Things to Do in Les Halles and Port Vieux

• Wander Around Les Halles — Biarritz’s Les Halles market is a great spot to sample some Basque cuisine and produce. You’ll find stalls with oysters, Basque pintxos, local cheeses, and the famous Gâteau Basque.
• Spend a Day at Port Vieux Beach — This is a little cove that’s popular for swimming, with the sheltered waters staying a bit warmer for longer than other beaches.
• Dine in Port des Pêcheurs — It’s well worth it to check out Port des Pêcheurs, a historic area complete with charming fishing huts and some fish restaurants.
• See Rocher de la Vierge — From Port Vieux, you aren’t far from Rocher de la Vierge, a striking rock formation to walk along with a bronze statue of the Virgin Mary.

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Best for Families: Côte des Basques to Bibi-Beaurivage

The Côte des Basques is Biarritz’s iconic surfing destination, and Bibi-Beaurivage extends east into a charming residential neighborhood. If you’re looking to stay somewhere quieter or with prime surf, this is where you’ll want to be. It’s a much quieter neighborhood that sits at the top of the hill, so you’ll be on a descent if you walk into Les Halles. The neighborhood also has the best kid parks, so it’s a wonderful spot to be with littles.

What to Consider About Staying in Côte des Basques to Bibi-Beaurivage

If you’re looking to stay somewhere quieter or with prime surf, Côte des Basques to Bibi-Beaurivage is where you’ll want to be. It’s incredibly scenic with pathways along the coastline, has world-renowned surfing, and charming residential streets. The area is also still walking distance to all of the action of more central neighborhoods of Biarritz, too. Plus, there are still restaurants and shops nearby, without going too far afield.

The Best Hotels in Côte des Basques to Bibi-Beaurivage

1. Le Talaia Hotel & Spa Biarritz ($$ / Where I Stayed) — This is one of the places where we stayed while in Biarritz, and I loved it. It’s a stylish hotel and overlooks the ocean, making it a beautiful and peaceful spot to stay along the coast. The design is bold yet relaxing, and there’s also a seasonal pool, restaurant, and great spa. 
2. Hôtel et Résidence Parc Mazon-Biarritz ($$) — This hotel is a more affordable option in Biarritz that’s well located near the Côte des Basques. A great option if you’re looking for something well-priced yet still by the beach.
3. Hôtel Kemaris ($$) — You’ll find modern rooms within typical Basque architecture, with an outdoor patio for lounging. The hotel is a quick 5-minute walk from Côte des Basques Beach, too.

The Best Vacation Rentals in Côte des Basques to Bibi-Beaurivage

1. 1 Bedroom Luxury Lodge Style Apartment
2. Chic 2 Bedroom Designer Apartment in Bibi
3. 2 Bedroom Apartment near Côte des Basque

Highlights of Things to Do in Côte des Basques to Bibi-Beaurivage

• Surf at Côte des Basques — The beach is known as the birthplace of European surfing. If you’re a surfer or curious about learning, this is a great spot to try a lesson. If surfing isn’t for you, it’s also fun to wander down and watch the surfers.
• Walk Along the Coast — You’ll find a pathway along the Côte des Basques Beach and beyond. Strolling along and admiring the beautiful landscape is a fantastic way to start the day.
• Explore the Local Dining Scene — Biarritz has some amazing restaurants and food, and many great spots in Bibi-Beaurivage. Stop by for a leisurely lunch or dinner.

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Incredible Destination Hotels Nearby to Consider

Another option worth considering is staying in the surrounding area at one of the truly stand-out properties near Biarritz. Many are close enough where you’ll have convenient access to the city, yet in an incredible destination hotel. Especially if you’re looking to extend your trip after a few days in the center, this is a strong option. There are also some incredible private villas near town. We spent half our week at this wonderful 3 Bedroom Luxury Villa with a Heated Pool on the edge of town.

Brindos, Lac & Château

Set upon a large private lake and only about a 10-minute drive to Biarritz, this is a stunning spot for a peaceful stay. Brindos, Lac & Château is a luxurious property where you’ll find rooms within the estate. But there’s also the option to stay on one of the floating lodges on the lake accessible by electric ferry boats. There’s a spa, pool, and cocktail bar, where you can relax and take in the beautiful ambiance.

Hotel Indarra

This restored farmhouse is perfect if you’re looking for a serene, back-to-nature getaway. With peaceful rooms, a yoga studio, a spa, and outdoor pool, it’s easy to spend the days lounging and relaxing. You’re also surrounded by the nature of the Basque Country, with hiking and surfing not far away. Plus, Indarra is only a 20-minute drive from Biarritz.

L’Auberge Basque

This small 12-room hotel feels like staying in a Basque country house. It brings together historic and modern architecture, and notably features a Michelin-starred restaurant from chef Cédric Béchade. This stay is around a half-hour drive from Biarritz, and is perfect if you’re looking for a Basque countryside feel.

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What to Know Before Visiting Biarritz

What to Expect of Accommodations in Biarritz

You can find a range of options for where to stay in Biarritz, from luxurious hotels to small boutique stays. Many have incredible ocean views or traditional Basque architecture. In general, I feel the hotel rooms are on the smaller side, but typical of most European hotels.

What to Consider When Choosing Biarritz Accommodations

• The Location — Even though Biarritz is a small, walkable city, it’s worthwhile to be thoughtful about where you stay. There are distinct neighborhoods to consider for your trip to Biarritz, which I’ll get into in more detail below.
• The Room Size — As is the case with many European hotel rooms, you can expect more compact rooms. If you want a larger room, you can look into upgrading.
• Air Conditioning — If air conditioning is important to you or you’re traveling during the summer, it’s worth double-checking. Boutique hotels or vacation rentals in historic buildings often don’t have air conditioning.
• Parking — Parking is known to be expensive and hard to find in Biarritz. If you’re planning on visiting by car, it’s vital to check out the parking situation in advance to avoid any surprises or stress.
• Accessibility — Keep in mind that many hotels and stays are in historic buildings. These often aren’t equipped for accessibility. If you’re looking for an accessible stay, I’d recommend carefully checking hotels and confirming directly with the property.

Getting to Biarritz

• Driving — Driving is a great way to get to Biarritz and explore the surrounding area. But it’s important to keep in mind that parking in the city itself is limited and often expensive. The city is around a 2-hour drive from Bordeaux, or around 2.5 hours from Toulouse.
• Flying — You can fly directly into Biarritz Airport, a small airport just a short distance from the city. This is a great option if you’re looking to fly in from London, Paris, or another major European city.
• By Train — If you’re traveling from within France, you can take the train into Biarritz. Especially if you’re traveling to Biarritz from Paris, you can take a high-speed train in about 4 hours.

Getting Around Biarritz

As a smaller city, it’s easy to get around Biarritz on foot. If you get tired of walking, there are other options, too. You can take the Txik Txak public bus or local tram, or rent an e-bike. Taxis and rideshare apps are also available.

What Is the Best Area of Biarritz to Stay In?

The best area to stay in Biarritz for a trip for less than 4 days is directly in the city center. This will put you within walking distance of the top things to do and cut down on needing to get in the car to get somewhere.

Best Time to Visit and Weather in Biarritz

I’d recommend visiting Biarritz in spring (May to June) or the fall (September to October). Temperatures are still mild during these months, and it’s not as crowded as the summer. If you’re looking for a true beach vacation and don’t mind crowds (or more expensive hotel prices), your best bet is to visit during the summer. The weather isn’t amazing during the winter. But if you’re visiting during the low season, you’ll find fewer crowds and better prices.

How Long Should You Stay in Biarritz?

I’d recommend staying in Biarritz for around 4 days to properly explore and experience the city. Or, stay for around a week if you’re looking to also visit the surrounding areas of the Basque coast.

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