Things To Do In Biarritz

Biarritz is not a place to head for if you are looking for theme parks and other purpose built attractions; essentially the city is a playground for the rich and holidays here are centred largely on relaxation and the water sports offered by its beaches.

The citys list of places worthy of visiting is based heavily around sites of historical and architectural interest and those with a penchant for old churches and classic Basque buildings will find plenty to keep them occupied. If you prefer to get out and about however, hiring a car will give you the opportunity to drive around the Aquitaine region and take in some truly beautiful scenery.

Eglise St-Martin

Situated on rue St-Martin, Eglise St-Martin is a church hailing from the days when the town was a booming whaling centre. The church is a popular cultural attraction, which tourists visit to observe its combination of original 12th century architecture and Gothic additions from the 16th century. The church is free to enter and is open to visitors seven days a week.

Eglise Orthodoxe Russe

Another cultural attraction, Eglise Orthodoxe Russe, situated on avenue de l'Imperatrice, is a church hailing back to the days before the Russian Revolution of 1917, when the city was popular with members of the Russian aristocracy. Built in a Byzantine-Russian style, the building was constructed so that the Russian aristocrats would have a place to pray while vacationing in the city. Among the buildings most notable points is its gilded dome with vivid blue interior

Quai de la Grande Plage

The Quai de la Grande Plage is the citys main beach and promenade and is where most holidaymakers head for lazy days sunbathing or more energetic beach activities. There are plenty of shops on the promenade worth checking out, after which you can grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants on offer here.

Htel du Palais

The Htel du Palais is Biarritzs oldest and perhaps most famous landmark, constructed by Empress Eugenie during the mid-19th century. Following her death and that of Napoleon III, the palace saw prestigious guests such as Edward VII, who stayed here in 1906 and later again in 1910 just days before he died. The palace is now a working hotel, but it can be visited by non-residents wishing to appreciate something of the historical interest of this fascinating building.

Place Ste-Eugnie

Place Ste-Eugnie is the citys old square and is the perfect place to head to appreciate some fine architecture and classic Basque style. The square is a popular rendezvous spot and is filled with old fashioned terraced restaurants where you can sit and appreciate a good meal with friends or while away some time with a book and a cup of strong French coffee.

Museums

Biarritz offers only a modest selection of museums and is perhaps not the city to visit if cultural centres are high on your agenda of places to visit. The Musee de la Mer or Museum of the Sea is perhaps the most famous facility and is an ideal place for families with its extensive marine life collection residing in 24 different aquariums. Feeding times for the museums seals and sharks are among the highlights at the centre. Meanwhile, at the Musee Asiatica on rue Guy Petit, visitors will find a large collection of interesting and unusual artefacts hailing from Asian countries such as India, Nepal, Tibet and China.