Car Rental Biarritz

Roll down the windows and breathe in the fresh sea air as you drive along the French coastline, taking in the breath-taking views of the glittering Bay of Biscay.

The D260 and D810 roads both provide convenient routes through Biarritz. It is only around ten minutes from the airport to the heart of the city via Boulevard du Bayonne Anglet. Much of the centre itself is pedestrianized, so it is best to park your car nearby and explore on foot.

You’ll no doubt be keen to head to the beach, and parking spaces are often available near to the popular spots – especially when the morning surfers have already finished riding the waves.

Biarritz may be something of a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered, but it is also conveniently located for further exploration in the south-west corner of France.  

It’s just under two hours to the Pyrenees National Park via the A64 route. Park your rental car here, pull on your hiking boots and explore a section of the snow-capped peaks that stretch for more than 400km along the border between France and Spain.

At the foot of the Pyrenees, you’ll find the famous town of Lourdes and one of the most visited Christian pilgrimage shrines. There are pools of water here that are believed to have healing powers.

Alternatively, head along the A63 north from Biarritz and it’ll take you on a scenic drive through Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park. Park up and stretch your legs if you wish, before continuing on to Bordeaux. The journey will take just over two hours. 

Speed limits are well signposted and tend to vary from 50km/h on town and city roads to 130km/h on major highways, known as ‘autoroutes’. It’s important to note that there are tolls on many of France’s major routes – some accept cards, but having some cash on you is advised.

This city attracts a diverse crowd of travellers and has much to offer in terms of sights and experiences.Whether you are heading here to soak up the sun on the golden sandy beaches, or explore the spectacular architecture, renting a car in Biarritz will help you expand your French adventure in style.

Catch a wave

Surfers flock from far and wide to ride the water in this corner of France. As well as being considered by many to be the surfing capital of Europe, the city is also held to be one of the best places in the world to don a wetsuit and catch the waves.

You don’t have to be a professional surfer either. There are several local surf schools that will help you learn the ropes, and six beaches in Biarritz to choose from. La Cote des Basques has a long-running association with the sport, and is one of the best for surfing.

Soak up the sun on Grand Plage

Members of high society have been attracted to this resort’s beaches since the late 19th century. And here you can sunbathe in the very same spots.

The Grand Plage, which stretches from Hotel du Palais to Bellevue, is the most central stretch in the city and arguably the most regal.

This is the perfect place to lay down your towel and dive into a good book before taking a stroll along the promenade with an ice cream – or enjoy a dip in the sea. The luxurious Hotel Du Palais was built for Empress Eugenie by her husband Napoleon III, and was originally a palace that the couple used as a summer home.

Explore Musee de la Mer

At Biarritz aquarium, one of the largest of its kind in Europe, you can come face-to-face with a wide array of sea life. Before you head inside, take a moment to admire the art deco architecture the aquarium is housed in.

Then, as you explore more than 20 colossal tanks, you’ll see everything from turtles to sharks – with every one of the seven seas represented across the attraction. Make your way outdoors to the terrace, where you’ll be able to see the seals, and watch these magnificent creatures being fed twice a day.

Visit Rocher de la Vierge

Also known as The Rock of the Virgin Mary, Rocher de la Vierge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Biarritz. You’ll have to walk across a bridge over the water to reach this small island – a wooden crossing was originally built for Napoleon III, who wanted to make it accessible.

Today, there is a metal structure designed by Gustave Eiffel, who is most famous for creating the Eiffel Tower. Atop the rock, you’ll see a statue of the Virgin Mary, which has been here since 1865 – erected after fishermen claimed to have been saved by a light guiding them back during a storm. Take in panoramas of the picturesque coastline, and admire the views out over the water.   

With car rental in Biarritz you can soak up the best of this sparkling seaside resort, and discover more of the French Basque Country beyond. Reserve direct today.