Taking the train to Biarritz, a lively seaside city in the French Basque Country, provides hassle-free travel to one the most beloved holiday destinations on the Atlantic coast. Biarritz is a prime choice for travellers looking for active holidays, with surfing and other water sports, barefoot walks on the sand or dancing until dawn all on offer here. Conveniently placed on the high-speed TGV Paris-Bordeaux-Irun line, Paris to Biarritz takes 5h30mins, while Irun to Biarritz by train takes just 40 minutes. Intercity, regional TER Aquitaine services, and night trains from Orléans and the capital also stop here. So, anyone dreaming of an ocean getaway can jump on a train straight to Biarritz!
Bienvenue à Biarritz
Biarritz’s new train station is 3.5 km from the great stretch of golden sand that’s the nucleus of life here – La Grand Plage. Though it’s a pleasant walk, those arriving by train to Biarritz with luggage can catch the number 8 bus that leaves from the station and heads into the city centre every 10-15 minutes. Biarritz is an irresistible mix of wild nature, urban buzz and luxury from the Belle Époque. In fact, this was the place to be seen in the 1900s, something that becomes evident when strolling along the main promenade. The list of beautiful edifices here includes Hôtel du Palais — once the regal retreat of Empress Eugénie and host to many royal holidaymakers. Nearby, the beautiful Russian Orthodox church, Église Alexandre Newsky, shows how far and wide the aristocratic appeal of Biarritz once stretched. From La Grand Plage the walk south towards Plage du Port-Vieux is around 20 minutes, past brightly-coloured huts and surfers who effortlessly ride the waves. Here, the oldest part of the city has gorgeous views and plenty of dining and drinking options.
The influence of the ocean and Basque culinary traditions is reflected in the local cuisine. Travellers who love seafood will be spoilt for choice with delicious dishes and gorgeous waterside restaurants. For those who love the sea in general, the Aquarium de Biarritz is an attraction that will please the whole family. More than 5,000 sea creatures are housed within this glamorous building, bringing the world beneath the waves to life. Whatever holidays in Biarritz bring, it’s bound to be tied to the ocean!