10 luxury hotels in Biarritz, France

The 10 Best Hotels in Biarritz, France: Where Imperial Grandeur Meets Oceanic Grace

Introduction

Imagine the scent of salt spray mingling with the perfume of pine, the sound of crashing Atlantic waves a constant, rhythmic soundtrack to your every indulgence. This is Biarritz, a legendary Basque Country jewel where the mountains meet the sea and luxury is woven into the very fabric of its golden coastline. Choosing the right hotel here isn't merely about a place to sleep; it's about selecting the lens through which you'll experience this cinematic destination. Will it be through the gilded windows of a Second Empire palace, a sleek modernist perch above the surf, or a chic, intimate retreat tucked into a cobbled lane? The hotel you choose becomes the stage for your story, transforming a simple holiday into an unforgettable narrative of elegance, adventure, and profound relaxation.

This guide curates the definitive list of the top 10 luxury hotels in Biarritz, France, each a protagonist in its own right. Our selection was born from a rigorous set of criteria that define true, contemporary luxury. We considered architectural significance and historical soul, seeking places where the past is not just preserved but palpably alive. We evaluated design aesthetics, from opulent, traditional interiors to cutting-edge, ocean-inspired minimalism. Amenities were scrutinized—world-class spas with thalassotherapy, Michelin-starred culinary temples, infinity pools that blur into the horizon. Location was paramount: proximity to the iconic Grande Plage, the vibrant Port des Pêcheurs, or serene, cliffside seclusion. Finally, we assessed that elusive, magical quality: the ability to create a singular, immersive atmosphere that captures the heart of Biarritz. From the imperial splendor of the Hotel du Palais to the discreet charm of a boutique haven, these ten properties represent the pinnacle of hospitality in this storied resort. Prepare to be immersed.

How to Choose Your Perfect Hotel

Biarritz, though compact, unfolds in distinct neighborhoods, each with its own rhythm and character. Your ideal hotel hinges on matching its vibe to your travel desires. The **Grande Plage and Centre-Ville** is the pulsating heart. Here, you're steps from the iconic beach, the Casino, and elegant shopping on Rue du Port Vieux. It's bustling, glamorous, and perfect for those who want to be at the epicenter of action, with the majestic Hotel du Palais as its crown. The **Port des Pêcheurs** offers a more authentic, maritime charm. Watch fishing boats bob beside restaurants serving the day's catch; it's lively, colorful, and slightly bohemian. For **cliffside serenity and panoramic views**, head towards the **Phare de Biarritz (lighthouse)** and the **Côte des Basques**. This area provides a quieter, more residential feel, with breathtaking vistas and direct access to legendary surf spots.

Consider your traveler profile. **Romantic couples** might prioritize sea-view balconies and intimate spas, while **families** may seek spacious suites, kid-friendly pools, and proximity to calmer beaches. **Business travelers** require seamless connectivity and central meeting points. **Luxury seekers** desiring the full, iconic Biarritz experience will be drawn to the historic palaces, whereas **boutique lovers** might prefer a design-forward hideaway with personalized service. Budgets in Biarritz range from premium to ultra-luxury. While true bargains are rare in peak season, value can be found in shoulder months and through exclusive packages that bundle spa or dining credits. Ultimately, your choice defines your Biarritz narrative—choose the neighborhood and atmosphere that speaks to the story you wish to live.

The Top 10 Hotels in Biarritz, France

1. Hotel du Palais

To stay at the Hotel du Palais is to sleep within a living legend. Originally built as a villa for Empress Eugénie in 1854, this palace rises like a golden-cream confection above the Grande Plage, its very stones whispering tales of European royalty. The first impression is one of awe: a sweeping driveway, a lobby of marble and gilt, and an overwhelming sense of entering a bygone era of uncompromising opulence. The location is unbeatable, commanding the most prestigious stretch of sand, with the casino and chic boutiques just a promenade away.

Rooms and suites are masterclasses in Napoleonic III style, adorned with rich silks, antique furnishings, and ornate moldings, many offering terraces with direct, heart-stopping views of the Atlantic rollers. The signature amenity is its vast, heated seawater pool, carved into the cliffside and fed by the ocean, alongside a sublime thalassotherapy spa in the original imperial villa. The gastronomic restaurant, led by a Michelin-starred chef, is a destination in itself. This hotel is perfect for history buffs, celebratory travelers, and anyone seeking the ultimate, iconic Biarritz experience. Approximate price range: $$$$.

2. Radisson Blu Biarritz

A striking contrast to its historic neighbor, the Radisson Blu Biarritz is a monument to sleek, contemporary luxury. Its dramatic, curved glass façade reflects the sky and sea, creating a dynamic, modern landmark. The atmosphere is one of relaxed sophistication—think chic lounge music, clean lines, and an emphasis on the breathtaking oceanic panorama that unfolds from every public space. It sits directly on the Grande Plage, offering a front-row seat to the surfers and sunset strollers.

Rooms are sanctuaries of minimalist design, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, pale wood, and pops of azure blue, all designed to frame the ever-changing seascape. The rooftop is its crowning glory: an infinity pool that appears to spill into the ocean, surrounded by sun loungers and a trendy bar, making it the place for a sunset cocktail. The spa offers holistic treatments, and the restaurant focuses on fresh, local seafood with a modern twist. Perfect for design aficionados, couples, and travelers who prefer a vibrant, contemporary scene. Approximate price range: $$$.

3. Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar

The Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar exudes a timeless, Art Deco elegance fused with a distinctly French *art de vivre*. Perched between the lighthouse and the Côte des Basques beach, it offers a slightly more serene, residential feel while remaining close to the action. The vibe is polished and cultured, with an understated glamour that attracts a discerning international clientele. The first impression is of a beautiful, whitewashed building surrounded by manicured gardens, promising a retreat of calm.

Accommodations blend classic French luxury with subtle Basque influences; think plush velvet, marble bathrooms, and private terraves overlooking the garden or sea. The hotel's Thalassa Sea & Spa is a temple of well-being, specializing in marine therapies. Its restaurant is celebrated for its inventive Basque-French cuisine, best enjoyed on the terrace in summer. With direct access to a more secluded beach, it's ideal for romantic getaways, wellness seekers, and those who appreciate refined tranquility. Approximate price range: $$$$.

4. Regina Biarritz

Experience the grandeur of the Belle Époque at the Regina Biarritz, a majestic hotel overlooking the Jardin Public. This historic gem, built in 1907, boasts a stunning façade of white stone and red brick, with a charming, old-world elevator still in operation. The atmosphere is one of nostalgic romance and aristocratic charm, offering a quieter alternative to the beachfront bustle while being just a short stroll from both the Grande Plage and the town center.

Suites are spacious and elegantly appointed, featuring high ceilings, period furniture, and large windows flooding the rooms with light. While it forgoes a sprawling spa, its charm lies in its authenticity and personalized service. The breakfast room, with its original stained-glass dome, is a particular highlight. This hotel is perfect for lovers of architecture and history, travelers seeking a peaceful, genteel retreat, and those who value character over flashy amenities. Approximate price range: $$-$$$.

5. Hotel Windsor

Nestled in a quiet, verdant neighborhood a few blocks from the sea, the Hotel Windsor is a charming boutique hideaway that feels like a secret garden. The atmosphere is intimate, friendly, and deeply personal, more akin to staying at a stylish friend's villa than a formal hotel. Lush greenery surrounds a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, creating a serene oasis away from the coastal winds.

Rooms are individually decorated with a mix of contemporary art, antique finds, and bold fabrics, each possessing its own unique personality. The lack of a large restaurant is compensated for by an excellent breakfast and a cozy bar, encouraging exploration of Biarritz's famed culinary scene. The Windsor is perfect for independent travelers, couples seeking a romantic and quiet base, and anyone who prioritizes a warm, authentic welcome and a beautiful pool garden. Approximate price range: $$-$$$.

6. Le Grande Hotel

True to its name, Le Grande Hotel is a vision of early 20th-century grandeur, standing proudly on a cliffside with commanding views of the Plage du Port Vieux and the Rocher de la Vierge. The atmosphere is one of dignified splendor, with a magnificent stained-glass cupola and a sweeping marble staircase that transports you to a more elegant age. Its location is spectacular, perched between two beaches and a stone's throw from the historic fishing port.

Rooms are classically furnished, many with balconies that deliver some of the most dramatic sea vistas in Biarritz. The indoor seawater pool and spa, with hammam and sauna, offer a serene escape. The restaurant's terrace is arguably one of the best dining perches in town, perfect for watching the waves crash against the rocks below. Ideal for romantics, view-seekers, and travelers who cherish historic ambiance with a prime location. Approximate price range: $$$.

7. Hotel Edouard VII

Hotel Edouard VII offers a delightful blend of traditional Basque architecture and contemporary boutique sensibility. Located just behind the Grande Plage, it provides easy access to the sea while being insulated from the busiest streets. The vibe is warm, colorful, and artistic, with a focus on personalized service that makes you feel instantly at home. The façade, with its half-timbering and red shutters, is quintessentially Biarritz.

Rooms are bright and cheerful, decorated in a modern coastal style with nautical blues and whites, and many feature balconies. A charming courtyard garden provides a sunny spot for breakfast or an afternoon book. While it lacks extensive facilities like a spa, its strength is its charm, location, and value. Perfect for savvy travelers, young couples, and those who want a central, stylish base without the palace price tag. Approximate price range: $$.

8. Hotel Atalante

For a truly unique and design-forward experience, Hotel Atalante stands apart. This adults-only boutique hotel is a celebration of surf culture and mid-century modern design, curated with an impeccable eye. The atmosphere is cool, relaxed, and effortlessly stylish, attracting a creative, international crowd. It's situated in a quieter area near the Côte des Basques, the spiritual home of European surfing.

Each room is individually themed around a legendary surfer or surf destination, featuring vintage furniture, curated record players with vinyl collections, and custom artwork. The highlight is its stunning rooftop terrace with a small pool, sun loungers, and panoramic views—a magical spot at sunset. With no formal restaurant, it encourages exploration. Perfect for design lovers, surf enthusiasts, couples, and travelers seeking a hip, unconventional luxury experience. Approximate price range: $$$.

9. Hotel Madison

Hotel Madison is a serene, four-star sanctuary nestled in a peaceful residential district, a short walk from the Grande Plage. The atmosphere is one of understated elegance and tranquility, centered around its magnificent heated outdoor pool and lush subtropical garden—a true oasis. It feels like a secluded retreat, yet the heart of Biarritz is only minutes away on foot.

Rooms are comfortable and tastefully decorated in a classic-contemporary style, with many offering private terraces overlooking the garden. The spa, with its indoor pool, hammam, and treatment rooms, is a significant draw for those seeking relaxation. The restaurant serves refined cuisine in a charming conservatory setting. Ideal for families (in connecting rooms), wellness-focused travelers, and anyone who values a peaceful garden and pool after a day of exploration. Approximate price range: $$$.

10. Hotel de la Plage

As the name promises, Hotel de la Plage offers an intimate, direct-on-the-sand experience on the beloved Plage du Port Vieux. This small, charming hotel is all about location and simplicity with style. The atmosphere is casual-chic, friendly, and immersive; you fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up to surfers catching the morning swell just outside your window.

Rooms are cozy and nautical-themed, with an emphasis on the breathtaking beach views from private balconies. It's a no-frills property in terms of amenities—there's no spa or pool—but the beach is your lounge, and the world is at your doorstep. The ground-floor café is a local favorite for a morning coffee with a view. Perfect for surfers, beach purists, budget-conscious luxury seekers, and travelers who want to be literally steps from the sand and the vibrant Port Vieux atmosphere. Approximate price range: $-$$.

Neighborhood Guide: Where to Stay

Grande Plage & Centre-Ville

This is the epicenter of Biarritz's glamour. Think of the iconic beachfront promenade, the grand casino, luxury boutiques on Avenue Edouard VII, and a constant, elegant buzz. Staying here means you are at the heart of everything. Mornings begin with a stroll on the sand, afternoons with shopping, and evenings with aperitifs overlooking the sea. It's vibrant, slightly noisy, and utterly captivating. This neighborhood is ideal for first-time visitors, luxury seekers, and those who thrive on energy. Featured Hotels: **Hotel du Palais**, **Radisson Blu Biarritz**, and **Hotel Edouard VII**.

Port des Pêcheurs & Rocher de la Vierge

This area pulses with authentic maritime character. The colorful fishing port is lined with restaurants serving ultra-fresh seafood, and the dramatic rock formation of the Rocher de la Vierge, connected by a Gustave Eiffel-designed footbridge, provides stunning views. It's a picturesque, lively mix of working port and tourist charm, with a slightly bohemian edge. It's perfect for foodies, photographers, and travelers who prefer a more rustic, atmospheric setting. Featured Hotels: **Le Grande Hotel** and **Hotel de la Plage**.

Côte des Basques & Phare District

For serenity and breathtaking panoramas, head south towards the lighthouse. This residential cliffside area offers sweeping views of the coastline, direct access to the legendary Côte des Basques surf break, and a quieter, more local pace. It's where you come to unwind, take long coastal walks, and feel the raw power of the Atlantic. Ideal for romantics, surfers, wellness retreats, and those seeking a peaceful escape with easy access to nature. Featured Hotels: **Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar** and **Hotel Atalante**.

Quiet Inland & Garden Districts

A few blocks back from the sea, Biarritz reveals a calmer, greener personality. Streets are lined with beautiful Basque villas, and hotels often feature hidden garden oases. You trade immediate beach access for tranquility, lush surroundings, and a more residential feel, while still being within a pleasant 10-15 minute walk to the coast. Perfect for families, travelers seeking value, and those who appreciate a quiet retreat after a day of exploration. Featured Hotels: **Regina Biarritz**, **Hotel Windsor**, and **Hotel Madison**.

Best Hotels for Specific Experiences

Best for Romance: The **Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar** sets the stage with its serene cliffside location, elegant Art Deco ambiance, and sublime thalassotherapy spa for couples' treatments. For ultimate drama, **Le Grande Hotel** offers balconies suspended above crashing waves, creating an unforgettable romantic backdrop.

Best for Families: **Hotel Madison** is a top choice with its spacious garden, large heated pool, and family-friendly atmosphere, offering connecting rooms and a calm residential setting. The **Hotel du Palais**, while grand, also caters superbly to families with its vast grounds, pool, and legendary status that delights all ages.

Best for Business Travelers: The **Radisson Blu Biarritz** provides modern efficiency, excellent meeting facilities, reliable high-speed connectivity, and a central location ideal for mixing work with impressive client entertainment, especially on its rooftop.

Best Boutique Hotels: **Hotel Atalante** wins for its audacious, surf-inspired design and cool rooftop vibe, while **Hotel Windsor** captures hearts with its intimate, garden-pool sanctuary and personalized, artistic charm.

Best Value Luxury: **Hotel Edouard VII** delivers fantastic location, boutique style, and warm service at a more accessible price point. For an unbeatable beachfront location on a budget, **Hotel de la Plage** offers a simple yet magical stay right on the sand.

Dining & Amenities Spotlight

Biarritz's luxury hotels are destinations for gastronomy alone. The **Hotel du Palais** houses a Michelin-starred temple where Chef Aurélien Largeau crafts exquisite Basque-inflected French cuisine, a spectacle of refinement. For a setting that rivals the food, the cliffside terrace at **Le Grande Hotel** serves sublime seafood with a panoramic theatre of waves. The **Radisson Blu's** rooftop bar is the social hub for sunset, where expertly mixed cocktails are enjoyed against a 180-degree ocean vista—the very essence of Biarritz chic.

The spa and wellness scene is dominated by thalassotherapy, the therapeutic use of seawater. The **Sofitel's Thalassa Sea & Spa** and the **Hotel du Palais spa** are sanctuaries of marine wellness, offering everything from jet-strength hydrotherapy pools to algae wraps, harnessing the Atlantic's restorative power. For a more holistic, design-forward approach, the **Radisson Blu's** spa provides serene treatments in a minimalist environment.

Unique services define these properties. Think of the personalized surf concierge at **Hotel Atalante**, who can arrange lessons with local legends. Or the historic guided tours offered at the **Hotel du Palais**, delving into its imperial past. Many hotels, like the **Windsor** and **Madison**, offer coveted private parking—a golden commodity in Biarritz. The amenity that truly captures Biarritz's soul, however, is the ocean-fed or infinity pool: from the historic cliff-carved pool at the Palais to the modern sky-high marvel at the Radisson Blu, it's your liquid connection to the majestic sea.

Booking Tips & Insider Secrets

To secure the best rates and rooms, **book at least 3-6 months in advance** for peak season (June-September). For better value and fewer crowds, target the **shoulder seasons: May and late September to October**, when the weather is still glorious. Winter offers a dramatic, storm-watching experience at a fraction of the cost, perfect for spa retreats.

Upgrades are possible. **Book directly through the hotel's website**, where you often find the best packages (spa, dining, parking included) and loyalty perks. Politely inquire about upgrades at check-in, but your best chance is to **join the hotel's or group's loyalty program** (Accor for Sofitel, Radisson, etc.) and use status. A well-timed, discreet inquiry about "available room categories" can work wonders.

Biarritz-specific strategies: **Request a room with a balcony facing the sea or garden**—the view is everything. If you're sensitive to noise, ask for a room away from elevator shafts and facing inland in the city center. For palace hotels, consider **half-board options** during high season, as dining out in Biarritz requires reservations and can be costly. Finally, leverage local knowledge: the concierge at these top hotels can secure impossible dinner reservations, private surf instructors, and exclusive access to local events—don't hesitate to build a relationship early.

Practical Information for Hotel Guests

Check-in/out: Standard times are 3 PM for check-in and 12 PM for check-out. High-end hotels are often accommodating with early arrival/late departure requests, especially if arranged in advance, and will happily store luggage. A credit card for incidentals is always required.

Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory in France, as service is included, but it is customary and appreciated for good service. In luxury hotels, consider **2-5 euros per bag for porters, 1-2 euros per day for housekeeping** (left in the room), and **5-10% of the bill for concierge services that go above and beyond** (securing hard-to-get reservations). In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is standard.

Language & Transportation: French and Basque are spoken, but English is widely understood in the hospitality sector. A few polite phrases in French ("Bonjour," "Merci") are warmly received. Biarritz is very walkable. Taxis are available but can be scarce; ask your hotel to book one. The local bus network is efficient for trips to nearby towns like Bayonne. Renting a car is useful for exploring the Basque coast but be prepared for limited and expensive parking.

Safety & Etiquette: Biarritz is very safe. Standard precautions against pickpockets in crowded areas apply. Beach etiquette: topless sunbathing is common on most beaches. When dining, expect a more leisurely pace—meals are an experience to be savored. Finally, embrace the "apéritif" culture; a pre-dinner drink on your hotel terrace is a quintessential part of the Biarritz rhythm.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Imperial Glamour & Grande Plage. Check into the **Hotel du Palais**. Afternoon: Immerse in history with a hotel tour, then stroll the promenade to the Rocher de la Vierge. Evening: Indulge in a Michelin-starred dinner at the hotel's restaurant, followed by a nightcap at the regal bar, feeling every bit like royalty.

Day 2: Modern Vibe & Surf Culture. Morning: Enjoy the Palais's thalasso pool. After checkout, transfer to the **Hotel Atalante** in the Côte des Basques area. Afternoon: Book a private surf lesson arranged by the hotel concierge. Evening: Experience the magical sunset from Atalante's rooftop with a cocktail, then wander into the Port des Pêcheurs for a lively, fresh seafood dinner at a *brasserie*.

Day 3: Boutique Charm & Farewell. Morning: A coastal walk from the hotel to the Phare de Biarritz. After checkout, store bags and head to **Hotel Windsor** for a final taste of Biarritz's boutique side. Spend your last afternoon lounging by their stunning garden pool, a serene oasis. Enjoy a farewell drink in their cozy bar before departing, having experienced the majestic, the modern, and the intimately charming faces of Biarritz luxury.

Conclusion

From the imperial crown of the Hotel du Palais to the surf-chic soul of Hotel Atalante, these ten luxury hotels in Biarritz, France, are not merely accommodations; they are the custodians of the city's spirit. Each offers a distinct portal into the Basque Country's most glamorous resort: one of historic grandeur, another of sleek modernity, another of intimate, garden-filled tranquility. Together, they define a spectrum of excellence where every traveler can find their perfect match. Whether your dream is to sleep in a palace built for an empress, to sip champagne on a rooftop infinity pool, or to wake up to the sound of waves from a cozy beachfront balcony, Biarritz delivers with unparalleled style and soul. Your story here awaits its setting. Choose your stage, and let the timeless magic of Biarritz unfold around you.

FAQ - Top 10 Hotels in Biarritz, France

What is the best time of year to visit Biarritz for a luxury hotel stay?

The peak summer season (June-August) offers vibrant energy and perfect beach weather but comes with premium prices and crowds. For the ideal balance of great weather, fewer crowds, and better value, target the shoulder months of May, September, and early October. Winter (November-March) provides a dramatic, storm-watching experience and the lowest rates, ideal for spa-focused retreats.

Which Biarritz luxury hotel has the best spa?

For authentic thalassotherapy (seawater therapy), the spas at the Hotel du Palais and the Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar are unparalleled, offering extensive marine-based treatments in stunning settings. The Hotel Madison also features a highly regarded spa with an indoor pool, perfect for year-round relaxation.

Are these hotels suitable for families with children?

Absolutely. While all welcome families, Hotel Madison and Hotel du Palais are particularly well-suited. Madison offers a residential calm, a large garden pool, and family room configurations. The Hotel du Palais, despite its grandeur, is very family-friendly, with spacious grounds, a huge pool, and a legendary atmosphere that captivates all ages.

What is the average price per night for a luxury hotel in Biarritz?

Prices vary dramatically by season and hotel. In peak season, expect to pay from €300-€500 per night for a four-star boutique hotel (e.g., Hotel Windsor, Hotel Madison) and from €600 to well over €1,500 per night for a suite at the five-star palace hotels like the Hotel du Palais or Sofitel Miramar.

Which area is best for first-time visitors to Biarritz?

First-time visitors will love staying in the Grande Plage & Centre-Ville area. It places you within walking distance of the iconic beach, major sights, shopping, and dining. Hotels like the Radisson Blu Biarritz or Hotel Edouard VII offer perfect, central bases to explore everything Biarritz has to offer.

Do I need to rent a car when staying at a luxury hotel in Biarritz?

Not necessarily. Biarritz is very walkable, and most hotels are centrally located or well-connected by bus. A car is useful for exploring the wider Basque Coast (like Saint-Jean-de-Luz or Hondarribia), but parking in Biarritz can be challenging and expensive. Many hotels offer valet or private parking for a fee.

How can I get an upgrade at my Biarritz hotel?

The best strategies include booking directly with the hotel, joining the hotel group's loyalty program, traveling during shoulder seasons when occupancy is lower, and politely inquiring about available upgrades at check-in. Celebrating a special occasion? Mention it discreetly when booking and again at check-in.