10 luxury hotels in Biarritz, France

The 10 Best Hotels in Biarritz: Where Belle Époque Grandeur Meets Atlantic Edge

Introduction

Imagine the scent of salt spray mingling with the perfume of fine linen, the sound of crashing Atlantic waves harmonizing with the delicate clink of champagne flutes. This is the sensory symphony of Biarritz, a legendary resort where French elegance collides with the raw power of the Basque coast. Choosing a hotel here is not merely about a place to sleep; it is about selecting the lens through which you will experience this storied landscape. The right hotel becomes your private stage, your sanctuary of style, and your gateway to the soul of a town that has seduced emperors, artists, and surfers for over a century. This guide curates the ten definitive luxury hotels in Biarritz, France, each a masterpiece in its own right. Our selection was forged from a crucible of exacting criteria: unparalleled location with vistas that steal your breath, architectural significance that whispers of history, interior design that marries tradition with avant-garde flair, and service so intuitive it feels like a form of silent poetry. We considered the vibrancy of culinary offerings, the serenity of spa sanctuaries, and that ineffable quality of atmosphere—the unique emotional fingerprint of each property. From the imperial splendor of a palace built for a queen to sleek, contemporary havens where the surfboard is as welcome as the suitcase, these ten hotels represent the pinnacle of hospitality. They are not just accommodations; they are characters in your Biarritz story, promising to transform a simple holiday into a collection of indelible, cinematic moments. Prepare to step into a world where every detail is choreographed for wonder, and where the legendary Basque light gilds an experience you will carry long after you've returned home.

How to Choose Your Perfect Hotel

Biarritz is a tapestry of distinct neighborhoods, each offering a different rhythm and vista. Your ideal hotel hinges on aligning its personality with your travel desires. The **Grande Plage and Centre-Ville** is the vibrant, beating heart. Here, you are steps from the iconic main beach, luxury boutiques, and bustling cafés. It's perfect for first-time visitors and those who crave energy and convenience, with hotels often boasting direct ocean views. The **Port Vieux** area, with its charming, sheltered cove and traditional fishing vibe, offers a more intimate, village-like feel, ideal for romantic escapes and seafood lovers. Moving towards **La Côte des Basques**, the atmosphere shifts dramatically. This is the surfer's paradise, a bohemian-chic stretch of coastline with a relaxed, athletic spirit. Hotels here offer stunning cliffside views and direct access to legendary breaks. For ultimate seclusion and sprawling vistas, consider **Anglet** or the hillside areas north of the center, where resorts offer more space, championship golf courses, and a serene, residential ambiance. Consider your traveler type: are you a **romantic couple** seeking balcony sunsets and a world-class spa? A **family** needing spacious suites and kid-friendly pools? A **solo adventurer** wanting a social, design-forward base near the surf? Budgets in Biarritz range from the opulent ($$$$) for historic palaces offering full royal treatment, to the refined ($$$) for boutique gems with exceptional style. Prioritize what transforms your trip: a Michelin-starred meal, a pillow so close to the waves you hear them all night, or a concierge who can secure the impossible. Your perfect Biarritz awaits.

The Top 10 Hotels in Biarritz, France

1. Hotel du Palais

The moment your car crunches the gravel of the circular drive, history envelops you. This is not merely a hotel; it is the enduring legacy of Empress Eugénie, a true palace reborn from her summer villa. The atmosphere is one of majestic, timeless grandeur, where gilt-framed portraits seem to nod in approval as you cross marble floors under soaring, frescoed ceilings. Perched majestically on the Grande Plage, it commands the Biarritz skyline, offering a front-row seat to the Atlantic's endless theatre. Rooms and suites are studies in Napoleonic III opulence, with rich silks, antique furnishings, and balconies framing the ocean in perfect, gilded rectangles. The signature amenity is its vast, heated seawater pool, a lagoon-like oasis within the palace walls, alongside the imperial Spa Eugénie with treatments fit for royalty. The restaurant, **La Rotonde**, serves gastronomic delights under a breathtaking glass dome. Perfect for history connoisseurs, celebratory splurges, and those who believe travel should feel like a coronation. Approximate price range: $$$$.

2. Radisson Blu Biarritz

A sleek, glass-clad sentinel rising above the Plage Miramar, the Radisson Blu offers a distinctly contemporary interpretation of Biarritz luxury. The first impression is one of clean lines, panoramic glass, and a vibrant, artistic energy that pulses through its minimalist-chic lobby. The location is prime for modern explorers, bridging the central attractions with a more relaxed, view-oriented perch. Rooms are sanctuaries of light and space, decorated in a soothing palette of ocean blues and sandy neutrals, with private balconies that are virtual prows sailing into the horizon. The signature rooftop is its crowning glory: an infinity pool that appears to spill into the sea, paired with a trendy bar serving cocktails as stunning as the 360-degree vistas. It also features a comprehensive Thalgo spa, harnessing the power of the sea. Perfect for design aficionados, couples seeking a stylish retreat, and travelers who want their luxury served with a spectacular view. Approximate price range: $$$.

3. Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar

Embracing the curve of the coast with an elegant, whitewashed facade, the Sofitel Miramar exudes a chic, maritime elegance. The atmosphere is one of relaxed sophistication, where the spirit of the Basque Country meets French art de vivre. Located between the Grande Plage and the Port des Pêcheurs, it offers both dramatic cliffside perspectives and easy access to the town's charming heart. Rooms are decorated in a soothing, nautical-inspired palette of whites, blues, and natural woods, many featuring terraces that bring the ocean air directly to your bedside. The hotel's soul is its magnificent Thalassa sea-water therapy center and spa, one of the most renowned in Europe, offering transformative wellness journeys. Its restaurant, **Le 1930**, showcases local seafood with breathtaking terrace dining. Perfect for wellness seekers, those desiring authentic thalassotherapy, and travelers who appreciate understated, location-perfect luxury. Approximate price range: $$$$.

4. Regina Biarritz

Stepping into the Regina is like entering a perfectly preserved jewel from the Belle Époque. The atmosphere is one of intimate, old-world charm, with a stained-glass cupola casting kaleidoscopic light over a lobby filled with plush velvet and polished wood. Tucked just behind the Grande Plage, it offers a peaceful retreat mere seconds from the oceanfront promenade, capturing the essence of Biarritz's golden age. Rooms are individually decorated with antique furniture, floral fabrics, and marble bathrooms, offering a cozy, residential feel rather than palatial scale. The signature charm is its glass-enclosed winter garden, a luminous space for afternoon tea, and its delightful breakfast room that feels like a private salon. While it lacks a pool, its personalized service and historic character are its greatest amenities. Perfect for romantics, lovers of heritage hotels, and travelers seeking a quiet, centrally-located haven with soul. Approximate price range: $$-$$$.

5. Hotel Windsor

The Hotel Windsor greets you with a warm, Anglo-Basque personality, a unique blend of British clubhouse comfort and Basque flair. The atmosphere is convivial and artistic, with a lobby that feels like a well-loved library and an art collection that sparks conversation. Situated in a quiet, prestigious residential neighborhood a short stroll from the beach, it offers tranquility without sacrificing accessibility. Rooms are individually themed, some with four-poster beds and floral chintz, others with more contemporary Basque linens, all radiating a charming, eclectic personality. Its crowning feature is the magnificent subtropical garden, a hidden Eden with a heated outdoor pool—a rare and precious sanctuary in the town center. The bar is a local institution, perfect for a pre-dinner gin and tonic. Perfect for garden lovers, those who dislike cookie-cutter hotels, and travelers valuing character and a peaceful retreat. Approximate price range: $$-$$$.

6. Le Grande Hotel

True to its name, Le Grande Hotel is a monument to the glamour of the 1920s, a pristine white building that is an icon on the Biarritz seafront. The atmosphere is one of luminous, airy elegance, with a stunning Art Deco lobby featuring a majestic staircase and period details that transport you to the Jazz Age. Its location on the Boulevard du Général de Gaulle is unbeatable, placing you directly on the cliff edge between the Grande Plage and the Port Vieux, with panoramic views from every public space. Rooms are decorated in a classic, refined style with marine accents; the premium categories offer terraces that are pure poetry at sunset. The hotel houses the celebrated **Restaurant Le Café de la Grande Plage** and a cozy, elegant bar perfect for people-watching. Perfect for architecture buffs, lovers of classic seaside glamour, and those who want to be at the epicenter of the Biarritz promenade. Approximate price range: $$$.

7. Hotel Edouard VII

This hotel is a delightful surprise, a boutique gem that masterfully blends historic bones with bold, contemporary design. The atmosphere is vibrant and stylish, with a lobby that acts as a gallery for modern art and design pieces. Located just a block from the Grande Plage, it offers the best of both worlds: beach proximity and a quiet, fashionable street. Rooms are a revelation, featuring sleek minimalist furniture, bursts of color, and clever layouts that maximize space and light; some offer private terraies with partial sea views. The signature amenity is its commitment to design, extending to a charming interior courtyard garden and a hip bar that attracts a chic local crowd. The breakfast is a feast of local and organic products. Perfect for young sophisticates, design lovers, and travelers seeking a trendy, intimate base with artistic verve. Approximate price range: $$-$$$.

8. Hotel Atalante

Perched on the cliffs of the Côte des Basques, Hotel Atalante is the embodiment of Biarritz's surf soul meets boutique luxury. The atmosphere is relaxed, youthful, and effortlessly cool, with a vibe that says you can arrive sandy from the beach and still feel perfectly at home. The location is legendary, directly above one of Europe's most famous surf breaks, offering jaw-dropping, uninterrupted views of surfers dancing on waves. Rooms are bright, modern, and functional, with balconies or terraces that are essentially private boxes for the greatest ocean show on earth. The hotel features a small but perfect heated outdoor pool carved into the cliffside, a wellness area with a hammam, and a superb restaurant, **Le Surfing**, focused on fresh, local produce. Perfect for surfers, active couples, and anyone seeking an authentic, view-saturated Biarritz experience away from the formal pomp. Approximate price range: $$$.

9. Hotel Madison

A sanctuary of refined tranquility, Hotel Madison is a charming, family-run establishment that prioritizes personalized service and serene comfort. The atmosphere is one of understated, welcoming elegance, more akin to a luxurious private home than a corporate hotel. Situated in a peaceful, elevated neighborhood a short walk from the beach and the lighthouse, it offers stunning panoramic views over the ocean and the Pyrenees in the distance. Rooms are spacious and elegantly furnished in a classic-contemporary style, many with large balconies that invite long, contemplative moments. The jewel is its beautiful flower-filled garden and the heated outdoor pool, an oasis of calm with breathtaking vistas. The attentive staff provide a level of care that makes you feel like a cherished guest. Perfect for travelers seeking peace and genuine hospitality, couples on a romantic getaway, and those who appreciate a view-centric, residential setting. Approximate price range: $$$.

10. Hotel de la Plage

As the name promises, this hotel is quite literally on the beach. The atmosphere is one of direct, unpretentious connection to the sea—you wake up to the sound of waves and step directly onto the sand of the Plage de la Côte des Basques. It's a place of casual, authentic charm, popular with a loyal clientele of surfers and beach lovers. The location is unbeatable for access to the surf and the bohemian vibe of this iconic coastline. Rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable, with a beach-house aesthetic; the premium rooms have balconies with front-row ocean views. The real amenity is its prime position: a private gate leads to the beach, and its restaurant-terrace is the perfect spot for a post-surf lunch while watching the action. Perfect for dedicated surfers, budget-conscious travelers who prioritize location above all, and anyone who wants to fall asleep to the Atlantic's lullaby. Approximate price range: $-$$.

Neighborhood Guide: Where to Stay

Grande Plage & Centre-Ville

The vibrant, pulsating heart of Biarritz. This is where you'll find the iconic casino, luxury shopping on Rue du Port Vieux, and the endless parade of the beachfront promenade. The energy is cosmopolitan and lively, perfect for those who want to be in the thick of it. Staying here means breathtaking ocean views, Michelin-starred dining at your doorstep, and the convenience of stepping from your hotel directly into the glamorous whirl. It's ideal for first-time visitors, luxury shoppers, and nightlife enthusiasts. Hotels here: Hotel du Palais, Le Grande Hotel, Radisson Blu, Sofitel Miramar.

Port Vieux

A postcard-perfect fishing port turned charming village within a city. With its sheltered, sandy cove, colorful boats, and traditional *txikitos* (Basque tapas) bars, the Port Vieux offers a more intimate, authentic feel. The atmosphere is romantic and bustling, filled with the scent of grilled seafood. It's perfect for couples, foodies wanting to sample pintxos, and travelers seeking picturesque charm with easy access to both the main beach and quieter coves. Hotels here: Several smaller guesthouses, with the Grande Hotel and Regina a short stroll away.

La Côte des Basques

The soul of Biarritz's surfing legacy. This dramatic, cliff-lined coast has a relaxed, bohemian, and athletic spirit. The vibe is effortlessly cool, with surf schools, health-conscious cafes, and a path perfect for sunset strolls. Staying here means panoramic views, the sound of crashing waves, and a direct connection to the natural beauty that defines the Basque Coast. It's ideal for surfers, nature lovers, and those seeking a more relaxed, view-focused retreat from the central bustle. Hotels here: Hotel Atalante, Hotel de la Plage.

Anglet & Residential Hills

For those seeking space, serenity, and championship golf. Moving north into Anglet or into the hills above Biarritz proper, the atmosphere becomes more residential and resort-like. You'll find sprawling properties, lush gardens, and access to some of Europe's best golf courses. The vibe is tranquil and exclusive, perfect for families needing room to breathe, golf aficionados, and travelers wanting a secluded luxury base with easy drives into town. Hotels here: Hotel Madison, and several larger resort properties in Anglet.

Best Hotels for Specific Experiences

Best for Romance

For an unforgettable romantic escape, the **Hotel du Palais** is the undisputed champion. Its imperial history, palatial suites with ocean-view balconies, and the dreamy, lagoon-like pool create a fairy-tale backdrop. Alternatively, the **Hotel Madison** offers a more intimate, serene romance with its breathtaking panoramic terraces, flower-filled garden, and exceptionally peaceful atmosphere, perfect for secluded moments.

Best for Families

Families will find their haven at the **Radisson Blu**. Its modern, spacious rooms (often with sofa beds), the incredible, safe infinity pool that captivates all ages, and its proximity to both the beach and town make logistics easy. The **Hotel Windsor** is another superb choice, with its magical enclosed garden and pool providing a safe, private playground away from the busy streets.

Best for Business Travelers

The **Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar** combines professional facilities with exceptional wellness offerings for post-meeting relaxation. Its central location and multiple meeting spaces are ideal. The **Radisson Blu** also caters well to business needs with its modern workspaces, reliable service, and rooftop for impressive client entertaining.

Best Boutique Hotels

For unique character, the **Hotel Edouard VII** dazzles with its art-forward, contemporary design in a historic shell. The **Hotel Windsor** wins hearts with its eclectic, British-inspired charm and secret garden. Both offer a deeply personal alternative to the larger palace hotels.

Best Value Luxury

The **Regina Biarritz** delivers an authentic, historic luxury experience steps from the beach at a more accessible price point, offering old-world charm without the palace premium. For direct beach access and stunning views on a budget, **Hotel de la Plage** provides an unbeatable, no-frills location that is pure Biarritz essence.

Dining & Amenities Spotlight

The luxury hotels in Biarritz, France, are destinations in themselves, largely due to their exceptional culinary and wellness offerings. Dining reaches its zenith at the **Hotel du Palais**, where **La Rotonde** serves haute cuisine under its magnificent glass dome, and the **Imperial Bar** offers cocktails in a setting of unparalleled opulence. For a contemporary masterpiece, the rooftop bar and restaurant at the **Radisson Blu** provide a dizzying panorama alongside creative plates and mixology. The **Sofitel Miarimar's Le 1930** is a temple to seafood, with a cliffside terrace that makes every meal an event. Beyond food, the spa experiences are transformative. The **Sofitel's Thalassa sea-water therapy center** is a pilgrimage site for wellness, offering medically-inspired treatments that harness the ocean's healing power. The **Hotel du Palais's Spa Eugénie** is a palatial sanctuary offering bespoke rituals. For a unique amenity, the **Hotel Atalante's cliffside pool** feels like a natural infinity pond carved from rock, while the **Windsor's subtropical garden** is a hidden microclimate of tranquility in the city center. These spaces are not mere add-ons; they are the heart of the experience, designed to nourish, restore, and delight, ensuring your most memorable moments may happen without ever leaving the hotel grounds.

Booking Tips & Insider Secrets

To secure the best of Biarritz's luxury hotels, timing is everything. Book **at least 4-6 months in advance** for peak season (July-August) and major events like the Biarritz Surf Festival. The **shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October)** offer glorious weather, fewer crowds, and better rates. For potential upgrades, always **book directly through the hotel's website** and mention special occasions; a polite, early check-in request can sometimes yield a nicer room if available. Consider **mid-week stays** for significantly lower prices than weekends. While loyalty programs like Accor (for Sofitel) or Radisson Rewards have value, in boutique hotels, **building a direct rapport** via email or phone can yield personalized perks. A Biarritz-specific strategy: if a hotel appears fully booked online, **call directly**. Local tourism offices sometimes hold room blocks, and hotels may release last-minute cancellations. For palace hotels like the Hotel du Palais, inquire about **"Experience" packages** that include spa credits or dining, often providing better value than room-only rates. Lastly, embrace the Basque culture: learning a simple "*Eskerrik asko*" (thank you) can warm your reception immensely. Remember, the true insider secret is to choose a hotel that aligns with your desired experience, not just the star rating.

Practical Information for Hotel Guests

Navigating your stay smoothly enhances the luxury experience. **Check-in/out** times are typically 3 PM and 12 PM, but most high-end hotels will accommodate luggage storage and early/late requests gracefully if communicated. **Tipping** is not obligatory in France as service is included, but it is customary to leave small change for café servers and a few euros for hotel porters or housekeeping for exceptional service. **Language:** French is official, but Basque (*Euskara*) is widely present. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and hotels, but a few polite French phrases are always appreciated. **Transportation:** Biarritz is walkable, but the hills are steep. The local bus network (STAB) is efficient. Taxis are available but best booked in advance via app or your hotel. Renting a car is recommended for exploring the Basque hinterland, but ensure your hotel has parking. **Safety:** Biarritz is very safe, but standard precautions apply: use hotel safes, be mindful of belongings on crowded beaches, and heed surf flag warnings (red = no swimming). **Dress code:** Biarritz is stylish but relaxed. Elegant casual wear is perfect for most hotel restaurants; men rarely need jackets except in the most formal dining rooms. Finally, **power outlets** are European standard (220V), so an adapter is essential.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Imperial Indulgence. Check into the **Hotel du Palais**. Afternoon: Bask in the palace aura with a stroll through its historic halls, followed by a dip in the iconic seawater pool. Evening: Sunset cocktails on your balcony, then a gastronomic feast under the dome at La Rotonde. Nightcap at the Imperial Bar, feeling like royalty.

Day 2: Surf & Style. Morning: Transfer to the **Hotel Atalante** on the Côte des Basques. Take a surf lesson from the hotel's recommended school or walk the coastal path to watch the pros. Afternoon: Relax by the cliffside pool with a book. Evening: Dine at the hotel's Le Surfing restaurant, enjoying fresh catch with panoramic views, then experience the bohemian nightlife in the area's casual bars.

Day 3: Boutique Charm & Departure. Morning: Check into the **Hotel Edouard VII** for a final, design-focused flourish. Explore the town's luxury boutiques and the historic Port Vieux for lunch (pintxos crawl!). Afternoon: Enjoy the hotel's artistic vibe and interior courtyard. Pre-departure: A final espresso at a seafront café on the Grande Plage, reflecting on your multi-faceted Biarritz journey through three distinct, luxurious lenses.

Conclusion

From the gilded halls of an empress's palace to the sleek, wave-washed terraces of a surfer's chic retreat, the top luxury hotels in Biarritz, France, offer more than a place to rest—they offer portals into the very soul of this legendary destination. Each of the ten properties curated here tells a different chapter of the Biarritz story: one of imperial history, artistic rebellion, athletic passion, and timeless elegance. They prove that true luxury is not a monolith but a spectrum of experiences, all united by exceptional service, breathtaking settings, and an unwavering commitment to creating unforgettable moments. Whether your dream is to sleep in a room where history was made, to wake to a sunrise that paints the Atlantic in gold from your private balcony, or to find serenity in a hidden garden, Biarritz has a hotel that is your perfect match. Let this guide be your compass to that discovery. Ultimately, the best hotel is the one that resonates with your personal travel narrative, transforming your visit from a simple holiday into a deeply personal, cinematic memory etched against the majestic backdrop of the Basque coast. Your stage is set. The curtain is rising.

FAQ - Top 10 Hotels in Biarritz, France

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

The absolute best times are the shoulder seasons of late May to June and September to early October. You'll enjoy warm, pleasant weather, fewer crowds, more availability at the top luxury hotels in Biarritz, France, and often better rates compared to the peak July-August period. The sea is also warm enough for swimming in September.

Which Biarritz hotel has the best spa?

The Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar is renowned for having one of the finest thalassotherapy (seawater therapy) centers in Europe, offering medically-supervised treatments. For a more opulent, holistic spa experience in a palatial setting, the Spa Eugénie at the Hotel du Palais is unparalleled in its luxury and range of bespoke rituals.

Are these luxury hotels family-friendly?

Many are, with the Radisson Blu and Hotel Windsor being particularly excellent choices for families due to their pool facilities, room configurations, and relaxed atmospheres. Always check with the hotel directly regarding connecting rooms, extra beds, and children's amenities when booking.

Is it worth staying at the Hotel du Palais if I'm not a guest?

Absolutely. Even without staying, you can experience its grandeur by booking afternoon tea at La Rotonde, enjoying a cocktail at the Imperial Bar, or reserving a day pass for its spa or swimming pool (subject to availability and advance booking). It's a magnificent way to soak in the history.

What should I pack for a stay at a Biarritz luxury hotel?

Think elegant casual wear. For daytime, stylish resort wear, a good sun hat, and comfortable walking shoes for the hills. For evenings, men will be fine with smart trousers and a collared shirt in most restaurants; women can opt for dresses or elegant separates. A light jacket is essential for cooler evenings. Don't forget your swimsuit for the pool and spa!

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

First-time visitors will love the energy and convenience of the Grande Plage and Centre-Ville area. Staying here, at hotels like Le Grande Hotel, Regina, or the Radisson Blu, puts you within walking distance of the main beach, shopping, dining, and major sights, offering the classic Biarritz introduction.

How do I get from Biarritz Airport to my hotel?

Biarritz Pays Basque Airport (BIQ) is only 5km from the center. The easiest options are a pre-booked private transfer arranged by your hotel, a taxi (available outside arrivals), or the frequent Chronoplus bus line C which goes to the city center. Most luxury hotels can assist with arranging seamless airport transfers.