Practical Tips & Hacks: Biarritz

Money-Saving Strategies

Maximize your budget with these helpful tips.

Discount Cards and Passes

Check with the Biarritz Tourist Office upon arrival.
City passes combine attractions.
These can lead to savings for multiple paid sites.
Look for options if you plan to visit several locations.

Free Activities and Attractions

Take full advantage of Biarritz's many free offerings.
Enjoy the beautiful beaches and scenic coastal paths.
Visit the iconic Rocher de la Vierge and explore Les Halles market.
Views from the Phare de Biarritz base are free.

Happy Hours and Dining Deals

Look for "Apéro" (aperitif) deals, typically 6 PM-8 PM.
These feature more affordable drinks and sometimes complimentary snacks.
Many restaurants offer a "Formule Midi" (lunch set menu).
Lunch options are a good way to try good food for less cost.

Transportation Savings

Use the Chronoplus bus network.
Purchase day or multi-trip passes for frequent bus use.
This is more cost-effective than relying on taxis.
Walk or cycle whenever possible, Biarritz is compact.

Time-Saving Tips

Efficiency allows you to experience more.

Skip-the-Line Options

Book tickets online for popular attractions.
The Aquarium de Biarritz or Cité de l'Océan are good examples.
Online booking avoids queues, especially in high season.
Arrive prepared to enter directly.

Best and Worst Times

Aquarium/Cité de l'Océan: Go early morning or late afternoon.
Beaches: Early morning for solitude, late afternoon for sunsets.
Les Halles: Most lively Saturday/Sunday morning.
Visit mid-morning on a weekday for fewer market crowds.

Efficient Routing

Group attractions by geographical area.
Port Vieux, Rocher de la Vierge, and Aquarium are close.
This cuts travel time between sites.
Plan your day to flow from one area to the next.

Pre-booking Recommendations

Book high-demand restaurants in advance.
Secure surf lessons well ahead of time.
Popular tours also benefit from advance booking.
This secures your spot and prevents disappointment.

Local Insights

Understand local customs and avoid common tourist pitfalls.

Common Tourist Mistakes

Always greet shopkeepers and staff with "Bonjour".
Learning a few basic French phrases is appreciated.
Many restaurants do not open for dinner until 7 PM or 7:30 PM.
Validate your bus ticket every time you board.

Local Customs

Meal times are generally fixed.
"Service compris" (service included) is standard on bills.
Extra tipping is not required.
Baguettes form an important part of daily life.

Unofficial Rules and Social Norms

Public displays of affection are generally fine.
Dress is typically smart-casual.
Overly sloppy attire might not suit some establishments.
Especially in nicer restaurants.

Phrases That Impress Locals

"C'est magnifique!" (Say mah-nyee-feek) - It is magnificent!
"Je voudrais..." (Zhuh voo-dray) - I would like... (more polite).
"Pardon" (par-dohn) - Excuse me/Sorry (for passing or bumping).
"Enchanté(e)" (ahn-shahn-tay) - Nice to meet you.

Solo, Family & Group Advice

Tailor your approach based on your travel companions.

Solo Traveler Advice

Biarritz is very safe for solo travelers.
Stay in hostels with common areas (e.g., Hostel 70s).
Join group surf lessons or food tours for social interaction.
These are good ways to meet people.

Family-Friendly Adaptations

Plage de la Milady is great for families.
Aquarium de Biarritz and Cité de l'Océan are engaging for children.
Bakeries offer easy, kid-friendly options.
Apartment rentals offer more space and kitchen facilities.

Managing Group Logistics

Book group activities and tours in advance.
Reserve restaurants well ahead, especially for larger groups.
Consider a private transfer for airport-hotel trips.
A group can share car rental costs.

Accessibility Considerations

Refer to dedicated travel resources for specifics.
Plan routes and select accommodations carefully.
Confirm accessibility with venues directly if it is a priority.
Prioritize direct venue confirmation.

Important Note

For specific accessibility details, consult dedicated travel resources and confirm directly with venues.

Resources & References

Essential contacts and information for your Biarritz journey.

Helpful Apps

Google Maps, Google Translate, Chronoplus, Uber, XE Currency are good companions.

Useful Websites

Biarritz Tourist Office (biarritz.fr), Chronoplus (chronoplus.eu), SNCF Connect (sncf-connect.com) and Météo-France (meteofrance.com) are valuable online sources.

Print Resources

Guidebooks on the French Basque Country and local maps from the Tourist Office provide comprehensive information.

Online Communities and Language Learning

Join travel forums like TripAdvisor or Reddit's r/travel for recent traveler experiences and specific questions. Utilize apps like Babbel for basic French phrases. Even a little language preparation makes a difference in your interactions.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers and Contacts

General European Emergency

112: The general European emergency number.
Use this for any emergency service.
Medical, police, or fire.
A single point of contact.

Medical & Police Assistance

15: SAMU (Service d'Aide Médicale Urgente) for medical emergencies.
17: Police for crime reporting or immediate assistance.
These numbers connect you directly.
For specific needs.

Fire and Rescue

18: Sapeurs-Pompiers (Fire Brigade).
They respond to fires.
Also road accidents.
And some medical emergencies.

Hospital & Clinics

Main Regional Hospital

Centre Hospitalier de la Côte Basque.
Located at 13 Avenue de l'Interne Jacques Loëb, 64100 Bayonne.
A short drive from Biarritz.

Local Medical Support

Various private clinics and doctors' offices are in Biarritz.
Pharmacies, marked by a green cross, offer advice for minor ailments.
Seek immediate medical attention if needed.

Lost Documents & Natural Disasters

Lost Document Procedures

Report loss or theft to local police immediately.
Obtain a police report; this is for insurance claims.
Contact your country's embassy or consulate for emergency travel documents.

Natural Disaster Protocols

In severe weather, follow local authority instructions.
Stay indoors during high winds or heavy rain.
Avoid coastal areas during high waves.

Embassy & Consulate Information

Your Country's Embassy

Locate your country's embassy in Paris.
Keep their contact information handy.
For assistance with lost passports.
Or other consular services.
Contact them in case of need.

Consulates in the Region

Find any consulates in Bordeaux.
Or in the wider region.
These can offer more localized support.
Have their details on hand.
For convenience during your stay.

Digital Copies of Documents

Save to Phone

Store digital copies of essential documents on your phone.

Cloud Storage

Upload copies to a secure cloud service for backup.

Physical Copies

Keep photocopies of documents stored separately from originals.

Important Safety Information

Always confirm emergency contacts and procedures. Keep digital and physical copies of essential documents separate.

Pre-Trip Checklist

Helpful Preparations

+ Months Before Your Trip

Passport Validity:
Check expiration date, 6+ months beyond return from Schengen Area.
Visa Requirements:
Research for your nationality (if applicable), apply well in advance.
Major Bookings:
Book international flights and accommodation early, especially for high season.
Travel Insurance:
Consider comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads) for medical, cancellation, lost luggage.
Vaccinations:
Check recommended vaccinations with your doctor.

Month Before Your Trip

Confirm Bookings:
Reconfirm all flight, accommodation, car rental, and tour bookings.
Bank Notification:
Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel dates.
Home Arrangements:
Arrange for pet care or house sitting if needed.
International Driving Permit:
Obtain an IDP if driving in France with a non-French license.
Pack Medications:
Pack essential prescription medications and a Basic first-aid kit.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Explore Biarritz

Deep dive into Biarritz's neighborhoods.
Choose your preferred base for your stay.
Research public transport options and routes.
Explore local dining options and make a list of restaurants.

Digital & Physical Prep

Download offline maps (Google Maps/Apple Maps).
Download helpful apps (Chronoplus, Google Translate).
Charge all your electronic devices and power banks.
Print physical copies of all essential documents.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Mail and Deliveries

Stop mail or newspaper delivery.
Arrange for a neighbor to collect them.
Prevent accumulation.
Maintain home appearance.

Plants and Pets

Arrange for watering plants.
Organize pet feeding and care.
Consider a house sitter if needed.
Ensure their well-being while away.

Home Security and Bills

Secure your home: lock windows, set alarms.
Inform a trusted neighbor of your absence.
Pay any bills that will come due.
Maintain peace of mind.

Pre-Departure Timing and Confirmation

Confirm airport transfers or transportation plans to your accommodation. Save digital copies of all essential documents to your phone and a cloud service.

Arrival Checklist

These steps ensure a smooth entry into Biarritz.

First Steps Upon Arrival

Initial Airport Procedures

Immigration and Customs:
Clear procedures efficiently.
Baggage Claim:
Collect your luggage.
Currency Access:
Find an ATM for a small amount of Euros or use a credit card.

Immediate Connections

Transfer Options:
Locate your pre-arranged airport transfer.
Public Transport:
Find your researched public transport option (e.g., Chronoplus bus).
Local Orientation:
Obtain a local map of Biarritz.

Orientation Strategies

Immediate Surroundings

Familiarize yourself with the immediate surroundings of your accommodation.

Local Shops

Identify convenient local shops for essentials.

Bus Stops

Note nearby bus stops for easy public transportation access.

Currency and Initial Purchases

ATM Withdrawal

Withdraw a small amount of Euros from an ATM.
This is for immediate needs upon arrival.
It might cover a bus ticket or a quick snack.
Most places accept cards, but cash is good for small purchases.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Utilize your pre-booked transfer.
Take a taxi from the airport or train station.
Use public transport, like the Chronoplus bus from the airport.
Your researched option will work well.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid a last-minute rush.
If you plan to ship items home, understand the process beforehand.
Be aware of customs regulations for shipped goods.
Keep receipts for all purchases.

VAT Refund Procedures

Non-EU residents may have eligibility for a VAT refund.
Purchases over €100 from participating stores apply.
Ask for a "détaxe" form at the point of purchase.
Follow instructions for validation at the airport or border.

Departure Timing and Return Prep

Allow ample time for airport check-in and security screening. Reconfirm your flight or train details 24-48 hours before departure. Pack thoughtfully to avoid excess baggage fees. Ensure you have all your documents ready for your return journey.

Practical Tips & Hacks