Southwestern France, France
Download offline maps of Biarritz and surrounding areas.
Download the French offline pack for instant translations.
For local bus schedules and route planning.
If you plan to use ride-sharing services.
For quick currency conversions.
Biarritz.fr (for official information, events, and attractions).
Chronoplus.eu (for detailed bus routes and schedules).
Sncf-connect.com (for booking train tickets and checking schedules).
Meteofrance.com (for detailed weather forecasts).
France.fr (for general information about travel in France).
Regional guidebooks covering the French Basque Country and Southwest France provide comprehensive information. Local maps of Biarritz are available at the Tourist Office upon arrival.
Look for books on Basque culture, the history of Biarritz as a glamorous resort, or general French history. Novels set in the Basque Country offer a sense of place and atmosphere.
Look for official Biarritz tourism accounts on Instagram and Facebook for visual inspiration. Search for podcasts about the Basque Country, French culture, or travel in Southwest France.
Check expiration date, 6+ months beyond your planned return from the Schengen Area. Renew if needed.
Research requirements for your nationality. Apply for any visas well in advance. Remember the upcoming ETIAS system.
Book international flights and accommodation, especially for high season (July-August). Popular options fill quickly.
Reconfirm all your flight, accommodation, car rental, and tour bookings.
Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destinations.
Arrange for pet care or house sitting if needed.
Secure your spot for major components of your trip. Flights, accommodation, and car rentals, especially during peak seasons, warrant early booking. Fine dining restaurants also require reservations.
Deep dive into Biarritz's neighborhoods to choose your preferred base. Research public transport options and routes. Identify specific attractions and museums you wish to visit.
Download offline maps and useful apps like Chronoplus and Google Translate to your phone. Charge all your electronic devices and power banks. Print physical copies of all essential documents and save digital copies to your phone and a cloud service.
Clear procedures efficiently upon landing.
Collect your baggage from the claim area.
Find an ATM to withdraw Euros for immediate needs.
Obtain a physical or digital map of Biarritz.
Locate the nearest tourist office for current information.
Familiarize yourself with the immediate surroundings of your accommodation.
Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid a last-minute rush.
If shipping items home, know the process and customs regulations.
If you are a non-EU resident and purchased goods totaling over €100 from participating stores, you might qualify for a VAT refund.
Ask for a "détaxe" form at the point of purchase.
Allow ample time for airport check-in, security screening, and VAT refund processing (if applicable).
Factor in potential traffic to the airport or train station. 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. Keep digital copies on your phone and a cloud service.
