New!
Biarritz: Imperial City & Surf Capital of Europe
The tour lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes
Available in English, Spanish and French
Description
Ever wondered why a small fishing village became the playground of emperors and the birthplace of European surfing?
Join me for a stroll through Biarritz and discover a town of stunning contrasts. We'll wander past the Belle Époque villas and grand hotels that once hosted Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, who transformed this sleepy Basque port into the most fashionable resort in 19th-century Europe. From the clifftop Rocher de la Vierge to the legendary beaches where French surfing was born in the 1950s, you'll see how Biarritz reinvented itself again and again, from imperial retreat to surfer's paradise, without ever losing its Basque soul.
Along the way, I'll share the stories behind the lighthouse, the casino, the local legends, and a few insider spots most visitors walk right past. Expect good humor, real history, and honest tips on where to eat, swim, or catch a wave afterwards.
Come curious, leave feeling like a local!
Guide: Maider
Guiding since 2026Hi, I'm Maider! I'm a local guide based in Bayonne and Biarritz. I love sharing the history, legends, and everyday life of this region with travelers — from imperial Biarritz and its surfing culture to the medieval streets of Bayonne. I speak French, English, and Spanish, and I try to make every tour feel like a walk with a friend who happens to know a lot of local secrets (and good food spots!). Come say hi — I'll be the one with the umbrella and the guide badge!
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Free cancellation and booking
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