Things to do in Aquitaine

Côte des Basques is one of Biarritz’s most famous beaches. Come here to enjoy spectacular coastal scenery and relaxed walks, learn to surf and attend summer festivals. Since the 1950s, Côte des Basques has been widely considered to be the heartland of Europe’s surfing culture.

Place de la Bourse is an elegant city square, bordered by grand, palatial buildings and facing the Garonne River. Marvel at the perfect symmetry of the square and surrounding buildings, designed to reflect the king's power and bring Bordeaux into modernity.

The vast Place des Quinconces stretches for about 30 acres (120,000 square meters) across the center of Bordeaux, making it an ideal venue for concerts and festivals. Explore the tree-lined square and admire its ensemble of monuments, which are dotted around the edges of the plaza. Take in views of the adjacent Garonne River.

Bordeaux’s Rue Sainte-Catherine (Saint Catherine Street) stretches as far as you can see from one end to the other. It is one of Europe’s longest commercial pedestrian streets, measuring 0.8 miles (1.2 kilometers) long. Walk freely along this street filled with people. It is closed to vehicles, apart from an occasional delivery van. Be sure to explore the many side streets that offer unique and interesting stores and places to eat.

In a city famous for its wonderful beaches, Grand Beach (Grand Plage) stands out as one of Biarritz’s most picturesque. The beach fronts Biarritz’s city center and has the gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean lapping at its shores. Grand Plage is a popular spot for families, keen photographers and watersports enthusiasts.