Basque Country culture blends with Gascon elegance in this sophisticated seaside resort situated in southern France, which hugs the Spanish border. With a Biarritz car rental, you’ll have the freedom to explore this luxurious seaside city and the Atlantic coastline. There are also vast forests to be found in the surrounding national parks that are easy to get to if you’re renting a car in Biarritz.

We know you’ll be keen to get out in the sunshine as soon as possible, which is why you can browse our wide range of cars and pay in advance. There are no hidden extras to pay and, in the unlikely event you find Hertz car rental in Biarritz cheaper, we’ll refund the difference.

Our pick up point is located at Biarritz Airport. We’re open from 8am, seven days a week, so you can collect your rental car and get on the road as soon as you land.

There are two sides to Biarritz. On one hand it’s a stylish and luxurious coastal resort, while on the other it’s a laidback surfer destination. Biarritz is an absolute delight just waiting to be uncovered and you’ll be able to explore every exciting corner of it.

Admire the Grand Architecture

With a Biarritz car rental, you can cruise the pretty streets and take in the patchwork of architectural styles and influences. Here, ornate villas in a typical Basque style and hip art deco buildings rub shoulders with neo-Gothic churches. Colors are vibrant - rich reds, bright pinks and crisp, stark, whites - and many of the buildings tell the story of Biarritz’s opulent history.

Cite de l'Ocean et du Surf (The City of the Ocean) is an intriguing modernist building, built to reflect the contours of the waves of the Basque coast. The award-winning building is set against the backdrop of the ocean to emphasize its nautical influences.

Of all the different architectural marvels in Biarritz, the most famous is the Hotel du Palais. Built in 1855 for Empress Eugenie, the wife of Napoleon III, it was designed in neo-Louis XIII style with period décor throughout. If you’re fortunate enough to stay here, you’ll be in good company; this hotel has hosted celebrities and royalty. Previous guests include Jayne Mansfield, Ernest Hemingway and, more recently, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Soak up the Sun

There are six main beaches to choose from in Biarritz, so when it comes to catching some rays, you’re spoiled for choice. If you’re renting a car in Biarritz, you can see them all. Port Vieux is small, quiet, and perfect for swimming, situated in a rocky cove sheltered from wind and waves. Grand Plage is the most central of the six and one of the most picturesque. The wide stretch of glistening sand is lined with candy-striped beach tents, and the rolling waves attract surfers from across the world.

Feel the warm golden sand between your toes before cooling off in the Bay of Biscay - the seawater here is said by some to have healing properties.

Against the glorious backdrop of the Pyrenees Mountains, these beaches are a little slice of paradise, ideal for lazing in the sun and topping up your tan.

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Biarritz itself is known as the surfing capital of Europe, attracting people from all over the world wishing to catch its waves. If you’re new to the pastime, there are many surf schools which will teach you the technique - there’s no better place to learn.

You’re also just a short distance from the Pyrenees Mountain range which, with 3,000m high peaks, streams, forests and wildlife, is perfect for a walk or bike ride. Wet and green in the west, rocky and snowy in the middle and dry in the east, this ever-changing landscape offers something new around every corner.

The World Beneath the Water

Visit Biarritz Aquarium for a tour of the Gulf Stream - through the North Atlantic into the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea. From seals, turtles and sharks to rays, jellyfish and clownfish, there’s plenty of sea life to discover here.

You can get up close and personal with the sea creatures that call this aquarium home. Try to get to the seal pool for feeding time – 10.30am and 5pm – to watch them gobble up a mountain of mackerel. Once they’ve devoured their dinner, you can see them sunbathe, swim and play. This is a must if you’re on a vacation with children.

Collect your car rental from Biarritz and take in the beautiful south of France. Cruise along the Atlantic coastline, beside the Spanish border and through the natural parks, taking your time to soak in the relaxing atmosphere of this beautiful country.

With a Biarritz car rental, you can soak in the sunshine and sea air through your open window, all while taking in the sight of azure waves gently brushing the shore. This jewel in the crown of southern France is the perfect destination to drive through. If you’re renting a car in Biarritz, you can explore this beach getaway at your leisure before heading out to see what else the south of France and the Basque Country has to offer.

Arrive at Biarritz Airport and it’s just 12 minutes via the D260 to the center of Biarritz and a few more minutes until you reach the Bay of Biscay and the Atlantic Sea. The city itself is relatively easy to navigate in a Biarritz car rental, with several parking lots located in the heart of the resort. There are some one-way systems in place, particularly around Port Vieux. The D810 will take you along the scenic coastline and out to other towns and cities.

While driving around the region, be aware that there are tolls on most major routes in France. Speed limits vary from 30mph in built-up areas, to 50mph on A and B roads and 80mph on freeways. Seatbelts must be used by everyone, and you’ll be driving on the same side of the road as in the US.

If you’re getting out and about, it's worth stopping to stretch your legs in the vast woodland of the Parc Naturel Regional des Landes de Gascogne. To get there, take your Biarritz car rental onto the A63. If you’re going further afield, continue on this road and in just under two and a half hours you’ll be at the heart of the region in Bordeaux, a city that’s famed for its mouth-watering food and sweet desserts.

Head inland via the A64 and it’s an hour and a half to Pau, an ancient royal city at the foot of the Pyrenees. The largest city in this mountainous region is unexpected - the palm-lined promenades give it more of a Riviera feel than an alpine ambience.

The joy of renting a car in Biarritz means you can reach the Spanish border in around 30 minutes via the A63, which hugs the Bay of Biscay. You can easily cross into Spain by joining the AP-8. Spend some time in San Sebastián, known for is glorious azure waters and curving golden beaches.