Biarritz is a charming destination known for its beautiful beaches, surfing culture, and Basque cuisine. While driving in Biarritz itself is generally straightforward, it's essential to be aware of parking options, especially during busy periods. Exploring the town and its picturesque surroundings by car is a great way to make the most of your visit to this coastal gem in southwestern France.
Pre-book your rental car online as early as possible to receive the best car hire rates in Biarritz. If you are arriving in Spain and you decide to collect your rental car from
Spain let us know in advance and we can check if there is an additional charges for taking your hire car into France. You can get a direct ferry crossing from the UK to Bilbao or
Santander in Spain and make the short journey over the border into France.
Here's some information about driving in Biarritz, traffic, main roads, tolls, clean air zones, and the nearest airport:
Traffic and Road Conditions:
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Traffic: Biarritz is a relatively small town, so traffic congestion is typically not a major issue within the town itself. However, traffic can increase during the summer months when tourists flock to the area. If you're visiting during the peak tourist season, be prepared for some traffic, especially near popular beaches and attractions.
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Road Conditions: The town's layout is relatively straightforward, and navigation is relatively easy.
Main Roads:
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A63 Autoroute: The A63 is the main motorway that connects Biarritz to the broader French motorway network. It provides easy access to and from the town for travelers coming from other parts of France or neighboring Spain.
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D810: Within Biarritz, the D810 is a key road that runs through the town and connects to nearby areas like Bayonne and Anglet. It's commonly used for local travel.
Tolls:
There are no tolls associated with driving within Biarritz or in the immediate vicinity. However, if you plan to travel on the A63 motorway or other major highways, you may encounter tolls. France has an extensive toll system, so it's a good idea to have cash or a credit card handy for toll payments, especially if you plan to explore the region further.
Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Biarritz is Biarritz Pays Basque Airport (BIQ), which is located approximately 5 kilometers (about 3 miles) southeast of the town center. This airport provides both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient point of entry for travelers visiting Biarritz and the nearby areas.