Overview
Traveling from Bordeaux Airport (BOD) to Biarritz spans approximately 200 km through southwestern France’s scenic landscapes. The journey typically takes 2–2.5 hours by road, passing vineyards, pine forests of Les Landes, and coastal vistas near Bayonne. Whether arriving for Biarritz’s surf culture or Basque Country exploration, choosing the right Bordeaux Airport to Biarritz transfer ensures a smooth start to your trip.
Getting to Know Your Destination
Biarritz blends historic elegance with coastal charm. Once a retreat for European royalty, it’s now famed for surf-friendly beaches like Grande Plage and Côte des Basques. Key attractions include:
- Le Rocher de la Vierge: A dramatic seaside viewpoint.
- Hôtel du Palais: A UNESCO-listed former imperial residence.
- Musée de la Mer: An aquarium showcasing Atlantic marine life. Nearby Basque villages like Saint-Jean-de-Luz and Espelette add cultural depth with traditional markets and pepper farms.
Arriving at Bordeaux Airport
Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport serves international and domestic flights across two terminals (Terminal B for non-Schengen arrivals). After baggage claim:
- Follow bilingual (French/English) signage to exits.
- Taxi ranks and car rental desks are outside Terminal B.
- Pre-booked private transfer Bordeaux Airport to Biarritz drivers meet you at arrivals with name signs.
Main Transfer Options
Public Transport
Public options involve multiple connections:
- Shuttle + Train: Take the 30-minute airport shuttle (€1.70) to Bordeaux St-Jean station. From there, TER trains run to Bayonne (2–3 hours), followed by a 15-minute TER ride or taxi to Biarritz.
- Total cost: ~€40–€60 per person.
- Time: 4+ hours.
- Bus: FlixBus offers limited daily routes from Bordeaux city center to Biarritz (3 hours). Requires a separate transfer from the airport.
Taxi & Rideshare
- Taxi from Bordeaux Airport to Biarritz: Fixed rates range €250–€300 for up to 4 passengers.
- Book via official airport kiosks or apps like Bolt.
- Avoid unlicensed drivers; confirm pricing upfront.
- Rideshare: BlaBlaCar offers shared rides (~€25–€40/person), but availability varies.
Car Rentals
Major providers (Avis, Hertz) operate at Terminal B:
- Daily rates: €50–€120 + fuel/tolls (~€25).
- Parking in Biarritz costs €15–€30/day in central areas.
- Note: Narrow streets in Basque villages require cautious driving.
Private Transfer
A2B’s Bordeaux Airport to Biarritz taxi service combines comfort and reliability:
- Pre-booked vehicles accommodate 1–8 passengers.
- Fixed pricing (€220–€280) includes tolls and luggage.
- Meet-and-greet service with flight tracking.
- Ideal for families or travelers with sports equipment.
Choosing the Best Method
Recommendations:
- Private transfers suit families or those prioritizing comfort (A2B).
- Public transport works for solo travelers on tight budgets.
- Car rentals offer flexibility for exploring rural areas post-transfer.
Travel Tips & Local Insights
- Book Early: Secure private transfers 48+ hours in advance during peak seasons (June–September).
- Scenic Detour: Add 30 minutes to visit Dune du Pilat or Saint-Émilion vineyards en route.
- Toll Roads: The A63 highway costs ~€20 but saves 45 minutes vs. rural routes.
- Language: Learn basic French phrases; English is common in tourist areas.
Reaching Your Final Destination
Most transfers drop off at central Biarritz locations like Place Bellevue or Hôtel de Ville:
- Local buses (Chronoplus network) connect to neighborhoods (€1.50/ticket).
- Taxis wait at ranks near Grande Plage for short hotel transfers.
Where to Get More Info
FAQs
What’s the best way to book a Bordeaux Airport to Biarritz transfer?
Pre-booking a private transfer ensures fixed rates and door-to-door service (A2B).
How much does a taxi from Bordeaux Airport to Biarritz cost?
Official taxis charge €250–€300; private transfers offer better value at €220–€280.
Can I pre-book a private transfer Bordeaux Airport to Biarritz?
Yes—providers like A2B allow bookings months in advance online.
Is there a direct train from Bordeaux Airport to Biarritz?
No—trains require a shuttle ride into Bordeaux city center first.
Do private transfers accommodate surfboards or ski gear?
Most services offer spacious vehicles; confirm luggage capacity when booking your Bordeaux to Biarritz airport transfer.