Hôtel du Palais
A historic imperial palace turned opulent hotel on the Atlantic coast, offering luxurious rooms, fine dining, and breathtaking sea views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime dining hours
Hôtel du Palais
Best Time
Prime dining hours

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic imperial palace turned opulent hotel on the Atlantic coast, offering luxurious rooms, fine dining, and breathtaking sea views.
"The Hotel du Palais is absolutely the best property I have ever stayed in!"
🍽️ Reserve Dinner Early
La Rotonde is popular; book your table in advance, especially for weekend evenings.
☀️ Poolside Bliss
Enjoy drinks by the ocean-view pool for a truly relaxing coastal experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

La Rotonde Restaurant
Oceanfront terrace
Savor exquisite dining with breathtaking, endless ocean views. A truly unforgettable culinary experience.

Imperial Pool & Spa
Poolside and Spa
Indulge in luxury by the ocean-facing pool or rejuvenate at the lavish spa. Pure relaxation awaits.

Historic Grandeur
Throughout the hotel
Experience the opulent legacy of Empress Eugénie's former summer villa. History comes alive here.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Peak Season
Embrace the Coastal Elegance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍽️ Reserve Dinner Early
La Rotonde is popular; book your table in advance, especially for weekend evenings.
☀️ Poolside Bliss
Enjoy drinks by the ocean-view pool for a truly relaxing coastal experience.
👑 Sunday Brunch Delight
Experience the lavish Imperial Brunch every Sunday for a gourmet treat.
✨ Embrace the History
The hotel's imperial past is a highlight; soak in the grandeur and stories.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍽️ Reserve Dinner Early
La Rotonde is popular; book your table in advance, especially for weekend evenings.
☀️ Poolside Bliss
Enjoy drinks by the ocean-view pool for a truly relaxing coastal experience.
👑 Sunday Brunch Delight
Experience the lavish Imperial Brunch every Sunday for a gourmet treat.
✨ Embrace the History
The hotel's imperial past is a highlight; soak in the grandeur and stories.
🚗 Consider Location
While Biarritz is charming, consider proximity if planning day trips to Spain.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests consistently rave about the Hotel du Palais, calling it the 'best property' they've ever stayed in and an 'unforgettable' experience. The combination of its rich history, stunning ocean views, luxurious amenities, and exceptional service creates a truly grand stay. While the price point reflects its five-star status, most visitors feel it's well worth the premium for the unparalleled experience.
"The Hotel du Palais is absolutely the best property I have ever stayed in! I had the joy of hosting my wedding for 150 people at the Hotel in July and it was absolutely incredible. The team at the Hotel is gracious and accommodating, and the rooms and views are spectacular. From the spa to the restaurants, you will find luxury everywhere you turn. I highly recommend the Hotel du Palais for a stay or an event- you will not be disappointed. Thank you for everything!"
Kate Smith
"We stayed 3 nights at the Hotel du Palais in mid-July. We had a lovely time. Dinner one night on the terrace, breakfast each morning, drinks by the pool, and room service for lunch one day. The hotel’s restaurants were very accommodating of allergies and the concierge even called up a restaurant on our behalf to confirm they could manage with our allergies. Staff was attentive and friendly. They tended to our room quickly each time we left, which exemplified the top notch service we received throughout our stay. Would highly recommend others make the trip to Biarritz just to stay in this hotel."
Rachel Allen
"We very much enjoyed our stay at Hotel du Palais!! If you're aiming for something you can only find in France, this is the place. The history of the palais alone is worth the visit. The views, grounds, and staff were all incredible. I had a cocktail at the bar (some sort of clarified take on a bloody mary) that was one of the most interesting and exciting I've had in France; I still think about it. When we visited a few years ago I ordered a dirty martini and they didn't know how to make it (they brought me a Vesper with an olive), so I was pleasantly surprised to have such a perfectly balanced and well crafted cocktail this time. The pools and access to the beach are fantastic and it's walking distance to many cool local shops and restaurants. My only real complaint is that there were not enough hooks to hang towels or wet items in the rooms. The closet is large but is carpeted which makes it a less than stellar spot for hanging a wet bathing suit/towel."
Morgan Jane
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hotel du Palais is located in Biarritz, France, on the Atlantic coast. You can fly into Biarritz Pays Basque Airport (BIQ), which is a short drive away. Alternatively, you can take a train to Biarritz station. The hotel is easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services from both the airport and the train station.
Yes, Hotel du Palais is relatively close to the Spanish border. San Sebastian, Spain, is about a 45-minute drive away, making it a feasible day trip.
Biarritz is a walkable city, and Hotel du Palais is centrally located. Many shops and restaurants are within walking distance. Taxis and local buses are also available for exploring further afield.
Yes, Hotel du Palais typically offers parking facilities for guests. It's advisable to inquire about availability and any associated fees when making your reservation.
While direct public transport to the hotel's doorstep might be limited, Biarritz has a bus network. You can likely take a bus to a stop near the hotel and then enjoy a short walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hotel du Palais is a luxury hotel, not a museum or attraction requiring tickets for entry to its public areas. However, access to specific amenities like the spa or certain dining experiences may require reservations or be exclusive to guests.
As a hotel, Hotel du Palais is open 24/7 for guests. However, specific facilities like restaurants (La Rotonde: Tue-Sat, 7 PM-9:30 PM
), bars (Club Impérial Bar ), and the spa have their own operating hours, which are best checked directly with the hotel.While it's primarily a hotel, some restaurants and bars may accept reservations from non-guests, subject to availability. The spa is typically reserved for hotel guests. It's always best to call ahead and inquire.
Yes, Hotel du Palais frequently hosts special events, such as their Imperial Brunch on Sundays,
and offers various packages for stays, weddings [^Review1], and events. Check their official website or contact them for current offerings.There is no entrance fee to access the public areas of the Hotel du Palais. However, access to amenities like the pool or spa is generally for hotel guests.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss dining at La Rotonde for ocean views,
relaxing by the imperial pool, and exploring the historic architecture that was once Empress Eugénie's villa. The spa is also a luxurious retreat.Rooms at Hotel du Palais are described as beautifully appointed and luxurious, offering comfortable beds and stunning views, often overlooking the ocean. [^Review5]
Yes, Hotel du Palais features a lavish spa, offering a range of treatments for guests to enjoy a rejuvenating experience. [^Review5]
Guests can enjoy swimming in the pool, indulging in spa treatments, dining at the hotel's restaurants, enjoying cocktails at the bar, and simply relaxing and taking in the historic ambiance and ocean views.
[^Review2]As a high-end luxury hotel, Hotel du Palais undoubtedly offers Wi-Fi access for its guests. It's a standard amenity in such establishments. [^Review5]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Hotel du Palais offers several dining experiences, including La Rotonde for dinner with ocean views,
the Club Impérial bar by the pool, and the popular Imperial Brunch every Sunday. Room service is also available. [^Review2]Yes, reservations are highly recommended for La Rotonde, especially for dinner from Tuesday to Saturday. You can usually book through the link in their bio or by phone.
The Imperial Brunch is a lavish Sunday affair served from 12:15 PM, offering a delicate and gourmet experience with ocean views, perfect for sharing with family or friends.
The hotel's restaurants are noted for being very accommodating of allergies and dietary needs, with staff willing to confirm options in advance. [^Review2]
The hotel bar offers creative cocktails, including signature drinks. One guest mentioned a particularly interesting clarified Bloody Mary and a well-crafted martini. [^Review3]
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots on the oceanfront terrace of La Rotonde,
by the elegant imperial pool, and within the grand, historic interiors that evoke imperial luxury. The exterior architecture against the coastal backdrop is also magnificent.Yes, you are welcome to take photos inside your room to capture your luxurious stay. For professional photoshoots, it's best to inquire with the hotel management about their policies.
Generally, personal photography for memories is allowed. However, for commercial or professional photography, it's advisable to seek permission from the hotel to avoid any issues, especially in public areas.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the hotel and the coastline. Midday can be great for capturing the vibrant blue of the ocean and pool.
Drone usage is typically restricted in most urban areas and near hotels due to privacy and safety regulations. It's highly unlikely that drones are permitted for photography at Hotel du Palais without explicit, special permission. Always check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
🥂 Luxury Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Over the decades, the villa transitioned into a grand hotel, hosting luminaries like Coco Chanel, who even had a boutique here. The hotel retains much of its imperial charm, offering guests a chance to step back in time and experience the grandeur of the Second French Empire. The architecture and decor are a testament to its illustrious past, making a stay here a journey through history. [^Review3]
Culinary Delights by the Sea
For a more casual yet equally delightful experience, the Club Impérial bar by the pool provides refreshing drinks and light fare with the ocean as your backdrop. Sundays are a highlight with the Imperial Brunch, a lavish spread that combines gourmet dishes with the hotel's elegant atmosphere, making it a beloved weekend tradition for guests and locals alike. The hotel is also noted for its attentiveness to dietary needs, ensuring all guests can enjoy their meals. [^Review2]
Luxury and Relaxation
The hotel boasts a lavish spa and a stunning outdoor pool that overlooks the sea, providing the perfect setting to unwind. Whether you're seeking a rejuvenating spa treatment or a refreshing dip in the saltwater pool, the amenities are designed to offer a top-tier experience. [^Review5] The attentive staff ensures that every need is met, contributing to an overall sense of pampered luxury that guests consistently praise. [^Review1] [^Review2]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit