Arguably one of the capitals of European surfing, the beaches in this city give anyone the chance to surf, from the beginners to the pros. The city hosts one of the stops of the surfing World Championships - the Roxy Pro - and this sport is deeply embedded in the city's culture.

Thalassotherapy - literally sea therapy - is another of Biarritz's claims to fame. Improve your well-being by trying out these treatments, which include: balneotherapy, bodysculpting and seaweed bodywrap.

Only a few miles away are the towns of Anglet and Bayonne, famous for being the centre of bull-fighting in France. Alternatively, Spain is only 20km away, and San Sebastian can easily be reached in 90 minutes by train or bus.

The local food is influenced by the city's closeness to the sea and its Basque cultural identity. The city has many fantastic restaurants and Arzak (the world's best in many rankings) is located closeby San Sebastian. The mix of French and Basque cuisine in the country is best expressed in the local specialties, which include: pibales (eels), Basque omelette, jambon de Bayonne (ham) and the gāteau basque cake.

Shopping is a delight in this southern French city. The high street has both the famous French boutiques and independent shops, catering for different shopping tastes. Perhaps the most famous souvenir are the traditionally Basque shoes: espadrilles.