Basque Country, Spain: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Basque Country, Spain? If you're planning to go to Basque Country, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Basque Country, Spain

Based on the climate and weather in Basque Country, Spain, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Basque Country, Spain

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Basque Country, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Basque Country, Spain by month

January

January for Basque Country is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost once in a while. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Basque Country. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

February for Basque Country can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Basque Country. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

March in Basque Country is cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Basque Country. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April in Basque Country is cool and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Basque Country. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

May

May in Basque Country is mild and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Basque Country. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the right type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

June in Basque Country is mild and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Basque Country. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

July

July in Basque Country is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Basque Country. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

August in this region is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Basque Country. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

If you go to Basque Country in September, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Basque Country. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

October

October in Basque Country is cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Basque Country. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you visit Basque Country during November, you might find that it is cold and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Basque Country. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

In December, Basque Country can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 40s F (single digits C) and once in a while jump into the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Basque Country, with several of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Spain has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Basque Country. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

What to do in Basque Country, Spain

The Basque Country, located in Spain's northern region, is a destination full of natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and rich culture. With so many amazing places to visit, it can be tough to narrow down your choices. In this article, we'll explore the top tourist attractions in Basque Country, Spain.

1. Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is one of the top attractions in Basque Country. Designed by Frank Gehry, this world-class art museum features contemporary art exhibits, sculptures, and installations. The iconic titanium exterior of the buildings makes for an unforgettable visual experience.

2. San Sebastián

San Sebastián is a picturesque coastal town with one of the best beaches in Europe. The city is famous for its outstanding cuisine and bustling nightlife. The Old Town area features narrow streets lined with pintxo bars, which serve tapas-style dishes, and local wines.

3. Vitoria-Gasteiz

Vitoria-Gasteiz is the capital city of Basque Country, located in the heart of the region. The city is known for its green spaces and sustainable urban planning. The medieval Old Town area of the city is a must-visit for history buffs.

4. Bilbao's Old Town

Bilbao's Old Town, or Casco Viejo, features a maze of narrow streets filled with traditional Basque architecture. The area is known for its pintxo bars, which serve delicious bites like grilled octopus and stuffed peppers.

5. Gaztelugatxe

Gaztelugatxe is a small island located on the Basque coast. It is home to a 1,000-year-old hermitage that can be reached by climbing 241 steps. From the top, visitors can take in stunning views of the coastline.

6. Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve

Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is a protected wetland area that is home to over 200 bird species. Visitors can take a boat tour through the reserve, go hiking, or rent bikes to explore the area.

7. Getxo

Getxo is a coastal town located just outside of Bilbao. It is known for its stunning beaches and historic mansions. The town is also home to Puente Colgante, a suspension bridge that connects the two sides of the river.

8. Loyola Sanctuary

The Loyola Sanctuary is a religious site located near Azpeitia. It is where Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit order, was born and spent his early years. The sanctuary features a museum, church, and gardens.

9. Lekeitio

Lekeitio is a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning beaches and seafood. The town is also home to the Basilica of Santa María, a Gothic church that dates back to the 15th century.

In conclusion, Basque Country, Spain, is a destination full of rich culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes. From the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao to the picturesque coastal town of San Sebastián, there is no shortage of amazing places to explore. Visit Basque Country and experience the best Spain has to offer.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Uji, Japan, Prudnik, Poland, Kursk, Russia, Mora, Sweden, Arcadia, Louisiana, United States of America, Chichibu, Japan, Virginia, Virginia, United States of America, Grande Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil, Sand Springs, Oklahoma, United States of America, Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico, and Awadh, India.