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

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

Contents

When to go to Bilbao, Spain

Based on the climate and weather in Bilbao, Spain, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Bilbao, Spain

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Bilbao, Spain by month

January

If you are traveling to Bilbao in January, you will notice that it can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost sometimes.

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

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are planning to see the majestic Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Guggenheim Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you vacation in Bilbao during February, you may notice that it can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you are planning to see the majestic Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Guggenheim Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

Traveling to Bilbao in March, you will notice that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage 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 Bilbao. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

If you are planning to see the majestic Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Guggenheim Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you vacation in Bilbao during April, you may notice that it is chilly and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bilbao. 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are planning to see the majestic Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Guggenheim Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you vacation in Bilbao during May, you will probably notice that it is mild and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • 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

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you are planning to see the majestic Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Guggenheim Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you go to Bilbao in June, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bilbao. 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

If you are planning to see the majestic Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Guggenheim Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

Traveling to Bilbao in July, you will notice that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you are planning to see the majestic Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Guggenheim Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you visit Bilbao during August, you may find that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the correct type. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you are planning to see the majestic Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Guggenheim Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September here is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are planning to see the majestic Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Guggenheim Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Bilbao is balmy and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) to high 60s 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 of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are planning to see the majestic Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Guggenheim Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Bilbao is cool and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) to low 60s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

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 neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

If you are planning to see the majestic Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Guggenheim Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

In December, Bilbao can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) and sometimes jump into the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Bilbao, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the correct kind. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are planning to see the majestic Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Guggenheim Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Bilbao, Spain

Bilbao, located in the northern Basque region of Spain, is a city full of history and culture. It has become a popular tourist destination in recent years, thanks in part to the construction of the Guggenheim Museum. But there's much more to Bilbao than just the Guggenheim. Here are the top tourist attractions in Bilbao.

1. Guggenheim Museum: This iconic museum, designed by Frank Gehry, is a must-visit in Bilbao. It houses an impressive collection of contemporary art and features temporary exhibits throughout the year. The building itself is a work of art, with its titanium exterior and unique shape.

2. Casco Viejo: Bilbao's historic Old Town is a charming neighborhood filled with narrow streets, quaint shops, and interesting architecture. It's a great place to wander and take in the local culture, and there are plenty of restaurants and bars to stop in along the way.

3. Bilbao Fine Arts Museum: The city's other major museum, the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, is housed in a restored 16th-century convent. It has an extensive collection of Spanish art, including works by Goya, El Greco, and Zurbarán, as well as international artists.

4. Zubizuri Bridge: Another example of Bilbao's modern architecture, the Zubizuri Bridge was designed by Santiago Calatrava and spans the Nervión River. Its white, curved arches and glass floor make it a unique and photogenic attraction.

5. Mercado de la Ribera: This lively market is the largest indoor market in Europe and is a foodie's delight. You'll find fresh seafood, meats, produce, and other local specialties here, as well as a variety of bars and restaurants.

6. Euskalduna Palace: This former shipyard turned cultural center is another example of Bilbao's impressive modern architecture. It hosts concerts, theater productions, and other cultural events throughout the year.

7. Plaza Nueva: This historic square in the heart of Bilbao's Old Town is surrounded by colorful, ornate buildings and is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. It's a great place to have a drink or a bite to eat and take in the city's ambiance.

8. San Mamés Stadium: For sports fans, a visit to Bilbao's San Mamés Stadium, home to the Athletic Bilbao football team, is a must. The stadium is impressive both inside and out and has a museum dedicated to the team's history.

9. Alhóndiga: This former wine warehouse has been transformed into a cultural center with a cinema, restaurant, and various art exhibitions. Its rooftop terrace also offers great views of the city.

10. Etxebarria Park: Located on a hill overlooking the city, Etxebarria Park is a serene oasis amid the hustle and bustle of Bilbao. It has winding paths, green spaces, and stunning views of the city below.

Whether you're interested in history, art, or modern architecture, Bilbao has something for everyone. These top tourist attractions are just a few of the reasons why Bilbao is a must-visit destination in Spain.

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.

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