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, this 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

January can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. There is frost occasionally. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you are going to go to the must-see Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

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

February

February in Bilbao is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • 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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you are going to go to the must-see Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

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

March

Traveling to Bilbao in March, you will notice that it is 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.

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

  • 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 on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

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

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the right kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

If you are going to go to the must-see Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

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

April

April in Bilbao can be chilly and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 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.

  • 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 constantly losing things these days, 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require 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.

If you are going to go to the must-see Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

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

May

If you vacation in Bilbao during May, you will probably find that it is balmy 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 airports frequently losing things recently, 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.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

If you are going to go to the must-see Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

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

June

June here is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

If you are going to go to the must-see Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see 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 about a third of the time. 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.

  • 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 airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you are going to go to the must-see Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

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

August

August here is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than 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.

  • 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics 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

If you are going to go to the must-see Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

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

September

If you are traveling to Bilbao in September, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 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.

  • 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 airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 pick the necessary kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you are going to go to the must-see Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

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

October

In October, Bilbao is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Bilbao, with several of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the correct type. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you are going to go to the must-see Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

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

November

November in Bilbao can be chilly 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 airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: 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.

  • 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

  • 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 careful to find the correct type. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you are going to go to the must-see Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

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

December

December in Bilbao is chilly and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 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.

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • 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. Avoid penalties with this

If you are going to go to the must-see Iglesia de San Nicolás, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see 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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