Bilbao in March
Good time to visit
March teases you with hints of spring but still delivers plenty of rain. It's a transition month that can surprise you with beautiful days or disappoint with continued drizzle.
Weather
March marks the beginning of spring with temperatures climbing to 12-16°C. Rain becomes less frequent but still expect 10-12 wet days. The days start getting noticeably longer with more sunshine breaking through the clouds.
16°C high8°C low11 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$95/day average
Events & Festivals
- •San José (March 19)
- •Easter Week preparations begin
March Tips
- •Pack both winter and spring clothes - weather can swing dramatically
- •Great month for exploring Casco Viejo without summer crowds
- •Hotel prices start creeping up toward end of month
All Months
May through October offers the best weather, but each season brings different energy. **Summer** (July-August) sees temperatures around 25°C with occasional rain showers. The city empties as locals head to the coast, making it perfect for museum visits but quieter for nightlife.
**Late spring** (May-June) might be ideal. Temperatures hit 20-22°C, rain decreases, and locals are out in full force. Hotel prices stay reasonable before summer peaks.
**Early fall** (September-October) brings comfortable temperatures and the return of cultural programming. The Bilbao International Festival of Documentary and Short Films happens in November.
**Winter** gets wet and gray, with temperatures around 10-15°C. But this is when the city feels most authentic — locals pack into pintxos bars by 7 PM, and you'll have museums mostly to yourself. Plus, hotel rates drop significantly.
Avoid **August 15-31** if you want the full Bilbao experience. Many restaurants close for vacation, and the city loses its local energy. The weather's nice, but you'll miss the point of visiting.
Bilbao Scores
Solo
8/10
Couples
7/10
Families
7/10
Adventure
4/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
7/10
BUILD YOUR BILBAO PLAN
Insider picks, smart timing, and a plan ready when you are.