Things to Do in Bilbao in August
August weather, activities, events & insider tips
August Weather in Bilbao
Is August Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect festival season - August brings Aste Nagusia (Bilbao Big Week) with 9 days of street parties, concerts, and traditional Basque celebrations throughout the city
- Ideal pintxo-hopping weather - temperatures of 15-26°C (60-79°F) make evening bar crawls through Casco Viejo comfortable, with locals extending socializing until 2am
- Guggenheim Museum at its most comfortable - air conditioning provides relief from 26°C (79°F) heat, while the titanium exterior gleams brilliantly in August's strong sunlight
- Beach weather within reach - San Sebastián beaches are 1 hour away with water temperatures at 22°C (72°F), perfect for day trips when Bilbao gets too warm
Considerations
- Peak tourist season pricing - accommodation costs increase 40-60% compared to spring, with riverside hotels charging €150+ per night instead of typical €90
- Afternoon downpours disrupt outdoor plans - 53mm (2.1 inches) of rain falls across 10 days, typically in sudden 30-45 minute bursts between 3-6pm
- Many locals on vacation - some traditional restaurants and family-run pintxo bars close for 2-3 weeks in August, reducing authentic dining options
Best Activities in August
Guggenheim Museum Extended Visits
August's air conditioning makes this the perfect month for deep museum exploration. The 19 galleries stay cool at 20°C (68°F) while outside reaches 26°C (79°F). Morning visits (10am-12pm) avoid afternoon rain and tour groups. The titanium exterior photography is spectacular in August's intense sunlight.
Nervión River Kayaking Tours
August's warm temperatures make river activities perfect. Water levels are stable, and the 15-26°C (60-79°F) temperature range means comfortable paddling even if you get wet. Start early (9am) to avoid afternoon rain. Views of the city from water level reveal industrial heritage alongside modern architecture.
Mount Artxanda Funicular and Hiking
August weather is ideal for the 3km (1.9 mile) hiking trails at 400m (1,312 ft) elevation. Temperatures drop 3-4°C compared to city center, providing relief from heat. Morning hikes (8-11am) offer clear views before afternoon clouds roll in. The funicular operates until 10pm in August.
Casco Viejo Evening Pintxo Routes
August's long daylight (sunset at 9:30pm) and comfortable evening temperatures around 18-20°C (64-68°F) create perfect conditions for traditional bar hopping. Start at 7pm when bars restock pintxos. Locals emerge after siesta, creating authentic atmosphere unavailable in other seasons.
San Sebastián Beach Day Trips
August brings perfect beach weather 1 hour from Bilbao. Water temperature reaches 22°C (72°F), air temperature 24-27°C (75-81°F). La Concha beach offers protected swimming, while Zurriola attracts surfers. Morning trains avoid afternoon crowds and guarantee beach space.
Aste Nagusia Festival Participation
Only available in August - Bilbao's biggest festival transforms the entire city for 9 days starting around August 19th. Free outdoor concerts, traditional Basque dancing, and street food stalls operate until 3am. Locals dress in white with red bandanas. Temperature stays comfortable for all-night celebrations.
August Events & Festivals
Aste Nagusia (Bilbao Big Week)
The city's most important festival featuring 9 days of continuous celebration. Free concerts on multiple outdoor stages, traditional Basque pelota matches, giants and big-heads parades, and 24-hour street food. Locals wear all white with red bandanas. Every neighborhood participates.
Bilbao BBK Live Spillover Events
While the main festival occurs in July, August brings related club nights and after-parties featuring international DJs and bands. Venues like Kafe Antzokia host continuation events throughout the month.