Things to Do in Bilbao in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Bilbao
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Christmas markets transform the city - Mercado de Navidad runs December 1-January 6 with over 40 wooden chalets selling artisan crafts and local specialties like txakoli wine and Idiazábal cheese
- Museum season begins - Guggenheim, Fine Arts, and Bilbao Museum offer extended December hours (10am-8pm vs summer's 10am-6pm) with 30% fewer crowds than summer months
- Pintxo season peaks - December brings seasonal specialties like kokotxas (hake cheeks) and wild mushroom dishes that aren't available June-September
- Hotel rates drop 40-60% compared to summer - luxury accommodations along Gran Vía cost €80-120 in December vs €140-200 in July
Considerations
- Daylight limited to 8.5 hours - sunrise at 8:30am, sunset by 5:45pm severely restricts outdoor photography and sightseeing time
- Rain disrupts 40% of days - sudden Atlantic storms can close the Vizcaya Bridge and cancel river tours with little warning
- Many outdoor terraces close - rooftop bars and riverside pintxo spots that define summer Bilbao shut down, limiting the social scene
Best Activities in December
Guggenheim Museum Extended Visits
December's shorter daylight hours and frequent rain make this the ideal time for museum marathons. The Guggenheim stays open until 8pm in December, and crowds drop to 30% of summer levels. The building's titanium exterior actually looks more dramatic under December's moody gray skies. Jeff Koons' 'Puppy' is decorated with winter flowers, creating a unique seasonal photo opportunity.
Casco Viejo Pintxo Crawls
December brings seasonal pintxos unavailable in summer - wild mushroom croquetas, kokotxas, and Christmas-spiced desserts. The narrow medieval streets provide natural shelter from rain, and locals congregate in traditional tabernas after 7pm. December's cool weather means no outdoor seating, creating a more authentic, locals-heavy atmosphere in bars like those around Plaza Nueva.
Bilbao La Vieja Neighborhood Walks
This former industrial district comes alive in December with local Christmas preparations and fewer tourists. The area's street art and converted warehouses are perfect for rainy day exploration, with covered markets and indie cafes every few blocks. December's soft light is ideal for photographing the neighborhood's colorful murals without harsh shadows.
Mercado de la Ribera Food Experiences
Europe's largest covered market becomes a warm refuge during December's rain. Seasonal vendors sell Christmas specialties like turron and local chestnuts. The market's glass roof provides natural light even on gray days, and the interior temperature stays comfortable at 16-18°C (61-64°F) regardless of outside weather.
Arriaga Theatre Cultural Events
December is Bilbao's performing arts season - the neo-baroque Arriaga Theatre hosts Christmas concerts, zarzuela performances, and holiday productions. The 1890 building's ornate interior provides an elegant escape from December weather, with performances starting at 8pm when it's already dark outside.
Artxanda Funicular and Viewpoint
December's clear post-rain days offer spectacular views of the city and Nervión River from 400m (1,312 ft) above sea level. The 1915 funicular provides a unique perspective on Bilbao's industrial heritage, and the hilltop restaurant offers seasonal game dishes perfect for cold weather. Views extend 15-20 km (9-12 miles) on clear December days.
December Events & Festivals
Mercado de Navidad de Bilbao
Traditional Christmas market with over 40 wooden chalets selling Basque crafts, local foods, and holiday decorations. Features live music, children's workshops, and traditional foods like roasted chestnuts and txakoli wine tastings.
Santo Tomás Market
Traditional December 21st market celebrating winter solstice with local farmers selling seasonal produce, handmade crafts, and traditional foods. Includes live folk music and demonstrations of traditional Basque crafts.
New Year's Eve at Arriaga Square
Public celebration with live music, traditional grape eating at midnight, and fireworks over the Nervión River. Local bands perform from 10pm, with crowds gathering from 11pm.