Things to Do in Bilbao in September
September weather, activities, events & insider tips
September Weather in Bilbao
Is September Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak pintxo season begins - September marks when bars start serving hot seasonal specialties like wild mushroom pintxos and newly harvested Idiazábal cheese
- Optimal walking weather with comfortable 18-20°C (64-68°F) temperatures during prime sightseeing hours (10am-6pm), perfect for the city's hilly terrain
- San Sebastián Film Festival overflow brings cinema events to Bilbao, plus September marks the start of cultural season with major exhibitions opening at Guggenheim
- Txakoli wine harvest season - local wineries in nearby Getxo offer tours and tastings that aren't available other times of year
Considerations
- Rain gear essential - September averages 10 rainy days with sudden downpours that can last 1-3 hours, often disrupting outdoor market visits and riverside walks
- Accommodation prices spike 40-60% during San Sebastián Film Festival weeks (mid-September), even in Bilbao 100 km (62 miles) away
- Shorter daylight hours begin - sunset moves from 8:30pm to 7:30pm during September, reducing evening golden hour photography time
Best Activities in September
Guggenheim Museum Indoor Exploration
September weather makes this the perfect time for extended museum visits. New autumn exhibitions typically launch in September, and the 70% humidity makes air-conditioned galleries particularly appealing during afternoon hours. The museum's architecture photography is stunning in September's dramatic cloudy skies.
Casco Viejo Pintxo Walking Tours
September is prime pintxo season when bars introduce autumn specialties. The cool 18°C (64°F) morning temperatures are perfect for walking the old quarter's cobblestone streets. Rain showers actually enhance the experience - ducking into warm bars is part of authentic pintxo culture.
Bilbao Estuary River Cruises
September's variable weather creates dramatic skies perfect for river photography. Lower tourist numbers mean better boat positioning for Guggenheim views. The 1-hour cruises stay comfortable in September's mild temperatures, and covered boats protect from brief rain showers.
Mount Artxanda Funicular and Viewpoint
September's clear post-rain air provides exceptional city views. The 3-minute funicular ride protects from weather, and the viewpoint has covered areas for rainy moments. September sunsets at 7:30pm create perfect golden hour timing for dinner at hilltop restaurants.
Athletic Bilbao Stadium Tours
September marks the start of La Liga season, making stadium tours particularly exciting with match preparation visible. Indoor tours stay comfortable regardless of weather. Post-rain September air is crisp and clear for San Mamés stadium exterior photography.
Getxo Coastal Wine Tours
September is harvest season for Txakoli wine - the only time to see actual grape harvesting at local vineyards. The 30-minute metro ride to Getxo offers dramatic coastal views enhanced by September's moody skies. Indoor tastings provide perfect rainy-day alternatives.
September Events & Festivals
Aste Nagusia (Semana Grande) Continuation Events
While the main festival ends in late August, September features weekend continuation events including traditional Basque sports demonstrations and folk music performances in Plaza Nueva. Free outdoor events that showcase authentic local culture without tourist crowds.
Bilbao International Documentary Festival
ZINEBI documentary festival begins accepting submissions and hosts preview screenings. While main festival is later, September features filmmaker talks and documentary screenings at smaller venues throughout the city.