Rainy days tips
The Basque Country is famous for its stunning beaches, delicious pintxos, and charming streets. But the weather in the Basque country can be full of surprises! To make the most of your trip, it’s essential to be prepared. Here are five handy tips about the climate, the best travel time, and activities for any weather condition.
1. When is the best time to visit Basque Country
The Basque Country has a temperate oceanic climate, meaning it’s rarely extremely hot or freezing cold. The best time to visit is from May to September, when temperatures are pleasant (between 20 and 26 degrees Celsius) and there’s the least chance of rain. July and August are the warmest months but also the busiest. For a quieter experience with still great weather, May, June, and September are ideal.
2. What to wear?
The weather in the Basque Country can be unpredictable, even in summer. Always pack the following:
Layers, layers, layers… Warm in the sun, cool in the shade. One moment it’s sunny, the next you might get caught in a quick rain shower. That’s the Basque Country!
A jacket or sweater for the evenings
An umbrella – Especially in the winter months, locals always carry a small one just in case.
Comfortable shoes – The city has many cobbled streets, and without realizing it, you’ll end up walking a lot.
3. Rainy days in San Sebastian
San Sebastián city for example, has plenty to offer, even when it’s raining. Here are some fun indoor activities:
San Telmo Museo – Discover the history and culture of the Basque Country in this fascinating museum.
Aquarium – One of Spain’s oldest aquariums, featuring a stunning tunnel where sharks swim overhead.
Bretxako Azoka Market – Dive into the local gastronomy and taste fresh Basque products in this covered market.
Pintxos Tour – Bad weather? The perfect excuse to spend extra time hopping between pintxos bars, savoring the best Basque tapas.
4- El tiempo; our favorite weather App
The Atlantic Ocean plays a big role in San Sebastián’s weather. In summer, it keeps the city refreshingly cool, but it can also bring sudden mist or rain. In winter, the ocean keeps temperatures mild. Always check a weather app, as conditions can change quickly! Our favorite app? El Tiempo.
5- Visit the Basque Country in autumn or winter
Although summer is the most popular travel season, the Basque Countryn has a lot to offer in autumn and winter too:
Fewer tourists, so you can enjoy the city at your own pace
Spectacular waves at La Concha and Zurriola, perfect for surfers and photographers
Cozy atmosphere in December
Cheaper hotel and restaurant prices – Check out our hotel tips here to find the best accommodations for your city trip.
