Discover the Basque Country's beauty in every season—explore Jaizkibel Mountain in autumn's golden glow.
Spain’s Basque Country has plenty to offer visitors, including some of the best food in the world, traditional festivals, and amazing views atop mountains . It can be hard to choose a time to visit, so whether you want to enjoy a sunny beach holiday, or want to experience one of the famous festivals, we’ll provide some tips on when to visit this amazing place. We can help you get to the Basque Country and find a place to stay . Let’s make your adventure easy and enjoyable!
Basque Country is a beautiful destination, with warm summers and not-too-harsh winters, making it an ideal place to visit all year round. It’s worth noting that Basque Country can be quite a rainy region, so pack a light raincoat if you can!
The summer months will give you the highest temperatures to enjoy, with the least amount of rainfall, which draws in the highest number of visitors compared to any other time of year. The summertime sun makes Basque Country’s beaches and natural landscapes a delight to enjoy.
Autumn time offers weather that’s still enjoyable without the rush of summer tourism, and brings with it the colours of the season, along with some great festivals to enjoy.
Basque Country’s winters are fairly temperate, with average temperatures of around 10°C. In wintertime, Basque Country’s brilliant villages, cities, and indoor attractions make this a great place to visit even when the sun isn’t out.
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy Basque Country’s nature in bloom. With many walks and hikes available in the region, you’ll be able to enjoy the rich greenery on offer at this time of year.
Springtime in Bermeo: A perfect day for hiking.
In summer, sunny weather makes the Basque Country a joy to visit. Beaches, hikes, sightseeing, and watersports are go-to activities for tourists who visit during the popular summer months. Basque Country’s summer months also have several cultural events, including many traditional festivals.
Experience summer surfing in the Basque Country
On the evening of June 23rd, the Night of San Juan, or Saint John’s Eve is celebrated throughout San Sebastián. A celebration with roots in paganism, bonfires are lit across city squares and even on Zurriola beach. Locals take part in the bonfires by burning any unneeded items, from old letters to pieces of furniture.
Join the festive spirit with a bonfire on Saint John's Eve night in San Sebastián
The tradition sees an ash tree burned in the Plaza de la Constitución with Basque folklore compelling locals and visitors to dance around it. A celebration open to anyone, this is a spectacle full of music, fire, and dancing!
Known as the ‘Semana Grande’ (Great Week), Bilbao hosts this nine-day festival at the end of August. This great celebration features Basque music and dancing, Basque sports such as stone carrying competitions, the parade of giants, fireworks, and of course, the amazing food and drink that the region offers.
If you’re looking for an extended celebration of Basque culture, this is an event where you can really soak it up.
Immerse yourself in Bilbao's main festival, Aste Nagusia, and discover the vibrant spirit of the Basque Country
Autumn is a great time to visit if you’re trying to avoid the busier summer months. Although the weather is a little cooler, there is still plenty to enjoy in Basque Country.
Experience the rich colors of Autumn and discover the picturesque vineyards of La Rioja
In September, San Sebastián’s International Film Festival takes place: one of the most important celebrations of cinema in the world, this iconic event is perfect for movie lovers. The event has been a part of important historical events in cinema since it began in the 1950s, such as the European premiere of Star Wars and the international premiere of the Hitchcock classic, Vertigo.
The festival celebrates movies across the city in several venues, where you can enjoy a range of selected films that have been nominated for the prestigious awards the festival presents.
Autumn is the harvest season, meaning it’s the best time to immerse yourself in the wine culture of Basque Country. There is no shortage of wine tours and tasting experiences across the region, letting you try their famous Rioja, Txakoli, Navarra, and Irouléguy - just make sure you’re over 18!
Discover the scenic vineyards with stunning sea views in Basque Country
With average temperatures around 10°C, Basque winters are extremely appealing to those who live in the UK and other parts of Northern Europe. While you may not be sunbathing, Basque Country can still be enjoyed during the winter.
Explore snowy trails with hikers at Nevado de Artikutza
Bayonne sits in the Basque Country’s region of southwest France, the quaint medieval streets are full of significant architecture that is a core part of the town’s rich history.
In December, the town is transformed into a winter wonderland, with ice skating, fireworks, decorations all around, and amusements for both children and adults, allowing families to enjoy the festive season.
As well as the festivities, nearby there are several winter sports including skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, and more!
Bayonne in December: a magical winter wonderland.
Carnivals are a tradition in Basque Country, and in February there are several of them to enjoy. To celebrate the end of winter, streets in the southern France region of Basque Country are filled with music, dancing, costumes, and traditional customs. One highlight is the judgment of San Pantzar in the main square of Ustaritz, where the ‘scapegoat accused of all evils’ is burned on display for all to watch.
In spring, Basque Country’s amazing landscapes come to life, turning the region into a colourful, blooming spectacle, making it the best time to enjoy the wonderful walks and hikes available within the region. There are also some springtime cultural events not to be missed.
Celebrate spring in Basque Country, where nature comes alive
Another of the area’s many festivals, the Sunny Days festival in April highlights the musical talent within Basque Country. Featuring classical, jazz, and baroque music from top musicians in all styles across solos, bands, ratios, and more. This is a colourful event for those who want to experience Basque Country’s music culture.
This film festival is dedicated to tackling human rights and social issues, featuring films covering freedom of speech, immigration, women’s rights, and other serious, important topics. There are also exhibitions and talks within the city during the festival, encouraging solidarity through art. A poignant, yet important festival, this is a memorable, eye-opening experience.
These things to do and see, along with the many natural and man-made wonders, make visiting Basque Country a culturally enriching experience. With so many options, you are spoilt for choice. For the best trip to the Basque Country, book your ferry to Spain and enjoy a memorable journey with us!
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