Bilbao in December

May through October offers the best weather, but each season brings different energy. **Summer** (July-August) sees temperatures around 25°C with occasional rain showers. The city empties as locals head to the coast, making it perfect for museum visits but quieter for nightlife. **Late spring** (May-June) might be ideal. Temperatures hit 20-22°C, rain decreases, and locals are out in full force. Hotel prices stay reasonable before summer peaks. **Early fall** (September-October) brings comfortable temperatures and the return of cultural programming. The Bilbao International Festival of Documentary and Short Films happens in November. **Winter** gets wet and gray, with temperatures around 10-15°C. But this is when the city feels most authentic — locals pack into pintxos bars by 7 PM, and you'll have museums mostly to yourself. Plus, hotel rates drop significantly. Avoid **August 15-31** if you want the full Bilbao experience. Many restaurants close for vacation, and the city loses its local energy. The weather's nice, but you'll miss the point of visiting.