While southern Spain swelters under extreme heat during the summer months, even many Spaniards prefer to escape to the lush Atlantic coast in the north. Bilbao is the perfect destination for anyone seeking culture, world-class cuisine, and pleasant temperatures. In August, the warmest month, the average high temperature is a comfortable 24 to 25 °C —ideal for exploring the city without the stress of the heat.
Convenient and Affordable Travel from Berlin to Bilbao
The trip from the German capital is surprisingly straightforward. Eurowings offers regular direct flights from Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) to Bilbao (BIO). In just over two and a half hours, you’ll land nonstop in the Basque Country. If you book early, you can usually find very affordable tickets. From the modern Bilbao Airport, the city bus (Line A3247) takes you directly to the city center in just about 20 minutes for a few euros.
Culture, pintxos, and the sea: Here’s what awaits you in the city
Bilbao has transformed from a gloomy industrial city into a spectacular design metropolis. Its undisputed landmark is the world-famous Guggenheim Museum with its titanium-clad, curved architecture. But the city doesn’t just delight art lovers. In the winding alleys of the Old Town (Casco Viejo), one cozy bar follows another. Here, people celebrate the Basque tradition of pintxos —artfully prepared appetizers that pair perfectly with a glass of local white wine (txakoli).
What makes Bilbao special is its unique blend of urban flair, green hills, and proximity to the Bay of Biscay. If you’re in the mood to cool off in the Atlantic after sightseeing, you won’t have to go far.
A real highlight among the beaches is Playa de Sopelana (also known as Arrietara). It’s spacious, surrounded by impressive cliffs, and considered a paradise for sunbathers and surfers. Best of all: you can reach it easily and affordably by public transportation. Simply take Metro Line 1 from downtown directly to the Larrabasterra or Sopela station. From there, it’s just a few minutes’ walk or a short ride on the shuttle bus to the fine sandy beach.
