Although previously in the long shadow of San Sebastian, in recent years Bilbao has become a destination hotspot in its own right, and with good reason. The Guggenheim museum, pintxo culture, history, and tradition all collide in this fascinating city. It’s perfect for design aficionados – as our Bilbao design guide shows – and even better if you’re a foodie. But you’ll need somewhere to stay to ensure you’re well-rested before jumping on one or two of our Bilbao based tours. Here are our picks of the best places to stay in Bilbao.
Casco Viejo
Casco Viejo is Bilbao’s oldest area. There are 7 streets that make up the epicenter of this beautiful Bilbao neighborhood. Many of the streets are pedestrianized, filled with tiny pincho bars where you can taste the best of the food this city has to offer. And if food is your passion, then our Bilbao Old City Food tasting tour is for you. This is a lively, buzzing Bilbao neighborhood, perfect if you want to be in the heart of the action.
Hotel Tayko
This is an industrial city and the Hotel Tayko is a celebration of this past. Concrete, metal, and brick influence the design to reflect Bilbao’s history. It’s a beautifully thought-out hotel, full of modern touches and perfect for those who like something a little different. The hotel is based in the heart of the old town and makes a great base for exploring the city.
Erribera Kalea 13
NYX Hotel by Leonardo Hotels
NYX Hotel Bilbao is located right on the river, on the outskirts of Bilbao’s old town. The design and guest experience has been thought about with great care. Brightly colored common spaces, a rooftop terrace, and a bar and restaurant that serves an international breakfast. The hotel has beautifully designed rooms, some with terraces to enjoy the view. The hotel is also great for pet lovers – you can have your pet stay with you for a small surcharge.
Areatza Kalea, 4
Basque Boutique Bilbao
There is no doubt of which region you’re staying in when you stay at the Basque Boutique Bilbao. This is a hotel that is very proud of the surrounding area. Each of the 8 themed rooms is named after an important part of Basque history. There are touches like traditional Basque typography on the wall and homages to Basque works of art. A truly unique place to base yourself.
Calle De La Torre, 2 1
City Center
On the west side of the Nervion river lies Bilbao’s main city center. It’s a small but bustling city, where you’ll find some of the biggest sights in Bilbao such as the Guggenheim museum. There are also a wealth of modern and traditional bars and restaurants dotted across the town. You can make the most of your time in the city center with our Insider Bilbao City tour which will show you the best of the area.
Hotel Miro
The perfectly situated Hotel Miro is right opposite the Guggenheim museum. This beautifully minimalistic hotel is full of space and light and features stunning views across Bilbao and the surrounding countryside. There’s a gym, a great restaurant and plenty of beautifully designed common spaces in which you can relax.
Alameda Mazarredo 77
Gran Hotel Domine
If you’re looking for luxury, you can’t do much better than the Gran Hotel Domine. This 5-star Art Deco-styled hotel is moments from the Guggenheim museum with some rooms overlooking the structure itself. There is a large open-air terrace with Guggenheim and mountain views where you can enjoy a drink or two before heading into the town itself. The rooms themselves are light and airy with beautiful bathrooms, some including freestanding baths.
Alameda De Mazarredo 61
Hotel Sercotel Coliseo
In the beating heart of Bilbao’s modern center lies the Hotel Sercotel Coliseo, a delightful four-star hotel set in an impressive building. The hotel has everything you could want for a comfortable stay including bright and airy rooms, comfortable beds, and a place to work. Modern, fresh, and perfectly situated.
Alameda De Urquijo, 13
Barceló Bilbao Nervion
A bright, modern 4-star hotel that makes a great base for your Bilbao adventures. The Barceló Bilbao Nervion is just a 10-minute walk from the Guggenheim museum, right in the city center. Its decor is minimal and bright, with every amenity available to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Campo De Volatin 11
Mercure Bilbao Jardines De Albia
The Mercure Bilbao Jardines de Albia hotel is placed in a fantastic location, on the river just by Bilbao’s old town. This 4-star hotel has everything you need, from bright comfortable rooms to a spa and swimming pool. The elegantly designed rooms in white and royal blue hues are very relaxing indeed.
San Vicente, 6
Where to stay in Bilbao
This is just a selection of hotels in Bilbao – we have a whole curated selection for you to browse. You can’t do much better than in this city If you like food, wine, culture, history, and design. There’s so much to do – as our guide to the best of Bilbao shows. It’s a city that is sometimes overlooked but always manages to capture the imagination of all who make the effort to visit.
