Bilbao, nestled in the heart of the Basque Country, is not just a city; it’s a cultural haven brimming with history, art, and gastronomy. Choosing the right place to stay can greatly enhance your experience in this vibrant city. Whether you’re drawn to the modern architecture of the Guggenheim Museum or the charming alleys of Casco Viejo, Bilbao offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs. In this guide, we explore the best neighborhoods and accommodations Bilbao has to offer, ensuring you make the most of your stay.
Our pick of the best hotels in Bilbao 🔝
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao
- ✨ 5-Star: Hotel Carlton
- 🏨 4-Star: Barceló Bilbao Nervión
- 🛏 3-Star: Hotel Ilunion Bilbao
- 💸 Cheap: Hotel Bilbi
- 🏢 Apartment: Bilbao City Center by abba Apartments
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Hotel Gran Bilbao
- 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Meliá Bilbao
Neighborhood Guide to Bilbao 📋
- 👀 For the First Time: Casco Viejo
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Santutxu
- 🎨 For Art Lovers: Abandoibarra
- 💎 For Luxury: Ensanche
- 💰 For Budget Travelling: Deusto
1. Casco Viejo: Stay in Casco Viejo for The Perfect Introduction for First-Time Visitors
🌟 Historic Charm: Walking through Casco Viejo is like stepping back in time. The narrow, cobbled streets are lined with charming historic buildings, and the atmosphere is always lively with locals and tourists alike. The old town is one of the best areas to stay in Bilbao if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
🏛️ Must-See Attractions:
- San Antón Church: This stunning Gothic church is a must-visit in Casco Viejo. Its impressive architecture and beautiful interior make it a highlight of the neighborhood.
- Plaza Nueva: A lively square surrounded by elegant arcades, Plaza Nueva is a great place to relax with a coffee or a pintxo. On Sundays, the square hosts a bustling market where you can find everything from antiques to local produce.
- Mercado de la Ribera: This vibrant market is a food lover’s paradise. Located by the river, it’s one of the largest covered markets in Europe. Here, you can taste local Basque delicacies, buy fresh produce, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere.
🎭 Cultural Highlights: Teatro Arriaga: An architectural gem, this beautiful theater hosts a variety of performances, from opera to contemporary dance. Catching a show here is a fantastic way to experience Bilbao’s cultural scene. Bilbao La Vieja: Just across the river from Casco Viejo, this area is known for its alternative art scene. It’s home to numerous galleries and street art installations, making it a great place to explore if you love contemporary art.
🍽️ Culinary Delights: Calle del Perro: This street is lined with some of the best pintxos bars in Bilbao. Hopping from bar to bar, sampling these delicious bites, is a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss. Local Specialties: Be sure to try the Bacalao a la Vizcaína (cod in a red pepper sauce) and Txakoli (a local white wine). These dishes are quintessentially Basque and absolutely delicious.
🌆 Lively Atmosphere: Casco Viejo isn’t just about history and food; it’s also the heart of Bilbao’s nightlife. The area is packed with bars and clubs, offering everything from traditional Basque music to modern dance beats. We love the vibrant energy here, and it’s easy to meet both locals and fellow travelers. Festivals: If you visit in August, don’t miss Aste Nagusia, Bilbao’s biggest festival. The streets of Casco Viejo come alive with music, dancing, and fireworks. It’s an unforgettable experience and a great way to immerse yourself in local culture.
🔍 Insider Tips: Avoiding Crowds: To avoid the crowds, I recommend visiting Casco Viejo early in the morning or late in the evening. The streets are quieter, and you’ll have a more relaxed experience exploring this historic part of the city. Walking Distance: Casco Viejo’s central location means you’re within walking distance of many of Bilbao’s best attractions, including the Guggenheim Museum and the city’s beautiful riverfront.
Best Hotels and Hostels in the Centro Histórico 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Casco Viejo
- Hotel Tayko Bilbao: Hotel Tayko Bilbao offers a unique blend of contemporary design and historic charm. Located in a beautifully restored 1924 building, it provides stunning views of the river and easy access to the vibrant streets of Casco Viejo.
- Petit Palace Arana Bilbao: Petit Palace Arana Bilbao combines modern comfort with a charming 19th-century building. The rooms are stylish and equipped with the latest technology, and the hotel’s prime location allows guests to explore the best of Casco Viejo.
- Sercotel Coliseo: Sercotel Coliseo is housed in a former opera house, blending historical elements with modern amenities. Its central location makes it perfect for exploring the Old Town and nearby attractions, while the comfortable rooms ensure a relaxing stay.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Hotel Bilbao Plaza: Hotel Bilbao Plaza offers great value with comfortable rooms and a prime location near the river. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a budget-friendly stay without compromising on convenience and comfort.
- Hotel Bilbi: Hotel Bilbi provides simple yet comfortable accommodations right at the edge of Casco Viejo. Its colorful decor and friendly atmosphere make it a pleasant place to return to after a day of exploring.
- Hotel Sirimiri: Hotel Sirimiri offers modern amenities in a traditional setting. Located just a short walk from the old town, it provides a quiet retreat while keeping you close to the vibrant city life.
🛏 Best Hostels
- Ganbara Hostel: Ganbara Hostel is a vibrant and friendly place to stay in Casco Viejo. The hostel features bright, clean dormitories and private rooms, and the communal areas are perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
- All Iron Hostel: All Iron Hostel offers a modern, industrial-chic atmosphere. The hostel provides spacious dorms and private rooms, along with excellent common areas that foster a sense of community among guests.
- Poshtel Bilbao - Premium Hostel: Poshtel Bilbao is a premium hostel that redefines budget accommodation with its stylish design and upscale amenities. Located in the heart of Casco Viejo, it offers easy access to the area’s best attractions and nightlife.
2. Santutxu: A Family-Friendly Haven in Bilbao
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Santutxu is the best area for families in Bilbao. This neighborhood offers a peaceful environment, filled with parks and playgrounds. It’s a place where local families live, giving it a friendly and welcoming vibe. You’ll often see children playing in the streets and families enjoying picnics in the parks.
🌳 Green Spaces: One of the highlights of Santutxu is its abundance of green spaces. Etxebarria Park is the largest, offering panoramic views of the city. It’s perfect for picnics, outdoor activities, and letting the kids run around. The park is a green oasis in the heart of the city.
🛝 Fun Activities for Kids:
- Marzana Playground: A favorite spot for younger children, filled with a variety of play equipment.
- Indoor Play Centers: Ideal for rainy days, these centers provide a fun and safe environment for children to play.
🍽️ Family-Friendly Dining: Santutxu has numerous cozy cafés and pintxo bars that are perfect for families. Many offer kid-friendly menus and outdoor seating.
- Local Cafés: Great for a casual meal with the family.
- Pintxo Bars: Experience the Basque pintxo culture in a family-friendly setting.
🎨 Cultural Highlights: While Santutxu is primarily a residential area, it’s conveniently located near some of Bilbao’s major cultural attractions.
- Bilbao’s City Center: Just a short metro ride away, you can easily visit the Guggenheim Museum and the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum.
- Casco Viejo: The historic old town is nearby, offering a charming day out exploring its streets and markets.
🏞️ Outdoor Adventures:
- Monte Avril: A great spot for a family hike, offering easy trails and stunning views of Bilbao.
- Bike Rides: The neighborhood has several safe cycling paths, perfect for a family bike ride.
🔍 Insider Tips:
- Local Events: Check out community events and festivals in Santutxu. They are often family-oriented and provide a great way to experience local culture.
- Transportation: Santutxu is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to get around Bilbao without hassle. The metro and bus services are reliable and convenient for families.
Where to Stay in the Santutxu 🏨
3. Abandoibarra: An Artistic Retreat for Culture Enthusiasts
🎨 Artistic Atmosphere: Abandoibarra is the best area in Bilbao for art lovers. This vibrant neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most iconic cultural institutions, making it a haven for those seeking an artistic retreat. The modern architecture and scenic river views add to the creative vibe of this district.
🏛️ Cultural Highlights:
- Guggenheim Museum: This world-famous museum is a must-visit. The building itself is a masterpiece, and inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of contemporary art.
- Bilbao Fine Arts Museum: Just a short walk from the Guggenheim, this museum houses an extensive collection of classical and modern art.
- Euskalduna Palace: A striking example of modern architecture, this conference center and concert hall hosts a variety of performances, from opera to theater.
🚶♂️ Scenic Walks: Abandoibarra offers beautiful promenades along the Nervión River. The area is perfect for leisurely strolls, where you can admire the modern architecture and enjoy the peaceful river views.
- Ría de Bilbao: Walk along the river and take in the sights of the city’s modern skyline.
- Zubizuri Bridge: This iconic white pedestrian bridge, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is a great spot for photos.
🍽️ Dining and Drinks: The culinary scene in Abandoibarra is a treat for food lovers. You’ll find a mix of upscale restaurants and casual eateries, all offering delicious Basque cuisine.
- Ribera Market: Located nearby, this market is a food lover’s paradise. Sample local delicacies and enjoy a meal with stunning views of the river.
- Riverfront Cafés: Relax at one of the many cafés along the river, perfect for a coffee break or a light meal.
🔍 Insider Tips:
- Art Walk: Combine a visit to the Guggenheim and the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum for a perfect art-filled day.
- Evening Stroll: The riverside area is beautifully lit at night, making it a lovely place for an evening walk.
Where to Stay in the Abandoibarra 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Abandoibarra
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Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao: Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao is a luxurious hotel located right across from the Guggenheim Museum. The rooms are elegantly designed with modern amenities, and the rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the city. The on-site restaurant serves exquisite Basque cuisine.
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Hotel Meliá Bilbao: Hotel Meliá Bilbao offers a blend of contemporary design and comfort. The spacious rooms feature stylish decor, and the hotel boasts excellent facilities including a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and a gourmet restaurant. It’s ideally situated for exploring Bilbao’s cultural attractions.
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NH Collection Ría de Bilbao: NH Collection Ría de Bilbao provides a sophisticated stay with its modern rooms and top-notch amenities. The hotel’s riverside location offers beautiful views, and it’s just a short walk from the Guggenheim Museum and other key sights. The breakfast buffet is highly recommended.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
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Hotel Ilunion Bilbao: Hotel Ilunion Bilbao offers great value with its comfortable rooms and friendly service. The hotel is conveniently located near public transport and major attractions. Guests appreciate the spacious rooms and the variety of breakfast options.
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Hesperia Bilbao: Hesperia Bilbao provides a stylish yet affordable stay with colorful decor and modern amenities. The hotel’s riverside location is perfect for exploring the city, and the on-site restaurant offers delicious meals. It’s a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers.
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Hotel Mercure Jardines de Albia: Hotel Mercure Jardines de Albia features contemporary rooms at a moderate price point. The hotel is centrally located, making it easy to visit Bilbao’s main attractions. Guests enjoy the comfortable beds and the friendly staff.
🛏 Best Hostels
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Bilbao Central Hostel: Bilbao Central Hostel offers a budget-friendly stay with clean dorms and private rooms. The hostel has a welcoming atmosphere and helpful staff. It’s located close to many of Bilbao’s top sights, making it a convenient base for exploring the city.
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Botxo Gallery - Youth Hostel Bilbao: Botxo Gallery – Youth Hostel Bilbao provides a unique hostel experience with its artistic decor and vibrant atmosphere. The dorms are comfortable, and the common areas are great for socializing. It’s located right next to the Guggenheim Museum.
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Bilbao Hostel: Bilbao Hostel offers affordable accommodation with basic but clean facilities. The hostel features both dormitory-style rooms and private options. It’s well-connected to public transport, making it easy to explore Bilbao.
4. Ensanche: Indulge in Luxury and Upscale Experiences
💎 Luxurious Atmosphere: Ensanche is the best area in Bilbao for luxury seekers. This upscale neighborhood is known for its grand architecture, high-end shopping, and gourmet dining. It’s the perfect place to indulge in the finer things in life.
🛍️ High-End Shopping: Ensanche is Bilbao’s premier shopping district. Here, you’ll find a mix of international luxury brands and local boutiques.
- Gran Vía: The main shopping street, lined with designer stores and elegant shops.
- Plaza Moyúa: A beautiful square surrounded by upscale shops and cafés.
🍽️ Gourmet Dining: Ensanche is a food lover’s paradise, offering some of the best dining experiences in Bilbao.
- Michelin-Starred Restaurants: Treat yourself to a meal at one of the neighborhood’s renowned restaurants, where you can enjoy innovative Basque cuisine.
- Café Iruña: A historic café with stunning Moorish-inspired decor, perfect for a relaxing coffee or a light meal.
🏛️ Architectural Highlights: Ensanche is home to some of Bilbao’s most impressive buildings.
- Palacio Chávarri: This stunning building in Plaza Moyúa is a great example of the area’s elegant architecture.
- Iglesia de San Vicente Mártir: A beautiful church worth visiting for its intricate facade and peaceful interior.
🌆 Vibrant Nightlife: Ensanche offers a variety of nightlife options, from chic bars to lively clubs.
- Gran Hotel Domine Rooftop Bar: Enjoy a cocktail with a view at this stylish rooftop bar overlooking the Guggenheim.
- Trendy Bars: The area is filled with trendy bars and clubs, perfect for a night out.
🔍 Insider Tips:
- Walk the Streets: Take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Ensanche to fully appreciate its beautiful architecture.
- Luxury Experience: Treat yourself to a luxury spa day at one of the area’s high-end hotels.
Luxury Hotels in the Ensanche 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Ensanche
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Hotel Carlton: Hotel Carlton is a historic luxury hotel located in the heart of Bilbao. The rooms are elegantly furnished with classic decor, and the hotel offers top-notch amenities including a fitness center, a gourmet restaurant, and a beautiful courtyard. It’s an iconic place to stay in the city.
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Hotel Ercilla de Bilbao, Autograph Collection: Hotel Ercilla de Bilbao provides a blend of modern luxury and comfort. The spacious rooms feature contemporary design, and the hotel offers excellent facilities including a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant serving delicious Basque cuisine.
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Hotel Mercure Bilbao Jardines de Albia: Hotel Mercure Bilbao Jardines de Albia offers stylish accommodation with modern amenities. The hotel is centrally located, making it easy to explore Bilbao’s main attractions. Guests appreciate the comfortable beds, the friendly staff, and the excellent breakfast buffet.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
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Hotel Abando: Hotel Abando offers great value with its comfortable rooms and convenient location. The hotel is close to public transport and major attractions. Guests enjoy the spacious rooms, friendly service, and variety of breakfast options.
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Silken Indautxu: Silken Indautxu provides a stylish yet affordable stay with modern decor and amenities. The hotel’s central location is perfect for exploring the city, and the on-site restaurant offers delicious meals. It’s a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers.
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Sercotel Coliseo: Sercotel Coliseo features contemporary rooms at a moderate price point. The hotel is centrally located, making it easy to visit Bilbao’s main attractions. Guests enjoy the comfortable beds, friendly staff, and on-site casino.
🛏 Best Hostels
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Poshtel Bilbao - Premium Hostel: Poshtel Bilbao – Premium Hostel offers a budget-friendly stay with stylish dorms and private rooms. The hostel has a welcoming atmosphere and helpful staff. It’s located close to many of Bilbao’s top sights, making it a convenient base for exploring the city.
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Bilbao Akelarre Hostel: Bilbao Akelarre Hostel provides a unique hostel experience with its vibrant atmosphere and artistic decor. The dorms are comfortable, and the common areas are great for socializing. It’s located near several cultural attractions.
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Moon Hostel Bio: Moon Hostel Bio offers affordable accommodation with basic but clean facilities. The hostel features both dormitory-style rooms and private options. It’s well-connected to public transport, making it easy to explore Bilbao.
5. Deusto: The Best Area for Budget Travellers and Hostels
💸 Budget-Friendly Atmosphere: Deusto is the best neighborhood in Bilbao for budget travelers. This lively area offers affordable accommodation, vibrant student life, and a variety of budget-friendly dining options. It’s perfect for those looking to explore Bilbao without breaking the bank.
🎓 Student Vibe: Deusto is home to the University of Deusto, giving the area a youthful and energetic atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of affordable eateries and lively bars, popular with students and travelers alike.
🍽️ Budget Dining: Deusto has a great selection of cheap eats and casual dining spots.
- Pintxo Bars: Enjoy the local pintxo culture without spending a fortune. Many bars in Deusto offer delicious pintxos at reasonable prices.
- Ethnic Restaurants: The neighborhood is also known for its variety of ethnic restaurants, offering everything from Indian to Mexican cuisine.
🌳 Outdoor Activities: Deusto is located along the Nervión River, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
- Riverfront Walks: Take a stroll along the river and enjoy the scenic views. The area is perfect for a relaxing walk or a morning jog.
- Deusto Bridge: This iconic bridge connects Deusto with the rest of Bilbao, offering great views of the city and the river.
🔍 Insider Tips:
- Student Discounts: Take advantage of student discounts available at many local attractions and restaurants.
- Local Events: Check out the events and activities organized by the University of Deusto. They’re often open to the public and a great way to experience the local culture.
Where to Stay in the Deusto 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Deusto
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NH Bilbao Deusto: NH Bilbao Deusto offers a comfortable and stylish stay with modern rooms and excellent amenities. The hotel is conveniently located near the University of Deusto and within walking distance of the Guggenheim Museum. Guests appreciate the friendly service and the quality of the breakfast buffet.
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Hotel Silken Indautxu: Although technically located in the Indautxu neighborhood, Hotel Silken Indautxu is very close to Deusto and offers high-quality accommodations. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and the hotel features a lovely garden terrace and an on-site restaurant serving local cuisine.
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Hotel Ilunion San Mamés: Hotel Ilunion San Mamés is a modern hotel offering comfortable rooms with contemporary decor. It’s located near San Mamés Stadium, making it a great choice for football fans. The hotel provides easy access to Deusto and other parts of Bilbao via public transport.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
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Hotel Zabalburu: Hotel Zabalburu provides budget-friendly rooms with basic amenities. The hotel is located in a quiet area but still within walking distance of Deusto and other key attractions in Bilbao. It’s a good option for travelers looking for a simple and economical stay.
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Hotel Artetxe: Hotel Artetxe is a charming family-run hotel offering moderate-priced rooms with beautiful views of Bilbao. It’s located on a hill overlooking the city, providing a peaceful retreat while still being accessible to Deusto and other areas. The hotel is known for its friendly service and comfortable accommodations.
🛏 Best Hostels
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Moon Hostel Bio: Moon Hostel Bio offers budget-friendly dorms and private rooms with a modern design. The hostel is located in the Deusto area, making it convenient for exploring both the neighborhood and the rest of Bilbao. Guests appreciate the clean facilities and the communal kitchen.
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Bilbao Akelarre Hostel: Bilbao Akelarre Hostel provides affordable accommodation with a friendly atmosphere. The hostel features dormitory-style rooms and common areas for socializing. It’s located near the University of Deusto, making it popular with students and young travelers.
FAQs About Finding the Best Places to Stay in Bilbao ❔
What is Bilbao known for?
Bilbao is famous for its iconic Guggenheim Museum, which is renowned for its architecture and contemporary art collection. The city is also known for its delicious Basque cuisine, with a range of traditional dishes such as pintxos and bacalao al pil-pil. Finally, Bilbao is famous for its industrial heritage, which has been transformed in recent years into a hub of innovation and sustainability.
What are the best areas to stay in Bilbao?
The best areas to stay in Bilbao include Casco Viejo, Ensanche, Abandoibarra, Deusto, Bilbao La Vieja, Uribarri, and Santutxu. Each area offers a unique experience, from the historic charm of Casco Viejo to the modern amenities of Abandoibarra.
What are the main attractions in Bilbao?
The main attractions in Bilbao include the Guggenheim Museum, Casco Viejo, Plaza Nueva, and the Bilbao Cathedral. The city is also home to many festivals throughout the year, such as Aste Nagusia and Bilbao BBK Live.
How do I get around Bilbao?
Bilbao’s city center is easily visited on foot, but there are also public transportation options such as the tram and metro. Taxis are also readily available, and bike rentals are a great way to explore the city.
What are the hours and admission prices for the Guggenheim Museum?
The Guggenheim Museum is open from 10 am to 7 pm, with extended hours during the summer season. Admission prices vary depending on the type of visitor, with discounts available for students, seniors, and children.
What is Casco Viejo?
Casco Viejo is the historic center of Bilbao, home to many of the city’s oldest architectonic monuments, such as Santiago Cathedral and the Church of San Antón. The area is a labyrinth of narrow streets, blending shopping, history, art, culture, and Basque cuisine.
What are some popular festivals in Bilbao?
Bilbao hosts many festivals throughout the year, including Aste Nagusia, Bilbao BBK Live, Santo Tomas, and Zinegoak. These festivals offer a great opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Bilbao.
How do I plan my trip to Bilbao?
To plan your trip to Bilbao, consider booking accommodations in the city center, exploring the Guggenheim Museum and Casco Viejo, and experiencing the city’s vibrant nightlife and festivals. Research the best areas to stay, transportation options, and attractions to ensure a memorable trip
