Bilbao isn’t just another Spanish city – it’s got this cool mix of Basque culture, world-class art (hello, Guggenheim), amazing food, and a surprisingly chill vibe for a city of its size. Whether you’re coming for a weekend culture fix, a pintxos crawl, or a romantic getaway, where you stay makes a huge difference in your experience.
The good news? Bilbao’s got hotels for every budget and style, from luxury spots overlooking the river to quirky boutique hotels in converted warehouses to budget-friendly hostels in the Old Town. The city is pretty compact, so almost anywhere you stay puts you within walking distance or a quick metro ride from the main attractions. Let me break down the best neighborhoods and hotels so you can pick the perfect spot for your trip.
Best Areas to Stay in Bilbao
Abando (City Center)
This is Bilbao’s modern heart – the business district meets upscale residential area. Abando is especially suitable for families and those seeking tranquility. It’s elegant with evening bars but way quieter than the Old Town party zones.
The big advantage? You’re close to everything – the Guggenheim Museum, Gran Vía shopping street, and easy walking distance to Casco Viejo. The Abando train station gives you excellent connections to San Sebastián and other Basque cities. This area is especially recommended if it’s your first time visiting Bilbao due to its central location.
Perfect for: First-time visitors, business travelers, families, and anyone who wants to be central without the nighttime noise.
Casco Viejo (Old Town)
The historic heart of Bilbao, with charming narrow streets, the Seven Streets (Siete Calles), Santiago Cathedral, and the famous Ribera Market. This is where you’ll find the best pintxos bars, small boutique hotels, and that authentic Basque atmosphere.
Pros: Incredible charm, walking distance to everything, endless food options, local vibe. Cons: Can get very crowded and noisy, especially on weekends. The streets are narrow, and some hotels are in older buildings without elevators.
Accommodation here leans toward smaller guesthouses and budget options. Average prices start from €70 per night. You can reach Abandoony foot in about 20-30 minutes, depending on your destination.
Perfect for: Culture lovers, foodies, couples who love historic charm, and travelers who want to be in the thick of the action.
Indautxu
The central neighborhood is recommended for young people and those looking for fun. Indautxu is Bilbao’s shopping and dining hotspot with a vibrant nightlife. Evenings here are lively thanks to numerous bars, cocktail lounges, and clubs that stay open until early morning.
You can move around on foot or by public transport easily. Abando is right next door, and Casco Viejo is about 20-30 minutes on foot. The neighborhood is served by the metro and train station, making everything accessible.
Hotels here offer good value – you get a central location with modern amenities at mid-range prices. It’s that sweet spot between location, nightlife, and comfort.
Perfect for: Young travelers, couples who like nightlife, and anyone who wants walkability plus evening entertainment.
Deusto & Riverside Areas
Quieter residential neighborhoods along the river, offering scenic views and a more local, less touristy feel. Deusto has three metro stops (Deustu, Sarriko, and San Ignazio) connecting you directly to Abando (6 minutes) and Casco Viejo (7 minutes).
The best solution here is to use the metro rather than walking everywhere. Average prices start from €60 per night.
Perfect for: Longer stays, people who prefer quiet residential vibes, and travelers comfortable using public transport.
Best Luxury Hotels in Bilbao
Hotel Miró
This is Bilbao’s design hotel superstar. Located directly across from the Guggenheim Museum, Hotel Miró was designed by renowned fashion designer Antonio Miró. It’s a 4-star luxury boutique hotel offering that perfect blend of style and location.
The hotel provides spa services including massage, hydrotherapy, and reflexology, plus a 24-hour gym. Guests consistently praise the helpful staff, clean rooms, and excellent location. The staff even gives out great pintxos tour maps with recommendations.
You’re a 4-minute walk to the Guggenheim tram stop and minutes from Bilbao’s shopping district. Prices start around $110 per night. Travelers specifically love the location, rooms, service, and breakfast.
Perfect for: Couples, art lovers, and anyone who wants boutique luxury right by the Guggenheim.
Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao
Literally next to the Guggenheim, with rooms offering museum views. This is serious luxury – five-star service, designer interiors, and that wow-factor location. The rooftop terrace gives you panoramic city views, and the on-site restaurant serves excellent Basque cuisine.
Perfect for: Special occasions, luxury seekers, and Guggenheim enthusiasts.
Hotel Lopez de Haro
Bilbao’s classic five-star hotel. Set in an elegant building with 53 rooms offering courtyard views, it’s located 800 meters from the Guggenheim. This is old-world luxury with impeccable service, beautiful common areas, and a refined atmosphere. Prices start around $87 per night.
Perfect for: Business travelers, couples celebrating something special, and anyone who appreciates classic European luxury.
Palacio Arriluce
About 15 minutes outside central Bilbao, this stunning 1912 mansion has been converted into a five-star hotel with 49 uniquely styled rooms. Built by architect José Luis Oriol as an aristocratic family home, it retains incredible heritage details while offering modern luxury.
Perfect for: Romantic getaways, travelers who want historic luxury, and anyone seeking a quieter setting outside the city center.
Best Boutique Hotels in Bilbao
Hotel Tayko Bilbao
Housed in a converted early 20th-century warehouse, Hotel Tayko opened in January 2019 with 54 rooms showcasing industrial-chic design. The combination of concrete, metal, and brick with moody interior colors creates a unique avant-garde atmosphere.
Located in the heart of Bilbao’s historic centre,r with convenient access to the Guggenheim, Casco Viejo, and the Fine Arts Museum. Features include a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views, a fitness center, a spa with sauna and massage services, and a restaurant serving contemporary Basque cuisine.
Perfect for: Design lovers, Instagram enthusiasts, and travelers who appreciate industrial-chic aesthetics.
The Artist Grand Hotel of Art
Originally opened in 2002, this property underwent a significant transformation by renowned creative duo Javier Mariscal and Fernando Salas. It’s basically a design hotel meets art gallery – bold installations, vibrant colors, and unique furnishings transform each space.
With 145 rooms, including luxury suites with panoramic views, several dining areas, a rooftop terrace, a gym, and a wellness area with a sauna. This is a boutique on a bigger scale.
Perfect for: Art enthusiasts, travelers who want bold design, and anyone who likes hotels with personality.
NYX Hotel Bilbao
If you want contemporary with quirk and colorful characters, NYX delivers. Opened in April 2019 by the Leonardo Hotels group, this transformed old building features eclectic vintage arcade games mixed with contemporary artworks. The moment you walk in, you know this isn’t your standard chain hotel.
Perfect for: Younger travelers, creatives, and anyone who wants playful design over traditional luxury.
Líbere Bilbao Ledesma
A newer boutique option offering modern design and excellent service at reasonable rates. It’s that middle ground between luxury and mid-range – contemporary style without the massive price tag.
Perfect for: Travelers who want boutique style on a mid-range budget.
Best Mid-Range Hotels in Bilbao
Hotel Mercure Jardines de Albia
Located 550 meters from Etxebarria Park, this 4-star hotel features a Turkish steam bath, facials, and is a 5-minute walk from Abando metro station. It’s set 1.3 km from Ribera Market and 1.1 km from Santiago Cathedral.
The hotel offers a snack bar, lending library, and is located next to Jardines de Albia park. Prices start around $87 per night. Great location without luxury prices.
Perfect for: Families, couples, and travelers who want comfort and facilities without breaking the bank.
Barceló Bilbao Nervión
A reliable chain hotel offering modern roomsgood breakfast, and solid service. Prices from $124 per night. It’s in a good location for both business and leisure travelers.
Perfect for: Business travelers, families, and anyone who likes the consistency of international chains.
Hotel Bilbao Plaza
Centrally located near Indautxu metro station with convenient access to the Guggenheim, Euskalduna Conference Centre, and San Mamés Stadium. This modern yet affordable 3-star hotel provides comfortable rooms with essential amenities, a cozy lounge, a 24-hour front desk, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Perfect for: Budget-conscious travelers who still want a central location and modern comfort.
Hotel Ilunion Bilbao
Located a 16-minute walk from the Guggenheim and 5 minutes from San Mamés metro station. Features 176 rooms, a shared lounge, flat-screen TVs, and an à la carte restaurant serving local specialties. Prices start from $91 per night.
Perfect for: Families, groups, and travelers who want more space at reasonable prices.
Best Budget Hotels & Hostels in Bilbao
Quartier Bilbao Hostel Casco Viejo
This youth hostel in the heart of the historic district offers affordable dorm beds and a rooftop. It’s clean, social, and perfectly located for exploring on foot.
Perfect for: Backpackers, solo travelers, and anyone traveling on a tight budget.
Pensión Manoli
A guesthouse in Casco Viejo offering clean double rooms with simple décor. It’s basic but ideally located and perfect for couples or solo travelers who just need a clean bed in a great location.
Perfect for: Budget travelers who prioritize location over amenities.
Ibis Bilbao Centro
Part of the reliable Ibis chain with prices from $73 per night. You get clean, modern rooms, a good location, and the consistency you expect from Ibis. It won’t blow your mind, but it gets the job done.
Perfect for: Budget travelers who want predictable quality.
Best Hotels for Specific Travelers
For Couples
Romantic settings: Hotel Miró for design and Guggenheim proximity, Palacio Arriluce for historic mansion luxury, or any of the boutique hotels in Casco Viejo for charm. All offer proximity to excellent dining and riverside walks.
For Families
Spacious and practical: Hotel Mercure Jardines de Albia ($87/night), Barceló Bilbao Nervión ($124/night), or Hotel Ilunion Bilbao ($91/night). These offer larger rooms, family services, and easy access to kid-friendly attractions. Vincci Consulado de Bilbao also gets high marks from families.
For Business Travelers
Conference facilities and connectivity: Hotel Lopez de Haro for upscale business, Radisson Collection Hotel Gran Vía Bilbao for luxury on a budget, or any of the Abando area hotels near the business district. All offer Wi-Fi, work desks, and proximity to business areas.
Tips for Booking Hotels in Bilbao
Best time to book: Book well in advance, regardless of season,n for better rates. Hotels get more expensive closer to arrival dates.
Seasonal pricing. The highest prices are in July and August when the weather is warm and European holidays peak. The Semana Grande festival in August significantly pushes up demand and prices.
Best value: Visit from November to March (excluding Christmas/New Year) when visitor numbers are lower. Late autumn or early spring, before the main tourist influx, X provides reasonable prices and pleasant weather.
Midweek advantage: Visiting during the week rather than weekends generally offers better accommodation availability and prices.
How many nights: 2-3 nights is the sweet spot for experiencing Bilbao’s main highlights – enough time for the Guggenheim, Casco Viejo exploration, pintxos crawls, and maybe a day trip to San Sebastián or the coast.
FAQs
What is the best area to stay in Bilbao?
For first-timers, Abando offers the best balance – central location, near the Guggenheim, quieter than Casco Viejo, and excellent transport connections. For authentic atmosphere and food, Casco Viejo can’t be beat. For nightlife and shopping, choose Indautxu.
Are hotels in Bilbao expensive?
Not compared to Barcelona or Madrid. Mid-range hotels start around $73-91 per night. Luxury options like Hotel Miró run $110+. Budget guesthouses and hostels start around €60-70. Prices spike in July-August and during Semana Grande.
Is Bilbao walkable from most hotels?
Absolutely. Bilbao is a compact city. Staying in Abando, Casco Viejo, or Indautxu puts you within walking distance of major attractions. The metro system is excellent if you stay further out in Deusto or Santutxu. Most hotels are either walkable to attractions or a short metro ride away.
Choosing Your Perfect Bilbao Hotel
So here’s the quick recap: Stay at Hotel Miró if you want boutique luxury directly across from the Guggenheim. Choose Hotel Tayko for industrial-chic design in a converted warehouse. Pick Hotel Mercure Jardines de Albia for family-friendly mid-range comfort. Go for Casco Viejo guesthouses if you want authentic Old Town charm on a budget.
Match your style: Art lovers should stay near the Guggenheim (Hotel Miró, Gran Hotel Domine). Foodies belong inCasco Viejoe, jo surrounded by pintxos bars. Families need space and facilities (Mercure, Barceló, Ilunion). Business travelers want Abando’s central location and services.
Final tip: Book early if visiting July-August or during Semana Grande in August. Consider visiting in spring or fall for better prices and fewer crowds without sacrificing the weather. And honestly? Almost anywhere you stay in Bilbao works because the city is so compact and well-connected.
Bilbao’s waiting for you – amazing food, incredible art, Basque culture, and some seriously cool hotels. Pick your neighborhood, book your hotel, and get ready for one of Spain’s most underrated cities.
