A selection of the best luxury hotels in Bilbao, Spain. A selection by Laura Becker
Hotel Meliá Bilbao
Unwind in luxury at the Meliá Bilbao, just 300 metres from the iconic Guggenheim Museum. Take in the design inspired by renowned sculptor Eduardo Chillida and experience a range of amenities, including a heated outdoor swimming pool, award-winning restaurant, gym, and a cocktail and tapas lounge. Each room boasts stylish marble floors with their own adjustable heating system, a flat-screen TV, and a pillow menu. Savour a Michelin-starred meal at the Aizian Restaurant or sample Basque cuisine with terrace views of Doña Casilda Park at the Quatre restaurant. Get fit in the 6th-floor fitness room with stunning views of the Nervión River and take advantage of the sauna and massage treatments. The Meliá Connecting Room offers two rooms with air conditioning and a bathroom each.
Rooms: 211 Stars: 5
Check availabilityNYX Hotel Bilbao by Leonardo Hotels
Experience luxury and convenience at NYX Hotel Bilbao by Leonardo Hotels. Located in Bilbao, it features air-conditioned rooms with a desk, coffee machine, fridge, minibar, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV and private bathroom with shower. Relax in the fitness centre, shared lounge, or enjoy a meal at the restaurant and bar. The hotel also offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. It’s just 1 km from the city centre and a 1-minute walk from Arriaga Theatre. Take advantage of free WiFi and breakfast options such as buffet, continental and Full English/Irish. The area is popular for cycling and car hire is available. Plus, enjoy a business centre and vending machines with snacks and drinks on site. Popular attractions near the hotel include Abando Train Station, Catedral de Santiago and Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. Bilbao Airport is 9 km away.
Rooms: 108 Stars: 4
Check availabilityHotel Miró
Experience the epitome of luxury at Hotel Miró, a boutique hotel designed by renowned fashion designer Antonio Miró. Nestled opposite Bilbao’s iconic Guggenheim Museum, the hotel offers free WiFi, a 24-hour honesty bar, and a well-equipped gym. Inside, you’ll be welcomed with minimalist yet stylishly decorated rooms, all fitted with a smart TV. The bathrooms are stocked with Molton Brown toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers, plus complimentary mineral water. Recharge with a delicious buffet breakfast featuring local products, and take advantage of the concierge service for personalized assistance. After a day of exploration, treat yourself to a massage (available for an extra fee). With a plethora of traditional Basque restaurants nearby and the city centre just a 5-minute walk away, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make the most of your stay.
Rooms: 50 Stars: 4
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Hotel Ercilla de Bilbao
Hotel Ercilla is a modern, stylish hotel situated in the heart of Bilbao. It is fully equipped with a fitness centre and its rooms feature satellite TVs, free Wi-Fi and private bathrooms. Bar Americano is the hotel’s restaurant, renowned for its Bask cousin specialties and cocktails. La Terraza is a cocktail bar with stunning views of the city, serving delicious food. The iconic Guggenheim Museum is a 15-minute walk away and the metro station is just across the street, providing access to the beach in 20 minutes.
Rooms: 33 Stars: 4
Check availabilityHotel Ilunion San Mamés
Experience the height of luxury in Bilbao at Hotel Ilunion San Mamés. Recently opened in February 2021, this 4-star hotel offers air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, room service, a shared lounge, free WiFi, and a terrace. Enjoy the convenience of being near San Mamés Metro Station, San Mamés Stadium, Euskalduna Conference Centre and Concert Hall and Bilbao Fine Arts Museum. Each room is equipped with a desk, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, bed linen, and towels. Start your day with the daily breakfast buffet, which offers vegetarian and vegan options. Bilbao Airport is only 10 km away.
Rooms: 167 Stars: 4
Check availabilitySercotel Ayala
Sercotel Ayala opened in October 2019 and is conveniently located in the heart of Bilbao. This hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, free Wi-Fi, a buffet breakfast, and comfortable rooms with desks, Smart TVs, and mini-bars. Guests can enjoy easy access to popular attractions such as the Campos Eliseos Theatre (270 m away), Arriaga Theatre (1 km away), and Funicular de Artxanda (1.4 km away). Other attractions such as the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao (1 km away), Euskalduna Conference Centre and Concert Hall (1.6 km away), and Bilbao Fine Arts Museum (1.5 km away) are also nearby. Bilbao Airport is 13 km away.
Rooms: 61 Stars: 4
Check availabilityHotel Gran Bilbao
The Hotel Gran Bilbao is one of the finest luxury hotels in the city. Boasting stylish design, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV, it’s the perfect choice for a comfortable stay. Situated just 10 minutes’ walk from the Bilbao Cathedral and Seven Streets district, the hotel is also conveniently located near the A8 Motorway and Atxuri Tram station. Guests can enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast each morning and take advantage of the nearby bus stops for easy access to the city centre. With its modern décor, wooden furniture, and large bathrooms with hairdryers, the Hotel Gran Bilbao offers the perfect blend of luxury and convenience.
Rooms: 202 Stars: 4
Check availabilityBarceló Bilbao Nervión
Barceló Bilbao Nervión is conveniently situated just 10 minutes’ walk from the iconic Guggenheim Museum and 250 metres from Calatrava Bridge. Enjoy spectacular views of the River Nervión from its comfortable, modern rooms with free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, minibar and work desk. The hotel features a restaurant serving Basque and international dishes, and a B-Lounge with snacks and drinks. 24-hour reception, bicycle and car rental are also available. The old town with its pintxo restaurants and main shopping streets are just a 5-minute walk away, and the train station is a 10-minute stroll.
Rooms: 350 Stars: 4
Check availabilityVincci Consulado de Bilbao
Situated in the heart of Bilbao, Vincci Consulado de Bilbao is a 4-star hotel that offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, private parking, room service and a tour desk. Guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant, a drink at the bar, or take in the terrace and city views. Each room is equipped with a wardrobe, TV, private bathroom, bed linen, towels, and a safety deposit box. Some rooms offer a view of the river. A buffet breakfast is served every morning. Staff at the 24-hour reception speaks English and Spanish. Nearby attractions include Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, Euskalduna Conference Centre and Concert Hall, and Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. The nearest airport, Bilbao Airport, is 7 km away.
Rooms: 93 Stars: 4
Check availabilityHesperia Bilbao
Just a stone’s throw from the iconic Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Hesperia Bilbao stands out with its vibrant coloured glass façade. It’s a 10-minute stroll to the old town and city centre, where you’ll find spacious and stylish rooms with free WiFi and 42-inch satellite TVs. All rooms are air-conditioned and soundproofed, complete with a private bathroom and free toiletries. La Orilla terrace bar offers stunning views of the city and estuary. The hotel also provides ample space for events like meetings, weddings and more. It’s just a 5-minute walk to the main shopping streets and tapas bars, and 10 minutes from Concordia Train Station.
Rooms: 151 Stars: 4
Check availabilityBest areas to find hotels in Bilbao, Spain
Bilbao, Spain is a vibrant and exciting city located in the northern region of the country. With its stunning architecture, world-class museums and galleries, and lively nightlife, there is plenty to do and see in this charming city. When it comes to finding a hotel in Bilbao, there are several areas that offer great options for accommodation.
One of the best areas to look for a hotel in Bilbao is the Old Town, or Casco Viejo. This area is full of narrow cobblestone streets and historic buildings, making it a great place to explore. The Old Town is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Guggenheim Museum, the Basilica of Begoña, and the Plaza Nueva. Here, you can find a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels.
If you’re looking for a hotel with a more modern feel, the Abandoibarra district is an excellent choice. Located just south of the Old Town, this area is home to some of the city’s most striking modern architecture, including the iconic Isozaki Tower. Here, you’ll find plenty of luxurious hotels, as well as trendy restaurants and bars.
The Deusto neighborhood is another great option for a hotel in Bilbao. Located just north of the Old Town, this area is home to the University of Deusto and the stunning San Mamés Stadium. It is also full of trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for those looking to explore the city’s nightlife.
The Indautxu district is another great area to look for a hotel in Bilbao. This area is full of luxury boutiques, restaurants, and galleries, making it a great place to explore the city’s culture and art. Here, you can find a variety of accommodation options, including high-end hotels and more budget-friendly options.
Finally, the Basurto-Zorroza district is a great area to look for a hotel in Bilbao. Located in the western part of the city, this area is home to some of the city’s most picturesque parks and gardens, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes. Here, you can find a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels.
No matter what type of accommodation you are looking for, Bilbao has something to offer. From the historic Old Town to the trendy Abandoibarra district, there are many great areas to search for a hotel in Bilbao. With its stunning architecture, world-class museums and galleries, and lively nightlife, this city has something for everyone.
