Hotels in Bilbao City Centre

Discover the Soul of Bilbao: Where Art Meets the River's Embrace

Discover the vibrant heart of Bilbao City Centre, a cultural gem nestled in the Basque Country, Spain. Stroll along the picturesque riverside, where the iconic Guggenheim Museum dazzles with modern art and architecture. Explore the charming streets of the Old Town, filled with quaint shops and local eateries. Marvel at the stunning Bilbao Cathedral, a testament to the city's rich history. With a perfect blend of art, history, and gastronomy, Bilbao City Centre invites travelers to indulge in a unique and unforgettable urban experience that celebrates the spirit of Basque culture. For great hotel rates in Bilbao City Centre, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in Bilbao City Centre

Bilbao City Centre offers a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from stylish boutique hotels to comfortable chain options. Visitors can enjoy modern amenities, cozy rooms, and easy access to local attractions, making it a great base for exploring the vibrant culture and stunning architecture of the Basque Country. Here are some of the best hotels in Bilbao City Centre that our travelers love:

1. Hotel Melia BilbaoOpens in a new window: This elegant 5-star hotel is perfect for travelers seeking a stylish city vacation experience. With spacious rooms and luxurious bathrooms, guests can indulge in ultimate comfort. The property features a Business Center and multiple meeting rooms, catering to high-end business needs. Families will appreciate the onsite childcare services. Review highlights showcase the beautiful ambiance and excellent service, making it a standout choice for those looking to explore the vibrant city center of Bilbao.
2. Radisson Collection BilbaoOpens in a new window: A sophisticated 5-star hotel, this property is ideal for luxury seekers and spa enthusiasts. Guests can unwind with a full spa service, including body treatments, indoor pool access, and massage options, ensuring a relaxing stay. The hotel’s location is perfectly positioned between historical and modern attractions, making it a top choice for leisure travelers. Review sentiments reflect an extraordinary experience, with guests praising the attentive staff and exceptional breakfast, all within a refined and tranquil atmosphere.
3. The Artist Grand Hotel of ArtOpens in a new window: This stylish 5-star hotel caters to luxury travelers looking for an unforgettable stay. Featuring modern design and stunning artwork, the hotel offers breathtaking views and top-notch amenities. Guests can enjoy a fabulous breakfast and a range of curated experiences, all within an elegant setting. Review sentiments emphasize the outstanding service and luxurious accommodations, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking comfort and sophistication in the heart of Bilbao.

Top locations to stay in Bilbao City Centre

Some of the best areas to stay in Bilbao City Centre, Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain, are near the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Plaza Moyua, and Plaza Nueva. The Guggenheim offers stunning architecture and contemporary art, Plaza Moyua is a vibrant hub with beautiful monuments, and Plaza Nueva is perfect for enjoying local cuisine and atmosphere. For first-time visitors, staying near the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is ideal for easy access to art and culture.

1. Near Guggenheim Museum BilbaoOpens in a new window: Staying near this iconic museum offers a unique blend of contemporary art and stunning architecture. It's a cultural hub that draws visitors for its impressive exhibits and the beautiful surrounding river. You’ll also find the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum close by, perfect for art lovers, as well as scenic spots like Plaza Moyua and Plaza Nueva just a short stroll away. Plus, the vibrant shopping scene at Ribera Market and C.C. Zubiarte is right at your fingertips.
2. Near Plaza MoyuaOpens in a new window: This lively square is a central point in Bilbao, making it an excellent spot for travelers who want to be in the heart of the city. You’ll enjoy easy access to the Guggenheim Museum and the charming streets surrounding the area. With its historical monuments and beautiful gardens, it’s a great place to relax. You can also explore the cultural attractions nearby and take in the local atmosphere while shopping at the nearby Ribera Market.
3. Near Plaza NuevaOpens in a new window: This picturesque square is known for its charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for those who enjoy dining and socializing outdoors. Staying here puts you close to cultural attractions and historical sites, making it a delightful base for exploring the city. You can easily wander to nearby landmarks and enjoy the lively vibe while discovering local shops and cafes. It's a great place to soak in the essence of Bilbao’s rich heritage.

Things to do in Bilbao City Centre

Bilbao City Centre buzzes with energy, blending scenic riverside strolls and charming squares with a lively arts scene. Explore eclectic boutiques, enjoy outdoor performances, and savor local cuisine in vibrant markets, all framed by lush parks and rolling hills, creating an inviting atmosphere for every traveler.

• Guggenheim Museum BilbaoOpens in a new window – Step into the world of contemporary art at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, where stunning architecture meets groundbreaking exhibitions. Explore the museum’s vast collection and marvel at the iconic building designed by Frank Gehry, which itself is a work of art. Don’t miss the outdoor sculptures that complement the riverside setting.
• Plaza NuevaOpens in a new window – Stroll through Plaza Nueva, a vibrant square that buzzes with life and charm. Surrounded by neoclassical buildings, this is the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee or sample delicious pintxos from nearby bars. The lively atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and people-watch.
• Plaza MoyuaOpens in a new window – Discover the elegance of Plaza Moyua, a central hub in Bilbao that features beautiful gardens and impressive fountains. It’s an ideal place to take a leisurely walk or snap some photos, all while being surrounded by the city’s architectural gems.
• Bilbao Fine Arts MuseumOpens in a new window – Visit the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, where you can appreciate a diverse range of artworks from the Middle Ages to contemporary pieces. The museum is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts, showcasing both local and international artists in a beautifully designed space.
• Arriaga TheaterOpens in a new window – Catch a show at the Arriaga Theater, a stunning venue that hosts operas, concerts, and theatrical performances. The theater, with its ornate façade and rich history, offers an exceptional cultural experience that highlights the vibrant arts scene in Bilbao.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Bilbao City Centre

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to explore Bilbao City Centre on a budget, January, February, and December are the most affordable months to visit, as hotel prices may drop during this time. A stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended for fully experiencing the city's key landmarks and cultural attractions, such as its fascinating museums, historic monuments, the scenic river, and the stunning cathedral. This timeframe offers great value for money, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and vibrant culture of Bilbao.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals in Bilbao City Centre, start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available in the app lets you compare hotel prices and amenities, so you're more likely to see the best options. This way, if room availability changes or prices drop, you'll be among the first to know and can seize a great last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay at a hotel in Bilbao City Centre. If you're seeking a unique experience, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized touch and often offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is higher, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could help you find a more affordable option.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can be convenient, but it typically comes with higher prices. For more budget-friendly options, you might want to look at hotels in less central neighborhoods, where you can find a better balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you plan to visit. Independent hotels a bit further out may also offer a more authentic experience and are usually more likely to be affordable.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Bilbao City Centre. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

What to eat in Bilbao City Centre

Here are a few popular dishes in Bilbao City Centre, Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain:

• Pintxos: A quintessential part of Basque culture, pintxos are small snacks typically served on a skewer, showcasing a variety of flavors and ingredients. These bite-sized delights can be found in numerous bars throughout Bilbao City Centre, encouraging a spontaneous dining experience where you can hop from one bar to another, sampling different creations. Each pintxo reflects local ingredients, often featuring seafood, meats, and seasonal produce.
• Txangurro: This traditional dish features spider crab, usually prepared with a rich mixture of the crab meat, vegetables, and a hint of spice, often baked in a shell. Txangurro is a must-try for seafood lovers, highlighting the coastal culinary heritage of the Basque Country, and is perfect for sharing among friends or family.
• Marmitako: A hearty Basque fisherman's stew, marmitako is made with tuna, potatoes, and vegetables, simmered to perfection. This dish showcases the region's connection to the sea and is often enjoyed during social gatherings, making it a comforting and communal meal.

Best time to go to Bilbao City Centre

Bilbao City Centre experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 48.4°F (9.1°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 68.7°F (20.4°C). November tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Bilbao City Centre are July to September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.