HONEST GUIDE: Where to Stay in Bilbao

Ola chicos and welcome to Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque country, a region in the northern part of Spain with one of the best cuisines in the world and a unique architecture that you won’t encounter elsewhere! 

Located on the banks of the Nervión River, this city’s history dates back to the 14th century. Even then, it was a central commercial hotspot because of the port. It has become a stylish city and a top destination, especially since the Guggenheim Museum was finished in 1997. This city is one of the best places to stay as it has that Spanish charm, and let’s not forget about the delicious pintxos, their version of tapas! 

Look at me, I’m all talk and no action! Don’t worry, I know you’re probably wondering where to stay in Bilbao during your holiday. It can be a tough decision, especially when you think about how many beautiful places there are in the Basque country. However, I’m here to save the day! 

I’ve looked through many hotel lists in Bilbao, Spain, and chosen the best ones with amazing reviews just for you! But now you have to do your part as well and book them in advance. The city of Bilbao is one of the most popular in the Basque region, and the hotels sell super fast! 

Vamonos, the tavernas are waiting for us!

If you are in a hurry

If you want to book your hotels where to stay in Bilbao now, here’s a shortlist of all the best places to stay, all located in Casco Viejo

Here’s a map that will help you visualize all the areas where to stay in Bilbao that I will be talking about in this post

1. Casco Viejo – where to stay in Bilbao for the first time

Welcome to the heart of Bilbao, where the medieval buildings and the Plaza Nueva look like someone took them straight out of the history book pages! Spanish people rarely let us down when it comes to unique architecture and design, and Casco Viejo is proof that the traditional looks never go out of style. 

With a rich history dating back almost seven centuries ago, this popular neighborhood is where anyone who wants to learn more about the Basque culture goes. For those of you who have fallen in love with Spain as much as I did, I highly recommend making a stop in Madrid during your trip for some more interesting history. 

A long time ago, Casco Viejo was a popular port area that connected Spain to other cities in Europe. Now it has become one of the most visited areas in Bilbao and a great place to stay if you’re visiting the town for the first time. The city center is filled with amazing churches, museums, bars, and restaurants where you can eat delicious Spanish dishes. I’m sure pintxos (tapas) will be on everyone’s menu! 

You will see countless charming bars and lots of markets, but the star of the show here is Mercado de la Ribera, the biggest indoor market in Europe! It has more than 10,000 square meters of space, so try not to get lost!

Other accommodation options in Casco Viejo

Things to do in Casco Viejo

• Sip an espresso or a glass of wine on a terrace in Plaza Nueva
• Learn new things at the Basque Archaeological, Ethnographic and Historical Museum
• Take a relaxing walk in Bilbao’s Etxebarria Park
• See some baroque architecture at the Church of St. Nicholas
• Catch a charming sunset at the Arenal Bridge or Town Hall Bridge 
• Eat the traditional pintxo dish at Irrintzi restaurant in Casco Viejo
• Admire the architecture of the Santiago Cathedral in the center of Bilbao

2. La Vieja and San Francisco – best place to stay in Bilbao for couples

Located just across the river from Casco Viejo, these trendy and hip neighborhoods are one next to another. Their bohemian charm has attracted many young people and couples who love mingling with the locals and exploring the artsy side of Bilbao. Candlelight dinners by the river in the town’s best restaurants and rooftop bars make La Vieja and San Francisco the perfect place to stay in town if you’re traveling with your loved one. 

In La Vieja (also known as “Bilbi”) not only will you find many authentic local boutiques, but the areas are also home to Bilbao’s best hotels. Remember you need to book them in advance though, this city’s popularity has recently peaked, and the best spots book out fast!

Make sure you explore every corner while you stay in Bilbao la Vieja and San Francisco (don’t mix it up with the famous one in California, hehe)! Both areas are full of street art and small galleries which showcase modern art exhibitions. You can’t get bored in these areas because just when you think you have it figured out, another cafe or vintage shop will pop up on the way.

Although technically Bilbao La Vieja is older than Casco Viejo and used to be an important point on the map because of its port, only a small part of the old buildings were preserved. So now you’ll get a mix of modern architecture with some unique vintage details. Either way, nothing can beat the romantic atmosphere of these areas and interesting people.

Other accommodation options in La Vieja

Things to do in La Vieja

• Have a romantic dinner at Mina
• Listen to some live music at Bilborock in Bilbao 
• Walk around the Plaza de los tres Pilares
• Catch an art exhibition at BilbaoArte
• Have a date day at the Museum of Reproductions Bilbao
• Go shopping in the local boutique shops of Bilbao La Vieja
• Explore the streets of Bilbao La Vieja and San Francisco and take a pic of the cool graffiti

3. Indautxu – where to stay in Bilbao for nightlife

Located west of Casco Viejo, this area is popular among party travelers who love to roam the streets as the sun goes down! Indautxu lies next to the Abando area, where the Guggenheim Museum is located, Bilbao’s pride and one of the city’s top attractions. But that’s for another day, one when you’re not hungover after enjoying the nightlife and bars of this bustling area. 

From local tavernas to Bilbao’s top clubs, there is a place for every type of traveler in Indautxu, although many prefer bar-hopping, so don’t be surprised if at night you see tons of well-dressed people with glasses in their hands, walking and laughing as they head to their next destination. Everyone is super friendly, so don’t be scared to make new friends in town! 

I know you’ll also want to see some attractions located in this neighborhood once the alcohol wears off. So you can head to Palacio Euskaldun, it has a unique look, and it’s set near the water. They usually hold classical music and rock concerts here, maybe if you’re lucky you get to attend one as well! The Azkuna Zentroa cultural center is also located here, and there are tons of activities for both locals and tourists, from exhibitions to art workshops. It’s worth a look!

Other accommodation options in Indautxu

Things to do in Indautxu

• Enjoy Bilbao’s nightlife and go for drinks at Abadia del Gin&Tonic 
• Go for a breath of fresh air in the Emilio Campuzano Plaza
• Walk around and see the cool architecture of the Indautxu Plaza
• Spend a fun day at Azkuna Zentroa cultural center
• Get drunk at night and mingle with the people in Indautxu
• See some art at the Benedicto Museum in Indautxu
• Walk to Abando and visit the popular Guggenheim Museum or Plaza Moyua

4. Deusto – best place to stay in Bilbao for budget travelers

Located northwest of Bilbao’s Old Town, this neighborhood is home to one of the city’s largest universities, which means that you’ll find the most affordable hotels here and lots of young friendly faces! Because the area is mostly occupied by students, restaurants and food prices also tend to be lower, making Deusto the best place to stay in Bilbao if you’re traveling on a budget.

The university’s campus is located on the riverside, and this is where all the bars are. This is the perfect place to go if you want to drink some cold beer or wine and eat some tapas at a fair price! This part of Bilbao is very chill and if you want to go out for a breath of fresh air, then head to the Botica Vieja Park, a lovely spot where you can have picnics. 

Naturally, you’ll also find some nightclubs here as it is a student area, but if that isn’t your scene, there are plenty of boutique vintage shops that you can explore all day long! During the peak season in the summer, many tourists come to Deusto because it’s really close to the northern beaches, so if you’re traveling during those months and looking for where to stay in Bilbao, then this area is definitely for you! 

Other accommodation options in Deusto

Things to do in Deusto

5. Santutxu – where to stay in Bilbao for families

Located south of the Old Town, this residential neighborhood is very peaceful and calm, which means that if you’re traveling with the family, Santutxu is the best choice for you. There are many green spaces where you can take the kids to play all day long and maybe have a picnic. 

The Larreagaburu Park is nice, although it’s quite hilly but I’m sure the whole family will love the adventure. I know I used to go crazy when my parents took us to these outdoor spaces. Remember to pack some comfy shoes and a snack that you can eat while resting and enjoying the best views of the city for a full day of fun.

If the kids don’t get bored too easily, you can take them to the Museum of Sacred Art, who knows, maybe they’ll enjoy it and learn a few new things during your holiday. 

As you can see, for anyone looking for where to stay in Bilbao with the family, Santutxu is the top choice due to its open spaces and kid-friendly activities, like the escape rooms. I don’t know why but they’re a huge thing in this part of town, maybe they know many parents choose to bring their children here.

My favorite has to be Mad Mansion Escape Room, it’s really fun and has different stories suitable for families and English speakers! I’m sure it will take you a while to leave this place after all the fun you’ll have!

Other accommodation options in Santutxu

Things to do in Santutxu 

Frequently asked questions about Bilbao 

Conclusion

That’s it from me, chicos! I hope this article will help you decide where to stay in Bilbao, the best hotels in the Basque Country, and which plaza to visit first!

There are so many amazing places to stay and hotels in this post, but I’ll help you out a little more and give you my top two favorites, both located in the Old Town of Bilbao Spain.

• NYX Hotel Bilbao – One of the best luxury hotels that has a great bar
• Casual Gurea – A central hotel with a beautiful view of Casco Viejo

Enjoy the amazing Basque cuisine in the city, make sure you visit all the big attractions like the Guggenheim Museum and explore the bohemian streets of Bilbao La Vieja. Don’t forget to book your spots in advance as the best hotels certainly go quick these days! Lastly, don’t be shy to leave a comment, I love reading them all!

Safe Travels, 

Victoria