Places to Stay in Bilbao
Bilbao is the city where I did my Erasmus and also the city where I fell in love with Spain.
I know it extremely well after spending 4 years exploring it inside and out.
And yes, because after my Erasmus, I couldn’t leave, so I went back to live there.
In fact, I’ve lived in 7 different neighborhoods, so I can tell you that you’re in good hands!
Here are the best places to stay in Bilbao by neighborhoods!
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Places to Stay in Bilbao by Neighborhoods
Bilbao in a nutshell
Bilbao is the capital of the province of Biscay, located in the north of Spain, and the capital of the Basque Country region.
Nestled in a valley crossed by the Bilbao estuary, it is just a few kilometers from the Cantabrian Sea.
With about 350,000 inhabitants and a metropolitan area exceeding one million, Bilbao is the largest city in the Basque Country.
It is also logically a major economic center in northern Spain.
The city spans an area of 41 km², offering green spaces, historical heritage, and contemporary architecture to both locals and passing tourists.
Bilbao is made up of several iconic neighborhoods. I will mention 5 here:
- Casco Viejo: The historic heart, with its medieval streets, lively squares, and pintxos bars.
- Ensanche: The modern center, home to bourgeois buildings, chic shops, and the famous Gran Vía.
- Deusto: A dynamic neighborhood thanks to its university and proximity to the estuary.
- Abando: A popular area where the Bilbao-Abando train station is located, along with many hotels and offices.
- Indautxu: A lively residential neighborhood, known for its shops and nightlife.
ALSO READ: 38 Things to Do in Bilbao
Places to Stay in Bilbao by Neighborhoods
For those who love to be in the heart of the action, I will introduce you the best places to stay in Bilbao in 5 centric neighborhoods where you can settle in.
For those who enjoy peace and the beach, the city of Getxo is also a fantastic option for staying in Bilbao.
1. Casco
Casco Viejo is the historic heart of the city, where many of its most important monuments are concentrated and where the Basque spirit infuses every corner.
If you dream of waking up surrounded by its colorful facades, with the sounds of church bells in the air, knowing that breakfast awaits you in one of its many vibrant bars, then this is the perfect neighborhood to stay in Bilbao.
On weekends, the nightlife comes alive. So, if you’re sensitive to noise, it may not be the best choice. However, if you’re up for enjoying a kalimotxo with the locals, it’s the ideal spot!
In Casco Viejo, you’ll also find a chance to escape the typical hotel chains and experience establishments with far more character, all while supporting the local economy.
Hotels in Casco Viejo
Quartier Bilbao Hostel Casco Viejo ($): This youth hostel is an affordable option for those on a budget. Located in the heart of the historic district, it offers bunk beds in dormitories as well as a rooftop.
Pensión Manoli ($$): This guesthouse, ideally located in the neighborhood, offers clean double rooms with very simple décor. It’s a perfect option for couples or solo travelers.
Victorooms ($$): This hotel offers rooms with private bathrooms featuring showers for added privacy. Some rooms also provide a view of the city.
Basque Suite ($$$): This accommodation offers rooms with simple yet charming décor. They are equipped with a private bathroom featuring a shower. There’s also a kitchen with a refrigerator, microwave, and toaster for your convenience.
Pensión Basque Boutique ($$$): This guesthouse offers tourists rooms with unique décor, each inspired by Basque culture. All rooms come with private bathrooms.
What to do in Casco Viejo?
- Take a free tour: get lost in the medieval alleys and learn more about the old town.
- Visit the Santiago Cathedral: a 14th-century Gothic gem.
- Savor pintxos at the bars of Plaza Nueva on a Sunday, and watch the collectors in action.
- Explore the Mercado de la Ribera: one of the largest covered markets in Europe, where you can sample local cuisine.
- Admire the Teatro Arriaga: the 19th-century neo-baroque theater, inspired by the Paris Opera.
2. El Ensanche
Just a short walk from Casco Viejo lies the Ensanche, an area dotted with 19th-century buildings. Here, elegance reigns, further accentuated by the presence of luxury boutiques.
With its wide, tree-lined avenues, charming squares, and refined atmosphere, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a more sophisticated experience.
If you’re looking for a while being close to the main attractions, this is definitely one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Bilbao.
Hotels in El Ensanche
Poshtel Bilbao ($): This youth hostel is located in a renovated factory. Each bunk bed comes with a nightlight, a shelf, and a USB port. A very affordable option!
Bilbao City Rooms ($$): This hotel offers bright, modern rooms. Each one is equipped with carpeting, a kettle, a desk, and a wardrobe. A great choice for travelers who mix business and leisure!
Hotel Ercilla ($$$): A modern hotel located on a shopping street, offering spacious and bright rooms with excellent bedding. Guests also have access to the gym.
Hotel Carlton ($$$): This renowned luxury hotel offers rooms with either classic or contemporary décor, each featuring a private bathroom. A great choice for travelers seeking extra comfort.
What to do in El Ensanche?
- Shop on Gran Vía: Bilbao’s main shopping avenue, lined with luxury boutiques.
- Admire the architecture of Plaza Moyúa and its iconic buildings.
- Enjoy a gourmet meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant like Nerua.
- Explore Doña Casilda Park: a green oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for relaxing under the shade of trees.
3. Deusto
The Deusto neighborhood is incredibly lively, thanks to the university of the same name, where I studied 😉 It’s also a great choice if you’re looking for a more authentic experience.
Here, tourists aren’t in large numbers. You’ll be surrounded by locals, which makes it perfect for a true immersion into their everyday life!
You can spend time in the bars and restaurants popular with the people of Bilbao, all while being very close to the main tourist attractions. A walk along the Ria will even take you to the famous Guggenheim.
Hotels in Deusto
Bilbao Akelarre Hostel ($): This youth hostel offers dormitory beds for budget-conscious travelers. Clean and welcoming, it also features common areas where guests can socialize!
Livensa Living Studios Bilbao ($$): This aparthotel is a great option for tourists who want the convenience of a kitchen to prepare their own meals. Each unit comes with a private bathroom.
Casa Belia ($$$$): Simple and beautifully decorated, this 2-bedroom apartment is perfect for families or groups of friends. It offers comfort and freedom, making you feel right at home!
What to do in Deusto?
- Visit the University of Deusto, one of the oldest in Spain.
- Cross the Deusto Bridge: enjoy the view of the ria and snap some beautiful photos.
- Grab a drink at one of the many student bars in the neighborhood.
4. Abando
The Abando neighborhood is actually a strategic choice if you want to stay in Bilbao. Indeed, it is here that the station of the same name is located, which can take you to other cities in the country.
Being close to major attractions, including the Guggenheim, you experience a more local lifestyle while enjoying the vibrancy of this large city.
In this neighborhood, several hotels are ready to welcome you, ranging from the authenticity of a local guesthouse to the luxury of a high-quality hotel.
Hotels in Abando
LATROUPE La Granja ($): This hostel with a modern and cozy decor offers dormitory beds for budget travelers as well as private rooms.
Bilbao Central Rooms ($$): This hostel offers colorful rooms and a common lounge, perfect for meeting other travelers and relaxing after a long day of sightseeing.
Apartamento Naiala ($$$): Two apartments are available for families and groups of friends. All of them offer city views, a balcony, and a seating area. The fully equipped kitchen provides more flexibility for meals.
NEW BILBAO Centro Deluxe ($$$$): This apartment is ideal for a family or a group of friends as it offers 3 bedrooms, a living room, and 2 bathrooms. Perfect for travelers looking for space!
What to do in Abando?
- Discover the Guggenheim Museum: the must-see in Bilbao.
- Stroll along the Bilbao estuary and admire the modern sculptures.
- Have a coffee in a stylish place like Café Iruña.
- Explore the Abando Indalecio Prieto Station, with its impressive stained-glass windows that give you a glimpse of the essence of the Basque Country.
5. Indautxu
It is in this residential neighborhood that I first unpacked my bags, and I highly recommend it if you want to experience life surrounded by locals.
Here, you can immerse yourself in the real, daily life of the residents while enjoying the wide variety of bars and restaurants.
The neighborhood is a bit far from the Casco Viejo and other must-see places like the Guggenheim, but the Indautxu metro station provides an efficient solution.
Hotels in Indautxu
Optimi Rooms Bilbao ($$): This capsule hotel promises a unique experience, completely not recommended for claustrophobes. I spent a few nights there and highly recommend it for an unusual stay!
Hotel Zenit Bilbao ($$$): This hotel is located on a very lively street with supermarkets, shops, bars, and restaurants. The modern and spacious rooms await you for a relaxing night.
Hotel Ilunion Bilbao ($$$$): This clean and modern hotel focuses on high-quality bedding and superior comfort. It is also accessible for people with reduced mobility, as well as those with visual or hearing impairments.
What to do in Indautxu?
- Attend a match of Athletic Bilbao at the San Mamés stadium.
- Visit the San Mamés Football Museum to learn more about the local team, which is passionately supported by the entire city.
- Discover Basque culture at the Azkuna Zentroa center, an impressive cultural hub both inside and out.
6. Getxo
If you want to enjoy the beaches of Bilbao while staying away from the city, Getxo is an excellent option.
Located at the mouth of the Bilbao estuary, this coastal town allows you to recharge your batteries while being just a single metro ride away from Bilbao.
If you’re looking for where to stay in Bilbao, it’s the perfect option to combine relaxation and sightseeing.
Hotels in Getxo
Getxo Rooms ($$): This accommodation offers simple, spacious, and beautifully decorated rooms. Each one has a wardrobe. A great option for solo travelers.
Hotel Artaza ($$): In this characterful building, the hotel rooms are spacious and comfortable. The staff is extremely friendly.
Palacio Arriluce Hotel ($$$$): This extremely high-end establishment is located 300 meters from Ereaga Beach. It features a seasonal outdoor pool, a gym, and a garden.
What to do in Getxo?
- Cross the Biscay Bridge: a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s the world’s first suspended bridge.
- Enjoy the beaches of Getxo: relax in the sun on Ereaga or Arrigunaga beaches.
- Explore the old port of Algorta: it’s one of my favorite spots in the region. Get lost in this fishing village with its colorful houses.
I hope this list of the best places to stay in Bilbao will be helpful for preparing your next trip.
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