Where to Stay in Bilbao, Spain: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

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Figuring out where to stay in Bilbao? Let us make it easy.

Bilbao might just be one of Spain’s most underrated gems. Set in the heart of the Basque Country, this vibrant riverside city mixes bold architecture, deep-rooted culture, and some of the best food scenes we’ve experienced anywhere. It’s walkable, creative, and full of surprises, but where you stay can really shape your trip. 

Do you want to wake up steps from a museum? Or tucked into a quiet, local café district? We’ve stayed all over the city and rounded up the five best neighborhoods to base yourself. Let’s find your perfect corner of Bilbao!

Where To Stay In Bilbao Map

Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Bilbao

One of the best things about Bilbao is how compact and easy it is to explore. The city is walkable, well-connected by metro, and has a layout that makes getting around simple, even for first-timers. 

Casco Viejo and Abando are ideal if you want to stay central and close to major sights like the Guggenheim, the Fine Arts Museum, and lively dining streets. For a more local, everyday feel, consider areas like Castaños, Deusto, or Santutxu—each just a few stops from the center and offering a quieter, more residential vibe with great value.

Here are the best areas to stay in Bilbao:

• Abando – Bilbao’s downtown hub, full of museums, shops, and lively plazas. Vincci Consulado de Bilbao puts you right across from the Guggenheim, with sleek rooms, a modern vibe, and a rooftop terrace that became our go-to morning coffee (and evening cava) spot.

• Deusto – A laid-back riverside neighborhood with a studenty charm and relaxed pace. Just minutes from the Guggenheim and tucked into a quiet residential block, NH Bilbao Deusto gave us a comfy base with a welcoming, low-key feel—ideal after busy sightseeing days.

• Castaños – Walkable and charming, just across from the Guggenheim and funicular, the Hotel Conde Duque Bilbao is a scenic and peaceful spot with river views and friendly staff. You can easily cross the bridge to explore and then come back to this calm pocket of the city.

• Casco Viejo – Bilbao’s colorful old town, packed with pintxos bars and historic charm. Right off Plaza Nueva, Sercotel Arenal Bilbao delivered clean, modern rooms and warm service—perfect for stepping straight into the buzz, then retreating to comfort.

• Santutxu – A residential hillside district with local markets, green parks, and a neighborhood feel. Our stay at Occidental Bilbao gave us a quiet escape with pool access, spa perks, and easy metro links. Plus, it’s just around the corner from the beautiful Basílica de Begoña!

Where to Stay in Bilbao

Abando

Abando was our home base for our very first trip to Bilbao, and honestly, we couldn’t have picked a better spot. I still remember the excitement of stepping out of the train station and being surrounded by Belle Époque buildings and leafy promenades—it felt instantly inviting.

This elegant central district is where grand architecture meets leafy boulevards, boutique shopping, and some of the city’s most iconic sights. Staying here put us within walking distance of the Guggenheim Museum (yes, it’s as striking in person as it is in photos!), the Museum of Fine Arts, and Parque de Doña Casilda, which became our go-to for a morning coffee stroll.

This area is perfect for first-time visitors, art lovers, and anyone wanting to be right in the heart of it all. We loved how easy it was to hop on the metro or just walk to restaurants, bars, and shops. Abando Station connects you to pretty much everywhere, so we never felt far from anything—even day trips were simple.

There’s also a more polished, upscale feel to Abando, without being stuffy. Plus, the nightlife surprised us! Streets like Ledesma and Diputación really come alive after dark, making it great for a dinner-and-drinks kind of evening.

If you like stylish city energy with everything at your doorstep, Abando delivers!

Pros

• Super central and walkable to top attractions like the Guggenheim
• Great mix of shopping, art, parks, and dining
• Excellent metro access and local nightlife

Cons

• It’s one of the pricier areas for hotels and food
• It can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays
• Lacks the cozy, old-town feel you’ll find in Casco Viejo

Hotel Carlton – $$$

Hotel Carlton was our treat-yourself stay in Bilbao, and wow, it did not disappoint. This stately, white-fronted building sits right on Plaza de Federico Moyúa, so the location couldn’t be more central. From the moment we stepped inside the glamorous lobby with its chandeliers and velvet chairs, it felt like stepping into a European classic. 

Our room was spacious, super quiet, and beautifully decorated with timeless touches, and the bed was easily one of the comfiest we had in Spain. We loved being able to walk to the Guggenheim in under 10 minutes or grab a drink downstairs before dinner out on Ledesma Street. 

The breakfast buffet was also excellent (we still talk about the fresh croissants). Rooms range from €150 to €400 per night, depending on the room type and season.

Treat yourself to a timeless stay and book Hotel Carlton here!

Vincci Consulado de Bilbao – $$

Vincci Consulado de Bilbao ended up being one of our favorite surprises in Bilbao. We booked it mainly for the location just across the river from the Guggenheim, but it turned out to be so much more than just convenient. 

The hotel has a cool, modern vibe with clean lines, warm wood tones, and the kind of minimalist design that still feels welcoming. Our room had a gorgeous river view, and we loved starting each day on the rooftop terrace with a coffee (or cava) in hand. 

It’s also just a short walk to Abando’s shopping streets and the Fine Arts Museum, but the best part was coming back to that peaceful, stylish space after a busy day out. Standard rooms typically range from €150 to €270 per night, depending on the view and season.

Secure your Bilbao stay at Vincci Consulado de Bilbao here!

Hotel Ilunion Bilbao – $

Hotel Ilunion Bilbao gave us everything we needed, and then some, for a comfortable stay without stretching the budget. It’s in a really convenient spot, just a short walk from San Mamés Station and less than 15 minutes to the Guggenheim, which made it easy to explore the city without relying too much on transport. 

Our room was simple but spacious, with a super comfy bed, reliable Wi-Fi, and excellent air conditioning (which we really appreciated after walking in the summer heat!). The hotel also felt fresh and modern, and the lobby had a fun, colorful vibe. There’s even a small gym if you’re feeling ambitious. Standard rooms can start as low as €90 per night, and the value for the location is genuinely hard to beat.

Save your euros and reserve your budget stay at Hotel Ilunion here!

Deusto

Deusto felt like stepping into a different side of Bilbao—calmer, more local, and just a bit under the radar in the best way. It’s tucked just across the river from the Guggenheim, connected by the Deusto and Pedro Arrupe footbridges, but it moves at a slower, more laid-back pace. 

This is Bilbao’s university district, so there’s definitely a youthful energy here, with affordable cafés, casual pintxo bars, and plenty of students out enjoying the riverside parks and plazas. We found it especially appealing for longer stays or travelers on a budget. It’s far enough from the tourist crowds to feel relaxing, but still close enough that we could walk or take the metro into the center within minutes. 

We also loved that the Deusto University campus gives the area a green, open feel, and there are several walking and cycling paths right along the river. While you won’t find five-star hotels here, you’ll definitely find great value, friendly locals, and an authentic slice of everyday Bilbao life.

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes a slower morning pace and a local pintxo bar as your go-to dinner spot, Deusto might just be your kind of neighborhood.

Pros

• Local, authentic vibe with fewer crowds
• Budget-friendly dining and lodging options
• Easy access to the city center and the riverfront

Cons

• Limited hotel selection, especially for luxury stays
• Not as walkable to major tourist sights
• Quieter nightlife compared to other areas

NH Bilbao Deusto – $$

NH Bilbao Deusto gave us the best of both worlds: a calm, residential feel with easy access to the city’s biggest sights. The location was super convenient—just a short walk from the Deusto footbridge, and we were at the Guggenheim in under 10 minutes. We really liked how peaceful it felt in the evenings, and the leafy neighborhood gave us a nice break from the tourist-heavy areas across the river.

Our room was simple but stylish, with a super comfy bed (thankfully, because we were exhausted after all the walking!), and the staff were incredibly warm and helpful. There’s also a good breakfast on-site and public transport options just steps from the front door. Standard rooms usually range from €100 to €160 per night, depending on the time of year.

Book a relaxed, convenient Deusto stay at NH Bilbao Deusto!

Livensa Living Studios Bilbao – $

For a longer stay or a more independent setup, Livensa Living Studios Bilbao was such a smart choice. We loved having our own kitchenette—perfect for mornings when we just wanted a slow start with coffee and toast before heading out. 

The studio was super clean, modern, and surprisingly quiet considering it’s in a student-heavy area. There’s a gym, rooftop terrace, and even laundry on-site, which came in handy for us during our stay. 

While it’s not flashy, it felt comfortable and well thought-out, and we appreciated having that extra space to spread out a bit.  It’s also just a short walk to the metro, buses, and some local parks. Standard studios usually range from €70 to €125 per night, which is fantastic value for everything that’s included.

Live like a local and book your studio stay at Livensa Living here!

Hotel Artetxe – $

Escape the city and discover Duesto’s countryside at Hotel Artexte. This charming farmhouse has been converted into a guesthouse, giving sweeping views of Bilbao from its stunning hillside. It’s 5 kilometers (3 miles) outside of the city, but it makes for a unique stay, ideal if it’s not your first visit to the city. You can choose between standard hotel rooms or apartments, and they offer a delicious breakfast, terrace views, bicycles, and a cozy fireplace.

Best of all, prices are reasonable and range from €75 to €135, saving your budget for other fun Bilbao activities.

Check availability and book this unique farmhouse stay here.

Castaños

Castaños instantly charmed us with its cozy streets, riverside setting, and easy access to some of Bilbao’s best sights. Nestled between the Nervión River and the slopes of Mount Artxanda, it’s one of those neighborhoods that feels relaxed but still wonderfully central. 

Despite its quiet feel, Castaños couldn’t be better positioned for sightseeing. We loved being able to walk to the Guggenheim in under 10 minutes, but what really made this area special for us was its local feel—small pintxo bars, friendly bakeries, and the kind of spots where you see families and neighbors catching up over coffee. 

The Artxanda Funicular is a must-do here. We hopped on for sunset one evening and were treated to panoramic views over the city—it was one of our favorite moments in Bilbao. Castaños is also ideal for couples, families, and food lovers who want something close to the action without the constant buzz of the old town or downtown.

It’s a very walkable area, with leafy plazas and a laid-back pace, but you’re still within easy reach of the metro and tram. If you’re after a neighborhood that’s comfortable, scenic, and full of local character, Castaños hits the sweet spot.

Pros

• Walkable and scenic with riverside access
• Close to the Guggenheim and Artxanda Funicular
• Great for families, couples, and casual dining

Cons

• Fewer hotel options compared to larger neighborhoods
• Quiet at night—great for sleep, less so for nightlife
• Limited shopping beyond everyday essentials

Hesperia Bilbao – $$$

We stayed at Hesperia Bilbao mainly for the river views, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint. Our room looked straight across the water to the Guggenheim, and waking up to that colorful glass facade glowing in the morning sun was a real trip highlight. The location was ideal: close to the Artxanda Funicular, walkable to Casco Viejo, and just steps from great riverside strolls and pintxo bars.

The hotel itself feels polished but not pretentious. Our room was spacious, the bed was dreamy, and everything was super quiet at night. There’s even a terrace bar if you want to grab a drink with a view before dinner. Rooms generally range from €150 to €300 per night, depending on the view and time of year.

Book your base at Hesperia Bilbao here and stay riverside in style!

Hotel Conde Duque Bilbao – $$

Hotel Conde Duque Bilbao gave us everything we were looking for in a relaxed, scenic stay. Tucked along the river in Castaños and just steps from the Zubizuri (the iconic white bridge), the location felt central but never busy. We walked to the Guggenheim in about ten minutes and loved being able to cross into Casco Viejo for dinner, then retreat to this peaceful side of the river.

Our room was spacious and clean, and the river-facing balcony was such a treat for morning coffee. The staff were incredibly kind and helpful, even when we checked in late. There’s a small gym, an on-site restaurant, and easy access to public transport too. Standard rooms range from €110 to €220 per night, and it really felt like great value for the setting.

Stay steps from the river and book Hotel Conde Duque Bilbao here!

Hotel Bilbao Plaza – $

Hotel Bilbao Plaza is a great pick for a wallet-friendly stay without sacrificing comfort or location. Set right on the river in Castaños, we were steps from scenic walking paths and just a 10-minute stroll to the Guggenheim or Casco Viejo. 

The riverside view from our room made it feel like a splurge, even though we were well within budget. Our space was clean, modern, and quiet, with strong Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and all the basics we needed. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and gave us great local tips (plus a map with must-sees circled!). 

There’s also a small café-bar on-site and private parking available if you’re driving. Standard rooms generally range from €80 to €130 per night, depending on the view and season. Honestly, it’s a steal for this central and peaceful location.

Secure this affordable riverside escape at Hotel Bilbao Plaza here!

Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo is the kind of place that instantly pulls you in with its narrow, colorful streets, old-world charm, and the unmistakable energy of locals living life out loud. As Bilbao’s original medieval district, it’s packed with history and culture, and more pintxos bars than you could ever try in one trip. 

We found ourselves getting “lost” here often, wandering between plazas, artisan shops, and hidden churches. One afternoon, we stumbled upon a tiny bookstore tucked behind a flower stand and ended up chatting with the owner about Basque folklore over a glass of txakoli.

This is a great neighborhood for anyone who wants to be right in the thick of it. Culture lovers will appreciate sights like the Catedral de Santiago and Teatro Arriaga, while foodies will be thrilled with the tapas scene, especially along Calle del Perro and Plaza Nueva. 

And night owls? You’ll love the buzz that kicks off around 9 p.m. and keeps going late into the night. It’s also a convenient base, with easy access to the metro, tram, and riverfront. Just know that the area stays lively well into the evening, so light sleepers might want to bring earplugs.

For an authentic, high-energy experience steeped in Basque flavor and local life, Casco Viejo is hard to beat.

Pros

• Lively, colorful streets full of bars, shops, and local character
• Walking distance to major historical and cultural landmarks
• Great nightlife and pintxos scene

Cons

• Can be noisy, especially late at night
• Narrow streets mean limited parking and vehicle access
• Some hotels and buildings are older and less modern

NYX Hotel Bilbao – $$$

NYX Hotel Bilbao gave us the perfect mix of style, comfort, and prime location right in the heart of Casco Viejo. Our room was sleek and modern with floor-to-ceiling windows, and waking up to the buzz of the old town below felt like being part of the city’s rhythm. The bed was incredibly comfy, and the rain shower made it feel like a mini spa retreat after a long day out.

We were just steps from the Arriaga Theater and Plaza Nueva, and the Guggenheim was an easy walk along the river. The hotel’s rooftop terrace offered amazing views (even better with a drink), and the staff were friendly and full of great local suggestions. Rooms typically range from €150 to €350 per night, depending on view and season.

Stay in the center of it all at the NYX Hotel Bilbao here!

Sercotel Arenal Bilbao – $$

Sercotel Arenal Bilbao struck the perfect balance between modern comfort and old-town charm. Located just off Plaza Nueva, it gave us instant access to Casco Viejo’s buzzing pintxos scene, with the Arriaga Theater and metro station just steps away. Our room was bright and spacious with a smart TV, plush bed, and large windows overlooking the tree-lined street.

We especially appreciated the thoughtful staff and spotless rooms—plus, the breakfast buffet was one of the better spreads we had in Bilbao. Everything felt recently renovated but still full of personality. Rooms usually range from €140 to €200 per night, depending on the season and view.

Settle into Casco Viejo and book your stay at Sercotel Arenal Bilbao!

Room Select Bilbao – $

Between affordability and charm, Room Select Bilbao hits that sweet spot. Right in the heart of Casco Viejo, it gave us instant access to pintxo bars, boutique shops, and late-night buzz, without the usual city-center price tag.

Our room was bright, modern, and quiet despite being surrounded by the energy of the old town. The bed was super comfortable, and we appreciated the thoughtful touches like soundproofing, blackout curtains, and a sleek bathroom. The staff were genuinely friendly and gave us great food recommendations right in the neighborhood.

It’s a simple setup—no frills like breakfast or a bar—but if you’re after clean, comfortable, and incredibly central, it’s hard to beat. Prices usually range from €100 to €140 per night, depending on the room type and season.

Book your budget-friendly Casco Viejo base at room Select Bilbao here!

Santutxu

Santutxu surprised us in the best way! It’s not flashy or full of big-ticket sights, but it offered a slice of everyday Bilbao that felt incredibly real. Perched on a hillside just east of the old town, this mostly residential neighborhood is where locals actually live, shop, and catch up over coffee. 

If you’ve been to Bilbao before or are looking for a quieter, more budget-friendly base, Santutxu might just be your sweet spot. It felt like we had our own little neighborhood bakery, greengrocer, and bar within a few blocks—everyone seemed to know each other, and that warmth rubbed off on us, too.

It’s especially great for longer stays. There’s a strong community vibe here—markets instead of malls, neighborhood bakeries instead of boutiques—and yet it’s super easy to get around. The metro runs straight through the area, and we were able to reach Casco Viejo in just a couple of stops, or even walk it in about 15 minutes.

We loved wandering around Karmelo Street for pintxos and people-watching, and climbing up to Parque Etxebarria for a sweeping view of the city became part of our daily routine. Don’t expect high-end hotels or heavy tourist crowds. This is real, lived-in Bilbao, and that’s exactly what makes it special.

If you’re after a down-to-earth neighborhood with solid transport, local flavor, and great value, Santutxu delivers!

Pros

• Authentic, local vibe with fewer tourists
• Excellent value for longer or budget-friendly stays
• Easy metro access to Casco Viejo and the city center

Cons

• Fewer hotel options and limited English spoken
• Hilly terrain may not suit everyone
• Less nightlife and fewer major attractions in the immediate area

Occidental Bilbao – $$

Occidental Bilbao offered the ideal blend of comfort, value, and a quieter local vibe just outside the city’s busy core. Tucked beside the beautiful Basílica de Begoña and just a short walk from Santutxu Metro Station, the hotel gave us easy access to both the peaceful parks of the neighborhood and the buzz of Casco Viejo—just two stops away.

Our room was spacious and quiet, with a comfy bed and thoughtful amenities like a kettle and blackout curtains. After a long day out, we loved unwinding in the hotel’s lobby lounge or grabbing a drink by the seasonal outdoor pool. 

The on-site restaurant served a solid breakfast spread, and the spa and fitness club next door were a bonus perk. Prices typically range from €100 to €400 per night, depending on the season and room type.

Recharge in local style and secure your stay at Occidental Bilbao here!

Hotel Sirimiri – $

Hotel Sirimiri offered us a quiet, comfortable stay just steps from Santutxu and the edge of the old town. It’s tucked beside the Atxuri tram stop and within easy walking distance of Casco Viejo, making it a great choice for travelers who want the best of both worlds—local life and central access.

Our room was bright, clean, and surprisingly spacious for the price. We appreciated the powerful A/C, large windows, and thoughtful extras like soundproofing and reliable Wi-Fi. The staff were incredibly helpful, even offering us a map and circling out their favorite neighborhood pintxo bars. There’s also on-site parking if you’re traveling by car.

With standard rooms typically ranging from €80 to €200 per night, Hotel Sirimiri is a solid value just outside the tourist rush.

Book a laid-back, budget-friendly stay near Santutxu here!

Other Activities to do While in Bilbao, Spain

Now that you’ve found your perfect neighborhood and hotel, you can fill in your itinerary! We loved our time in Bilbao; it was the perfect combination of historic sights and modern marvels, fueled by lots of amazing food and wine. Need I say more? Here are a few of our favorite activities that you can’t miss:

• Go on a food tour – Spanish food is next level, so we were excited to try all of Bilbao’s classic dishes on this food tour! Our guide took us around the city, stopping off for pintxos and txakoli at all the local spots. It was an immersive and tasty way to discover the city!

• Learn about Bilbao’s top sights – We love diving into the history and culture of new cities, and this walking tour was just that! We were led through Casco Viejo with our guide, learning about the stunning architecture, famous markets, and centuries-old buildings, all in a quick 2-hour tour.

• Take a day trip to the coast – The Basque coast is incredibly stunning, so we had to join this day trip to Gaztelugatxe, Gernika, and Bermeo to see it all! We had so much fun driving along the coast, stopping for viewpoints of the rugged cliffs. But we also got to see Game of Thrones film locations and tons of historic buildings – it was such a beautiful day!

• Bicycle around Bilbao – Riding a bike around the city is a great way to cover ground, and this bicycle tour made it easy. It included the bikes, helmets, and a local guide to lead the way. We saw the highlights in just a few hours and had a blast pedaling around!

• Explore the Rioja wine region – This wine and architecture tour was such a unique experience! We explored the Rioja wine region, tasting world-renowned wines and learning all about the architecture crafted by famous artists. It’s an ideal tour for those who love the finer things in life!

Renting a Car in Spain

Renting a car in Spain is the perfect way to explore beyond the cities—think small villages, coastal towns, and hidden gems impossible to reach by public transit! The roads are well-maintained, and driving here is generally pretty relaxed, making it ideal for a road trip.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Spain

• Drive on the right: Like most of Europe, you’ll be driving on the right-hand side in Spain. And make sure you stick to the speed limit, speed cameras are common here!
• Pick the right car: Some of Spain’s smaller towns and villages have narrow streets and tight parking, so I recommend going for a compact car. Also, most rentals here are manual, so if you need an automatic (like me!), be sure to filter for it on Discover Cars when booking.
• Insurance is a must: I always add full coverage insurance, whether it’s a ding in a parking lot or a chipped windshield on a rural road, having full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable with Discover Cars!
• Toll roads: Spain has both toll and toll-free roads. Toll roads are usually marked with “AP” and can be paid using cash, credit card, or electronic devices like VIA-T. Plan your route accordingly and have a payment method ready.
• Parking tips: In urban areas, parking can be challenging. Look for designated parking zones and be aware of local regulations to avoid fines. Some areas may have restricted parking zones or require a resident permit.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Spain

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Spain on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Bilbao was the perfect mix of a charming city, history, art, and stunning coastline right at our fingertips. We loved our time here, and we were ready to explore after finding the perfect place to stay! Hopefully, this guide was helpful in picking your ideal neighborhood and hotel in Bilbao.

If you need help planning the rest of your trip, check out our other Spain blogs. We have city itineraries, top things to do, and our favorite places to stay for top travel destinations. Here are a few more blogs to get you started:

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Valencia, Spain: 3-Day Itinerary

How To Spend The Best TEN DAYS In Spain: 10-Day Itinerary

Where to Stay in Barcelona, Spain: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

How to Spend TWO DAYS in Granada, Spain: 2-Day Itinerary