Where to Stay in Bilbao First Time? for couples, families, and near the train station? In this blog post, I will help to decide the best areas to stay in Bilbao for tourists (include video and map), the advantages and disadvantages of each area, and the best hotels in Bilbao for all budgets.
Bilbao, Botxo by locals, is the largest city in the province of Biscay and in the Basque Country in northern Spain. The city is home to famous attractions such as Guggenheim Museum, art, architecture, great food, and popular day trips to San Sebastian, a smaller resort town nearby.
Bilbao is a diverse and multifaceted city, crammed full of exciting things to see and do. The airport is the main airport in the Basque Country. It is also well-connected with the northern Spain.
Where to stay in Bilbao first time?
The best areas to stay in Bilbao for tourists and first-timers are Casco Viejo, Plaza Moyua and Abando, Indautxu, San Francisco, Bilbao La Vieja, Uribarri, Deusto, Santutxu. Each area has its unique charm and advantages, so it ultimately depends on your preferences and interests.
When planning a trip to Bilbao, consider spending at least 2-3 days in the city. This should allow enough time to explore the Guggenheim Museum, old town, and sample the local cuisine.
| đ Best Area for first-timers: | Casco Viejo (Old Town) |
| đ Best luxury hotel: | NYX Hotel Bilbao by Leonardo Hotels |
| đš Best mid-range hotel: | Hotel Tayko Bilbao |
| đ° Best budget hotel: | Petit Palace Arana Bilbao |
Map of areas and neighborhoods in Bilbao:
Overviews of best areas to stay in Bilbao for tourists
Here is an overview of recommended areas in Bilbao for first-time visitors:
| Best areas in Bilbao for tourists | Why should you stay in this area? |
|---|---|
| Casco Viejo (Old Town) | the historic heart of Bilbao, known for its charming narrow streets, medieval architecture, and lively atmosphere. Staying here will allow you to be close to many of the city’s top attractions, pintxos bars, and traditional shops. |
| Plaza Moyua and Abando | is known for its elegant architecture and proximity to attractions like the Guggenheim Museum and Fine Arts Museum. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy shopping, upscale boutiques, and exploring the city’s modern side. |
| Indautxu | a vibrant neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas. It’s well-connected by public transportation and offers a wide range of dining options, shopping centers, and entertainment venues. |
| San Francisco | Situated on the left bank of the Nervion River, it is known for its trendy vibe and modern architecture. |
| Bilbao La Vieja | an up-and-coming area has transformed from an industrial area into a hip and artistic district with art galleries, street art, trendy cafes, and shops. It’s an excellent choice for an alternative and bohemian atmosphere. |
| Uribarri | a residential neighborhood on the hillside overlooking Bilbao. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the river. It offers a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere and is well-connected by public transportation. |
| Deusto | home to the University of Deusto and has a youthful atmosphere. It’s a lively area with a mix of residential areas, student hangouts, and cultural attractions. |
| Santutxu | Located to the northeast of the city center, Santutxu offers a more authentic experience, with local markets, traditional bars, and parks. It’s a great option if you want to experience daily life in Bilbao away from the tourist crowds. |
The Best areas to stay in Bilbao for tourists are:
1. Casco Viejo
Casco Viejo (Old Town) is the best place to stay if you really want to experience the city’s history and culture because it is the historical centre of the city that is packed with historical churches, museums, and squares as well as many traditional restaurants, bars, and shops.
Located on the NerviĂłn river’s right bank, Old Town is also known as The Seven Streets because it is home to Las Siete Calles, the seven streets including Somera, Artecalle, TenderĂa, Belosticalle, CarnicerĂa Vieja, Barrencalle and Barrencalle Barrena.
These streets are connected by many narrow alleys, called cantons. They are lined with shops, bars, taverns, and restaurants where you can try txikitos and pintxos, Bilbaoâs version of the Spanish tapas.
At the center of Old Town stands the cityâs main square, Plaza Nueva (Plaza Barria), a beautiful neoclassical monumental, built in 1821. The square is surrounded by arches, called cuevas, and charming arcaded buildings such as Euskaltzaindia, the Basque language Royal Academy.
Plaza Nueva is a good spot to do people-watching and enjoy a coffee. There are many shops, bars, traditional taverns and restaurants, and cafés that serve traditional Basque cuisine. The square hosts the Santo Tomås Fair and Sunday-morning flea market.
Nearby, on the banks of the estuary sits the oldest theatre in Bilbao, the Teatro Arriaga. The historic building is a wonderful place to take in a show and spend an evening experiencing the artistic heritage of Bilbao.
To the north of the theatre is the Areatzako Parkea, a riverside park, lush with trees and fountains. The Café Koiska el Arenal at the center of the park is decorated in a charmingly unique style, whilst the terrace seating area is a lovely spot to take a break overlooking the river.
The Old Town is home to numerous historic churches, monuments, and catsles, such as :
- the Church of Saint Nicholas, the 18th-century baroque stylechurch on Areatza Kalea street.
- the Fountain of Dogs, which is worth taking a look at in its own right,
- the Santiago Cathedral (St. Jamesâ Cathedral), the 14th century cathedral
- the church Iglesia de los Santos Juanes, the 17th century church in the classic baroque style.
- the Iglesia de San AntĂłn (Church of Saint Anthony), the 15th century, Gothic style church.
- the Portal de Zamudio, a gateway of the 15th-century walled town, along with Portal be Ibeni in the Axturi area.
History buffs can have several museums to explore. The Bilboko Euskal Museoa (Basque Museum), in Unamuno Square displays a collection of archaeological, ethnographic around northern Spain.
Other interesting museums are the Bizkaiko Arkeologi Museoa (Archaeological Museum) situated in calzadas de Mallona, and Museo Pasos de Semana Santa (Museum of Passages of Bilbao).
To the north of Casco Viejo is the sprawling Etxebarria Parkea. Once an industrial complex, the area has been completely rejuvenated into a beautiful hillside park, with views looking right across the city. The only hint of its industrial past is the preserved brick chimney, left standing as a monument in the northeast sector of the park.
In the evening, the southwest area of Casco Viejo is full of a variety of bars and restaurants. Perfectly placed on the banks of the Bilbao Estuary, itâs an ideal location for sunset walks along the riverside, on your way to an evening of fine dining and cocktails.
Be sure to visit the biggest indoor market in Europe, Mercado de la Ribera, where foodies will find traditional Spanish fresh products to take a little of the flavor of Basque gastronomy. It covers 10,000 square meters and was built in 1929.
Meanwhile, you can also head to Ascao, Correos, Bidebarrieta, VĂctor, and Somera to do shopping. They are the best shopping streets in the historic center.
Casco Viejo is located within walking distance to the world-famous Guggenheim Museum and Bilbao Fine Arts Museum. It has a well-connected public transportation with metro and bus, you can easy travel around.
As a popular tourist destination in the city, Casco Viejo has many choices in accommodations. There are luxury 5 star hotels, boutique hotels, aparments, guest houses, and B&B options.
Stay in Casco Viejo if you’re visiting Bilbao for the first time; you want to stay in the oldest part of the city; you enjoy relaxed walks around beautiful city streets.
Best places to stay in Bilbao in Casco Viejo:
- luxury ($$$): NYX Hotel Bilbao by Leonardo Hotels
- mid-range ($$): Hotel Tayko Bilbao
- budget ($): Petit Palace Arana Bilbao
2. Plaza Moyua and Abando
Abando (Downtown Bilbao) is the area centered around Plaza Moyua and is one of the best areas to stay in Bilbao for tourists because it is home the Guggenheim Museum, which is Bilbao’s most iconic building and it has wide selection of tourist facilites such as hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops.
The Guggenheim Museum was built as part of the cityâs rejuvenation efforts in the 1990âs and was designed specifically to draw the attention of the global tourist market. It definitely succeeded, almost instantly becoming one of the most significant examples of contemporary architecture.
If you donât enjoy museums or donât have time to venture inside to the exhibits, you can still enjoy the unique façade and the 40-foot-tall west-highland terrier sculpture covered in flowers standing guard at the southern entrance.
Exhibitions in the museum change frequently. Only one exhibit, âThe Matter of Timeâ, is permanent, so even returning visitors to the city can benefit from another look around. The museumâs exhibitions all display modern and contemporary art in a variety of forms.
East of the museum, following the river, is the Eingelesen Landako Park. The network of manicured lawns is home to the university library and the towering glass Torre Iberdrola, Bilbaoâs tallest skyscraper, and another beautiful specimen of modern architecture.
Follow the river past the modern shopping center and you will arrive at the Casilda Iturrizar park, a landscaped, tree-lined park, full of fountains, ponds, and stone pergolas.
If the contemporary art housed at the Guggenheim doesnât appeal to you, perhaps the more classical works found in the Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao, at the east end of the park, are more to your preference.
Alternatively, head west out of the park, towards the river and the old shipyard, to the Museo MarĂtimo RĂa, a museum dedicated to Bilbaoâs history as a port city.
In addition to architecture and museum, there are lots of outdoor activities along the river such as jogging, and cycling, as well as shopping along Gran VĂa, and enjoy the nightlife at Kafe Antzokia.
The backstreets of Abando are arranged on a grid pattern, making it incredibly easy to find your way around. Theyâre chock full of bars, cafes, and fancy restaurants, catering to a wide variety of tastes and cultures.
Plaza MoyĂșa itself consists of several manicured lawns and flowerbeds, surrounding a grand fountain in the center of a paved oval. Itâs set in the middle of a busy roundabout but is accessible to pedestrians via the six zebra crossings at each end of the plaza.
Abando is not only close proximity to the famous Guggenheim museum but also easy reach the Old Town with its historical attractions. There is a wide ranges of accommodation options, here you will find some of the best 5-star hotel in Bilbao.
Stay in Abando if you want a central location; you are visiting the Guggenheim is a top priority; you are a fan of modern art; you enjoy museums in general; you love contemporary architecture;
Best places to stay in Bilbao in Abando:
- luxury ($$$): Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao
- mid-range ($$): Hotel Mercure Jardines de Albia
- budget ($): Bilbao City Rooms
3. Indautxu
Indautxu is the west end of the central district of Bilbao and bordered with Abandoibarra district. One of the more affluent neighborhoods, Indautxu is home to a variety of upmarket shopping districts and fashionable bistros and cafes.
The district is known for its active, contemporary nightlife scene. Peppered with trendy bars, restaurants, and clubs, the region is ideal for some evening fun. The conveniently designed grid system of roads also makes it easy to find your way home after a night out.
A number of old buildings have been converted into unique entertainment venues. In the old shipyard stands the Palacio Euskalduna, which is now a popular venue for live music concerts.
In the east of the neighborhood, the beautiful Azkuna Zentroa, an old corn exchange building, has been converted into a multifunctional entertainment venue. The center houses a theatre, cinema screen, lecture halls, and exhibition spaces, along with public fitness facilities.
Indautxu offers easy access to the museums area include the Guggenheim museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Benedikto Museoa, which an art museum dedicated to the works of the famous Spanish painter, Benedicto Martinez.
To the east, by the river, stands the modern San Mames Football Stadium. With a capacity of over 50,000 seats, this is the largest stadium in the Basque country and frequently hosts important sporting events.
Stay in Indautxu if you value quality nightlife, you enjoy high-end shopping; you want to stay close to the famous museums;
Best places to stay in Bilbao in Indautxu:
- luxury ($$$): Hotel MeliĂĄ Bilbao
- mid-range ($$): Catalonia Gran VĂa Bilbao
- budget ($): Hotel Ilunion Bilbao
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4. San Francisco
San Francisco (Las Cortes), is is known for housing Bilbaoâs red-light district. But whilst the area may have a darker reputation, it nonetheless boasts a vibrant character and distinct sense of community.
One of the most obvious perks of the neighborhood is the relatively lower prices of both accommodation and entertainment. If you are on a budget, you can find food and lodging fairly affordably here, and the more typical tourist spots are just a short walk away.
The central region of Abando is just the other side of the Bilbao-Abando Indalecio Prieto train station. Las Cortes may be an ideal location for anyone traveling to or from the city via train. Convenient for anyone passing through for a quick visit, or who gets anxious about missing their train.
Meanwhile, the old town of Casco Viejo is right across the river. There are numerous bridge cross the Nervion river including Mesedeetako zubia and Ibarreko Zubia.
Home to most of Bilbaoâs immigrant population, primarily hailing from across Africa, North & West African Muslims, and South American, Las Cortes is one of the most diverse areas of the city. The areaâs multicultural heritage is reflected in its array of cafes, restaurants, and shops.
If you grow tired of the customary Basque cuisine found across the rest of the city, head here for a little more variety. Most of the main shopping, LGBT nightclubs, and nightlife venues are situated along the main San Francisco Street.
Art lovers may be interested in visiting the Reproductions Museum, which displays replicas of iconic art pieces and sculptures from around the world.
Stay in San Francisco if you are on a budget, you want to experience the multicultural hub of Bilbao, you want to stay near the train station;
Best places to stay in Bilbao in San Francisco:
- mid-range ($$): PensiĂłn Miribilla
- budget ($): Baps Apartaments 2
- budget ($): River Apartment in the heart of Bilbao
5. Bilbao La Vieja
Bilbao La Vieja (also known as Bilbi) is a hipster district, and the cityâs most prominent and trendy party district. Located immediately south of Las Cortes, the diverse culture of the surrounding districts bleeds over into the varied and multicultural dining and nightlife scene of Bilbao La Vieja.
The rooftop bars, riverside terrace, trendy craft beer bars, Nikkei restaurants with fusion Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, and the Michelin star restaurant of La Mina are some of the great places for couples to enjoy.
It is a vibrant hub of arts and culture, full of independent boutiques and galleries, which display the work of local artists. The art from these galleries spills out of their doors in the form of colorful street murals, which are well worth taking a street art tour to appreciate the best examples of.
The neighborhood is structured around the central Miribilla Park, home to the Bilbao Arena. The Arena is beautifully designed with a cladding of scale-like green tiles in various hues, to blend into the surrounding landscape.
You can also visit Bilboko Berreginen Reproductions Museum or walk along the Marzana riverbank boulevard.
Primarily known for hosting basketball games, the arena welcomes frequent concerts and performances in the main venue, whilst also providing sports facilities, such as swimming pools and gymnasiums, for public use.
Mirabella park itself hosts markets and open-air events. If you are looking to appreciate the industrial history of the area, the San Luis brick furnace still stands in nearby Saralegi Plaza, preserved as a monument.
Meanwhile, if you look closely at many of the buildings now used as entertainment venues around the neighborhood, you will notice that many of them are converted from old industrial factories.
Stay in Bilbao La Vieja if a busy nightlife is important, You value independent art and design, You are attending an event at Bilbao Arena.
Best places to stay in Bilbao in La Vieja:
- budget ($): Hotel Bilbi
- budget ($): Old bilbao Con Vistas a la Ria by Urban Hosts
6. Uribarri
Uribarri is the administrative heart of Bilbao, the district where you will find City Hall and its offices. It is in the northeast of Bilbao, a largely middle-class, residential district. It developed during the 20th Century as the city grew.
There are a limited number of hotels, but rooms are affordable, and you may be lucky in high season when Bilbao is very busy.
The Artxandako Funikularra is a great ride. The route this funicular takes goes through the stunning scenery of Bilbao. Remember before the growth of Bilbao, this was beautiful agricultural land. It then crosses the bridge to provide an aerial view of the Guggenheim Museum.
Stay in Uribarri if Your preference is to be away from the center of the city and tourist attractions, A quiet residential district suits you fine even though there are fewer accommodation choices, A funicular ride over Bilbao appeals to you.
Best places to stay in Bilbao in near Uribarri:
- budget ($): Uri Hostel Bilbao Rooms
- budget ($): Trauko Flat
7. Deusto
Deusto is the district north of the river, best known for being Bilbaoâs student neighborhood, due to the local University of Deusto. The university itself is directly across the river from the Guggenheim museum. Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the fantastic views of the iconic building across the water.
Deusto is connected to the city center by several bridges, which bring you directly into the parks surrounding the Guggenheim. Just minutes away from the main shopping and nightlife districts, the area is conveniently close to all Bilbao has to offer, whilst typically remaining quieter than the more crowded tourist hubs.
The neighborhood is home to several popular arts and exhibition venues. The Deusto Expo Centre hosts a variety of exhibitions and shows throughout the year.
The La FuNdicIOn theatre, on the banks of the estuary at the end of Botica Vieja park, puts on excellent contemporary, independent theatre performances.
Being slightly further from the city center than other neighborhoods, hotel prices in Deusto are also generally lower than more central locations, which is ideal for anyone on a budget.
Deusto also offers a convenient route in and out of the city for hikers and backpackers. Being closer to the cityâs perimeter, there are a number of designated hiking trails leading to the surrounding areas.
If you are travelling to Bilbao by car, Deusto is connected to a major highway into the city, allowing you to drive into the heart of the city without the rammed traffic of the city centre.
Stay in Deusto if you are on a budget, you are interested in visiting neighboring Barakaldo, you are visiting the university or a student, you are traveling to Bilbao by car;
Best places to stay in Bilbao in Deusto:
- mid-range ($$): NH Bilbao Deusto
- budget ($): Hotel Artetxe
- budget ($): HabitaciĂłn Privada
8. Santutxu
Santutxu is a residential part of Bilbao south of the Old Town, but it is also the gateway to the hills that surround the city. This is a family-friend neighborhood with a lot of green spaces and activities for kids.
You can hike around Parque Larreagaburuâs hills to get lovely views of Bilbao starting in Santutxu. It is also a neighborhood where you will get a real feel for the Basque country.
The Museum of Sacred Art in Santutxu provides a great insight into the history of religion in Europe. Families will love the calmness of the area and better still if the kids enjoy an educational aspect to their holiday.
The 16th Century church, Iglesia de la Encarnacion, is close to the Museum and the indoor carnival, Tximipark, will certainly entertain the kids. There is not a huge amount of nightlife, but you will find bars and restaurants.
Stay in Santutxu if you’re a family with young children; You want to avoid tourist crowds, Hiking in the surrounding hills appeals to you, You are interested in history and religion.
Best places to stay in Bilbao in Santutxu:
- mid-range ($$): Occidental Bilbao
- budget ($): Hotel Sirimiri
- budget ($): PensiĂłn B4R
Check out my virtual tour about the best places to stay in Bilbao in this video:
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Overall, Casco Viejo, Indautxu, and Abando are the best areas to stay in Bilbao for tourists. They offer central locations and the widest choices of accommodation. These areas offers easy walking distance to the most famous tourist attractions as well as tourist amenities.