Best places to stay in Bilbao
Vincci Consulado de Bilbao
Mazzarredo Zumarkalea, 48009, Bilbao
A relatively new hotel encompassing sleek style and a nautical design. It’s in the heart of Bilbao and perfect for exploring the city before coming back to eat classic cuisine in the hotel’s restaurant. With rooms that have views overlooking some of the most cultural buildings in Bilbao, it makes for an unbelievable stay in the city.
Pension Luxury Lo Bilbao
Ekain Cuevas Kalea 3 nº3 1ªplanta, 48005, Bilbao
A stone’s throw away from the Arriaga Theatre and conveniently situated in the Old Town, this hotel is a beautiful example of Spanish architecture from days gone by. The hotel mixes classical with the modern to produce the ideal location for your city break.
Hotel Gran Bilbao
Aevenida Indalecio Prieto, 1, 48004, Bilbao
A modern hotel with stunning views of the city and the mountains, the Hotel Gran Bilbao is the choice for art-lovers. With rooms showcasing some contemporary art, and various pieces proudly displayed in the communal areas, it really is a wonder to behold. Located near the historical section of the city, you’ll never run out of things to photograph.
Best places to eat in Bilbao
Perita
Diputacion, 1, 48009, Bilbao
This restaurant is perfect for travellers in Bilbao. Serving up traditional Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on seafood, this friendly little bar and restaurant is a must-see for shellfish lovers.
Bar Roma
Marcelino Oreja, 7 Indautxu square, 48010, Bilbao
A quaint little place just off the tourist trail, this has everything you need for a perfect afternoon of watching the world go by with Pintxos. With gluten-free and vegetarian options, Bar Roma is a hidden gem.
Casa Leotta
Juan De Ajuriaguerra, 14, 48009, Bilbao
Casa Leotta is rated one of the best Italian restaurants in Bilbao and serves up delicious pasta and pizza dishes that patrons love. With other Mediterranean dishes on the menu and sweet desserts, this is the place to stop for lunch when exploring builds up an appetite.
Best things to do in and around Bilbao
The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Avenida Abandoibarra, 2 48009 Bilbao
Part of the Guggenheim Foundation museums, this fantastic building was opened in 1997 and since then has been a major contributor to artistic and cultural regeneration in Bilbao.
There are regular exhibits and new touring ones being showcased all the time, it’s best to book to avoid overcrowding. It’s also perfect for families as under 18s get in for free.
Arriaga Theater
Plaza Arriaga, 1 48005 Bilbao
Built in 1890, this Neo-baroque style opera house is home to various different arts including dance, opera, live music and theatre. It was destroyed by floods in 1983 and reopened in 1985 to great fanfare. A wonderful place for live performances.
Euskalduna Conference Centre and Concert Hall
Avda. Abandoibarra, 4 48011 Bilbao
With an auditorium, theatre, an exhibition hall, and a commercial gallery, this is the epitome of arts and culture. Housed by the Estuary of Bilbao, it is the home of the Bilbao Symphony orchestra and hosts the opera season. There are hundreds of shows to choose from each year so you’re sure to find something for you.