Best Luxury Hotels In Bilbao
The titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum is an unforgettable landmark in this city, the gateway to the Basque country. Once primarily an industrial port, its draw as a tourist destination has grown over recent decades. Bilbao serves as an alternative Spanish getaway; with ground-breaking architecture, unique culture and cooler temperatures than those searing summers experienced in the south of the country. There are plenty of bars, some great nightlife, family activities and hiking opportunities in the nearby mountains. And should you wish to explore Bilbao and its surroundings from the classiest of bases, choose one of these superb hotels.
NH Collection Villa de Bilbao
(4 stars) Located at the San Mamés end of Bilbao’s famous Gran Vía, the NH Collection Villa de Bilbao is a modern property offering spacious rooms, sleek contemporary design and on-point service. Inside enjoy a bountiful Basque breakfast at the Le Bol Blanc Restaurant, take a drink in the lobby corner bar, and head to the top-floor fitness room where you can work out to uninterrupted views over the city. Primarily catering to business travellers and conferences during the week, the hotel is a hidden gem for weekend getaways, appealing to tourists, families and groups visiting Bilbao.
Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao
(5 stars) Found right across from the Guggenheim, this hotel occupies a prime position. Opened in 2002, it was considered the first to have been fully ‘made in Spain’. Designed by Javier Mariscal, it’s colourful and ultra-modern, presenting an impressive art collection. In addition to its overnight guests, it welcomes those wishing to frequent the Gran Hotel Domine’s impressive roof terrace. The 145 rooms here are both soundproofed and air-conditioned, spread across its seven floors. Plus there’s a sleek spa and health club, lobby bar, cafe and restaurant – all complimenting the cutting edge contemporary aesthetic that runs throughout the building.
Radisson Collection Hotel, Gran Via Bilbao
(5 stars) In an upscale neighbourhood in the centre of Bilbao, the Radisson Collection Hotel’s 137 contemporary and comfortable rooms and suites receive guests from all corners of the world. The hotel offers a premier, luxurious stay in its Presidential Suite, featuring a private terrace, hot tub and other exclusive amenities. Indulgent treatments are available at the hotel’s tranquil Jewels of Nature Spa as well as access to the hotel fitness centre. An ideal location for business events and conferences in the heart if the city’s main shopping area and financial district – fully-equipped meeting facilities are available to host up to 80 persons. Catering options are on offer for functions and the hotel boasts a gastronomic experience, expertly crafted by a Michelin-starred chef as well as a relaxing rooftop bar. Explore the gems of the Basque Country and visit famous attractions such as the Guggenheim Museum which is located a short walk from the hotel.
Hotel Ercilla de Bilbao, Autograph Collection
(4 stars) The Ercilla de Bilbao Hotel, part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, offers a distinctive blend of 1970s glamour and modern elegance. Located in central Bilbao, it features 325 stylish rooms and suites, designed with a mix of Basque and British influences. Guests can enjoy the sophisticated rooftop terrace, La Terraza, which provides panoramic views of the city. The hotel also houses a chic bar, restaurant, and fitness centre, making it ideal for both leisure and business travellers. Ercilla de Bilbao is known for its vibrant history and connection to Bilbao’s cultural scene.
The Palacio Arriluce Hotel
(5 stars) The Palacio Arriluce Hotel, a 5-star establishment in Getxo, Bilbao, is housed in a historic building blending early 20th-century charm with contemporary luxury. The hotel offers 49 distinct rooms, each with its own character, equipped with high-end amenities. The on-site restaurant, led by chef Beñat Ormaetxea, serves innovative Basque cuisine. Guests can indulge in the hotel’s wellness spa, relax on the terrace with a swimming pool, or enjoy the croquet club. The hotel is also an ideal venue for events, providing various exclusive experiences like wine tasting, sailing, and cultural tours. Its proximity to the beach and the Bizkaia Bridge enhances its appeal as a premier destination.
Hotel Marques De Riscal
(5 stars) A destination hotel for vino enthusiasts, this property sits a fair way outside of the city centre on a well-known wine estate. The striking building was designed by architect Frank O. Gehry, incorporating 43 bedrooms, a spa (offering quirky Barrel Bath treatments), an indoor pool and a hammam. There’s also a Michelin starred restaurant, Marques de Riscal (named after the on-site winery), an alfresco dining terrace, a Vinoteca and Bistro and a rooftop Lounge Library serving cocktails with a view. Bilbao is close enough for tours and days out, but with the La Rioja on the doorstep, a stay here can incorporate both town and country.