Top reasons to visit Bilbao Old Town
- Historic Architecture: Stroll through charming streets lined with beautiful historic buildings that showcase Bilbao's rich history.
- Vibrant Markets: Experience the lively local markets offering fresh produce, regional delicacies, and unique souvenirs.
- Art and Culture: Visit renowned attractions like the Guggenheim Museum and the Basque Museum to immerse yourself in local art and heritage.
- Delicious Cuisine: Savor traditional Basque dishes at local cafes and restaurants that reflect the region's culinary excellence.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a variety of attractions suitable for families, including parks, theaters, and guided tours.
Find great hotels near Bilbao Old Town
Discover the charm of Bilbao Old Town with a variety of accommodation options, including hotels and pensions, tailored for every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking a business-friendly stay, a pet-friendly environment, or a city-themed vacation experience, you'll find the perfect spot in this vibrant area. Explore our selection of Bilbao hotels and enjoy a memorable visit to this captivating part of the Basque Country.
- Barceló Bilbao Nervión: This 4-star hotel combines modern elegance with a prime location, situated 805m from Bilbao Old Town. Rated 8.8 out of 10, it is well-suited for business travelers seeking a comfortable and efficient stay. Guests appreciate the contemporary design of the rooms, enhanced by amenities such as a fitness center and versatile meeting spaces. The hotel’s on-site restaurant serves a range of local and international cuisine, making it a convenient option for dining after a day of exploring.
- Mercure Bilbao Jardines De Albia: With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this 4-star hotel is also located 805m from Bilbao Old Town. Featuring a chic and modern atmosphere, it caters to business travelers looking for a stylish retreat. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms with plush bedding and essential amenities. Guests can unwind at the cozy bar or take advantage of the hotel’s business facilities, ensuring a smooth experience during their stay.
- The Artist Grand Hotel of Art: This luxurious 5-star hotel, rated 9.8 out of 10, is situated 1km from Bilbao Old Town and is ideal for families and those seeking a lavish getaway. The hotel features a full-service spa, including a Turkish bath and sauna, perfect for relaxation. Families will appreciate the dedicated children’s amenities, including babysitting services and a special breakfast for kids. With its artistic ambiance and high-end services, guests can indulge in a truly memorable experience.
Where to stay near Bilbao Old Town
Bilbao Old Town offers a rich cultural experience, blending history with vibrant city life. Explore charming streets filled with local shops, cafes, and historic architecture. Nearby, the Bilbao Centro boasts trendy spots, while the surrounding Basque Country enchants with its friendly atmosphere and scenic excursions. This neighborhood is perfect for family vacations and cultural exploration, making it an ideal base for discovering the unique vibes of this Spanish city.
- Bilbao: As a vibrant metropolis, Bilbao is the heart of the Basque Country and offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Bilbao Old Town, known for its charming narrow streets and historic architecture, is a must-visit. This city attracts visitors year-round, with peak travel occurring from July to September, ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and even beach time. Don't miss local landmarks such as the renowned Guggenheim Museum and the bustling sports stadium. The city's lively atmosphere is complemented by music concerts, theater performances, and educational opportunities, making it a cultural hub.
- Bilbao City Centre: Located just 805m from Bilbao Old Town, the City Centre is a lively neighborhood that blends modernity with tradition. A year-round destination, it sees its highest visitor numbers during the summer months. Here, you can immerse yourself in cultural activities, enjoy outdoor spaces, and relax along the nearby beaches. The area is home to vibrant art museums and sports facilities, alongside various music and theatre events. With its central location, the City Centre serves as a fantastic base for exploring the wider city.
- Abando: Situated 1km from Bilbao Old Town, Abando is a bustling district known for its family-friendly atmosphere and vibrant city life. While it experiences moderate seasonal fluctuations in visitor numbers, peak times include February, August, and October. Abando offers a mix of cultural and city-themed experiences, making it ideal for family outings. You’ll find shopping areas, bustling markets, and lively music venues. Key attractions include art museums and a picturesque beach, ensuring that there’s something for everyone in this dynamic neighborhood.
Things to do in Bilbao Old Town
Shopping
Strolling through Bilbao Old Town, you'll discover charming boutiques like L’Art de l’Art for unique crafts and local shops offering Basque-inspired gifts. Don’t miss the Mercado de la Ribera, where you can find fresh produce and artisanal products to bring a taste of the region back home.
Recreation
The Areatza Spa offers a tranquil atmosphere with thermal baths and invigorating treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Nearby, the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum provides a peaceful setting to admire art collections while enjoying a leisurely stroll through its beautiful gardens.
Adventure
Explore the narrow streets of Bilbao Old Town, where you can discover local shops and vibrant tapas bars. Embark on a guided walking tour to uncover historical gems, or take a bike ride along the river to enjoy scenic views of the city’s architecture and culture.
Nightlife
B Bilbao Old Town comes alive at night with lively tapas bars like Café Bar Bilbao, where you can enjoy local bites and drinks. For a vibrant atmosphere, check out the music scene at Bilborock, a cultural center featuring live performances, ensuring a memorable night out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bilbao Old Town
To save money during your visit to Bilbao Old Town, consider traveling between December and February when hotel prices are lower. Booking a hotel about a month in advance can also help you find better rates, while last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia may offer additional savings. Aim for a Monday stay, as it's typically the cheapest day. Utilize Expedia’s search tools to filter by budget and preferences, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for the best packages. Enjoy free activities such as exploring the charming streets and local markets to further stretch your budget.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Bilbao Old Town are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Bilbao Old Town is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Bilbao Old Town is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Bilbao Old Town is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you're looking for. To find the best prices and deals, be sure to sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Bilbao's Old Town with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Bilbao Old Town
Bilbao Old Town is perfect for culture enthusiasts and families alike, offering a rich array of attractions such as art museums, charming squares, and historic churches. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy outdoor experiences. Don't miss the iconic Guggenheim Museum and the Basque Museum for a deeper understanding of the region. Exploring the top attractions in Bilbao Old Town will ensure a memorable vacation filled with unique experiences.
- Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: This iconic modern art museum is renowned for its innovative architecture and contemporary art exhibitions. Visitors can explore a vast collection of works from renowned artists while enjoying the striking titanium-clad exterior set against the river, offering a unique blend of culture and creativity.
- Plaza Nueva: A lively square surrounded by beautiful neoclassical buildings, Plaza Nueva is a hub for social gatherings and cultural events. Its numerous bars and restaurants serve delicious pintxos, making it a perfect spot to experience local cuisine and vibrant city life.
- Bilbao City Hall: A stunning example of neobaroque architecture, Bilbao City Hall stands as a symbol of the city’s rich history. Visitors can admire its grand façade and learn about its significance in the civic life of Bilbao, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
Best time to go to Bilbao Old Town
The best time to visit Bilbao Old Town can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Bilbao Old Town falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Bilbao Old Town falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Bilbao Old Town
Traveling to Bilbao Old Town is convenient with several major airports nearby. Bilbao Airport (BIO) is located 5km away and offers EASy access to hotels like Radisson Collection Bilbao, The Artist Grand Hotel of Art, and Hotel Melia Bilbao, all featuring nearby access to the airport. San Sebastian Airport (EAS), 92km from Bilbao Old Town, has excellent hotel options like Arantza Hotela, Parador de Hondarribia, and Hotel Jaizkibel, with various transportation services available. Lastly, Biarritz Airport (BIQ-Pays Basque) is 114km away, with luxury options such as Hôtel du Palais Biarritz and Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar, providing shuttle services as well.