Bilbao sits in a green bowl of mountains in northern Spain, about 16 km inland from the Bay of Biscay, where the estuary of Bilbao cuts through the city. Its climate is shaped by the bay: summers are milder than most of Iberia, sunshine is limited and rain is frequent, so a base that keeps you close to transport and indoor sights pays off.
For a visitor, the city divides into a compact set of districts on either side of the river. The Casco Viejo (Old Town, also known as the Seven Streets area) and the neighbouring Bilbao La Vieja sit on the right bank; Deusto, with its historic university district, lies on the other side; and the Abandoibarra and Campo Volantin riverside stretches link the centre to the Guggenheim area. This guide covers which of these areas to base yourself in, and what each is like for transport, nightlife and sightseeing.
Best areas to stay in Bilbao
1. Casco Viejo (Seven Streets)
The Casco Viejo is the heart of the Old Town and the most convenient base for a first visit. It is close to most of the museums and monuments, to the venues of the city's cultural activities and to its nightlife hot spots, which makes it the ideal spot for anyone who wants to keep their finger on the pulse of the city. You will find many inexpensive pensions here, alongside the only hostel in the Seven Streets area.
It suits first-time visitors, nightlife-seekers and budget travellers who want to walk to the sights rather than commute. Expect some noise at night given the concentration of bars and cultural venues.
2. Deusto
Deusto is a historic district on the other side of the river, a few minutes' walk from the Guggenheim Museum. It is quieter and more residential than the Old Town, and it is where you find private youth hostel accommodation.
It suits travellers who want to be near the Guggenheim and the riverside without staying in the busiest quarter, and who do not mind crossing the river to reach the Old Town.
3. San Mamés / Termibus area
This area around the Bilbao Intermodal bus station and the San Mamés metro and tram stops is the transport hub of the city. University accommodation is available here, with single and double rooms, and the location is described as great for transport connections.
It suits travellers arriving or leaving by bus or train, and anyone planning day trips who values easy connections over proximity to the old town. It is a journey away from the centre, so you will rely on the metro, tram or bus to reach the main sights.
4. Campo Volantin and the riverside
The Campo Volantin stretch runs along the river close to the centre and the Guggenheim area, and is home to several of the city's larger hotels. It suits visitors who want a riverside setting within walking distance of the centre and the museum district.
This is a practical base for sightseeing on foot, with the river linking you to both the Old Town side and the Abandoibarra renewal area.
5. Bilbao La Vieja
Bilbao La Vieja is the old settlement on the left bank of the estuary, opposite the Casco Viejo, and gives its name to the historic "Old Bilbao". It sits within easy reach of the Old Town across the river.
It suits budget travellers and those who want to be next to the Casco Viejo without staying in its busiest streets.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: inexpensive pensions in the Casco Viejo; youth hostels, including a private hostel a few minutes' walk from the Guggenheim in the Deusto district; university accommodation at the San Mamés/Termibus transport hub, available to members of the educational community.
- Mid-range: contemporary hotels close to Bilbao Airport and a short drive from the city centre, and palace-style hotels overlooking the Abra Bay outside the city.
- Splurge: large, established hotels in the city centre and along the riverside at Campo Volantin, plus hotels near the bus terminal, metro and Guggenheim museum.
Best area for a first visit
The Casco Viejo is the best base for a first visit. It puts you close to most of the museums and monuments, to the city's cultural venues and to its nightlife, all on foot. It also has the widest choice of inexpensive pensions, so it works whether you are watching your budget or not.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I stay if I want to be close to the Guggenheim Museum?
The historic district of Deusto is a few minutes' walk from the Guggenheim Museum, and the riverside Campo Volantin area is also within walking distance of the museum district.
Which area is best for budget travellers?
The Casco Viejo has many inexpensive pensions, and it is also home to the only hostel in the Seven Streets area. Deusto has a private youth hostel a few minutes from the Guggenheim.
Where should I stay if I arrive by bus or train?
The area around the Bilbao Intermodal bus station and San Mamés has university accommodation and is described as a great location for transport connections, served by metro, tram and rail.
Is the Old Town noisy at night?
The Casco Viejo is close to the city's nightlife hot spots and cultural venues, so it is the liveliest choice; if you prefer quieter nights, Deusto or the riverside areas are better suited.
Compare live prices for the area you choose with the booking tools on this page.