
If you’re on a budget and staying in Bilbao, you’re in luck—Bilbao has some of the best budget-friendly hotels in Spain. After visiting properties across the city (and country), kimkim created a list of the top standard hotels. And thanks to Bilbao’s mix of modernity, history, and eclectic architecture, even these budget picks offer stylish lodgings and central locations. You won’t find as many amenities, but some offer perks like on-site bars, breakfast buffets, lounges, and authentic countryside locales.
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Bilder Boutique Hotel

The Bilder Boutique Hotel offers a unique and delightful experience in the heart of Bilbao. It’s a charming hotel, rich in history, and perfectly situated in Bilbao’s historic Old Town, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. The hotel is housed within a beautifully preserved 18th-century building, offering a glimpse into the city’s past while providing modern comforts. Step outside the hotel, and you’ll find yourself just steps away from the lively Plaza Nueva, a central hub for local life and activities.
A short, pleasant walk from the hotel will take you to the majestic Bilbao Cathedral, a significant religious and architectural landmark. Further along, you’ll discover the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum, a modern art masterpiece that draws visitors from across the globe. The Bilder Boutique Hotel is not just about location; it’s also about providing a comfortable and tranquil retreat. The rooms are thoughtfully designed to be comfortable, trendy, and acoustically insulated, ensuring a peaceful night’s rest after a day of exploring Bilbao.
Some of the rooms at the Bilder Boutique Hotel offer captivating city views, allowing you to soak in the urban landscape. For those seeking more space and luxury, the hotel’s suites provide additional room and a separate living area, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Start your day with a delicious breakfast in the hotel’s cozy bar and lounge area, located on one of the top floors. In the evening, return to the bar for drinks and enjoy the atmosphere.
The Bilder Boutique Hotel is perfectly situated for exploring everything Bilbao has to offer. The hotel offers convenient access to various transportation options, including the metro, bus, tram, and train stations. Its location once as an 18th-century mansion showcases a rich history while still embracing modernity. The building itself is a testament to the city’s history, blending seamlessly with its modern surroundings.
The Bilder Boutique Hotel is also deeply committed to environmental sustainability, taking several steps to reduce its impact. The hotel has eliminated minibars and maximizes the use of natural light in areas where possible, reducing energy consumption. Keep in mind that some rooms are interior and do not have access to natural light, so booking early is recommended if you prefer an exterior unit. While the hotel offers limited amenities compared to larger hotels, its unique character, impressive history, and prime location make it a delightful choice for your stay in Bilbao, offering an authentic and memorable experience.
Casa Rural Lurdeia

Casa Rural Lurdeia presents a serene and eco-conscious escape. This adult-only guesthouse is set on a working farm in the rolling hills of the Basque countryside, about 30 minutes outside downtown Bilbao. This award-winning hotel offers a uniquely traditional and authentic rural experience. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
The guesthouse is positioned to provide stunning views of the Bay of Biscay, offering a breathtaking backdrop to your stay. Lush organic gardens surround the property, offering a feast for the senses. Each of the eight cozy rooms at Lurdeia has a unique theme, drawing inspiration from natural elements and the rich culture of the Basque Country. You can relax and rejuvenate in these thoughtfully designed spaces.
The picturesque surroundings of Lurdeia are an invitation to relax and unwind. Guests can enjoy the outdoor terrace, complete with picnic tables, perfect for al fresco dining and enjoying the fresh air. The extensive property includes gardens, a tranquil pond, and a variety of resident birds, creating a peaceful and harmonious environment. Casa Rural Lurdeia strives to provide an exceptional and authentic stay.
Lurdeia provides a unique stay in a serene environment and is committed to sustainability through its ecological agricultural activities and respect for the natural setting. They embrace ecological agricultural practices. Access to high-quality, homegrown fruits, vegetables, and poultry products adds to the charm of this guesthouse, providing a taste of the local terroir.
While the location of Casa Rural Lurdeia is remote, offering a sense of seclusion and tranquility, it’s still conveniently close to local attractions. The historic Dolmen, an ancient megalithic structure, is nearby, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich past. The charming coastal town of Bermeo, known for its picturesque harbor and vibrant fishing culture, is also easily accessible. For eco-conscious travelers seeking a tranquil and authentic stay in the Basque countryside, with convenient access to nearby cities and attractions, Casa Rural Lurdeia is an excellent choice.
Sercotel Arenal Bilbao

Sercotel Arenal Bilbao is a centrally located hotel, right in the heart of Bilbao’s historic Old Town. It provides guests with modern, spacious, and bright rooms, all within the setting of a beautifully preserved historical building. The hotel is ideally located just steps away from some of the city’s most iconic sites, including Plaza Nueva, a vibrant square brimming with local life.
The Teatro Arriga (Arriaga Theater), a stunning architectural masterpiece, is also just a short walk away. The Areatzako Bridge, a prominent landmark, is nearby, offering easy access to other parts of the city. Sercotel Arenal Bilbao is a perfect base for those wanting to explore the city’s many famous attractions. During your stay, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet, offering a wide variety of options to start your day.
The hotel also features a cozy library lounge, providing a relaxing space to unwind and enjoy a book. A business center is also available for guests who need to stay connected and productive. Sercotel Arenal Bilbao is a pet-friendly hotel, warmly welcoming dogs and cats. The hotel provides rooms with plenty of natural light and a warm and inviting ambiance.
The hotel’s prime location allows you to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bilbao’s Old Town. With a wide variety of eateries, the Bilbao Cathedral, Plaza Nueva, and Erribera Market all within easy walking distance, there’s always something new to discover. Across the Areatzako Bridge, you can enjoy a pleasant stroll along the scenic riverfront promenade, leading you to the Guggenheim in about 25 minutes.
Sercotel Arenal Bilbao offers 36 spacious, bright, and modern rooms across six floors, catering to a wide range of travelers. From Basic units perfect for solo travelers or couples, to Superior options with added amenities like capsule coffee machines, all rooms feature wooden floors and furnishings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and clean bathrooms with colorful tiling, ensuring a comfortable and stylish stay. The hotel is a haven for people wanting to experience the authentic heart of Bilbao.
Amari by Pillow

Amari by Pillow is a charming boutique hotel nestled in a historic building, just steps from the world-famous Guggenheim Museum, in the heart of Bilbao. It’s a simple and modern hotel, providing comfortable accommodations in a prime location. The hotel offers bright, minimalist rooms, each equipped with private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, desks, minibars, WiFi, air-conditioning, and toiletries.
Guests can enjoy relaxing in the cozy lounge, a welcoming space complete with comfortable seating and complimentary coffee and tea. Amari by Pillow is a place for people to rest and recharge before and after exploring the wonderful city of Bilbao.
The hotel’s prime location ensures easy access to various attractions in Bilbao. The riverfront walkway, perfect for a leisurely stroll, is just a short walk away. The iconic Puppy Statue, a beloved symbol of Bilbao, is also easily accessible. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the Museum of Fine Arts, showcasing a diverse collection of masterpieces.
The modern Zubizuri Bridge, with its unique design, is also within walking distance. While the standard rooms at Amari by Pillow may be on the smaller side, opting for a higher-tiered unit ensures more space and comfort. Amari by Pillow’s motto, “from home to home,” reflects its commitment to providing comfort and convenience during your stay. While the hotel may not offer breakfast service or additional amenities, its central location, modern accommodations, and friendly multilingual staff make it a good choice for exploring Bilbao.
LATROUPE La Granja

LATROUPE La Granja stands as a historic and vibrant accommodation in Bilbao, offering a unique blend of hostel and hotel experiences within a building that dates to 1891. This combination makes it perfect for families or groups, providing options for booking rooms with extra beds (often bunk beds) while still having access to common areas.
While the term “hostel” might conjure images of dormitories, this property houses private rooms, each uniquely designed to blend old and new, classic and industrial elements. Guests can enjoy comfortable beds, air conditioning, and private bathrooms with showers and toiletries. The lively bar and two large common areas, La Granja and El Txoko, are perfect for socializing, eating, and drinking, with a shared kitchen available for guest use.
Located right on Bilbao’s central yet busy Plaza Circular, La Granja offers easy access to many of the city’s attractions. The Arriaga Theater and the edge of the Old Town are just five minutes away, providing a glimpse into the city’s cultural heritage. The Guggenheim Museum is about a 20-minute stroll along the riverfront promenade, offering a scenic route to one of Bilbao’s most iconic landmarks.
Although the property is partially a hostel, the interiors are beautifully decorated, paying homage to the building’s history and Bilbao’s rich culture. Offering a unique character and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, La Granja gets kimkim’s recommendation for families and those seeking a one-of-a-kind experience. It combines affordability with style and a social atmosphere.
7Kale Bed & Breakfast

7Kale Bed & Breakfast is a charming hotel located in Bilbao’s Old Town, offering a delightful experience for visitors seeking a central and convenient base. Its name might be a little misleading; it’s not a traditional bed-and-breakfast in the classic sense, but rather a small, boutique accommodation offering daily breakfast for an extra fee. You’ll still enjoy cozy and welcoming accommodations with private bathrooms, all just steps away from the city’s top sites, such as the Guggenheim Museum and the Arriaga Theater.
Guests can choose from standard rooms or upgrade to premium rooms, which offer additional amenities like air conditioning, smart TVs, and balconies. Starting your day with a delicious breakfast buffet in the dining area is a great way to fuel up for exploring Bilbao. If you have a balcony, you can also enjoy breakfast in the comfort of your room.
The hotel’s prime location puts you right in the center of historic Bilbao, surrounded by the city’s best eateries, pintxo bars, and monuments. The friendly staff, natural textures, and warm tones throughout the property give it an authentic Basque Country feel. Booking early is recommended if you’d like to secure a premium room, as these are the only options that include air conditioning. Planning to spend a little more for breakfast is also something to keep in mind.
Despite these considerations, 7Kale’s exceptional service and perfect location make it a good standard option for exploring the local culture and surroundings. It’s a great choice for people wanting to experience the heart of Bilbao’s Old Town.
Casa Rural Mahasti

Casa Rural Mahasti presents another excellent option for those seeking accommodations outside the hustle and bustle of downtown Bilbao. It offers a stay in a charming historic farmhouse nestled in the tranquil Basque countryside, just 20 minutes from the city center. This location provides a perfect balance between urban accessibility and rural serenity.
With seven cozy rooms, each featuring a private bathroom, guests can enjoy a peaceful and comfortable stay. The property offers picturesque views of vineyards, fruit trees, forests, and the historic Butrón Castle, creating a truly enchanting setting. The rustic farmhouse features a spacious living room with a fireplace, a library, a fully equipped kitchen, and a dining room, providing an authentic rural Basque experience.
While some rooms may not have a private bathroom, and the pool is currently under construction, the Mahasti House offers a unique retreat for those seeking to immerse themselves in countryside life. Exploring the surrounding area through hiking, cycling, or horseback riding is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of the Basque Country. You can also experience sustainable living with the house’s vineyards, livestock, and surrounding ecosystem.
Bilbao is only about 20 minutes away, making it easy to access the city’s attractions. Playa de Sopelana, a popular beach destination, is just 15 minutes away, offering a chance to enjoy the coast. The hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a stunning landmark perched on a rocky islet, is approximately a 40-minute drive, providing a memorable day trip. Casa Rural Mahasti offers a charming and tranquil escape with easy access to both city and countryside attractions.
Hotel Bed4U Bilbao

Hotel Bed4U Bilbao offers a simple, no-frills property in the bustling Zabalburu area of Bilbao, providing a convenient and affordable base for exploring the city. The hotel is located just a 15-minute walk from the Guggenheim Museum, making it easily accessible to one of Bilbao’s top attractions. With its convenient location near Plaza de Zabalburu, guests can easily access shops, restaurants, and transportation to the Old Town and other parts of the city.
The hotel’s modern rooms feature the latest entertainment technology, including SmartTVs with Chrome Cast and free high-speed WiFi, ensuring guests stay connected and entertained. Despite its simplicity, the hotel is committed to sustainability and healthy living, offering eco-friendly mobility options, de-plasticization initiatives, and healthy breakfast options at its buffet.
While the hotel doesn’t offer a full restaurant, it does provide a 24-hour cafeteria and snack bar, as well as a healthy and eco-friendly breakfast featuring local products. Guests can also enjoy the 24/7 gym, order a picnic, or indulge in snack-type dinners. Although the hotel isn’t located in Old Town, its more residential neighborhood allows guests to stay outside the main tourist zone and experience the local lifestyle.
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