A hard find: Our favorite beds in Bilbao

The hotel scene in Bilbao may not be thriving with new and exciting openings, yet the lodging options in the city have improved noticeably in the last years thanks to the fame brought to this 500 year-old city by the opening of the Guggenheim Museum in 1997. There are many average hotels available in Bilbao, but if you are looking for a place to make your stay memorable, here is our tried and tested list of best hotels to stay in Bilbao:

Grand Hotel Domine: This minimal, design hotel is right across the Guggenheim Museum. It has brand new rooms designed by Javier Mariscal, and Phillippe Starck designed the bathrooms of executive suites. You can sit at Le Café on the ground floor and sip your drink while looking at the silver shining curves of the Guggenheim and the famous dog statue made up of flowers. Alternatively, you can enjoy a good cocktail at Sixty-one Bar by the lobby or enjoy spectacular views from its rooftop restaurant.
Address: Alameda de Mazarredo, 61, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
Website: www.hoteldominebilbao.com

Hotel Carlton: This historic and elegant hotel overlooks a beautiful plaza and is situated next to the famous shopping street of Don Diego Lopez Haroko. Its charming and grandiose structure is very centrally located and right next to metro and bus stops. The rooms are designed in classic style. The main lobby is designed like the replica of the Bilbao bullring Vista Alegre. There is a bar in the middle serving pinchos.
Address: Plaza de Federico Moyua 2, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
Website: www.hotelcarlton.es

Hotel Miró: This boutique hotel is on the main street overlooking the River Nervión and is a short walking distance to the Guggenheim Museum. It has a tasteful decor and a cozy yet classy feel. There is a great library for art lovers just by the lobby.
Address: Alameda Mazarredo, 77, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
Website: www.mirohotelbilbao.com