Hotel Meliá Bilbao

Reviewed by Joeri Van Overloop

Set the scene

The blend of muted earth colors, contrasted by luminous glass and steel elements, provides an atmosphere at Hotel Meliá Bilbao that's both grand and welcoming at the same time. Amidst the lofty ceilings, you'll find various pieces of avant-garde artwork, a nod to the city's affinity for fine arts.

Within this scenic backdrop, you'll notice that the space is bustling with a mixed clientele. From business travelers deep in discussion, tourists poring over maps, to locals enjoying a drink at the marble-clad bar - the hotel exudes a cosmopolitan vibe that's reflective of Bilbao itself. The influence of the surrounding geography, the culture of Basque country, and the spirit of the architecture form a scene that's uniquely grounded in place and yet, internationally appealing.

What can we expect in our room

Fusing sleek modernist aesthetics with plush comfort, the room interiors showcase an alluring mix of warm woods, crisp whites, and cool steel finishes. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the spaces with natural light, empowering an airy, spacious ambiance that instantly puts you at ease for your Spanish escapade. Each room boasts an elegantly minimal design, sprinkled with tasteful artwork that captures the vibrant culture of Bilbao. Your dream of living in a modern art gallery would practically come alive in this setting.

When it comes to amenities, Hotel Meliá doesn't hold back. Every room is thoughtfully equipped with state-of-the-art features including free Wi-Fi, minibar, flat-screen TVs, and workstations for those who need to catch up with their business on the go. Drain your travel fatigue in the en-suite bathroom, filled with luxury toiletries for a pampering bath session. You can also enjoy a refreshing night's sleep in the top-rated beds, lined with top quality linens. To top it all, most rooms offer spectacular views over the Nervion River or the iconic Guggenheim Museum.

How about the food and drinks at Hotel Meliá Bilbao

As a guest at the Meliá hotel, you will find yourself enamored by the variety of drink and dining options that the hotel has to offer. Start your morning at the breakfast buffet where you’ll find a wide array of fresh fruits, pastries, cold cuts, cheeses, and a variety of hot dishes that cater to both local and international tastes. You’ll be sipping on freshly brewed coffee or sampling from an assortment of teas, getting your day off to a great start.

When evening rolls around, you can unwind at the chic Q-Lounge Bar, clutching a meticulously crafted cocktail or savoring a glass of local Spanish wine.

What is the service like at the Meliá Bilbao Hotel

Upon setting foot in the Hotel Meliá Bilbao, a warm welcome greets you through the smiles of the reception staff. Every member of the team displays a genuine eagerness to aid in creating a memorable stay for you, and their commitment to service befits the hotel's upscale status. Be it a need for an extra pillow in the dead of night, or a recommendation for the best pintxo (Basque-style tapas) in town, the efficient staff cater to your demands in a timely and friendly manner. Their collective knowledge of the local sights, culinary landscape, festivities, and even off-beat local haunts, transform your holiday into a culturally immersive experience.

The enchantment extends beyond the reception, as the Hotel Meliá's service ethos is evident in every corner. Each task, from housekeeping to in-room dining, is executed with a blend of efficiency and finesse that speaks of trained professionalism. The readiness of the staff to go above and beyond in creating a comfortable atmosphere is truly commendable. They perfect the delicate balance of being consistently available without ever intruding on your privacy.

What’s the neighbourhood scene like?

The surrounding neighborhood is a captivating blend of traditional and modern elements, reflecting the cultural atmosphere of Bilbao. A short stroll will take you to key attractions such as the Guggenheim Museum and the heartwarming, lively plazas buzzing with energy and local activities. With a plethora of cafes, tapas bars, and gourmet restaurants serving authentic Basque cuisine right at your doorstep, you can indulge in a gastronomic adventure.

The neighborhood also boasts designer boutiques and unique shops for those interested in fashion and unique finds. With several green spaces, including the nearby Doña Casilda Iturrizar park, the area provides refreshing enclaves for relaxation amid city exploration.

What’s the backstory

Conceived as a tribute to the city's cultural advancement, the hotel is the brainchild of a renowned Mexican architect Ricardo Legorreta, whose vision for simple yet powerful designs is epitomized by the hotel's striking resemblance to the iconic Guggenheim Museum.

As the hotel celebrates its 25th year of existence, it's fascinating to journey back to its inception in 1999. Erected in the newly developed cultural and economic center of the city, the hotel quickly became a beacon of Bilbao’s ambitious post-industrial transformation. From hosting esteemed artists for the Guggenheim Museum's inaugural gala to accommodating international delegates for key corporate events, Hotel Meliá Bilbao has gracefully carved its place in Bilbao’s history, embodying the city's innovative spirit and welcoming charm.

Price Range

Ensuring elegance, comfort, and unparalleled service doesn't have to come with an exorbitant price tag. The Hotel Meliá Bilbao provides a range of reasonably priced accommodations that cater to budget considerations while also indulging their guests in a luxurious experience. You'll find options that suit the solo business travelers, the romantic couples, and the adventurous family groups.

Certain factors, such as the season of your visit, the type of room you opt for, and the length of your stay, will influence the final cost. However, typical room rates oscillate from around 120 Euros for their cozy and chic Melia Rooms to around 700 Euros for an extravagant stay in their resplendent Suite. Remember, these rates vary and it's always a good idea to check their website or call the hotel for the most current pricing.

Amenities & Facilities

An abundance of amenities awaits your arrival, starting with the luxurious sauna area complete with a fitness center and a heated, outdoor pool. Whether you wish to maintain your workout routine or seek relaxation, it's effortless here. The hotel also boasts a well-equipped business center, an ideal space for those traveling for work. And if you’re staying with your family, rest assured, they've taken care of your little ones too with their dedicated kids’ club.

How to get to Hotel Meliá Bilbao

Contact:

Address: Leizaola Lehendakariaren Kalea, 29, 48011 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain

Phone: +34 944 28 00 00

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed within this article are the author’s alone, not those of any travel/leisure company, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.