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Summary of reviewsSercotel Arenal Bilbao is a highly commendable hotel, particularly praised for its ideal location, nestled in the heart of the vibrant Old Town, Casco Viejo. The hotel's proximity to iconic sights, such as the Arriaga Theater, Guggenheim Museum and Plaza Nueva, makes it a perfect base for exploring both the historical and modern facets of Bilbao. Guests frequently mention the ease of access to public transport and the bustling local scene teeming with bars, cafes and shops, adding to its central charm.
Breakfast at Sercotel Arenal Bilbao is widely appreciated for its variety and quality. Guests enjoy a selection of sweet and savory options including fruits, vegetables, ham, cheeses, cereals, yogurts and fresh breads. Despite some minor criticisms regarding the small dining space and the coffee quality, the overall breakfast experience is positive, supported by friendly and attentive staff.
The rooms at the hotel are often described as spacious, clean and beautifully decorated. Many feature spectacular views of the surrounding areas, enhancing the overall charm. Comfortable beds, well-equipped bathrooms and high ceilings contribute to a relaxing stay. While some reviews mention inconsistencies in room sizes and occasional noise from the street, the overall sentiment remains highly favorable.
Cleanliness is a standout feature at Sercotel Arenal Bilbao with guests frequently noting the spotless state of the rooms and common areas. The diligent cleaning staff ensure that the facilities are well-maintained and welcoming, contributing significantly to the hotel’s positive reputation.
The hotel's staff receive widespread acclaim for their friendliness, professionalism and helpfulness. The reception team, in particular, is often highlighted for creating a welcoming atmosphere and providing valuable local insights. The staff's prompt responsiveness and accommodating nature add to the overall pleasant experience.
In addition to the excellent services and location, the hotel's free WiFi is frequently praised for its speed and reliability, ensuring guests can stay connected with ease. Although the hotel does not offer on-site parking, nearby public parking options and available discounts make it convenient for guests arriving by car.
For families, the hotel provides a welcoming environment with family-friendly rooms and amenities suitable for those traveling with children and pets. While some rooms are smaller and may lack certain amenities, the overall family experience is positive, supported by the helpful staff and the hotel's prime location.
Sercotel Arenal Bilbao's location also makes it an ideal spot for experiencing the city’s nightlife. Surrounded by numerous bars and restaurants, guests can easily immerse themselves in Bilbao’s festive atmosphere. However, the lively surroundings can lead to nighttime noise, which may be a consideration for some guests.
Overall, Sercotel Arenal Bilbao offers a superb stay with its central location, comfortable rooms, excellent cleanliness and friendly service. It stands out as a three-star hotel that often exceeds expectations, making it a preferred choice for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the dynamic pulse of Bilbao. Show more
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Categories
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Located in the heart of Casco Viejo, this hotel provides immediate access to the best traditional nightlife in Bilbao, including numerous pintxo bars and taverns.
3-Star Hotel
Located in the heart of Bilbao near Casco Viejo, this hotel offers guests a library, entertainment activities, and horse riding opportunities. It's praised for its central location, making it easy to explore the city.
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Family Friendly Hotel
Dog Friendly Hotel
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
Room Types
Habitacion Basica IndividualThis elegant, air-conditioned room features satellite TV, a work desk, minibar and a private bathroom with a hairdryer.
Habitacion Clasica con vistas a la ciudad - 2 camasProviding free toiletries, this twin/double room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a bidet and a hairdryer. The twin/double room provides air conditioning, soundproof walls, a minibar, a wardrobe, as well as a flat-screen TV. The unit offers 2 beds.
Superior Double or Twin RoomThe spacious twin/double room provides air conditioning, soundproof walls, as well as a private bathroom featuring a bath and a bidet. The twin/double room features parquet floors, a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a minibar, a wardrobe as well as city views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Habitacion Doble BasicaThis air-conditioned double room has a desk, a patio, an inner courtyard view and a private bathroom. The unit has 1 bed.
Habitacion clasica con vistas a la ciudad - 1 Cama Doble The twin/double room provides air conditioning, soundproof walls, as well as a private bathroom featuring a bath or a shower and a hairdryer. The twin/double room offers a minibar, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box, parquet floors and a flat-screen TV. The unit offers 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
8.5
Very Good
Location
The Sercotel Arenal Bilbao is spectacularly situated, offering an ideal base for any visitor to this vibrant city. Its central location in the heart of Casco Viejo or the Old Town, places guests at the doorstep of Bilbao's most iconic sights and lively districts. With the Arriaga Theater and Arenal Park nearby and easy access to the river, metro stations and public transport, getting around is a breeze.
The hotel is perfectly poised for those looking to explore both the historic and modern facets of Bilbao. Guests consistently highlight its proximity to the bustling Plaza Nueva and striking city views, which contribute to its blend of tradition and contemporary comfort. The delightful terraces provide an excellent vantage point for people-watching and the immediate surroundings are teeming with bars, cafes, shops and cultural attractions.
Whether you're on a short stay or extended visit, the location couldn't be better. Just steps away from key landmarks including the Guggenheim Museum, the Cathedral and renowned eateries, guests can truly immerse themselves in the city's offerings. The hotel’s cleanliness, comfort and welcoming staff also receive high praise, ensuring a pleasant stay for all. With everything accessible on foot, Sercotel Arenal Bilbao is a superb choice for anyone wishing to experience the dynamic pulse of Bilbao from a central, strategic location.
Breakfast
The breakfast at Sercotel Arenal Bilbao receives a range of feedback, predominantly leaning towards the positive. Many guests find the breakfast varied with a good selection of sweet and savory options that include fruits, vegetables, ham, cheeses, cereals, yogurts and fresh breads. Words like "excellent," "very good," "superb," and "delicious" punctuate the majority of reviews, reflecting a general satisfaction with the quality and variety. The buffet-style presentation is frequently praised for being comprehensive and well-organized.
However, some reviews highlight areas for improvement, such as the room's size, which is often described as cramped with only 12 tables available. A few guests mention that the coffee from the machine could be better and occasionally note that the breakfast might be basic or lack variety. Despite these points, the overall service at breakfast is well-regarded with mentions of friendly and attentive staff making the experience more enjoyable.
In summary, Sercotel Arenal Bilbao offers a solid breakfast experience that most guests appreciate for its variety and quality, though it occasionally faces minor criticisms regarding room space and specific food items.
Rooms
The rooms at Sercotel Arenal Bilbao have earned high praise for their spaciousness and cleanliness. Guests consistently describe the rooms as large, comfortable and beautifully decorated. Many rooms offer spectacular views, including panoramic scenes of the Teatro Arriaga and the surrounding square, adding an extra layer of charm. The high ceilings, large windows and stylish furnishings enhance the overall experience.
Comfort is a pivotal point highlighted by many guests, who appreciate the comfortable beds and pillows. The bathrooms, often mentioned as spacious and well-equipped, add to the comfort with their quality toiletries and modern facilities. Guests noted that rooms are cleaned to a high standard, further contributing to the positive experience.
However, some guests have mentioned that room sizes can be inconsistent with certain rooms being described as small or compact, particularly in the attic. Noise from the street or other rooms has also been noted as a minor issue by some visitors.
While the amenities in the rooms are generally satisfactory, a few guests pointed out the absence of tea and coffee facilities and some bathrooms lacked bathrobes and slippers. Additionally, the air conditioning was not always effective, especially in the attic rooms.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the majority of guests find the rooms at Sercotel Arenal Bilbao to be well-maintained, comfortable and perfectly located for exploring the vibrant city of Bilbao.
Beds
At Sercotel Arenal Bilbao, guests consistently highlight the comfort of the beds as a standout feature of their stay. The majority describe the beds as very comfortable with some going as far as to call them super comfortable or even super comfy. Cleanliness also receives frequent recognition, contributing to an overall restful experience. Many guests appreciate the bedding and mattresses, noting their quality and comfort. The rooms themselves are often described as spacious, which, along with soft and cozy bedding, further enhances the sleeping experience.
However, not all feedback about the beds is entirely positive. Some guests mentioned issues such as the bed being too small or too soft with a few finding the pillows insufficient or uncomfortable. A handful found the layout a bit cramped with too little space between the bed and the wall. Despite these occasional shortcomings, the super comfy and large beds, as well as the overall cleanliness and comfort, seem to leave a lasting positive impression on most visitors.
Cleanliness
Sercotel Arenal Bilbao is consistently praised for its outstanding cleanliness. Guests frequently highlight the spotless state of the rooms, describing them as impeccably clean and well-maintained. The hotel's commitment to maintaining pristine facilities is evident with daily cleaning ensuring that rooms remain tidy and welcoming every day. Guests find the rooms not only clean but also comfortable and quiet, creating a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation after long days of exploring.
The hotel's thorough cleaning routine covers all aspects, including bathrooms and communal areas, ensuring a hygiene standard that impresses many. Specific mentions of the hotel's spotless property and clean facilities contribute to its reputation for great cleanliness, making it a reliable choice for travelers seeking a clean and comfortable stay.
While the hotel does experience occasional minor issues, such as early morning cleaning noise or small areas needing more frequent attention, the overall sentiment remains highly positive. The diligent and attentive cleaning staff contribute significantly to the hotel's favorable perception, ensuring that guests consistently enjoy a pristine environment during their stay at Sercotel Arenal Bilbao.
Staff
Sercotel Arenal Bilbao stands out prominently when it comes to commendable service, largely due to its exceptionally friendly and helpful staff. Most guests highlight the warmth and professionalism of the reception team, often mentioning individuals like Jon and Itziar for their outstanding service. The staff's amicable nature, always adorned with a smile, creates a welcoming atmosphere right from the check-in.
The diligence of the hotel employees extends beyond the front desk. Guests frequently appreciated the attentiveness and courteous behavior of the staff, not only in the reception area but also in other segments such as breakfast service. They are noted to be always ready to offer valuable suggestions on sightseeing, reflecting their efficiency and deep knowledge about the local area.
Aside from being friendly, the staff’s professionalism and willingness to assist should any issue arise make a significant positive impact. Their prompt responsiveness and solution-oriented mindset ensure that guests' needs are met swiftly. The consistent positive feedback about their treatment emphasizes the courteous and supportive interactions guests experience during their stays.
Despite occasional minor lapses, where breakfast staff's politeness was questioned by a few, the overall perception of Sercotel Arenal Bilbao’s team remains highly favorable. Guests are often left with positive impressions, resulting in high praise for the team’s hospitality. The exceptional service and the constant friendliness of the staff indeed contribute to creating memorable hotel experiences, making Sercotel Arenal Bilbao a sought-after choice for visitors in the city.
Wi-Fi
Sercotel Arenal Bilbao receives high praise for its WiFi from numerous guests. The connection is frequently described as excellent, fast and reliable with many appreciating its strong signal and consistent performance. Reviewers highlight the good speed and stability of the WiFi, making it suitable for various online activities. However, a few guests noted areas for improvement, mentioning occasional weak signals and concerns about security. Overall, the positive feedback on the hotel's WiFi stands out, ensuring a generally dependable internet experience for guests.
Parking
Situated in the heart of Bilbao, 'Sercotel Arenal Bilbao' offers convenient access to a variety of nearby parking options for guests arriving by car. Although the hotel itself does not provide on-site parking, there are several public parking facilities located very close by. The proximity of these parking garages ensures that guests can easily manage their vehicle needs with minimal hassle.
While parking in the area is generally paid, the hotel has a partnership with nearby facilities, offering a discount to help offset the costs. This discount, typically around 10%, makes the parking rates a bit more manageable, though they remain somewhat expensive. The discounted parking options are not always well-explained or easy to navigate, but they do exist for those who inquire.
Among the nearby choices, an underground parking garage and other public lots are frequently mentioned, providing safe and covered spaces for vehicles. Despite some complaints about the complexity and cost of parking, the hotel's central location and its ability to offer a discount make it a viable option for guests looking to explore Bilbao without the worry of where to park their cars.
Overall, while the parking situation at 'Sercotel Arenal Bilbao' might come with its own set of challenges, the convenience of nearby parking options and the available discounts help to alleviate some of the common issues travelers might face.
Family
Sercotel Arenal Bilbao is a welcoming destination for families, ideally located with easy access to city attractions, museums and the charming old town—making it suitable for those visiting with kids. The hotel's family-friendly rooms cater to those traveling with young children and even pets, ensuring a pleasant stay for all family members, both human and furry. Despite a few inconveniences, such as the triple rooms being on the smaller side and lacking balconies, the overall experience is enjoyable. Personalized service and helpful staff, particularly in the breakfast area, add to the comfort, although certain amenities like the minibar and coffee machine could be improved. Located in a lovely area, the hotel provides useful tips for family-friendly dining and activities, making it a nice place to visit with kids and family.
Nightlife
Situated in the vibrant old town of Bilbao, Sercotel Arenal Bilbao offers a prime location for those eager to immerse themselves in the city's nightlife. This hotel is a stone's throw away from a plethora of bars, restaurants and tapas spots, making it a prime destination for foodies and night owls alike. Guests can delight in the rich, festive atmosphere and enjoy exploring Bilbao's buzzing nightlife scenes on foot.
While the lively surroundings provide ample entertainment options and a festive mood, the hotel's central location does come with its challenges. Nighttime noise is a frequent occurrence with music from nearby bars, festivals and late-night celebrations often filling the air. For those sensitive to sound, this vibrant ambiance can translate into difficulty sleeping, even though the hotel's soundproofing measures offer some respite.
Despite the noise, the proximity to key attractions and local hotspots makes Sercotel Arenal Bilbao an ideal stay for those looking to fully experience the city's nightlife. Whether exploring during festive seasons or enjoying a casual night out, guests are always in the heart of the action, immersed in Bilbao’s lively and authentic local atmosphere.
3 Star
Sercotel Arenal Bilbao consistently receives high praise for its central location and exceptional standards, making it a superb choice for travelers seeking a city hotel with excellent value. Despite being rated as a three-star establishment, many guests have noted that the quality and cleanliness of the rooms are above average with some even comparing it to four-star hotels. The hotel’s decor has been described as beautiful, contributing to an overall pleasant ambiance.
Guests appreciate the good amenities provided, highlighting that the room quality exceeds typical three-star expectations. Cleanliness and comfort are consistently mentioned as major positive points. Additionally, the hotel’s breakfast, although served in a somewhat small and crowded room, is generally well-received and considered good for a three-star property.
However, some reviews point out areas for improvement. Noise levels in rooms and the overall crowded nature of the breakfast area during peak times have been noted as minor drawbacks. A few guests felt that the hotel was a bit pricey for its category with some services not fully meeting the expectations set by its rating.
In conclusion, Sercotel Arenal Bilbao stands out as an excellent city hotel with three-star facilities that often impresses guests with its near four-star quality. Its prime location and strong value for money make it a popular choice, despite a few minor inconveniences.
Business
Sercotel Arenal Bilbao stands out as an ideal accommodation for business travelers, catering well to their needs with its prime central location in Bilbao's business district. It is conveniently surrounded by numerous businesses, enhancing its appeal for those traveling for work. The hotel provides professional service with a 24-hour reception, ensuring that assistance is available at all times.
Renovated recently, the hotel features a clean and updated interior, providing a comfortable and contemporary environment for guests. The rooms, though compact, maintain a high level of cleanliness and modernity. Additionally, the hotel offers several business-oriented amenities, including meeting facilities and dedicated business rooms.
With competitive pricing and good value for services, Sercotel Arenal Bilbao is a well-known business hotel that effectively supports the needs of its corporate clientele. While specific details on amenities like a sauna or pool were not highlighted, its solid business services and strategic location make it a reliable choice for business travelers.
Accessible
Sercotel Arenal Bilbao's accessible features receive largely positive feedback from guests. Centrally located near Plaza Nueva, the hotel offers easy access to Bilbao's top attractions, making it an excellent base for exploring the city. The proximity to various transportation options, including a metro station, bus stops, tram access and a taxi stand right at or near the hotel, ensures convenient travel around the city.
While accessibility within the hotel is generally good, there are some limitations. Notably, the elevator only reaches the 5th floor, leaving the top floor accessible only by stairs, which may present a challenge for those carrying luggage. Guests did not report other significant accessibility issues and the public underground car park right in front of the hotel adds to the convenience.
Overall, the Sercotel Arenal Bilbao appears to meet most accessibility needs, particularly given its prime location and the ease of access to public transport and city attractions. However, those with mobility concerns should be aware of the elevator's limited reach to the top floor.
Dog Friendly
Sercotel Arenal Bilbao stands out as a welcoming destination for those traveling with pets. Guests frequently note the hotel's friendly pet policy and accommodations that cater well to furry friends. The provision of dog beds and treats is a particularly appreciated touch, enhancing the overall stay for both pets and their owners. The staff's positive attitude towards pets and the reasonable pet policies are highlights, contributing to a genuinely pet-friendly atmosphere.
Despite the additional pet fee, many travelers find the amenities provided—such as pet beds and accessories—to be worthwhile. This hotel is praised for its inclusivity, allowing dogs for an extra fee, which is seen as reasonable considering the comprehensive services offered. Guests have observed that many families comfortably travel with one or more pets with all pets appearing well taken care of.
There are a few minor concerns, such as occasional instances of barking. However, these seem to be isolated events and do not overshadow the overwhelmingly positive experience reported by those who travel with dogs and other furry friends. Overall, Sercotel Arenal Bilbao is highly regarded for its pet-friendly environment and commitment to making pets feel at home.
No, Sercotel Arenal Bilbao doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Sercotel Arenal Bilbao.
Yes, Sercotel Arenal Bilbao welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Sercotel Arenal Bilbao.