Please select your travel dates to see rates and availability
Check In
Check Out
1 room2 guests1 room, 2 guests
Info
Summary of reviewsHotel Carlton is highly praised for its exceptional location in the heart of Bilbao, offering easy access to the Guggenheim Museum, the Old Town, cafes, restaurants, shops and public transport links. Situated in the picturesque Plaza Moyúa, guests enjoy charming views and a prime position from which to explore the city. The hotel's classic and elegant design adds to the appeal, making it a memorable stay for visitors.
The breakfast at Hotel Carlton is often described as "excellent," "superb," and "out of this world," with a diverse buffet that includes pastries, bread, ham, bacon, eggs, fruits and specialty items like fresh raspberries and macaroons. Even though some guests find the breakfast price high, most feel it's worth it due to the quality and variety. The breakfast room is beautiful and staff service is friendly and supportive, further enhancing the experience.
While dinner experiences at Hotel Carlton receive mixed reviews, the dining facilities are beautifully decorated with a cozy ambiance. Guests generally praise the food quality, particularly the desserts, but note limited menu options and high prices. The bar offers pinxtos, tortas and tapas with outstanding coffee, although its atmosphere is seen as lacking. Some service inconsistencies, especially on Sundays and the early bar closing time are mentioned as areas needing improvement.
The rooms consistently receive high marks for their spaciousness, cleanliness and comfort. Furnished with a mix of modern and classic decor, the accommodations feature high-quality linens, large beds and excellent soundproofing. Guests appreciate the luxurious bathrooms, amenities and in some cases, balconies with beautiful views. Despite minor maintenance issues, the overall feedback on rooms remains extremely positive.
Cleanliness is a standout feature with guests noting the meticulous upkeep of rooms and common areas. The commitment to hygiene extends to all parts of the hotel, creating a comfortable and pleasant stay for visitors.
The staff at Hotel Carlton are frequently highlighted for their exceptional service, friendliness and professionalism. The front desk and concierge are particularly praised for their helpfulness and efficiency. Personalized and warm treatment from the staff contributes significantly to the positive guest experience.
Free Wi-Fi is offered throughout the hotel with many guests finding it reliable and speedy. However, there are occasional complaints about weak or unusable connections.
The gym, although small, is equipped with modern facilities and is appreciated for its cleanliness. Guests enjoy the functional fitness area and access to the spa, though some suggest that an expansion could enhance the experience.
Parking at Hotel Carlton is secure but challenging with limited spaces that are often full and expensive. Guests recommend booking in advance to avoid inconvenience.
The hotel provides convenient EV charging options, including Tesla charge points, which are appreciated by guests with electric vehicles.
Families find Hotel Carlton to be a great choice due to its spacious rooms, child-friendly environment and accommodating staff. Family packages and activities ensure young travelers are entertained and dining options cater to all ages.
For those interested in nightlife, the hotel's location is perfect, surrounded by bars and clubs within walking distance. Guests can easily immerse themselves in the local scene, enjoying a variety of nightlife options.
Overall, Hotel Carlton stands out for its prime location, luxurious rooms, top-notch cleanliness, friendly staff and excellent breakfast, making it a strong choice for travelers seeking a memorable stay in Bilbao. Show more
Read review summaries for all categories
Categories
Hotel with EV Charging Stations
Luxury Hotel
Hotel for Honeymoon
Family Friendly Hotel
Romantic Hotel
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
EV charging stations
Accessible Hotel
Hotel with Gym
5-Star Hotel
Room Types
Double or Twin RoomThis type of room does not allow an extra bed.
Superior Double or Twin RoomThis more spacious room includes a bathrobe and slippers.
This type of room allows an extra bed.
Junior SuiteThis spacious suite includes free newspapers.
Single RoomFeaturing free toiletries, this single room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a bidet and a hairdryer. This single room is air-conditioned and has a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a minibar, a tea and coffee maker and a wardrobe. The unit has 1 bed.
Presidential SuiteThis suite's special feature is the hot tub. This spacious suite comprises 2 living rooms, 2 separate bedrooms and 3 bathrooms with a bath and free toiletries. The suite's kitchen, which features kitchenware and a microwave, is available for cooking and storing food. The air-conditioned suite provides a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a minibar, a tea and coffee maker, a seating area as well as city views. The unit offers 3 beds.
Guest Reviews
8.8
Excellent
Location
Hotel Carlton is praised for its exceptional location, making it a top choice for travelers looking to explore Bilbao effortlessly. Nestled right in the heart of the city, the hotel provides unrivaled access to key attractions such as the Guggenheim Museum and the vibrant Old Town. Guests appreciate the convenience of being near numerous cafes, restaurants, shops and public transport links, including a metro station and the airport bus stop just steps away. The hotel's prime position means that almost every point of interest in the city is within a comfortable walking distance. The splendid Plaza Moyúa, where the hotel is situated, offers picturesque views and a charming atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience. The excellent location is complemented by the classic and elegant design of the hotel, ensuring a memorable stay for visitors to Bilbao.
Breakfast
Hotel Carlton's breakfast offerings have received widespread praise from guests, frequently described with terms such as "excellent," "amazing," and "superb." Guests highlighted the breakfast buffet's extensive variety, noting the presence of both sweet and savory options. Many admired the high quality and freshness of the products and some referred to the breakfast as "out of this world" and "one of the best."
The buffet features an impressive array of choices including pastries, bread, ham, warm bacon, eggs, fruits and even specialty items such as fresh raspberries and macaroons. Guests appreciated the inclusion of gluten-free options and the comprehensive selection that catered to various tastes and dietary needs.
Though some noted the breakfast price as high, many felt it was worth the expenditure given the exceptional quality and abundance of options. The breakfast room itself was described as beautiful and the staff received commendations for their friendly and supportive service.
A few guests did express disappointment with the cost and felt the breakfast did not fully meet a 5-star standard, but these were the minority. Overall, guests found the breakfast experience at Hotel Carlton to be exceptional, frequently characterizing it as plentiful, delicious and a standout feature of their stay.
Dinner
Hotel Carlton's dining experience presents a mixed bag of reviews. The dining facility itself is described as beautiful with a classy ambiance and a cozy atmosphere. Guests have the option of dining at either the bar or the main restaurant, both of which offer fine dining and high-quality meals. Some guests highly recommend the hotel’s dinner, particularly praising the delicious desserts and the well-served, well-organized dinners. However, the menu options are generally limited with some guests noting that the dinner buffet lacks variety, especially in hot food options and the cuisine tends to be on the lighter side.
The bar food, while available, also features a modest selection, primarily offering pinxtos, tortas and tapas paired with outstanding coffee. Although bar meals and restaurant meals are mostly praised, the bar itself is seen as lacking atmosphere and modern appeal, which detracts from the overall experience. It's also noted that the bar closes early and the service can be inconsistent, particularly on Sundays.
Negative points include the high price of dining and the limited availability of affordable options with guests specifically mentioning that the on-site restaurant often feels expensive. Some guests found the room service menu unappealing and noted its limited options. Furthermore, the dining experience could be inconvenient, as the restaurant doesn’t open until late in the evening and Sunday service is especially poor.
In terms of comfort and service, there's room for improvement. The lounge where dinner is served is sometimes poorly conditioned and there have been instances where guests were not informed about special promotions, leading to disappointing experiences.
Overall, while the dinner at Hotel Carlton can be delightful and is sometimes highly recommended, it also faces several areas needing enhancement to meet different guest expectations fully.
Rooms
The rooms at Hotel Carlton stand out for their spaciousness and comfort, consistently praised by guests. Many rooms are described as large, clean and well-appointed, often furnished with modern yet classic decor that enhances the luxurious atmosphere. Guests commend the lavish bathrooms and amenities, such as balconies with beautiful views of Moyua Square and complimentary items in the minibar.
Several reviews highlight newly renovated rooms, which offer an elevated experience with elegant interiors and stylish furnishings. High-quality linens, large beds and soundproofing add to the tranquility and relaxation provided by the accommodations. Despite some rooms requiring updates, including occasional issues with outdated decor or minor maintenance concerns, the overall consensus remains positive.
Cleanliness is a recurring theme with many noting the meticulous upkeep of both the rooms and common areas. Large windows and high ceilings contribute to the bright and airy feel of the rooms, although a few guests mentioned dim lighting and noise disruptions from the street.
In summary, Hotel Carlton delivers a high standard of accommodation characterized by spacious, comfortable and well-equipped rooms, making it a strong choice for travelers seeking luxury and comfort in a historic setting.
Beds
Hotel Carlton has garnered numerous positive reviews for its beds with guests frequently praising the comfort and size of the accommodations. Many visitors highlighted the beds as being extra-large with specifics such as king-size and queen-size beds frequently mentioned. The phrases very large and comfortable, huge bed and super big bed are common, indicating that the bed size significantly contributes to the comfort guests experience.
The beds are not only spacious but are also described as incredibly comfortable with reviewers frequently using terms like excellent mattress, super big bed and pleasant bed. Additionally, the bedding, including pillows and soft sheets, have been noted for their comfort, adding to the overall positive sleeping experience. High-quality, clean and comfortable beds seem to be a consistent standard in the hotel's offerings.
While the majority of the feedback points to a comfortable stay, a few guests mentioned that some beds were too hard for their liking and a couple of comments pointed out specific issues such as lumps in the bed or the bed being firm and creaky. Nonetheless, these comments were less frequent compared to the overwhelming number of remarks appreciating the bed's comfort and size.
In summary, Hotel Carlton's beds are largely praised for their comfort, spaciousness and high quality, contributing to a positive and restful experience for most guests. Despite a handful of critiques regarding firmness, the general consensus leans heavily towards a comfortable and satisfying stay.
Cleanliness
Hotel Carlton consistently receives commendations for its cleanliness. Guests frequently describe the rooms as spotless, immaculately maintained and very tidy. The attention to cleanliness extends beyond the rooms with common areas, bathrooms and corridors being meticulously well-kept. Reviewers highlighted the impeccable cleaning service and the hotel's well-maintained appearance, contributing to an overall comfortable and pleasant stay.
Cleanliness isn't just confined to appearances; the rooms are described as bright, fresh and equipped with nice amenities, further enhancing guest comfort. Minor issues like traces of mold in some bathrooms and occasionally outdated fixtures did arise, but these did not significantly deter from the overall positive perception.
In summary, despite a few areas in need of updating, the commitment to high standards of cleanliness at Hotel Carlton is evident, making it a top choice for visitors valuing hygiene and comfort in their accommodations.
Staff
The reviews for Hotel Carlton consistently highlight the outstanding quality and dedication of the staff. Guests frequently commend the staff for being exceptionally friendly, attentive and helpful. The front desk, in particular, receives high praise for their professionalism and readiness to assist with various needs, including arranging transportation and providing local information. Additionally, both the concierge and bar staff are noted for their friendliness and willingness to go the extra mile to ensure a pleasant stay.
Reviewers often describe the hotel employees as knowledgeable and efficient, capable of handling even the busiest times with grace and courtesy. Many guests remember the personalized and warm treatment they received, which often included addressing specific requests and offering helpful suggestions. The recurring theme of superb customer service is evident with numerous mentions of the staff's approachability, politeness and genuine concern for guest satisfaction.
While the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, there are occasional mentions of less helpful or somewhat reserved staff members. However, these instances are far outweighed by the multitude of comments praising the staff's exceptional performance and the positive impact they had on the overall guest experience.
In summary, the staff at Hotel Carlton are a standout feature, consistently enhancing the guest experience with their friendliness, efficiency and professional demeanor. Guests frequently express their gratitude and satisfaction, often citing the exemplary staff as a key reason for their memorable stay and willingness to return.
Wi-Fi
Hotel Carlton offers free Wi-Fi throughout its premises. In the rooms, many guests found the internet connection to be consistent and reliable with some describing it as having good speed and even among the best they've experienced. Free Wi-Fi is available and some guests remarked that they had no complaints and faced no connection issues.
However, not all experiences were positive. A number of guests reported issues with the Wi-Fi being slow, weak or at times, completely unusable. Some reviews indicated that the connection did not work for a whole day or was terrible in terms of coverage. While many found the service satisfactory, there were instances where the internet could not be reached or the signal was barely detectable.
Overall, the Wi-Fi experience at Hotel Carlton appears mixed with a range of reliability and speed depending on the specific circumstances of the guests' stay.
Gym
Hotel Carlton offers a gym that many guests find convenient and functional, boasting modern equipment and a pleasant atmosphere. The gym, although described as small, is appreciated for being perfectly equipped to meet training needs. Guests highlight the cleanliness and immaculateness of the fitness area, making it a comfortable place to work out with minimal noise. While some mention that the gym could benefit from enlargement and modernization, overall satisfaction is high with no major complaints recorded. In addition to the gym, guests also have access to a spa area that complements the fitness facilities. The fitness center, while described by some as a tiny sports room, is generally praised for its functionality and the availability of facilities on-site.
Parking
Hotel Carlton offers various parking options, but experiences from guests highlight a mixed bag of impressions. On the positive side, the hotel's underground parking is praised for being secure and excellent with some guests finding it convenient and easily accessible. The onsite parking garage, though limited in space, is appreciated by those who reserved in advance.
However, many guests struggled with the parking situation. The parking lot is often full, leading to parking at nearby public lots, which can be a logistical hassle. The spaces are described as very tight and unsuitable for larger cars, making maneuvering difficult. Additionally, the parking is noted as expensive with fees up to 32 euros a day. The lack of a valet service and limited availability further complicates matters, causing an overall sense of inconvenience.
Despite the attentive staff and secured parking options, the high cost and scarcity of parking spaces present challenges, especially for those without prior reservations. Guests suggest booking parking in advance and being prepared for the possibility of using external public parking facilities.
EV charging stations
Hotel Carlton offers a variety of EV charging options for guests with electric vehicles. The availability of Tesla charge points and other EV charging stations in the hotel garage has been frequently highlighted as convenient and commendable. Guests appreciate the opportunity to charge not only their cars but also cellphones and tablets. Overall, the presence of multiple EV charging stations has been a notable advantage with some guests giving special thanks for this amenity. Though one review mentioned missing an EV charging station, it appears this was an exception rather than the norm.
Family
Hotel Carlton offers an ideal location for families, conveniently situated near Gran Via and the Guggenheim Museum. Its family-friendly atmosphere and spacious rooms make it a perfect base for a family getaway or extended visits. Guests have praised the hotel as a great option for its child-friendly environment and accommodating staff. Rooms, particularly the family ones, are noted to be spacious, providing ample space even with additional beds for children.
The hotel offers a variety of family packages and activities designed for kids, ensuring that young travelers are entertained throughout their stay. Family-friendly dining options are available, making mealtimes easy and enjoyable for everyone. The overall comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, combined with helpful staff, has left many families satisfied with their stays, finding great value in their experiences at Hotel Carlton.
Nightlife
Hotel Carlton is situated in a vibrant area that is perfect for guests who are keen on nightlife. The hotel is surrounded by plenty of bars and clubs within walking distance, ensuring that the late-night scene is always alive and kicking. It's a great location for those looking to immerse themselves in the local nightlife with beautiful streets lined with bars, shops and restaurants. The surrounding areas are full of various nightlife options, from quiet bars to lively party spots, catering to different preferences.
Guests have noted the nearby cultural and nightlife attractions, praising the hotel for its proximity to popular night spots. The nightlife in this part of the city is renowned for being fantastic, making it an ideal choice for travelers wanting to experience the local scene thoroughly. Despite the lively surroundings, the area remains quiet at night, allowing for a peaceful stay when you finally call it a night.
Hotel Carlton itself boasts a cocktail bar that becomes a hotspot once the sun sets, adding to the convenience of having nightlife begin right at the hotel. The hotel is not just limited to fantastic nightlife; it also offers beautiful views, such as those from the rooms overlooking the Plaza de Fernando Mayou, providing a serene contrast to the bustling streets below.
5 Star
Hotel Carlton's reviews largely emphasize its classic elegance and high standards indicative of a five-star establishment. Many guests highlight the luxurious ambiance, impeccable old-school service and beautiful, traditional decor that mark a true five-star experience. The hotel is frequently described as elegant and gracious with a high-class atmosphere that fully deserves its rating.
Guests also underscore the hotel's great location and its popularity among executives, adding to its prestige. The value and luxury offered are often praised with several reviews asserting that the hotel lives up to its five-star status and delivers the expected quality of service and facilities.
However, some guests have noted areas in need of improvement. A few reviews pointed out that the room decor and some facilities seemed outdated and not quite up to the five-star standard expected. Service levels have also been inconsistent according to some with mentions of poor service and a breakfast experience that could be better.
Despite these occasional criticisms, the majority consensus is that Hotel Carlton remains a top-tier, five-star destination with the classic charm and sophistication that many travelers seek.
Business
Hotel Carlton stands out as a prime choice for business travelers, offering a range of facilities and services tailored specifically for their needs. The hotel is well-regarded for its business-friendly environment, making it an ideal spot for both business trips and private stays. Guests frequently highlight the good business facilities, including equipped meeting rooms and conference rooms complete with WiFi access.
The location boasts excellent transport links with a Metro station just outside the hotel, ensuring ease of travel around the city. Notably, the hotel staff is praised for their helpfulness, guiding guests on what to do and how to navigate the area efficiently.
Business amenities such as a business lounge and comprehensive meeting services further enhance its suitability for corporate travelers. With provisions like reliable Wi-Fi and appropriate business services, the hotel is well-equipped to meet the demands of professional guests. Overall, Hotel Carlton is well-suited for business travelers, offering great business trips and conferences in a pleasant environment.
Accessible
Hotel Carlton offers commendable accessibility features for guests with disabilities. The hotel provides accessible rooms and areas that ensure comfort and convenience. The rooms are specially adapted for easy access, allowing guests in wheelchairs to move freely. The entrance is equipped with a ramp and elevators are available, enhancing mobility throughout the premises. Accessible rooms and areas are designed to cater to disabled guests, resulting in no significant complaints about accessibility. While reaching the parking might present some difficulties, overall, the hotel remains wheelchair-friendly with thoughtful provisions such as adapted rooms identified promptly for those in need.
Honeymoon
Hotel Carlton is highly recommended as an ideal destination for honeymooners. The honeymoon suite, described as exceeding expectations and beyond wildest dreams, seems to provide fantastic value and special treatment for couples. Several reviews highlight the romantic packages and experiences tailored for newlyweds, making it a perfect destination for honeymoons. Guests report that everything met their expectations with numerous comments praising it as a great place for a honeymoon and an ideal spot for such special occasions. Overall, it appears to be a honeymooner's delight, offering memorable and romantic stays.
Luxury
Nestled in the heart of Bilbao, Hotel Carlton stands as a beacon of luxury and elegance. The property exudes a timeless class with its palace-like host and grand old elegance, inviting guests to an unforgettable stay in a heritage building marked by opulence in every corner. The hotel showcases splendid, stately charm with a beautiful and majestic building that resonates with old-fashioned grandeur and classical luxury.
Guests are treated to luxurious accommodations that blend classic touches with impressive modern amenities. The luxurious rooms and luxurious decorations create a high-standard environment that strongly invites relaxation and comfort. The décor and style emphasize a classic yet sophisticated ambiance with luxurious interiors and exquisite design elements that elevate the experience.
The hotel's unbeatable location adds to its appeal, offering convenience alongside luxury. The opulent, elegant building is complemented by exceptional service, ensuring an excellent stay for every guest. Noteworthy features include luxury cosmetics in the bath and the availability of free electrical car charging, enhancing the overall luxurious experience.
While some reviews suggest it does not always meet the 5-star standard, most guests agree that their stay was characterized by grandeur and charm with a high-class, five-star feel. This iconic hotel with its timeless appeal and prominence in Bilbao remains a top choice for those seeking an elegant escape rooted in luxury.
Romantic
Hotel Carlton offers a quintessential romantic getaway, enveloping guests in timeless elegance and a classic look. The hotel's atmosphere is engrained with romantic charm, making it a perfect retreat for couples seeking a romantic weekend or an ideal Valentine's Day stay. Positioned in the heart of the city, this superb hotel boasts a beautiful location with romantic views and balcony rooms, adding an intimate touch to any stay.
Couples can enjoy romantic dinner settings both within the hotel and at nearby dining spots, enhancing the overall romantic atmosphere. For those celebrating special moments such as honeymoons, Hotel Carlton ensures memorable experiences with thoughtful touches like rooms with beautiful views.
The reviews frequently highlight the hotel's glamourous and very romantic ambiance, making it a lovely setting for any romantic occasion. In summary, Hotel Carlton is praised for its ability to provide a romantic, comfortable and unforgettable experience for its guests.
Dog Friendly
Hotel Carlton offers a welcoming atmosphere for pet owners, characterized by its clear commitment to being dog-friendly. Guests consistently note the hotel's pet-friendly attitude, highlighting dog-friendly rooms and a generally dog-friendly environment. Visitors particularly appreciate the staff's kindness and helpfulness with several guests mentioning that their furry friends were treated well. Specific instances, such as the bartender bringing croquettes for a small dog, illustrate the hotel's attention to pet-related details.
The hotel's central location and high-quality breakfast add to its appeal, making it a convenient and comfortable choice for both humans and pets. While there are a few mentions of the hotel being more dog tolerant than truly dog-friendly, the overall sentiment remains positive. Pets are allowed and amenities for dogs are provided, ensuring that even guests' four-legged companions feel at home.
No, Hotel Carlton doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Hotel Carlton.
No, Hotel Carlton doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Hotel Carlton.