Ercilla López de Haro ★★★★★

Swanky is the first word that comes to mind when entering the Ercilla Lopez de Haro hotel in Bilbao. Think bold patterned wallpapers, oversized crystal chandeliers, polished wood floors and glossy tables topped with peacock feathers. This is the place for trendsetters and the fashion conscious. You'd expect no less from a city that’s home to one of the most famous contemporary art museums in the world.

Named after one of the founders of the city of Bibao Don Diego Lopez de Haro, the boutique hotel Ercilla López de Haro **** is located within walking distance of the renowned Guggenheim Museum itself, as well as a host of other city attractions and is the ideal place to base yourself for a chic and cultural break.

Black and white floral wallpaper, red velvet chairs and stripy lampshades greet you as you enter your hip and stylish bedroom. Marble bathrooms, a desk, mini bar and large flat screen TV also add to the luxurious touches.

When you've settled in, your first stop no doubt will be a visit to the Guggenheim. Designed by American architect Frank Gehry, the strange ship-shaped building was hailed as one of the greatest buildings in the world when it opened in 1997 and is built from limestone, glass and titanium. The museum itself houses a collection of artwork spanning from the mid- 20th century to the present day and features work from international artists such as Mark Rothko, Andy Warhol and Jeff Koon, as well as modern and contemporary Basque and Spanish artists such as Jorge Oteiza, Antonio Saura, and Antoni Tàpies. You could easily spend a whole day browsing the rooms of inspirational and fascinating pieces.

Other notable sights you’ll want to see during your break are the Museo Bellas Artes, housing an impressive collection of everything from Gothic sculptures to 20th century masterpieces; the Euskal Museoa, detailing the history of the Basque country; and the Caso Veijo, the city’s atmospheric old town. Walk out of your hotel and along the river to find this charming part of the city, which dates back to the 1400s and is filled with an eclectic array of colourful buildings and eccentric shops. Make sure to visit the impressive 14th century Gothic Cathedral de Santiago and the Plaza Nueva, one of the best places to find pintxo (Basque tapas) bars in the city.

In the evenings relax with a glass in the hotel’s Lounge, a classy Moët & Chandon Champagne bar, which tries to emulate a typical English club, with its soft leather armchairs, Murano black crystal lamps and large roaring fireplace. You can also dine here in the restaurant area, which offers delicious local style cuisine prepared by Chef Julio Heras, as well as a sumptuous menu of the day.

You'll leave here not only with a fond affection for the northern Spanish city, but also the chic and friendly atmosphere of the hotel Ercilla López de Haro ****.