Puente Colgante Boutique Hotel 4*

The majestic Puente Colgante Boutique Hotel is by the river just along from the transporter bridge and has an impressive 19th century façade which was preserved when it was fully renovated back in 2006. It has a cafeteria as well as a restaurant and bedrooms are all air conditioned and have a minibar. Garage parking 19€/night (limited). Pets not accepted.

The vibrant town of Portugalete is at the mouth of the estuary, a short drive or easy metro ride from Bilbao. Its huge hanging transporter bridge has been granted UNESCO heritage status - it's definitely worth the trip up to the top for the view - and the steep narrow streets of the old quarter are full of interesting sights including the Salazar tower, the Santa Clara convent and the Basilica of Santa Maria.

In recent years the beautiful multicultural city of Bilbao has become one of Spain's most must-see tourist spots. Its highlight is no doubt the famous Guggenheim and it also has a popular old town - Casco Viejo - which is a pretty maze of narrow streets crammed with shops, old buildings and enticing pintxos (tapas) bars. Just outside is Europe's largest indoor market, the famous La Ribera, where you will find not only stalls but also bars and restaurants so it's also a great place to visit at night. The dining scene generally in Bilbao is renowned and there are plenty of superb restaurants to discover.