Petit Palace Arana, Bilbao

Pros

• The hotel is in Bilbao's Casco Viejo, a prime location for exploring the city's major attractions on foot.
• The hotel is housed in a restored early 19th-century building.
• Rooms accommodate up to four people, so it's great for families. 
• The hotel is pet-friendly.
• The breakfast buffet offers various options, including vegan, lactose-free, and gluten-free choices.
• Hotel guests can borrow bicycles for free.
• The hotel is well-connected to public transportation.

Cons

• The hotel doesn't offer on-site parking.
• The breakfast room has a low ceiling height, which may be a consideration for taller guests.

Authenticity

Petit Palace Aran in Bilbao's Casco Viejo offers a charming blend of history and modernity. As the city's oldest hotel, it occupies a restored early 19th-century building, showcasing neoclassical architecture with preserved natural stone walls and wooden staircases. The interiors maintain a vintage charm with modern comforts. Despite its contemporary design, the hotel honors its roots with features like vintage wood beams in some rooms, reflecting its historical origins. The hotel's atmosphere pays homage to Bilbao's cultural heritage, making it an excellent stay for those interested in the city's past.

Location

Petit Palace Arana is located in Bilbao's vibrant old quarter, across from the historic Arriaga Theater. This prime spot allows travelers to explore major attractions on foot, such as the Plaza Nueva, a mere 3-minute walk away, and the lively Mercado De La Ribera within 6 minutes. Museums like the Basque Ethnographic and Historical Museum are just a 5-minute stroll. Although situated in a busy area, the hotel offers a serene retreat, with key sites like the Guggenheim Museum a 21-minute walk away. Conveniently, transportation hubs like La Concordia Train Station are just minutes away on foot.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The rooms at Petit Palace Arana are neat and functional, featuring parquet flooring and simple wood furnishings. They offer a cozy and practical atmosphere with a touch of the building's history, seen in details like vintage wood beams. Room categories range from Single Rooms to spacious Quadruple Rooms, some with Juliet balconies and city views. Bathrooms are well-appointed with walk-in showers and practical amenities. While city-facing rooms provide natural light and views, interior rooms offer a quieter ambience, perfect for a restful stay.

Amenities

Although Petit Palace Arana lacks a spa or pool, it offers amenities like complimentary bicycles for exploring Bilbao. The breakfast buffet on the sixth floor is a highlight, featuring various options, including vegan and gluten-free choices, served in a room with charming wooden beams. 

Family-Friendliness

Petit Palace Arana is a family-friendly hotel offering various amenities for children, like high chairs in the breakfast area and complimentary cribs for certain room types. Families can borrow strollers from the reception, and the Quadruple Room is ideal for accommodating up to four people. The breakfast buffet caters to young guests with kid-friendly options, making it a comfortable choice for families visiting Bilbao.