Does anyone have hotel recommendations for Bilbao, Spain? Anyone know Iturriena Ostatua, in Fodor's? It is the only one listed in the old quarter which is where I think we would want to stay. We like small, but very nice hotels with lots of atmosphere. Any others??

It looks like you're out of luck, Patrick ... and I feel silly having suggested you to post this under an appropriate title <BR> <BR>While I'm moving this to the top, it doesn't cost me to give you a 2nd hand information. You may consider the López de Haro ... it certainly fits your requirements. With 49 rooms it's on the small size. It appears to be very well located, some 200-300 mts from the river (left bank), 600 mts from Plaza de Frederico Moyua and 800 mts from the Guggenheim Museum. It has the highest Michelin rating in town (great confort and particulary pleasing). The listed rate of 21,800 pesetas for a double is inviting even though somewhat outdated (I have the 1998 Michelin edition). <BR>Paulo <BR>

Last May, we stayed four nights at Lopez de Haro and thought it was wonderful! Incredible buffet breakfasts! <BR>Joy

Thanks for the info Paulo, and for the added input, Joy. I just booked Lopez de Haro for two nights via Summit Hotels at a prepaid rate of $155. US, which seems to be a very good rate considering it is a 5 star hotel (according to at least one source.) The old town hotels seem like they would just be too noisey, especially considering we are there on Saturday and Sunday nights.

Glad you managed to mark down one more item of your check list, Patrick Even if you're paying a bit more than antecipated, I guess you won't regret it. The Lopez de Haro appears to be indeed the best in town and very well located outside the noise of the old town and still pretty close to it. I estimate that a 7-min stroll will take you to the Guggenheim as well as to the old town. <BR>Paulo <BR>