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The Artist Gran Hotel

First Michelin Key in Bizkaia: The Artist

Bilbao has one more reason to celebrate. The hotel The Artist – Grand Hotel of Art has received a Michelin Key, the new distinction awarded by the prestigious guide to the world’s most exceptional accommodations. It is currently the only hotel in the city to hold this honor, placing it among the leading names in international hospitality. Its concept, which blends art, design, haute cuisine, and unique views of the city, makes it a truly unforgettable experience.

Where Creativity Lives

Located opposite the Guggenheim Museum, in the very heart of Bilbao’s cultural district, The Artist embodies the city’s creative spirit. More than just a place to stay, it is a space that invites guests to experience art in all its forms — to feel it, explore it, and enjoy it.

Since its inception, the hotel has followed a clear philosophy: art is its very soul. Conceived by the artist Javier Mariscal, it was born as Spain’s first “signature hotel,” where every corner is designed to evoke emotion. Its interior design pays tribute to contemporary style, combining iconic 20th-century pieces with original artworks that fill the spaces with color and personality.

Among its most recognizable symbols stands the Fossil Cypress, a 26-meter-high sculpture that rises through the central atrium, symbolizing the hotel’s innovative spirit. Here, guests don’t simply stay — they immerse themselves in an aesthetic universe that sparks imagination and awakens the senses.

At The Artist, art is not merely observed: it is experienced. Every detail, every room, and every gesture reflect a philosophy rooted in elegance, authenticity, and emotion. It is the perfect destination for those seeking a genuine connection with Bilbao’s creative essence.

OLiO: The Taste of Art The artistic experience also extends to the palate at OLiO, the hotel’s signature restaurant. Led by chef Abel Corral, a Bilbao native trained in culinary temples such as El Bulli, Mugaritz, and Martín Berasategui, it offers a cuisine that blends Basque tradition with French refinement. Local produce takes center stage in his creations. Each dish is a work of art where technique meets emotion, achieving a perfect balance between innovation and flavor. Impeccable service and a carefully curated wine list complete a gastronomic experience that transcends cuisine itself to become a tribute to the art of fine dining.
The Rooftop: Bilbao from Above

On the rooftop, The Rooftop offers one of the most dazzling panoramas of Bilbao. Facing the imposing silhouette of the Guggenheim Museum, this space has become a meeting point for locals and travelers alike. Signature cocktails, live music, and sunsets over the Nervión create unforgettable moments. In the morning, breakfasts with a view are an essential ritual. In the afternoon, brunches and aperitifs invite relaxation. And as night falls, The Rooftop transforms into a vibrant stage where the city shines in all its splendor. This venue has also been awarded a Solete by the Repsol Guide, recognizing it as one of the most special places to enjoy.

An Experience with Its Own Identity

The Michelin Key confirms what many guests already suspected: The Artist is much more than a hotel. It is a statement of style — a fusion of art, culture, and hospitality that redefines the concept of luxury in Bilbao.

In a city that breathes inspiration, The Artist stands as a symbol of elegance, creativity, and excellence. Every stay becomes an unforgettable memory, and every guest becomes part of a story that celebrates the best of the city — its art, its light, and its soul.