All Iron Hostel

You have to climb a hill to get there, but that't kind of a Bilbao thing. Staff were helpful and friendly despite the language barrier. Rooms didn't have AC and outlets were only in the lockers, but were clean, if a little crowded with 8 beds. Showers only had a button that made hot water come, no hairdryer or washing machines, but everything was clean. Kitchen was well-equipped, but a bit small. The breakfast spread was a big help in starting mornings.

Avoid at all costs. As an experienced traveller who has stayed in many hostels, this is the first negative review I've left. The hostel felt dirty, poorly managed and unsafe. My room smelled strongly of urine, faeces and body odour. The hostel double-booked my bed, opened my locker (‘secured’ with a personal lock), moved my belongings and left valuables unsecured. The reception displayed guests' personal data on an unattended laptop at reception. There are far better and safer options in Bilbao.

Definitely not the worst hostel I’ve stayed at, but the security is abysmal. No locks on the rooms, front door only locked very late at night, female bathrooms entered by men. The clientele was mostly pilgrims staying 1 night, for that purpose I’d say this hostel is good! However, for staying in Bilbao a few days and sightseeing mostly in the city I wouldn’t recommend, the hostel is quite a bit away and uphill from the centre. I was also stared at in communal spaces by some staff and other men.