Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao: Your Bilbao Dream Hotel Awaits!
Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao: My Bilbao Brain Dump - A Review That's Hopefully Worth Your Time
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to unleash a torrent of thoughts, feelings, and maybe a stray crumb or two from my recent (and gloriously messy) stay at the Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao. They're calling it your "Bilbao Dream Hotel," and, well, dreams are weird things, aren't they? Let's dissect this one, shall we?
First Impressions (and My Immediate Need for Coffee)
Right, so the Coliseo. It's smack-bang in the city center, which is immediately a win. No hours-long airport transfer to navigate after a red-eye flight? Bless. Getting there was a breeze, no thanks to my utter inability to pack light. (Why do I always bring three pairs of shoes when I know I'll wear one?) The check-in process was thankfully contactless (praise be!), which meant I could avoid that awkward "how are you?" small talk before I'd even had my caffeine fix. Pro tip: find the nearest coffee shop immediately upon arrival. You'll thank me later.
The lobby? Nice enough. Predictable, in a way. Clean, modern, and efficient, but not exactly… soulful. (Maybe "soulful" is a high bar for a lobby. My expectations are ridiculous). There were a few facilities for disabled guests, which I always appreciate seeing. The Elevator whisked me upward without delay, which is essential when you’re carting around a suitcase that could rival a small mountain.
Accessibility & Getting Around (Because Reality Bites)
Okay, full disclosure: I'm not in a wheelchair, but I'm super aware of accessibility. The Coliseo, from what I saw, seemed pretty good. The entrance was flat, with ramps where needed. Elevator access was evident, and I didn't spot any obvious barriers. They also had a wheelchair accessible option, which I didn't need, but it's critical to see it offered. Getting around Bilbao is relatively easy as well, with walkable streets (though some are on a slight incline – Bilbao’s a hilly beauty!) and good public transport.
The Room: Sanctuary or… Well, We'll Get There
My room? Ah, yes. The moment of truth. Was it my "Bilbao Dream"? Well, the Air conditioning was a godsend (especially after hauling that suitcase!), and the Blackout curtains were a game-changer for combating jet lag. The Bed was enormous; an Extra long bed that swallowed me whole. The Pillows were fluffy, which is a HUGE win in my book, but I'm picky, so I can’t guarantee it meets your pillow needs.
The Bathroom was functional. Clean, with a decent Shower and Toiletries. The Hairdryer worked (thank goodness - my hair is a wild beast without one). The Bathtub was, well, a bathtub. I didn't use it. I'm more of a "quick shower" kind of gal. There was a mirror… several, actually. All of them reflected the slightly crazed look in my eyes.
The Room's Minor Annoyances
- There wasn't an overwhelming "wow" factor, but this is not the Ritz.
- The soundproofing was pretty good, but I did hear a few late-night revelers on the street below. (Bilbao's known for its nightlife, so… expected.)
- The Closet was a bit small - and I had to wrestle my overflowing suitcase into it. Lesson learned: pack less.
Technology Time: The Wi-Fi and the Internet of Meh
Okay, so the Free Wi-Fi in all rooms was a huge selling point for me. And it worked, mostly. (I'm an internet addict, what can I say?). They also advertised Internet [LAN], but honestly, who uses that anymore? Internet access – wireless (the wi-fi) was the star of the show. A little spotty at times, but usually sufficient to support my Insta-stalking habit.
They offered In-room safe box, an Alarm clock (who needs it?), and Satellite/cable channels (again, meh). I did appreciate the Coffee/tea maker, though! Essential for pre-breakfast and post-breakfast pick-me-ups.
Dining & Drinking: A Culinary Adventure (or at Least, an Adventure)
The Breakfast [buffet]… oh, the breakfast buffet. It was… a buffet. The Breakfast service started early, which I loved. There was your standard Buffet in restaurant fare: Western breakfast options, pastries, fruit, cold cuts, and even some Asian breakfast options. (Although, I’m not sure if I’d call a scrambled egg with one bean “Asian”. More like, “the chef is trying.”) The Coffee/tea in restaurant was pretty good (thank goodness!), and they kindly provided Complimentary tea. I did see some Vegetarian options, but I didn’t really explore them, but they were there… somewhere.
I also attempted the in-house Restaurants. There was an A la carte in restaurant menu – I had a fantastic octopus dish one night. Their Poolside bar was convenient, but the view was just of the city. The Room service [24-hour] was temptting, so I was glad to know it was there.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax (Or Attempt To)
So, the Coliseo boasts a Fitness center (I didn’t use it. Let's be honest.) and a Sauna and Spa/sauna. But here’s the thing: I’m on vacation. Vacation is all about not working out. I might have peeked into the Spa. Maybe. I was tempted by a Massage. But I ended up in the bar. Priorities.
The Swimming pool [outdoor] looked inviting, although the weather in Bilbao didn't always cooperate. (It's the Basque Country; expect rain!). My Swimming pool fantasies were sadly dashed.
Cleanliness & Safety: Sanitized Sanity!
This is a big one in the post-pandemic world. The Coliseo really seemed to take this seriously. They had Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Hand sanitizer galore. My room was Rooms sanitized between stays, and I felt confident in its cleanliness. Staff trained in safety protocol reassured me. They even offered Room sanitization opt-out available. Safety first!
They did provide Sanitized kitchen and tableware items when I had room service. And the Sanitized dining setup also felt comforting, which is the most important thing.
Services & Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
The Doorman was friendly and helpful, always a bonus. Daily housekeeping kept my room looking (relatively) tidy. Luggage storage was great while I was waiting for my room. Dry cleaning and Ironing service were available – again proving this isn’t the Ritz! They offered Currency exchange (handy). Food delivery options were available, which is perfect for the hungover traveller. Cash withdrawal was available. I appreciated having the Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, and Facilities for disabled guests, all of which were great.
The Quirky & Unexpected (And Maybe a Little Bit Annoying)
- The Vending Machine: It was a Convenience store in a box! I’m a sucker for those things, and it helped me find some water and snacks to get me through the night.
- The Lack of a View: My window, alas, offered nothing to write home about. Just buildings. Bilbao is a city of beautiful architecture, a pity that I did not get to see the best of it.
- The Noise: The soundproofing… adequate, but not perfect. Bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper!
For The Kids (And, Let's Be Honest, Adults Too)
I didn't travel with children, so I can't vouch for the Babysitting service or the Kids facilities. But the hotel seemed generally Family/child friendly. (However, I saw no Kids meal in the restaurant.)
Getting Around: Your Bilbao Escape Plan
The hotel offered Airport transfer, a Car park [on-site], and Taxi service. I took a taxi because my tired body was not ready. Bicycle parking was available. If you're smart about the city and planning, get around with public transport.
The Verdict: Bilbao Bliss? Maybe… with a Few Caveats
So, is the Sercotel Coliseo a "dream hotel"? It depends. If your dream involves:
- A central location? Yes.
- Cleanliness and safety? Yes.
- Decent breakfast? Mostly yes.
- Unparalleled luxury? Probably not.
The Coliseo is a solid,
Lander's BEST Hotel? Holiday Inn Express Review!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into the glorious, messy, and occasionally disastrous world of my (fictional, I wish!) trip to Bilbao, Spain, specifically the Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao. Prepare for opinions, rambles, and the truth – which, let's be honest, is usually weirder than fiction.
Bilbao Blitz: A Journey in Mostly-Smooth-ish Strokes (And a Few Hiccups)
Day 1: Arrival - Or, How I Failed to Pack Light (Again)
- Morning (Because "Early" is a Myth): Touchdown in Bilbao! Or, more accurately, a slightly chaotic scramble out of the airport. The flight was fine, if you don't count the guy hacking up a lung two rows back for the entire duration. Seriously, dude? A cough drop? A prayer? Anything would've been helpful.
- Arrival at Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao: Finally, sanctuary! The hotel, frankly, is pretty slick. Modern, clean… everything a travel writer (aka, me) looks for. Except… did I mention I have the packing skills of a toddler? My suitcase exploded in the lobby. I mean, truly exploded. Underwear, toiletries, and a questionable amount of Haribo gummy bears cascaded onto the pristine floor. Mortified? Maybe. Guilty? Definitely not. Those gummy bears were strategically placed for maximum enjoyment.
- Afternoon: A Taste of Bilbao - And a Misunderstanding: First order of business: Pintxos! (That's Basque for tapas, for the uninitiated.) I wandered into a charming little bar near the hotel, "Gure Txokoa." The atmosphere was perfect, and I dove in, pointing at everything that looked remotely delicious. I thought I ordered a plate of little fried peppers. What I got was a plate of… I don't even know. Some kind of gelatinous fish thing. The waiter, bless his heart, just raised an eyebrow and shrugged when I tried to discreetly push it around my plate. My face must have given me away, I was still smiling, even thought my teeth were clenched. Embarrassing, wonderful, and a perfect start to this adventure.
- Evening: The Guggenheim – A Monument to Art (And Tourist Overload): Okay, the Guggenheim Museum. Let's get this straight: it's stunning. Utterly incredible architecture. Soul-stirring. But… the sheer volume of people! It was like trying to appreciate a masterpiece while dodging a mosh pit. Still, I was in awe. Especially when I came face to face with the puppy. Fluffy, beautiful, and a perfect distraction from the hordes. I probably should've spent more time looking at the art. But the puppy…
- Night: Tapas Crawl… and a Wine-Soaked Mistake: Tonight, I went for it. Wandering around Casco Viejo (the Old Town), hitting several bars with tapas. I was really enjoying myself. Overjoyed! I could feel the joy flowing through me. Wine, conversation, food – pure bliss. Then, fueled by Rioja, I made a questionable decision and tried to order a pintxo purely based on what the waitress told me in rapid-fire Basque. I was in and out of the bar before realizing I had not remembered what they said, but the experience filled me once again with joy!
Day 2: Culture, Culinary Adventures and a Personal Meltdown (Almost)
- Morning: Exploring the City - And Discovering My Inner Tourist: The next morning I was filled with passion, enthusiasm, and the effects of overindulging. I spent the morning wandering around Bilbao, stumbling upon the beautiful Plaza Nueva, the colorful houses along the river, and the imposing Catedral de Santiago. The energy of the city was addicting. I spent an hour just watching people go by, wondering what all the locals were doing and were planning to do.
- Afternoon: The Mercado de la Ribera - A Feast for the Senses: This is where my day took a turn. I had decided that after lunch I would go to the Mercado de la Ribera, one of the largest indoor markets in Europe. I started with some pintxos and wine and was feeling great, but then… Oh boy, the market was amazing! The color, the smells, the sounds…pure sensory overload. I was overwhelmed! I bought some jamón (because, duh), some cheese (because, double duh), and a bottle of a local sparkling wine, but the experience was a little more intense than I was used to.
- Evening: The Restaurant Disaster - (Almost) Ruined Evening: I'd booked a fancy dinner at a restaurant, "Nerua Guggenheim Bilbao". The restaurant was beautiful, it was right outside of the Guggenheim, and while the food was impeccable, I felt a growing sense of anxiety about the experience. I felt like an imposter, out of place, and slightly terrified. I stared at my plate, which was beautiful, but seemed foreign. The wine was exquisite, and the service was impeccable, but the food was… well, frankly, I could not identify half the things on my plate. The pressure to look sophisticated was mounting, and I started to have a full-blown internal meltdown. Eventually, I excused myself, found a bench outside, had a full-blown existential crisis, and ordered a pizza to deliver in the morning.
Day 3: Farewell Bilbao - And a Promise to Return (Maybe)
- Morning: Regrouping, Recovery, and a Dose of Reality: I woke up fully recovered, and I resolved to enjoy my last day! I decided to go out and have a simple breakfast and start exploring the city on my own schedule.
- Afternoon: Final Moments - (And a Bag of Gummy Bears for the Road): Walking back to the hotel to grab my suitcase, I passed the bar near the hotel, and had another beer. I grabbed a few more pintxos. I was feeling great; I was in my element.
- Evening: Departure - With a Heavy Heart (And a Lighter Suitcase): Checking out of the Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao was bittersweet. I had some amazing experiences and a massive amount of new experiences. As I left, I smiled, and I knew that even though the trip was winding down, I knew that I would be back!
So there you have it. Bilbao: a city of beauty, bewilderment, and enough wine to fill a small swimming pool. Would I go back? Absolutely. Will I remember to pack light next time? Probably not. But hey, that's part of the fun, right?
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Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao: Your Bilbao Dream Hotel... or Is It? A Messy FAQ
Okay, so Bilbao... what's the *vibe* of the Sercotel Coliseo like, *really*? The pictures always look so… perfect.
Alright, let's cut the crap, yeah? The pictures? They *lie*, in that subtly enhanced, Instagram-filtered kind of way. It's… not *quite* as sleek as it looks. Imagine a beautifully dressed person who's had a rough night and maybe spilled a little coffee on their expensive shirt. That's the Coliseo. It *wants* to be a chic, modern hotel, and it mostly succeeds. The lobby is impressive, though, I'll give them that. Marble, chandeliers, you *feel* fancy for like, ten seconds. Then you notice a slightly wonky tile, and the illusion cracks. But honestly? That's part of its charm. It reminds you that even a "dream" hotel is still just… a building.
**Anecdote:** I'll never forget checking in after a brutal flight. All I wanted was a shower and a nap. The receptionist was lovely, bless her heart, but the elevator was *agonizingly* slow. Felt like I aged a decade waiting for it to reach my floor. Then, when I finally get to my room? The key card *didn't work*. Twice. Almost lost it. But hey, by the third try (thanks to a more aggressive reprogramming), I was finally in, and the shower was HOT. That's what matters, right?
The location – is it actually as good as everyone says? Near everything?
Okay, this is where the Coliseo scores some serious points. YES. The location is pretty darn fantastic. You're practically *on top of* the Arriaga Theatre (which is gorgeous, by the way, even if you're not a theatre person), close to the Casco Viejo (Old Town), and the metro is practically at your doorstep. You can wander around the Ribera Market for hours! It's great for exploring the city, grabbing pintxos, getting completely lost (in a good way), and then stumbling back to your hotel with a full belly.
**Rambling Observation:** I mean, you could EASILY spend a week just wandering the streets around the hotel. The shopping, the cafes, the… *everything*. It's like a well-placed starting point for any adventure, whether it's a museum hop or a bar crawl. You will be tempted to ditch your plans completely and just hang out there. And you know what? Do it. Live a little!
Are the rooms actually comfortable? Like, can you *sleep*?
This is where things get a little… uneven. My experience was hit and miss. Some rooms are amazing. Plenty of space, comfortable beds, good views. Others… yeah, let's just say it depends on your luck. I've heard tales (whispers, really) of rooms that are a tad small, with views of… the neighboring building. And the noise from the street can be a little annoying, especially if you're a light sleeper.
**Emotional Reaction:** When I got to my first place, the small room looked perfect. The bed was comfortable! AND THEN...the AC was making the buzzing from the wall. I really tried to sleep, but I was so ANNOYED! I just wanted to break the damn thing! But later, when I talked to the front desk, they immediately did something and it went silent. It was wonderful!
Breakfast – is it worth it? Should I just go out for some pintxos instead?
Okay, okay. Breakfast… here's the deal. If you're a massive breakfast person, like, someone who needs a buffet of epic proportions to function? Maybe skip it. The breakfast at the Coliseo is… decent. It's got the usual suspects: eggs, bacon (sometimes), pastries, fruit, coffee. Nothing to write home about, but it'll get you through the morning.
**Opinionated Language:** Personally? I'd say, go for a coffee and a croissant at a local cafe. You're in Bilbao! Eat the local food! You can find some amazing pintxos that will blow your mind. Plus, you get to experience the proper Basque culture, which is what you are here for, right?
What about the staff? Are they friendly? Helpful?
The staff… this is a definite *yes*. From my experience, and from what I've heard from others, the staff is generally lovely. They try! They speak multiple languages, and are always happy to help with questions. Now, they're not always *perfect*. You might get someone who is slightly flustered, and well, maybe the information could be a little off, but at the core, they're good people.
**Messy Structure**: I have to say, I had a bit of a kerfuffle with some transportation arrangements once. (My fault, entirely!). The front desk was a godsend, working tirelessly to sort it out. I was ready to cry, and the staff were incredibly patient, and made some excellent recommendations of places to go and see after the mess.
Is there anything *really* bad about this hotel?
Honestly? Okay, there are a couple of little things. The Wi-Fi can be a bit dodgy at times. Very annoying if you need to do work. And as I mentioned before, the noise can be an issue depending on your room's location. Some rooms are, from what I understand, incredibly hot in summer. It's not a deal-breaker for everyone, but worth being aware of.
**Stream-of-Consciousness Rambling**: Okay, and here's a confession. The hairdryer in my room was… pathetic. I have thick hair, and it took about an hour to dry. An *hour*! I tried to tough it out the first day, but then I thought, "No. This is a luxury hotel, damn it!" So… yeah, minor complaint, but a complaint nonetheless.
So, would you recommend the Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao?
Yes. With caveats, but absolutely yes. It's not perfect, but it's a good hotel and a great location. It's a solid choice for exploring Bilbao. Just manage your expectations a little bit and pack earplugs. And, uh, maybe bring your own hairdryer.
**Strong Emotional Reaction:** Ultimately, yes, go! Bilbao is AMAZING! It's a beautiful city, full of wonder, and the Sercotel Coliseo, despite its flaws, will serve as a fantastic base for discovering it. I had an amazing time there. And, really, aren't imperfections what make life interesting?
