The Carlton is a grand four-and-a-half-pearl hotel in the center of Bilbao's Gran Via area, with beautiful Basque architecture and interior details. The style is traditionally elegant throughout, with some more modern guest rooms. Of the 142 rooms, higher-end rooms feature welcome extras such as Bulgari toiletries and free late check-out. There is a small gym with a good selection of equipment and a steam room, several meeting spaces, and a popular restaurant serving authentic Basque cuisine and an impressive breakfast buffet. Be aware that the business centre is more of a workstation, but does have a great collection of photos of staff with famous guests. Travelers seeking high-end perks in a more contemporary setting might check out the nearby Melia Bilbao, though it's a bit isolated.