marbella tourist

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Our capitals . Our capitals . Our capitals . Our capitals . Almería +info Almería +info Almería +info Almería +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Granada +info Granada +info Granada +info Granada +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info
Almería y su Entorno Almería y su Entorno Almería y su Entorno Almería y su Entorno
Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento
Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar
Costa de Almería Costa de Almería Costa de Almería Costa de Almería
Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres
Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez
Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora
Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz)
Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales
Cádiz Cádiz Cádiz Cádiz
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La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba)
Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato
La Subbética La Subbética La Subbética La Subbética
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Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental
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Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal
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La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir
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Main attractions . Main attractions . Main attractions . Main attractions . Mezquita de Córdoba +info Mezquita de Córdoba +info Mezquita de Córdoba +info Mezquita de Córdoba +info La Giralda +info La Giralda +info La Giralda +info La Giralda +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Jaén Cathedral +info Jaén Cathedral +info Jaén Cathedral +info Jaén Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alhambra y Generalife +info Alhambra y Generalife +info Alhambra y Generalife +info Alhambra y Generalife +info
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Costa del Sol Costa del Sol Costa del Sol Costa del Sol
Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz
Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva
Costa Tropical Costa Tropical Costa Tropical Costa Tropical
Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches
Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities
Michelin Star Michelin Star Michelin Star Michelin Star
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Adapted Golf Adapted Golf Adapted Golf Adapted Golf
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Considered unofficially as the capital of the western Costa del Sol , there is no doubting the fact that Marbella has all the qualities required to merit its position as one of Spain's premier tourist resorts.

Its privileged location, at the foot of the Sierra Blanca and on the coast, create an excellent climate and a landscape of immense beauty.

The town dates back to Roman times, a period from which abundant archaeological remains are to be found; two towers and the castle walls bear witness to the presence of the Arabs; and in the old centre of the town, Our Lady's Church, the Chief Magistrate's House and St. John's Hospital were all built after the Christian reconquest.

However, it is for its excellent sun and sand holiday facilities that Marbella is best known: magnificent spacious beaches, natural AREAs of great interest such as Cabopino Dunes or Las Chapas Pine Groves, pleasure harbours , golf courses, sports clubs and a wide variety of establishments to justify its reputation.

Seven kilometres from the centre of Marbella is the densely-populated San Pedro de Alcántara district, which lies within Marbella 's municipal boundaries and appeared as a result of the building of a sugar refinery in 1860.

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Puerto Banús in Marbella (Malaga, Andalusia)

Puerto Banús, one of the main tourist attractions in the municipality, is home to an exclusive leisure area within the excellent facilities of its marina.

Marbella is also a paradise for golf lovers. A dozen magnificent courses allow you to practise this sport against the unique backdrop of both the sea and the mountains. The city's old quarter, set in a beautiful bay, is an absolute delight, with typically Andalusian whitewashed houses and orange trees adorning the streets and squares. An ideal setting for sampling the succulent recipes of the local gastronomy.

Marbella is, on its own merits alone, one of the main destinations on the Costa del Sol . Its wonderful climate, beaches, natural environment and excellent sports facilities are just some of the multitude of attractions offered by this town on the Malaga coast. The high quality of its infrastructures is demonstrated by Puerto Banus , one of the most iconic places in Marbella. Surrounded by exclusive developments, this famous marina attracts some of the largest and most luxurious yachts in the world every year. Its facilities include a select leisure area including restaurants, facilities and shops offering major international fashion brands and luxury items. From Cabopino to Guadalmina , Marbella offers visitors 26 kilometres of beautiful coastline studded with sunny beaches and all kinds of services, including modern hotels, residential developments , shops and restaurants. The beaches at San Pedro de Alcantara , an important town less than ten kilometres from Marbella, are a fine example of harmony between nature and tourist development. Sports lovers will be in paradise in Marbella. It boasts a multitude of magnificent golf courses where you can play at the highest level at any time of year, surrounded by exceptional natural beauty. Those who prefer water sports will find three ports in this town where they can get to know whichever specialty they want. Marbella also boasts riding schools , tennis clubs and other activities catering to the most diverse tastes. And we can't forget the enormous possibilities for all kinds of outdoor sports offered by the Sierra Blanca mountain range. - Marbella’s old town Marbella's old quarter is located at the foot of the Sierra Blanca mountains, facing a beautiful bay. Its beautiful layout displays its traditional Andalusian character, with neat whitewashed facades adorned with bars and geraniums, and orange trees growing on every corner. The heart of the town is the Plaza de Los Naranjos , dating from the Renaissance period, which is flanked by elegant buildings such as the town hall (16th century) and the Casa del Corregidor (17th century). The Plazuela de la Iglesia square is home to the Iglesia Mayor de la Encarnación church, dating from the 16th century. It also features one of the towers that were part of the city's old Arab fortress , built in the 9th century. There are abundant traces of the Roman origins of the city in the many archaeological sites dotted around the area, including the Paleochristian Vega del Mar basilica, the Roman baths at Guadalmina and the Roman villa at Río Verde . Marbella's extensive cultural offering is completed by the Museum of Spanish Contemporary Engraving , which is considered the finest gallery of its kind in Spain. Located in the 16th-century Hospital Bazán, it houses an impressive collection of 19th- and 20th-century engravings, with works by masters such as Picasso, Miró and Dalí. Gastronomy, festivities and the surrounding area Marbella gastronomy is famed for its fried fish, ajoblanco (chilled soup with almonds, garlic and olive oil) and gazpacho , along with many other delicious offerings. The area produces excellent dessert wines under the Malaga Designation of Origin . The festivities in Marbella's year include its Feria fair and the Festivities of San Bernabé , which take place during the first fortnight of June. The programme includes concerts, bullfights and other activities. Other important dates in its calendar include Easter Week and the festival of its patron saint, San Pedro de Alcántara, in October. Marbella is a perfect base for countless excursions along the Costa del Sol. The traditional mountain town of Mijas is just a few kilometres away, with its coast offering a wide range of tourist attractions. Other towns with strong tourist traditions include Torremolinos , Estepona , Benalmadena and Fuengirola . Nature offers incredible landscapes in the Sierra de las Nieves Nature Reserve , in the midst of the Serranía de Ronda mountain range. Other important towns close to Marbella and nestled in the Sierra Blanca mountain range include Istán , which is famous for its springs, and Ojén , with its great ecological wealth.

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Spanish Contemporary Engraving Museum

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35 Best Things to Do In Marbella – A Local’s Guide

If you’ve ever wondered about things to do in Marbella, this local expert guide includes them all.

Marbella is a charming town in the popular Costa del Sol in Southern Spain. There’s no doubt why many travellers keep coming back to Marbella – whether it’s for its lovely old town, sun-kissed golden beaches, luxury atmosphere or nightlife.

Being a local from Costa del Sol, who constantly explores the area and loves Marbella, I can assure you that it’s a one-of-a-kind destination and isn’t only about parties at Nikki Beach Club or luxury shopping at Puerto Banus.

Soak up the sunshine at Playa de la Venus, wander the idyllic whitewashed streets in the historic centre, sip a cocktail on a rooftop terrace, go on a magical boat tour at sunset or immerse yourself in the local culture by taking a food tour.

Are you ready to discover the best of Marbella? Let’s dive in!

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Table of Contents

The Best Things to Do in Marbella: A Quick Guide

Best for culture lovers : visit the historic centre and watch a flamenco show.
Best for foodies : go on a tapas tour.
Best for partygoers : spend the day at a beach club like Nikki Beach.
Best for adventurers : do a guided canyoning tour.
Best for couples : go on a sunset cruise and dine at a restaurant with a view.
Best for families : visit La Represa Park or do water activities on the beach.

Walking tour of Marbella

Things to do in Marbella

1. uncover the charm of marbella old town.

A view of Encarnacion Church from Carmen Street in Marbella old town.

Old Town Marbella is one of the most beautiful old towns in Costa del Sol – whitewashed buildings, cobblestone streets, orange trees, bougainvillaeas flowers hanging down from houses and blue plant pots with bright flowers.

It’s a picturesque place no matter which path you take. Many of these little streets are connected to Plaza de Los Naranjos, a lively square with restaurants, bars and the town hall.

In the historic centre, you’ll find many boutique and independent shops perfect for buying something unique or a souvenir and supporting the locals. For example, you can do olive oil tasting and buy high-quality extra virgin olive oil at D-Oliva or beautiful dresses at TANDEM.

As you walk through the old town, you’ll also encounter many photography spots that you won’t resist taking pictures of. You can spend hours just wandering around and taking photos like I do, no matter how many times I’ve been.

Visiting Marbella Old Town is one of the best things to do in Marbella.

The most beautiful streets in Marbella Old Town

Cristina at Carmen Street, a white painted street decorated with flower pots in Marbella, Spain.

If you’re looking for pretty streets to take photos of, you want to check these four (they’re my favourites!):

Calle Carmen ( check out the location here )
Calle Nueva ( check out the location here )
Calle Gloria ( check out the location here )
Calle Caballeros ( check out the location here )

These streets are the most instagrammable spots in Marbella, and there’s no doubt why many tourists, travellers, and bloggers stop by.

2. Contemplate the beauty of La Encarnación Church

Ceiling at Encarnacion church in Marbella.

Not far from Plaza de los Naranjos is Plaza de la Iglesia, a charming square with a fountain with a cross, palm trees, a statue and Iglesia de la Encarnación on the side. It’s Marbella’s main church.

If you appreciate the outside of this beautiful church, you’ll love the inside with its religious statues and little stained-glass windows near the ceiling, which is also impressive.

When visiting it during December or early January, you can also see a beautiful nativity scene inside the church.

The church opening times vary from summer to the rest of the year. You can check the exact times in this link .

3. Capture history by taking a photo of Marbella Castle Walls

Marbella Castle is a historic landmark located in the Old Town. The castle was built in the 11th century, showing the Moorish influences in the area.

Before exploring Marbella Old Town, you might expect to see a castle; however, nowadays, you’ll only find the restored remaining walls of what used to be Marbella Castle.

Although you can’t do much more than take photos of it, it’s still nice to see and read the posters about its history.

4. Discover the Museum of Spanish Contemporary Engravings

Inside the museum of engravings, Marbella, Spain.

Located in the old town of Marbella, the Museum of Spanish Contemporary Engravings , also known as Museo de Grabado Español Contemporáneo, is an interesting museum for anyone who loves seeing graphic art.

The museum was built in the former Bazán Hospital building, and here you can find a wide collection of the best Spanish engravings – from graphic arts that date back to the 15th century to engravings of recognised artists like Picasso and Dalí.

There are three floors to explore and immerse yourself in art. I was impressed by the amount of objects and paintings in this museum.

5. Relax on the tiled benches in the Alameda Park

If there’s at least one park you must visit in Marbella is Alameda Park. It’s one of the best places to visit in Marbella. A three-minute walk from the Old Town, the park is an escape from the lively atmosphere to a relaxing place.

When you walk from Alameda Park, it gives you the feeling of walking in a small jungle. Many species of plants and tall trees keep you in the shade. It’s the sort of place you want to go to in the summer when it’s scorching.

The shade from the plants and trees makes the place cool. On top of this, other reasons to visit this lovely park are the impressive fountain in the centre of the park, which has become a popular photo spot, and its benches made with beautiful tiles.

35 Best Things to Do In Marbella - A Local's Guide 35 Best Things to Do In Marbella - A Local's Guide

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6. Treat yourself in Puerto Banús

Marbella’s worldwide famous port, Puerto José Banus , is a must-see during your time in Marbella.

The port is well-known for its expensive yachts, cars, shops and restaurants. You can find shops such as Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci and many more.

Although it isn’t a budget-friendly place, it’s a nice place to see the sunset and have a taste of this luxurious area in Marbella. You can grab a cocktail in one of the restaurants overlooking the port and soak up the stylish atmosphere.

Another great activity to do in Puerto Banus is to go on a boat tour . There are different types of tours, and some even include dolphin watching (more about cruises below!).

7. Go on a sailing boat cruise

If you want a different view of Marbella, a sailing boat cruise is perfect because you can contemplate the beautiful coastline, whitewashed buildings and mountains. The scenery is magical.

This 3-hour boat cruise includes drinks and snacks, and snorkelling equipment. You can simply relax and enjoy the views or dive into the sea. You might be lucky and see some dolphins and other marine animals too. It’s a great activity in Marbella.

📌 Check out this highly-rated sailing boat cruise

8. Eat tapas at La Lonja

When visiting Marbella, eating tapas is a top activity to do in the town. There are endless options; however, if you want delicious and authentic tapas, La Lonja is your best choice.

The restaurant is in Avenida Antonio Belón, a few minutes walk from Avenida del Mar. They offer traditional Andalusian food, from fresh fried fish and seafood to smaller dishes such as gambas al pil-pil, croquetas and berenjenas con miel de caña (fried aubergine with sugar cane honey.)

Another fantastic place to eat in Marbella is Casa Blanca. I love their cosy atmosphere and dishes like their garlic prawns and serranito sandwich.

If you prefer to discover food on a food tour, you want to check out this tapas and wine tour , where you’ll be taken to two traditional tapas restaurants in the old town. You’ll enjoy the Andalusian flavours and learn more about Marbella too.

BEST ACTIVITIES AND TOURS IN MARBELLA

Free walking tour in Marbella Old Town
Tour of the Old Town with tapas and wine
Sailboat cruise and drinks
Gibraltar day trip from Marbella

9. Chill on a rooftop terrace

Linda rooftop terrace in Marbella, Spain.

Another fantastic thing to do in Marbella is to go to a rooftop terrace. There are many pretty rooftop bars where you can enjoy a cocktail, mocktail or smoothie.

I’ve visited the rooftop terrace at Linda Boutique Hotel (see the photos below), which has stunning views of the Santo Cristo de Marbella Church. Their terrace is very cosy and beautifully decorated.

However, if you prefer coastal views, head to Belvue Rooftop Bar, Senator Marbella Spa Hotel or Lima Hotel.

Cristina at Linda Rooftop terrace in Marbella, Spain.

10. Soak up the sun at one of Marbella’s beaches

Marbella and its surroundings have lovely beaches for a half or full day, and some of them are even awarded Blue Flags because of their facilities and quality.

If you’re looking for the most accessible from Marbella’s Old Town, you want to go to Playa Venus. It’s a small beach with plenty of activities to do in case you’d rather do something different than sunbathing. There are water sports activities, restaurants and shops nearby.

At the same time, it’s a great beach for watching the beautiful sunset.

For anyone who prefers a tranquil and less crowded beach in Marbella, El Alicate is your best option. This beach also offers golden sand and crystal blue waters, which makes it a very special beach.

Also, one of my favourite beaches in Marbella is Cabopino, which is excellent for relaxing, swimming, sunbathing, and hiking.

Other beaches in Marbella you want to check are :

Playa de la Venus – best for facilities and is next to the old town.
Bounty Beach – best for a great atmosphere.
Playa Real de Zaragoza – best for good chiringuitos (beach bars).
Nikki Beach – best for parties.
Cabopino – best for immersing yourself in nature. Las Dunas de Artola Natural Park is next to the beach.

11. Spend the day at a stylish beach club

I’m not a partygoer, and I’ve never been, but I love the atmosphere at the beach clubs in Marbella .

They’re different from other beach clubs across the Costa del Sol. They have that glamorous vibe and incredible music you can enjoy all day.

Book a sunbed, enjoy a meal and soak up the sunshine while listening to chill-out music.

I’ve visited the Amare Beach Club, which belongs to the Marbella Amare Hotel, an adult-only accommodation. However, there are other incredible places, such as Ocean Beach and Nikki Beach .

12. Learn to paddleboard

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Marbella, check out the water sports activities.

Whether you love paddle boarding, kayaking or canoeing, you’ll find plenty of classes and tours across Marbella’s coast.

Paddleboarding has become more and more popular in Costa del Sol, and you can find very good tours and classes where you’ll learn stand-up paddleboarding. It’s an excellent watersport for all ages, giving you a chance to see Marbella from another perspective.

One of the most magical times to do paddling is sunset.

📌 Check out this 2 hour kayak tour to explore the coast.

13. Scuba dive

Did you know Marbella and Costa del Sol are home to diverse marine life? This is because of the mix of the Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea.

When you go scuba diving in Marbella, you might see anything from octopuses and eels to seahorses. An interesting fact about Marbella is that there is a type of sea slug in Marbella you won’t find anywhere else.

Plenty of companies across Marbella offer scuba diving lessons for beginners and all levels.

14. Walkthrough Avenida del Mar

This avenue used to be part of the popular Alameda Park, but this changed in the 80s when they started building underground car parking. From the 90s onwards, the avenue changed into what it is now.

It’s a great place to wander around and contemplate the 10 different bronze sculptures by the artist Salvador Dalí. There isn’t a clear connection between Dalí and Marbella, but we locals know that these sculptures sparked a storm of controversy.

Some people believe that Dalí didn’t create these sculptures from scratch and he got his inspiration in the sketches from another artist.

From Avenida del Mar, you can go down to the beach and continue a relaxing walk along the promenade.

Also, if you’re interested in seeing more art, you can visit the Ralli Museum, home to numerous artworks from Latin American artists.

15. Ride a bike on the beach promenade

Riding a bike is a different way to explore Marbella and its coastline. It’s a great idea to see as much as possible of the town in a short period.

Although you can always rent a bike and do it on your own, if you want to do it with a group and learn about the town, go on a guided bike tour.

This 3-hour guided bike tour takes you from one side of the town to another, but you also have some time to take pictures and have a quick drink in one of the beach restaurants.

16. Book a free tour in Marbella

There are plenty of free things to do in Marbella, including guided tours.

Anyone who loves learning about a place from a local’s perspective or someone who has lived in Marbella for a while can book a free walking tour.

You can find several free tours online, and they’ll mostly show you around the Old Town and a few spots that only locals know.

📌 Check out this free walking tour of the Old Town of Marbella

17. Join the locals for an ice cream at Purolatte

Outdoor tables at Purolatte ice cream shop.

Summers in Marbella are hot, and there’s no better way to cool down than having a handmade ice cream or refreshing smoothie at Purolatte .

This ice cream shop has many delicious flavours – from cookies and tiramisu to mango – fresh smoothies, crepes, waffles and other sweet treats.

The mango ice cream is my go-to when I visit Purolatte. It’s smooth and full of flavour!

18. Enjoy great events at The Farm

Although La Lonja is my top place to eat traditional food in Marbella, The Farm is a fantastic restaurant with modern dishes that aren’t only Spanish.

They use organic and fresh ingredients and have a good selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

However, what I like the most about The Farm are its events. You can listen to anything from live flamenco to rock and jazz; the atmosphere is incredible.

They also organise BBQs and yoga lessons. Check out its event calendar before heading there!

19. Take a photo of Santo Cristo de la Vera Cruz Church

Vera Cruz Church in Marbella Old Town, Spain.

If you stroll through Marbella Old Town, you’ll eventually find Santo Cristo de la Vera Cruz Church. The church is in Barrio Alto, which is still part of the old town.

The chapel of this church was built in the 15th century and expanded in the 18th century. Not only does the church look beautiful, but the square in which you find the church too.

20. Stroll through Represa Park

Parque de la Represa is a beautiful urban park that used to divide the historic centre from the new. Inside this park, you can also find the stream of the Dam.

It’s lovely strolling through this park as you find many trees and plants from all over the world. In Represa Park, you can find the Bonsai Museum; however, it’s permanently closed now.

Parque La Represa is also a fantastic place to visit in Marbella with kids. They can have fun at the playground and see ducks, swans and turtles in the lake. By the way, there are so many turtles!

My favourite activity is going to the park and watching the turtles in the lake.

Although I prefer this park, another you might want to add to your list is Parque de la Constitución.

21. Go on a scenic hiking trail

View of La Concha mountain in Marbella, Spain.

Marbella isn’t only surrounded by a beautiful coastline, but mountains too. Whether you want to enjoy a close view of the Mediterranean Coast or have a peek-a-boo view of the African continent , you’ll find a walking route for you.

La Concha is one of the most popular routes for those who want a challenge. It takes between 8 and 9 hours to complete if you start from Marbella. This hike offers fantastic views of the coast, Gibraltar and even Africa on clear days.

If you want an easy walk, Senda Litoral Dunas de Artola is a beautiful route that takes you through the coast. It won’t take you more than 35 minutes to complete! It’s a peaceful walk where you can see the dunes and then swim in the sea.

22. Play golf at some of the best resorts in Costa del Sol

A popular thing to do in Marbella is to play golf. It’s a golf paradise, offering golf courses for all ages and levels. Some of the best golf courses in Marbella include:

Los Naranjos Golf Club
Marbella Club Golf Resort
La Quinta Golf & Country Club
Cabopino Golf Marbella

23. Go to the lively Marbella street market

Do you love street markets? Marbella has a street market that takes place every Monday in Las Albarizas, Calle Platino, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The street market has over 350 stalls and sells anything from clothes to fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

24. Do some shopping at La Cañada

A view of La Cañada Shopping Centre in Marbella, Spain.

La Cañada is the best shopping centre in Marbella and Costa del Sol. If you’re looking for something, it’s very likely you’ll find it at La Cañada. The shopping centre has over 250 stores and plenty of car parking spaces.

Here you can find national as well as international brands – some of these brands are Zara, Quicksilver, Levi’s and Superdry. In addition to all the stores, the shopping centre has a good variety of restaurants and fast food options if you’re after food.

The best way to get to La Cañada is by car, take AP-7 and exit 186 towards A-355 / Ojen / Marbella (East). Alternatively, you can get a bus to La Cañada from the Marbella bus station.

25. Attend Marbella’s Fair

If you happen to be in Marbella at the beginning of June, you can’t miss one of the many fantastic events in Costa del Sol , Feria de San Bernabé (Marbella’s Fair), celebrated every year.

There are lots of activities going on across the town during the 5 days this fair lasts – from incredible fireworks, attractions, dances, and live performances to churros and paella tastings.

26. Visit Lago de las Tortugas

One of the unusual things to do in Marbella is to visit Lago de las Tortugas, a 20-minute drive from Marbella Old Town.

Lago de las Tortugas, known as Turtle Lake in English, is a small picturesque lake nestled in the northern part of Marbella.

This lake, which is more of a reservoir, is home to many birds, and it’s an excellent place to enjoy a picnic in spring or swim in summer.

Note that despite its name, it’s rare to see turtles in this lake.

27. Discover Parque de las Ranas

One of Marbella’s secret places is Parque de las Ranas. This lovely walk lets you cool down on a hot day. The tall trees and the Guadalpin stream make you feel immersed in nature. From here, you can also start the Marbella-Ojen hiking trail , a 17 km walk.

It’s one of my favourite places in Marbella because it’s quiet and only locals and expats know about it.

28. Watch the sunset at Embarcadero

One of my favourite places to watch the sunset in Marbella is on the Embarcadero pier in Marbella Beach Club, located in Playa de Nagueles.

It’s a magical spot you can visit all year round, and the beach club doesn’t need to be open.

Other beautiful sunset spots in Marbella include Trocadero Playa and Playa del Faro.

29. Contemplate the Roman Villa ruins

Villa Roman de Rio Verde is a villa complex situated a few meters away from Rio Verde in Marbella, between Puerto Banus and Marbella.

This archaeological site is known for its stunning well-preserved mosaic floors – including the famous mosaic of Medusa.

You can’t miss this place if you’re into Roman times and history.

30. Explore San Pedro de Alcantara

One of the things to do near Marbella is to visit San Pedro de Alcántara. It’s situated between Marbella and Estepona , and although it’s part of Marbella, it feels like a different town.

Here you can head to Plaza de la Iglesia, its main square, where you’ll find a parish church, narrow streets and plenty of boutique shops and restaurants.

Other places to see are Boulevard San Pedro, with playgrounds, gardens, a few cafes, and the basilica ruins.

However, my favourite place in San Pedro de Alcantara is the beach promenade, from where you can walk all the way to Puerto Banus or enjoy a meal with a view. I love Playa Nini beach restaurant.

a beautiful square in the old town of marbella, spain

Marbella has enchanting places; however, if you’re staying for a more extended period of time, you can make the most of your time in Southern Spain by visiting other incredible places and going on a road trip .

Here’s a shortlist of the best day trips from Marbella .

31. Go on a Marbella to Malaga day trip

A photo of Malaga Cathedral taken in Obispo Square.

Marbella is within a short distance from Malaga and, therefore, a great day trip. If you travel by car, it takes you about 1 hour or 45 minutes if you take the toll. However, if you don’t have a car, you can also get to Malaga by coach, Avanza buses are comfortable, affordable and quick.

The city offers a wide variety of cultural and entertaining activities that you can easily do in a day.

A must-see attraction is La Alcazaba de Málaga . This fortress palace takes you back to the Moorish times in Andalusia. Next to La Alcazaba, you can visit the Roman Theatre, and at the top of the hill is the Gibralfaro viewpoint and Castle.

Apart from these beautiful historical buildings, other activities you must include on your list are eating tapas at El Pimpi , walking through Muelle Uno, visiting the cathedral and enjoying the sunset in a rooftop bar such as La Terraza de Valeria .

📌 Read more about Malaga: Best Free Things to do in Malaga

32. Go on a Marbella to Ronda day trip

This charming town, located at the top of a mountain, is known for being the birthplace of bullfighting. You’ve probably seen pictures of this town before, especially of its epic New Bridge, Puente Nuevo.

Ronda offers many activities to do in a day – wine tasting, bird watching, visiting the Arabic Baths, strolling through the old and new town, exploring the Moorish Palace ( La Casa del Rey Moro ), and walking in El Tajo, among other activities.

To get from Marbella to Ronda, you can drive about an hour via A-397 or take an Avanza bus from Marbella bus station, which can take up to two hours.

Alternatively, Get Your Guide offers an excellent full-day tour to Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas .

I went on this day tour , and it was totally worth it! We were given 1 hour to explore Setenil de las Bodegas, and after that, we spent most of the time in Ronda, where we enjoyed a guided tour of the old town.

After the guided tour and a glass of wine in a lovely restaurant overlooking the bridge, we were given 3 hours to explore Ronda on our own.

It’s a good day trip if you don’t have much time on Costa del Sol and don’t want to miss the opportunity to see these incredible towns.

The main downside of the tour is that 1 hour isn’t enough to explore Setenil. Especially if you want to take photos, enjoy a meal or take it easy.

33. Go on a Marbella to Ojen day trip

Ojen, a whitewashed town near marbellla, spain

Ojen is a small town very close to Marbella, only a 20-minute drive, and it’s a charming place to visit.

This mountainside town is known for its whitewashed buildings, picturesque streets, and views.

Despite its small size, you can still find some interesting attractions such as the Oil Mill Museum, the parish church of Our Lady of the Incarnation and Ojen Caves, which have beautiful karstic monuments linked to the life of this town.

34. Go on a Marbella to Gibraltar day trip

top of gibraltar, one of the best things to do in gibraltar

A one-hour drive from Marbella, Gibraltar is a unique destination to visit – its location, nature and fauna, as well as multicultural influences. The country is about 6.8 km², but despite being small, there are many things you can do in Gibraltar in a day.

Gibraltar’s most popular attraction is the Rock of Gibraltar, located in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve , home to the cheeky macaques and St Michael’s Cave. It’s an incredible place to visit as you can contemplate outstanding views of Gibraltar, Africa and Spain.

Other activities in Gibraltar include exploring Catalan Bay – a colourful area with a beautiful sandy beach, shopping on Main Street, visiting the Moorish Castle and relaxing at Gibraltar Botanic Gardens.

35. Go on a Marbella to Setenil de las Bodegas day trip

Setenil de las bodegas whitewashed town in cadiz

If you love visiting whitewashed villages, Setenil de las Bodegas in Cadiz province must be on your list. This village is an hour and 25 minutes drive from Marbella, but you can also find tours from Costa del Sol to Setenil .

What makes this place unique and attracts many tourists is that houses are inside caves carved into the cliffs.

Some of the best things you can do in Setenil include wandering its streets, visiting the Arab Castle, enjoying the views from different points across Setenil, visiting the churches, and tasting the local food.

Setenil isn’t far from Ronda, so you might want to visit Ronda and Setenil in one day. Alternatively, you can explore Setenil and Zahara de la Sierra or Olvera if you’ve already seen Ronda.

Map of Marbella activities

Click on the image below to get the map with all the Marbella attractions mentioned above.

How to get to Marbella

Overhead photo of motorway in Marbella, Spain

If you’re flying to Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), the easiest way to travel to Marbella is to rent a car – this way, you can have more freedom to visit other beautiful places in the Costa del Sol – or get Avanza bus to Marbella just outside the arrivals doors at the airport.

If you decide to travel by car from the airport to Marbella, be aware that there are two routes – one that goes all the way through the coast (the scenic route) or the toll route that takes you to Marbella in less time.

🚗 Get your rental car with Discover Cars!

Where to stay in Marbella

Linda boutique hotel.

⭐ 4-star hotel | Review: 8.4/10 | View on Booking.com

Looking for a central hotel in Marbella? Linda Boutique Hotel is at the heart of Marbella’s Old Town.

Not only is the location excellent, but the hotel facilities and rooms will surprise you too!

All the rooms include a beautiful modern design, comfortable king-size beds, free WiFi, a tea and coffee maker and an ensuite bathroom.

The hotel also offers a delicious complimentary breakfast at their Lobby Café. They serve a good range of savoury and sweet breakfasts – yoghurt, granola, croissants, eggs, etc.

One of the best things about this hotel is its rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy a drink while watching the sunset on a summer evening.

📌 Check out availability and rates at Linda Boutique Hotel

The Pearl – Luxury B&B

⭐ 4-star bed and breakfast | Review: 9.3/10 | View on Booking.com

If you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing stay in Marbella, you’ll love this boutique bed and breakfast.

The Pearl is beautifully decorated with unique pieces of contemporary work from around the world. It has cosy facilities such as a communal swimming pool with a terrace and Andalusian-style patios.

All of their rooms are well-equipped with comfortable queen or king-size beds, smart TV, WiFi and ensuite bathrooms with all the essentials.

However, if you want the ultimate experience at the Pearl, The Pearl Room is the one for you. It has a balcony overlooking the swimming pool, an incredible bathtub where you can relax and enjoy a view of the gardens and a comfortable four-pole canopy king-size bed.

📌 Check out availability and rates at The Pearl

Frequently asked questions about Marbella Spain

Is Marbella worth visiting?

Yes, Marbella is a place you don’t want to miss in Costa del Sol . Not only is it a great place to spend your holidays, but also to live. The town has numerous things to do – such as exploring the beautiful old town, visiting Puerto Banus, and playing golf – and the temperatures are mild most of the year.

Is Marbella a party place?

Marbella nightlife has a big reputation for luxurious parties. The most popular places for parties in Marbella are Puerto Banus and the Golden Mile. However, if you aren’t into clubbing, you can also find quieter areas in the town.

Is Marbella Spain expensive?

Although Marbella is more expensive than other Costa del Sol towns , if you plan your holiday well, you’ll be able to find affordable places to eat and stay. For example, you want to avoid eating out and staying in Puerto Banus and staying a little further than these main tourist areas.

What’s the weather like in Marbella?

Marbella enjoys beautiful sunny days all year round. In the summer, the average temperature is 26ºC; in the winter, the average temperature is 12ºC, and rainy days aren’t common.

What are the best things to do with kids in Marbella?

Some of the best things to do with kids in Marbella include playing at La Represa Park, visiting Aventura Amazonia, doing water activities at the beach and going to Selwo Aventura safari (a short drive from Marbella).

Conclusion on what to see in Marbella

In conclusion, there are plenty of things to do in Marbella. In addition to this, Marbella in comparison to Malaga is a better beach holiday destination because of better beaches and more water activities to do.

It’s a great destination to spend and enjoy the summer, but because of its mild temperature all year round, you’ll have a good time in Marbella regardless of the time of the year.

If you visit Marbella in winter , there are fantastic Christmas events and activities you won’t normally do in summer because of the heat. Winter is also perfect for experiencing a quieter atmosphere in Marbella.

If you have any questions or want advice on what to do in Marbella or any other Costa del Sol towns, leave a comment below. I’m happy to help.

Safe adventures,

Cristina xx

P.S. Do you know any friends who are travelling to Marbella? Share these Marbella attractions with them 🙂

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Top things to check before visiting Marbella and Costa del Sol

Check out cheap flights to Malaga Costa del Sol Airport here .
Have a look at this Malaga food guide to indulge yourself in eating the best typical food in the area.
Are you looking for the best accommodation in Marbella or anywhere else in Costa del Sol? Check this guide to discover hotels for all budgets .
Rent a car to travel with ease around Marbella and Costa del Sol.
Book travel insurance for your trip . It’s a must for any holiday.

Read other Marbella travel guides

How To Get From Malaga to Marbella Guide
Best Hotels in Marbella For a Memorable Holiday
The Ultimate Weekend in Marbella
A Guide To Marbella Old Town (With Local Tips)
10 Best Beaches in Marbella You’ll Love
The Best Places to Eat in Marbella (A Local’s Review)
Malaga Vs Marbella: Which Place Is Best To Visit?
15 Fantastic Day Trips From Marbella
Fantastic Things to Do in Marbella in Winter
What to Do in Marbella When it Rains

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Hola, I’m Cristina, the founder and writer of My Little World of Travelling. I was born and raised in Malaga (Costa del Sol), and I’m passionate about showing you my hometown and other beautiful Andalusian destinations. I help other travellers plan their trips to Spain by providing local advice and unique insights.

11 Comments

Marbella looks so stunning. I can’t believe a lot of people only go there to party. I’m happy to see that there’s a lot more to do in this town. Definitely landed on my list!

I am happy that it made it to your list! It has much more to offer than just partying.

Love your photos! I like the small towns of Andalucia and Marbella looks like my kind of town. The old town, churches, narrow cobblestone streets, some history with castles – all sound good to me. I will check out this town on my next trip to Spain. Saving your blog post. 🙂

Thank you, Jan! I love Andalusia too, and it’s great to hear you’ve added Marbella to your list 🙂

I love places that have a “something for everybody” vibe; especially when you’re traveling with friends, some members of your group may be into beaches and relaxation while others are more into history. I’d definitely want to check out the Roman ruins and the historic buildings! I usually travel solo but every once in awhile I get together with friends and we try to decide on a place we’d all equally love, going to remember Marbella!

I totally agree with you, Claire. I love places that have a bit of everything, so it makes it easier to make everyone happy 🙂 Marbella is definitely one of those. In addition to that, the town is very close to other amazing places too.

Yes, it happened to me as well! I thought Marbella didn’t have much to see, but I loved the old town. Thank you.

I am sure you will love Setenil de las Bodegas and the Roman ruins 🙂 I also agree about whitewashed villages looking even better during the sunset.

I hope you can visit it soon 🙂

I am glad that you have discovered a new place by reading the blog!

Thank you, Cosette! I hope you have the chance to visit Southern Spain soon 🙂

Marbella Travel Guide

Courtesy of Lovattpics | Getty Images

6 Best Things To Do in Marbella

Updated February 12, 2021

Whether you're wandering Marbella's labyrinthine Old Quarter , swinging your golf clubs at one of the area's many courses or strolling the seaside Avenida del Mar , you'll find no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy the city's warm and temperate

All Things To Do

Marbella Old Quarter Marbella Old Quarter free

Although much of Marbella is defined by its glitzy resort-town trappings, the Marbella Old Quarter – also known as Casco antiguo de Marbella – gives travelers a taste of old Spain. Here you'll find plazas spilling with flowers, punctuated by trees, narrow, cobblestone streets and historic residences and churches. The heart of this quarter is Plaza de los Naranjos – Orange Square – and around it, visitors will find a 15th-century fountain, a 16th-century town hall, a 17th-century church and a handful of unique shops. The best way to experience this area is by slowly meandering, stopping in various shops and eateries along the way.

Most recent visitors highly recommended a stroll through Marbella's pedestrian-friendly Old Quarter, but they also warned that the district is hilly. Others say that the restaurants, cafes and bars are filled with delicious treats; freshly squeezed orange juice and churros, for instance.

Avenida del Mar Avenida del Mar free

Avenida del Mar is a popular pathway that offers access to both Marbella's beaches and some of its most popular restaurants, bars, cafes and shops. Along the scenic walkway, visitors will also enjoy sculptures by artists, such as Salvador Dali and Eduardo Soriano.

Visitors highly recommend a walk along Avenida del Mar, not only because of the sculptures, but also because it's the most convenient way to traverse the distance between the Old Quarter and the seafront. Others appreciate that it's well-lit at night.

Puerto Cabopino Beach and Marina Puerto Cabopino Beach and Marina free

Puerto Cabopino, translated as Pine Cape Beach, feels a world away from all of Marbella's resorts, shops and restaurants. Here, you'll find sand dunes backed by pine trees and rolling waves. What's more, the amenities surrounding the beach offer all you need for a day along the shore – easy parking, casual restaurants and bars, and restrooms.

Most travelers appreciated Puerto Cabopino's family-friendly atmosphere and gentle waters, as well as its nearby collection of restaurants and bars, ample parking and restrooms. However, some travelers were annoyed by vendors hawking their goods; they recommend ignoring these sellers.

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Alameda Park Alameda Park free

Filled with native Andalusian greenery, marble walkways, beautiful ceramic benches and the gushing Virgen del Rocio fountain, Alameda Park is a refreshing place to meander while enjoying some shade. You can also take a horse-drawn carriage through the small park. And for further refreshment, there are a collection of bars and restaurants that line the serene green space.

Recent visitors described Alameda Park as an oasis in the center of a bustling city. Although travelers admit that you can walk the park's length in about five minutes, it's nonetheless a great excursion – and the cool benches offer a refreshing respite from the heat.

Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo

The Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo showcases some interesting pieces by Miró, Picasso and Dalí, along with some others by Spanish artists, in an intimate space near Old Quarter Marbella. It's best-known for its prints and graphic works, and the museum also organizes courses and lectures on print-making and drawing.

Recent visitors said this small, yet beautifully designed museum has some interesting pieces, but noted that it might not appeal to everyone. Others recalled that the museum staff spoke very little English.

Marbella Golf Courses Marbella Golf Courses

With Marbella's stunning coastal views and frequent inflow of well-heeled visitors, it should come as no surprise that golfing is a popular pastime here. Many of the region's top hotels boast their own courses, but if you want to venture beyond your resort, you'll find several highly praised greens.

One of the most popular is Los Naranjos Golf Club , which is located down the coast from central Marbella near Puerto Banús. Recent visitors said the greens are immaculately kept and that the staff was friendly and helpful. The course charges different fees based on the time of year and the number of holes played. For instance, from March to May and October to November, Los Naranjos charges 59 euros for nine holes (about $70); it charges 44 euros per nine holes (or about $52) between late May and September.

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13 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Marbella

Written by Michael Law Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Michael Law spent 10 weeks in southern Spain in the fall of 2022, visiting destinations along the Costa del Sol.

This fashionable town nestles along an idyllic portion of the Costa del Sol , with the Sierra Blanca mountain range as a backdrop. Palm-trimmed promenades draw locals and tourists for leisurely strolls, while beach clubs and golf courses cater to an upscale clientele.

The beaches and the quaint historic center, the Old Town ( Casco Antiguo ), are the main attractions. But, if you are looking for things to do in Marbella off the beach, explore the squares, historic landmarks, art museums, and boutiques.

Historic Marbella is an enchanting old Moorish town full of whitewashed houses, cobblestone streets, and shady trees. Many of the old buildings are adorned with ironwork balconies and dripping with vibrant bougainvillea.

Discover the best places to visit in this seaside resort with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Marbella.

1. Plaza de los Naranjos

2. paseo de la alameda: an elegant 18th-century park, 3. spend a day at the beach, 4. puerto banús and its waterfront restaurants, 5. avenida del mar and the dalí statues, 6. iglesia de nuestra señora de la encarnación, 7. murallas del castillo: ruins of a moorish castle, 8. museo ralli, 9. museo del grabado español contemporáneo, 10. mezquita del rey abdul aziz al saud (marbella mosque), 11. iglesia del santo cristo de la veracruz, 12. capilla de san juan de dios, 13. plaza altamirano, where to stay in marbella for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in marbella.

In Marbella's charming Old Town ( Casco Antiguo ), the Plaza de los Naranjos is the place where locals and tourists come to socialize and relax. A number of attractions line the square, and several restaurants with outdoor patio seating are set beneath leafy trees.

This beautiful town square has become the heart of Marbella. The Plaza de los Naranjos blossoms with fragrant orange trees in springtime. The group of orange trees is planted right in the middle of the square, providing welcome shade during the summertime.

Two important historic landmarks found here are the town hall ( Casa Consistorial , built in 1572), and the oldest parish church in Marbella, the 16th-century Ermita de Santiago (Santiago Hermitage). This simple whitewashed church possesses a noteworthy contemporary sculpture of Saint James the Apostle.

A nearby attraction for gourmands is the Restaurante Skina , which holds two Michelin stars . This gastronomic destination is a few blocks away (a five-minute walk) from Plaza de los Naranjos at 12 Calle Aduar.

Filled with leafy palms and shady pine trees, the Paseo de La Alameda is a peaceful public park in the Old Town that joins the Paseo Marítimo along the seafront. It's a delight to wander through here after spending time in the Old City's warren of narrow streets.

The park features a main promenade with marble walkways; decorative benches shaded beneath banana palms; and fountains, like the Fuente Virgen del Rocio , which was made in 1762.

The park is also home to botanical gardens, and it was the city's first designated green space.

A small kiosk located in the southern part of the park sells cold drinks, snacks, newspapers, and magazines.

Address: Av. Ramón y Cajal, s/n, 29602 Marbella, Málaga, Spain

Marbella's name means "Beautiful Sea," and the town lives up to this moniker with fine sandy beaches . Several excellent choices are within a short walk of the historic center of Marbella. Most of the public beaches have restroom facilities and lifeguards on duty during summer.

Playa Casablanca should be number one on your beach list. Beautiful sand, a happening scene at the high-end chiringuitos, and a palm-treed walkway make the area a place to see and be seen. The beach is pleasantly busy but not overrun. If you want to stay here, check out the very high-end Marbella Club .

Coming in at a close second to Playa Casablanca is Playa Real de Zaragoza . This wonderful beach is a mix of natural areas and built-up spots. The beach is the perfect width for the formation of wonderful shallow tidal pools of warm water, a favorite for families with small children . The beach also has its fair share of moderately priced chiringuitos and chair rental places.

A favorite of those staying in the Old Town or in the heart of Marbella is Playa de Venus . Find it easily at the end of Avenida del Mar just past all the amazing Salvador Dali artwork. The beach is very busy with people enjoying the sun; sand; and shallow, calm waters. Wander up from your beach chair to one of the top-notch restaurants serving tapas and other more tourist-oriented fare.

Others to consider are Guadalmina beach, Linda Vista beach, and San Pedro Alcántara . These three are ideal for families . The sandy beaches are rated as " Blue Flag " because of their calm, safe waters, ideal for wading and swimming.

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Home » Travel Guides » Spain » 15 Best Things to Do in Marbella (Spain)

15 Best Things to Do in Marbella (Spain)

For Mediterranean glamour Marbella holds its own with the French Riviera and has all the things you want from a luxury beach destination: There are Michelin-starred restaurants, marinas filled with high-end yachts, golf courses, designer boutiques and a long chain of sandy beaches.

Little wonder that celebrities and millionaires have been coming here for decades. For the inquisitive there are lots of little discoveries to be made around the resort, whether it’s the renaissance palaces in the old-town or the remnants of Roman villas hidden between the luxury developments.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Marbella :

1. Old-town

The oldest part of Marbella is a real find. It’s a labyrinth of pedestrian streets that are laid with red tiles and crazy paving.

The buildings are all whitewashed and topped with terracotta roofs, and many date back to the renaissance. Some are wrapped in bougainvillea; in fact the whole area is bright with flowers.

The houses area all arranged on corridor-like streets that emerge on little squares like Plaza de los Naranjos, where the square’s restaurants place their seating in a small formal garden bordered by orange trees.

The old quarter is also kept spotlessly clean, to the point where the tiles shine in the sun.

2. Alameda Park

Just a few steps south of the old-town is a park that feels like a private garden.

Below a thick canopy of tropical foliage are marble-paved walkways, fountains and benches where you can hide from the sun in the afternoon or sip a cup of coffee in the morning.

Many of the benches are clad with “azulejos”, classic Andalusian hand-painted tiles that show the city’s monuments and history.

On two sides the park is also bounded by a balustrade, which only adds to the sense of refinement.

3. Resort beaches

There are 20 beaches along the front of Marbella, most with sand that has a darkish tint, and all are served with facilities like chiringuitos (beach bars). Lifeguards are on duty at nearly all of them from Holy Week right the way through to the end of September.

One of the picks is El Faro, on the west side of the port.

At 200 metres it’s not the largest, but has been awarded the Blue Flag in 2016 and has an arc of sand washed by knee-high waters, great for the little guys to splash around to their heart’s content.

4. Avenida del Mar

This handsome walkway leads down from the Alameda Park to Playa de la Venus next to Marbella’s marina.

It’s a broad pedestrian avenue with palm trees, meticulously-trimmed hedges and several pieces of great public art.

The bronze sculptures were designed by the 20th-century surrealist Salvador Dalí, so you could easily pass a few minutes studying them, perhaps from one of the beaches along the way.

Shops and bars line the walkway, and if you’re visiting Marbella by car then there’s a handy car park underneath this esplanade, with convenient access to Marbella’s old-town and beaches.

5. Puerto Banús

A few kilometres east of old Marbella is the flashiest part of the resort.

If Marbella draws comparisons with the French Riviera, it’s down to the boutiques, super yachts and luxury sports cars that meet your gaze everywhere you look in Puerto Banús.

The area merits some of your time just to see the ostentatious displays of wealth, but you should check out the large Rhinoceros sculpture, also by Salvador Dalí, which weighs 3.6 tonnes.

While away a few hours on the sandy beach or dress up for one of the posh restaurants here in evenings – if you can book a table.

Recommended guided tour : Mijas, Marbella & Puerto Banus

6. Iglesia de la Encarnación

Marbella’s main historic landmark is a splendid renaissance and baroque church completed in the mid-18th century.

The city wasn’t “re-conquered” from the Moors until the end of the 15th century, much later than almost everywhere else in Spain.

This former mosque was sanctified straight away, and became a Christian place of worship centuries before work was completed.

So some of the building’s architecture has simply been adapted for Christian use.

Take the church’s tower, which was once a minaret.

The interior floor plan was changed to a basilica layout, with three naves and opulent 18th-century rococo decoration.

7. Museum of Spanish Contemporary Engraving

Hidden down an alley in the oldest part of Marbella is the only museum devoted to engraving in Spain.

The venue is part of the experience; it’s a 16th-century Moorish-style palace built for the naval commander Alonso de Bazán, which he bequeathed to the city as a hospital for the poor.

The collection hold some 4,000 engravings, etchings, aquatints, xylographs, lithographs and other pieces of graphic design by some of Spain’s most vaunted artists.

Goya, Picasso, Miró, Chillida and Dalí all have works on show here.

Fitting for a playground for the wealthy, Marbella has an abundance of golf courses.

There are 32 within half an hour of the resort, including very posh, invitation-only clubs, plush resorts with eye-watering green fees and more affordable no-frills option that will suit novices and rusty players.

If you’re newish to the sport then Monte Paraiso is the one for you; it’s mere moments from the centre of the resort and has relatively short, par-3 holes that are forgiving for newcomers but still pose a test for seasoned golfers.

If you want to go all-out try Los Naranjos or La Quinta Golf and Country Club.

9. Water activities

At Marbella’s seafront the Mediterranean will be calling out to you, and fortunately there are all kinds of ways to get out there.

If you’re a thrill-seeker you’ve got a couple of companies based around the marina providing jet-skis, parasailing, wake-boarding and white-knuckle powerboat rides.

If bouncing around the sea at 50mph isn’t your idea of a good time then you could always charter a luxury yacht to experience the lifestyle of Marbella’s ultra-wealthy, if only for a day.

If you pool together with friends or family a yacht with captain is surprisingly inexpensive.

You could set off for open sea or drop anchor at exclusive beach clubs where launches will even bring out your food and drinks.

10. Beaches for day-trips

The Costa del Sol is replete with Blue Flag beaches, and you’ll only be scratching the surface in Marbella.

Maybe you’ll want a change of scenery, or to find a less touristy place by the sea.

You’ll never have to go far; just past the western edge of the Marbella municipality is Estepona where there’s El Padrón, with cafes, restaurants, the Puro Beach Club and a large shopping precinct close by.

If some serenity is in order then San Roque is about 40 minutes along the coast, but the remote Cala Sardina is worth every minute of the drive, with no more than a few whitewashed villas on the hills behind it.

11. Vega del mar Basilica

This archaeological site just in from Guayaba Beach may look modest but it has vast historical significance, and objects recovered here have ended up at the National Museum of Archaeology in Madrid.

It’s a paleochristian site, built by the Romans and then expanded by the Visigoths.

Initially it was a Roman necropolis, and the 200 graves on this site constitute one of the biggest Roman burial sites in Spain.

At some time around the 6th century a church was built here.

When you view the floor-plan from the raised wooden walkway you can make out three main halls, and also the vestibule with baptismal font, ensuring that anyone who entered the church was already baptised.

12. Bonsai Museum

Just up the hill from the old-town is the Arroyo de las Represas Park.

This is a long, narrow rock garden that follows a riverbed, blending with the sloping landscape and offering a long path next to the Avenida Dr.

Maíz Viñals, popular with joggers and dog-walkers.

At the centre is a bodega-style pavilion and garden that you have to pay a small fee to enter.

Within is one of the finest single collections of bonsai trees in Europe, as well as water features with turtles swimming in them.

Several of the specimens are olive trees, the oldest of which is an olea oleaster (wild olive) dating back 300 years.

13. Roman villa

Close to the mouth of the Río Verde are remnants of the city of Ciliana, which stood where Marbella is 2,000 years ago.

Under a permanent canopy lie the ruins of what must have been a stately Roman villa.

Although the walls and pillars are long gone, the villa’s marvellous mosaics are as vivid as they were two millennia ago.

The designs correspond to the part of the home they occupied, so the kitchen shows a cauldron with fish, rabbit and chicken, while the dining area even shows where guests are supposed to remove their shoes.

Entry to this small but exciting attraction is restricted to Thursday lunchtimes.

Gastronomy is one of the factors that pulls in the rich and famous, and in 2016 the resort had five Michelin stars to its name.

Skina has been winning acclaim since 2008 for its Andalusian-style cuisine with avant-garde inflections, while El Lago has a “zero kilometre” philosophy, with a menu with produce sourced in the Málaga province.

You don’t need to visit a destination restaurant for a great meal though; in fact the most satisfying local dish is espetos, usually sardines skewered with bamboo and roasted over a wood fire on the beach.

When it’s really hot, an old-fashioned bowl of gazpacho, made with vegetables, cucumber, tomato and garlic is very refreshing.

15. La Concha

A great idea for outward bound types in the milder months is to scale the mountain behind the resort.

La Concha belongs to the Sierra Blanca coastal range and tops out above 1200 metres.

Wherever you are in Marbella you can’t miss this brooding tree-less peak.

When you approach the summit after parking at El Refugio de Januar, you’ll be presented with a very different scene, where the steep valleys shelter tall pine and oak trees.

From there just follow the signs for PR-A 168 La Concha and you’ll soon be up in a landscape of rugged scrubland.

Once you’re at the top you can see out far beyond Marbella, to the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. The walk takes about four hours in all.

15 Best Things to Do in Marbella (Spain):

Alameda Park
Resort beaches
Avenida del Mar
Puerto Banús
Iglesia de la Encarnación
Museum of Spanish Contemporary Engraving
Water activities
Beaches for day-trips
Vega del mar Basilica
Bonsai Museum
Roman villa

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25 Of The Best Things to do in Marbella, Spain

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: April 6, 2024

If you are looking for things to do in Marbella to make the most of your beach vacation, you’ve come to the right place. We are rounding up the best beaches in Marbella as well as cultural experiences, and its top attractions. Are you ready to start planning your trip to the Mediterranean? Read on.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Marbella, Spain

A glamorous town in Southern Spain , Marbella is the shining star of Costa del Sol. With long promenades lining its sandy beaches, beach bars, and charming old town, a trip to this beautiful Spanish City on the Mediterranean Sea is not to be missed.

We fell in love with the culture of the Old Town Marbella, our daily walks on the boardwalk, and sampling its delicious Spanish Cuisine. After spending a week in the tourist capital of Costa del Sol, we felt that we could move here. Plus, with real estate seeming to be quite reasonable, maybe we will! But for now, let’s take a look at all the exciting things to do in Marbella to help you plan your trip.

1. Stroll Through Marbella Old Town

Marbella Old Town is a beautiful place in the city to stroll through the streets while admiring the whitewashed buildings lining the charming cobblestone streets. Search for a cafe to enjoy a cocktail or shop for Andalucian-style dresses in one of the many storefronts. This is a place to sit back and relax, people watch and take in the Spanish vibes. Old town has plenty of restaurants with outdoor seating to eat tapas while soaking in the Spanish culture.

Best Things to do in Marbella Old Streets

The Old Town of Marbella dates back to the 15th century and is a great destination to really take in the Andalusian atmosphere. White houses and historical buildings are decorated with colorful flowers creating picture-perfect photo opportunities. There are plenty of rooftop patios, boutique clothing stores, and historic buildings. This is the place to get lost for an afternoon as you wander through its narrow streets.

If you want a guided tour of the old town, this highly-rated walking tour takes you from Rocío fountain at Almeda Park through towards the beaches to see the status of Dali, the Seaport, and the Marina Promenade. It’s then into the old town to see the Town Hall and Mayor’s House, the Moorish Walls and Marbella Castle, and the churches and historical places in the Old Town.

2. Continue to Avenida Del Mar

Best things to do in Marbella Avenida Del Mar

Avenida del Mar is a lovely pedestrian street connecting Marbella Old Town to the beach. Palm trees line the path leading from Parque Alameda to Ave Duque de Ahumada. What makes this so unique is the line of statues designed by Salvador Dali. But, it is not only Dali Statues that line Avenida del Mar, there are other artists featured as well. Dali wasn’t a resident of Marbella, so we found it odd that he has such a prominent collection, but he did holiday here, so he must have fallen in love with this slice of paradise in Costa del Sol as we did.

3. Relax in Alameda Park

Things to do in Marbella Spain Alameda Park

Just a short walk from Avenida del Mar is the picturesque Alameda Park. This quiet retreat is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy Marbella streets. This park dates back to the 18th century, and is located right in the heart of the city center and is quite small, but it is filled with shady palm trees and ferns transporting you from the hot sun.

Things to do in Marbella Spain Alameda Park Azulejos

When strolling the four paths inside Alameda Park, you’ll see the Parque Alameda fountain, and colorful ceramic benches strategically placed to relax in the shade. The benches are called azulejos and are all handpainted. There’s also a lovely carousel that is perfect for the kids.

4. Walk Marbella Promenade Every day

Things to do in Marbella Spain Promenade

Our favorite thing to do in Marbella was to walk the Paseo Maritimo (Marbella Promenade) each morning. We would get a takeaway coffee and stroll the 7km long paved walkway at sunrise to avoid the crowds. Partway through our walk, the city would wake up and more people were out for a jog or bike ride to soak up the great atmosphere at this time of day.

Things to do in Marbella Spain Promenade Coffee

We worked up an appetite each morning and stopped at one of the many restaurants for coffee and breakfast with gorgeous sea views. The boardwalk links the best beaches in Marbella from the Old Town in Puerto Deportivo de Marbella and Puerto Banús. It is easy to do as there are plenty of places to stop for coffee and water, the path is often lined with palm trees and it is wide and even with very little elevation gain.

5. Charter a Yacht for a Sunset Cruise from Puerto Banus

Things to do in Marbella Yacht sunset Cruise

Marbella’s Puerto Banús is famous for its luxury yachts, fast cars, and luxurious hotels. Why not join the lifestyles of the rich and famous and book a sunset cruise up this idyllic coast of Costa del Sol? We hopped on a charter with Smart yachting to set sail from the Marbella marina in Peruto Banos where we went out for the ultimate sunset sail from Marbella Spain. This marina is filled with yachts and our 50-foot yacht barely competed with the other beauties parked in their slots.

things to do in Marbella Peurto Banus Marina

It was a beautiful scene to take in the views of the coast of Southern Spain. We sailed along the coast sipping champagne and sampling tapas as we felt like millionaires for an evening of pampering and relaxation.

6. Kayaking Tour

If yachting isn’t your thing and you want a little more hands-on experience on the water, take a kayaking tour for beautiful views of the Marbella coast. Leaving Marbella marina, you’ll experience views of the Sierra Blanca mountain range and the waterfront hotels and restaurants on Marbella. Costa del Sol has blue flag beaches and the waters are clear, so take a dip in the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea while you are at it. Kayaking is one of our favorite ways to explore any coast.

7. Puerto Banús

After your cruise (or kayaking tour), spend some time in Puerto Banús to enjoy some fresh seafood. Puerto Banús is the place to be for nightlife in Marbella and as you walk the streets you’ll see ultra-chic twenty-somethings showing off their fast cars and designer shoes. Here you’ll find posh restaurants and bars where you’ll definitely want to put on your designer dress to head out for a night on the town.

8. Marbella Nightlife in Puerto Banus

best things to do in marbella spain video

The best nightlife in Marbella is in Puerto Banus plus a little further along from Puerto Banus is the Golden Mile area. These areas have plenty of nightclubs and bars. If you are looking for things to do in Marbella at night, a great idea is to start with a guided tour. This Nightlife walking tour starts at the famous Sinatra Bar in Puerto Banus and then go bar hopping to enjoy the VIP treatment at the best bars and clubs in Marbella. Entry fees are all covered and you’ll enjoy a night with a local guide and make new friends.

9. Plaza de los Naranjos (orange Square)

Things to do in Marbella Spain Plaza de los Naranjos

Taking its name from the orange trees that grow in the square, Plaza de Los Naranjos is the heartbeat of Marbella Old Town. Outdoor cafes with large umbrellas cover the plaza that is filled with restaurants. When looking for places to eat in Marbella, this is it! It is located in the center of the old town surrounded by traditional white Andalusian houses and shaded with orange trees. In the center of the plaza is a lovely Renaissance fountain. It’s difficult to see since so many tables, chairs, and umbrellas fill the square, but it is worth having a look.

10. Iglesia de la Encarnación

Best things to do in Marbella Spain Iglesia de la Encarnación

Continue your tour through Old Town to see Iglesia de la Encarnación (Church of our lady of Incarnation). Located just off of Plaza de Los Naranjos, Iglesia de la Encarnación is the center o the aptly named Plaza de la Iglesia. Also known as the Cathedral of Marbella, it dates back to the 17th century.

Built on a former mosque, the Iglesia de la Encarnacion is a mix of renaissance and baroque architecture that is quite interesting. It has kept some of the Muslim elements, such as the church’s tower was originally a minaret of the mosque. It is a working church and when we visited, a mass was going on, so we couldn’t go inside. We always try to be respectful of the local culture.

Where to Eat in Old Town Marbella

It may not be the first thought that comes to mind when planning dinner in Marbella, but Thaiessence was a place where we had a spectacular meal. Located in Old Town Marbella in Maison Artois boutique hotel, this restaurant fuses Peruvian-Thai cuisine with Andalucian ingredients. It has a cool atmosphere and there is a lovely rooftop bar.

11. Take a Wine Tour

Marbella Wine and bike tour is one of the best ways to explore the old town while immersing in Andalucian food and wine. Part food tour and cultural immersion, you’ll learn about Spanish history and culture as you cycle from Dali’s Sculptures in Avenida Del Mar through Alameda Park and the Old City while sampling tapas and Spanish wine or beer. (nonalcoholic drinks are available as well) Book your tour here.

12. Murallas del Castillo – Marbella Castle

As you pull yourself away from Marbella OId Town, you may stumble upon the Moorish castle and walls of the city. Dating back to the 10th century, the Marbella Castle is just outside the Old City. You cannot go inside the castle, but seeing the towers and old Moorish walls is a sight to see.

It is the most important remnant of Arabic architecture in Marbella. At one time, there were 10 towers, but today only two remain. The best portions of the remaining castle are along the south and east walls.

13. Iglesia del Santo Cristo de la Veracruz

Best things to do in Marbella Spain Iglesia del Santo Cristo de la Veracruz

Marbella is old and its old town is definitely ancient, therefore, it is filled with historic churches. Another church to visit in Marbella is the Iglesia del Santo Cristo de la Veracruz. The small chapel dates back to the 15th century and was expanded in the 18th century. It is a lovely church that was fully restored in 1992. It’s worth a stop when you are strolling through Barrio Alto.

14. Take a Cycling Tour

A Bike Tour of Marbella is a great way to explore Marbella. Take a ride to historical sites along the cycling paths as you enjoy the Andalusian sun. Starting at the Bay of Marbella, you’ll see the works of Dali in Avenida del Mar before moving on to Alameda Park and into the Old City. Cycle through the narrow alleys until you reach Plaza Santo Cristo. But you’ll then get out of town to visit the traditional fishing village of Barrio de Los Pescador.

15. Join Marbella Food Tours

Things to do in Marbella Spain Food Tours

There is no doubt that Spanish food is some of the best in the world, and a Marbella Food Tour is one of the best ways to immerse in its culture. We never know what to order off a menu when visiting a country for the first time, so a food tour offers an introduction to the best food in the area. This food tour takes you on a culinary journey through local food including tasting Pescaito Frito which is a mix of different types of fish including anchovies, calamari, and shrimp), Salmorejo casero, the Andalusian version of gazpacho and more. Also read: Mediterranean Foods to Try Abroad

16. Roman Villa

Marbella may have once been ruled by the Moors, but it also has a Roman history. The Roman Villa is 5 km from the city center between the Old City and Puerto Banus. The ancient archaeological site dates back to the 1st century AD. The Roman Villa was once part of the Great Roman empire. While there isn’t a lot left to see today, its black-and-white mosaic tiles are well preserved and are famous because of their unique design.

17. Beaches of Marbella

There is no doubt that Marbella is a beach lovers’ paradise. Even though we have it on the list as number 15, enjoying the beaches of Marbella is definitely number 1. Our job is to give you ideas for things to do in Marbella, outside the beaches. But trust me, you’ll be spending most of your time on the beach!

Marbella has seven blue flag beaches which are awarded to beaches with superb quality waters that are dedicated to environmental management and have services and amenities. For a beach vacation, you will find some of the best beaches in Europe in Marbella.

Its waterfront is filled with beach clubs, restaurants on the beach, and cabanas. Many are within walking distance of one another. Beaches stretch east and west from the city center, so depending on where you are staying, you may find yourself at one beach more than another. A few of the best beaches in Marbella are.

Playa de la Fontanilla – Playa de la Fontanilla is the most popular beach in Marbella located close to the city center. You’ll find cabanas and lounge chairs for rent and plenty of restaurants and amenities. If you are looking for some fun activities on the beach, there are plenty of water sports to be had.
Bounty Beach is a long stretch of golden sand with beach chairs for rent, water sports, and restaurants. The snack bar of the same name is located on this beach which has a hip vibe playing good music and hosting festivals.
Cabopino Beach is a 1.5 km stretch of sandy beach near Puerto de Capobino. There are protected sand dunes and there is a nudist area on this beach.
Other beaches in Marbella that are highly recommended are Playa Real de Zaragoza, Playa Alicate, Guadalmina beach, Linda Vista.

18. Shopping in Marbella

One of my favorite things to do in Marbella was to browse the shops for Andalusian fashion. Throughout the old town, there are plenty of shops to pick up Andalusian fashion. You can even pick up a Flamenco dress and join in one of the festivals that happen regularly within the city.

19. Golfing in Marbella is popular

Marbella is a popular place for golfing with some of the best golf courses in the world dotting the landscape. We saw many a party at the Malaga airport, carting their golf clubs to tackle the many golf courses in Costa del Sol. We don’t really gold ourselves, but we wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t tell you about Golfing in Marbella.

20. Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo

While you are strolling through the old town, check out the Museum of Spanish Contemporary Engravings. It is the only museum in Spain preserving contemporary Spanish graphic art from the 20th and 21st century.

21. Bonsai Museum is Closed

We were looking forward to visiting the Bonsai Museum when visiting Marbella, but sadly, the Bonsai Museum closed in 2018. They are looking for a new location and hopefully, they find one by the time you visit Marbella. The Bonsai Museum of Marbella housed the best collection of Bonsai Trees in Europe and the best collection of Olive trees in the world!

Where to Stay in Marbella

Things to do in Marbella Spain Accommodation

NH Hotel Marbella

Outdoor pool and gym, el fresco restaurant, and pool bar. This was a great hotel for ambiance and modern rooms, but we found it to be a little far from the Old City. It was about a 15-minute walk from the beach. Check details on TripAdvisor

Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá

Flagship luxury hotel in Marbella, Spain. It is located directly on the beach with a large pool, fitness center, restaurant and bars. It has a fantastic ambiance and is highly recommended. We only had drinks here, but would definitely stay here if we visit again. It was a bit of a hike from the Old Town, but with being on a great beach and the boardwalk, it has everything you could need. See availability and rates on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Hotel Monarque El Rodeo

It was a great budget hotel in Marbella that is close to the old town and the beach. We were walking distance from most of the top Marbella attractions. Good budget hotel in the old town close to Alameda Park and beaches. All-inclusive and partial board rates with buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner. See availability on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Oasis by Don Carlos

If you are looking for a luxury hotel in Marbella, the Oasis by Don Carlos is a luxury wellness resort. There are rooms, suites, and apartments. It has indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, saunas, and a spa. See more details on TripAdvisor or book at Booking.com

Day Trips from Marbella

Things to do in Marbella Spain Day Trips

When visiting Marbella, there are plenty of day trips to be had across the coast of Costa del Sol. With its central location, you can be to many of the top attractions along the coast in an hour. These are a few of our recommendations.

22. Andalusian Horse and Flamenco Show

Things to do in Marbella Spain Flamenco Show

No trip to Southern Spain would be complete without watching Andalusian horses in action. Skilled equestrians mount their beautiful white horses as they perform an equestrian ballet. Dressed in traditional Andalusian costumes, the horse and rider prance around a talented flamenco dancer who seems to put the horse in a trance. Horse and riders perform to the beat of the music as the colorful display of flamenco unfold in the round arena before your eyes.

Things to do in Marbella Spain Horse Show

We were on a press trip for this experience, so I must admit, I really have no idea where we saw our show, but you can book this show

23. White Village – Setenil de las Bodegas

Day trips from MArbella Setenil de las Bodegas

We rented a car when visiting Marbella, but you can easily book day tours from Marbella to see some of the best places in Costa del Sol. This highly-rated tour takes you villages of Ardales and Cuevas del Becerro before continuing on to Setenil de las Bodegas. Setenil de las Bodegas is the original white village in the area and is considered the most beautiful. This tour allows you to explore both Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas and you’ll also see the famous unique bridge over the El Tajo gorge and the oldest bullring in Spain.

23. Gibraltar

The British territory of Gibraltar is just a 90-minute drive from Marbella and is an amazing day trip. You can see a lot of the highlights in one day if you want a break from the beaches, or you can spend a night or two in this interesting country off the tip of Southern Spain. Read all about our trip to The Rock of Gibraltar – Everything You Need to Know Plus Where to Stay

25. Caminito Del Rey

Day trips from Marbella Caminito Del Rey

An exciting day trip from Marbella is the Caminito del Rey Day Trip. Located km from Marbella this was once one of the most dangerous hikes in Europe.

Today it is safe and exciting, This day tour takes you along a path clinging to the side of a cliff dangling 100 meters (330 feet) above the reservoir below. You’ll walk 5 kilometers along this elevated walkway to enjoy some of the most beautiful views in Andalusia.

How to Get to Marbella

Best things to do in Marbella Getting There

We flew into Malaga Airport ( Málaga–Costa del Sol Airpor t – AGP) from Canada and hired a driver to take us to Marbella. You can take the direct airport bus to Marbella Bus Station. It Malaga Costa del Sol Airport is the fourth busiest airport in Spain and it is modern with all the conveniences you could want.

We also transferred to the airport after visiting Marbella and rented a car from here to travel around Costa del Sol.

Marbella is easy to drive to with good highways and easy navigation. When going to Marbella, just follow the A-7. If roads are really busy and you don’t mind spending the money, take the toll road AP-7. When we navigate in a new town, we just follow Google Maps and turn off toll roads so we can take the scenic and more affordable routes. You can rent a car or compare rates through RentalCars.com

Final Thoughts for Things to Do in Marbella

When visiting Marbella, a great way to really get a feel for local life is to take a tour with a local! The best way to start any trip is to take a tour to get your bearings, get a feel for the culture and to be introduced to the top attractions. Book this guided tour, to see Marbella is like a local.

Being guided by a local is our favorite way to enjoy any city and the people of Marbella have a lust for life that is contagious. This tour is customizable, as you will join a local guide who has a passion for the city. You’ll get insider tips on the best restaurants, best beaches, and hidden gems to visit in Marbella. Check it out here.

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Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO .

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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2 thoughts on “25 Of The Best Things to do in Marbella, Spain”

Amazing i cant forget my spain trip of last year…

Wonderful article! Excellent information, congratulations!

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The Costa del Sol’s bastion of bling is, like most towns along this stretch of coast, a two-sided coin. Standing centre stage in the tourist showroom is the 'Golden Mile', a conspicuously extravagant collection of star-studded clubs, shiny restaurants and expensive hotels stretching as far as Puerto Banús, the flashiest marina on the coast, where black-tinted Mercs slide along a quay populated by luxury yachts.

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Experience the real Marbella. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museo Ralli

This superb private art museum exhibits works by primarily Latin American and European artists in bright, well-lit galleries. Part of a nonprofit…

Plaza de los Naranjos

At the heart of Marbella's casco antiguo is the extremely pretty Plaza de los Naranjos, dating back to 1485, with tropical plants, palms, orange trees and…

Museo del Grabado Español

This small art museum in the old town includes works by some of the great masters, including Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró and Salvador Dalí, among the work of…

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Marbella Travel Guide – How to Spend a Weekend in Marbella

Marbella, in the south of Spain is a vibrant coastal town with a large number of sandy beaches, a charming Old Town and some exciting nightlife. It’s easy to get to from all over Europe and further afield, so I thought I’d put together this Marbella Travel Guide. This should hopefully provide everything you need to know to plan a weekend visit or longer.

Together with golfing, watersports and the enticing history of several nearby towns, there really is something for everyone in Marbella. Even the Sierra Blanca mountains are close, providing the most stunning backdrop for the town.

It is of course, one of the most well known beach resorts in Spain, and particularly popular with British tourists. And although Marbella has been long associated with glitzy all day beach parties and glamorous jet setters, there’s so much more to do in Marbella than just drink and party!

The beautiful beach resort is also located near to several other large towns, including Malaga, Cadiz and Seville – all offering a wealth of historical and cultural sites. It is also very close to the popular and affluent town of Puerto Banus, well worth a visit even if just to marvel at the cars and mega-yachts.

Having visited earlier this summer for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised at Marbella and can definitely see the draw for returning visitors who come back year after year. The Old Town of Marbella is stunning, the food is fantastic, the beaches are long and expansive. Plus, the weather is pretty damn good!

So if you’re considering a weekend in Marbella (or longer), I can highly recommend. Read on for my Marbella Travel Guide covering how to get there, what to do and where to stay!

Marbella Travel Guide: Essential Information

Getting There

Located in the southern area of Spain called Andalusia, or the Costa del Sol, Marbella is pretty straight forward to get to. Although Marbella doesn’t have its own airport, fortunately there are several airports nearby. The closest airport to Marbella is located in nearby Malaga.

Top tip: Don’t land too late when public transport becomes limited. I landed at 10pm and my only option was a taxi. A taxi to Marbella costs around 70-80 euros, but onwards to Puerto Banus can be around 120-140 euros!

When to go to Marbella

Marbella’s peak summer period is May to September, when the crowds flock to the beach town. Over these months, visitors will find long, hot and sunny days, with reliably warm temperatures and little rainy days.

The shoulder months are also a good time to go – for cheaper accommodation costs, small crowds and still, pretty good weather.

Where to Stay

Choosing where to stay in Marbella really comes down to budget.

There’s a huge array of accommodation options in Marbella, with something to suit most tastes and budgets.

Check rates for accommodation in Marbella here.

We stayed in a small brand new hotel in the Old Town called Bohemia . It had only opened 3 days beforehand so there were a few teething problems, but on the whole, it was a great spot.

Check rates for Bohemia here.

Otherwise, here’s a pick of some of the best hotels in Marbella:

Luxury stays:

Puente Romano
Marbella Club & Hotel
Nobu Hotel Marbella
The Westin La Quinta
Gran Meliá Don Pepe

Good value hotels:

The Town House
Vincci Selección Estrella del Mar
Barceló Marbella

Things to do in and around Marbella

Every summer, the rich and famous descend on Marbella and Puerto Banus to enjoy the glitzy parties and spend their days on the fancy yachts. But don’t worry, there’s so much more to Marbella than this.

The Old Town

The Old Town of Marbella, also known as Casco Antiguo, is absolutely gorgeous, and so incredibly well maintained. It’s a maze of tiny little laneways and tumbling bougainvillea. Many of the buildings are the Moorish style and much of the activity is entered around the Plaza de los Naranjos, a fifteenth century Castilian square. It’s just so beautiful and we fell in love!

You can spend your afternoons and evenings in one of the square’s charming cafes, shaded by fragrant orange trees, or perusing the stylist boutiques.

Why not enjoy a guided tour of Old Town Marbella on bikes?

Top top: Visit the square early in the morning but the locals are up to take photos and enjoy it without any crowds! The tiny laneways of Marbella’s Old Town get busier as the days goes on – and by sunset, it is full of families and couples heading out for dinner and drinks.

Credit also to the locals who keep the Old Town of Marbella spotlessly clean. There’s not a drop of litter and the ground tiles are gleaming. It’s so refreshing to see a local area so well kept.

Nearby to the Old Town and separately this area from the beach is Alameda Park. It is also beautifully kept, with marble walkways, beautiful fountains and benches tucked between the tropical foliage and offering necessary shade. In the evenings, find families playing here and local magicians.

Cultural Attractions

Surprisingly, Marbella has a flourishing arts and culture scene. The town hosts its own Art and Film festivals, as well being home to several galleries. If this is your thing, then definitely stop by Casa Grande and Museum Ralli, the first has a large collection of Byzantine art and the latter has art work by several famous artists including Dali.

There’s also the Bonsai Museum, a calming retreat in the Parque de la Represa, which houses one of the best collections of bonsai trees in Europe. There are even water features in the museum that have turtles swimming, which is definitely worth visiting.

Marbella’s beaches run for miles along the length of the town and stretching onto nearby Puerto Banus. I would say that although some of the beaches had quite dark and rough sand, they were still beautiful. Some of the most popular beaches are Cabopino slightly to the east of Marbella and El Faro in the centre.

The summer months can be very busy, particularly at the beaches closest to the Old Town of Marbella.

If you have a hire car, I would definitely head along the coast from Marbella and explore the quieter coves and beaches.

You’ll also spot floating off the coastline a large inflatable water park – lots of fun. There’s also one of these near Puerto Banus too.

Beach Clubs

Marbella is renowned for its day to night party scene and is home to some of the most fashionable beach clubs in the world. Whilst you can completely skip this and have a relaxing break, many visitors do come to the beach clubs for all day partying. Some of the best include: Nikki Beach (part of the worldwide franchise), Puro Beach, Ocean Club and Sala Beach.

Spain in general is a popular destination for golfing breaks, and Marbella is no exception. With mild weather year round and more than 30 top quality golf courses near Marbella, it’s an excellent destination for a golfing holiday. In fact, it’s one of Europe’s top spots with some of the best golf courses being found at La Quinta Golf & Country Club, Los Naranjos Golf Club and Monte Paraiso.

As I mentioned, Marbella is known for day to night partying. There are plenty of excellent nightclubs and late night drinking spots to pick from. Many are located along the beach, and some are tucked away near to Plaza de los Naranjos, which transforms as the sun sets into a vibrant square of flamenco dancing and local music. About as typically Spanish as you can imagine!

No Marbella Travel Guide would be complete without suggesting a few places to go and Club Seven is definitely known as one of the best nightclubs in Marbella.

Visiting Puerto Banus from Marbella

The nearby port town of Puerto Banus is Marbella’s even glitzier neighbour. Time in this town really gives you a glimpse of the playground of the ultra rich and famous. The super fashionable marina is all about being seen, and everything is high end – from the shopping, the restaurants and the exclusive nightlife, to the million pound yachts moored up and the supercars lining the port. It’s certainly a flamboyant destination, drawing the world’s ultra-rich and a true enclave of ultimate luxury.

You can get a catamaran directly from the small marina in Marbella to Puerto Banus. We thought the boat journey was amazing and we even saw dolphins!

Another option is to rent your own speedboat for the day. Check prices for this here!

Eating and Drinking in Marbella

Marbella has some excellent restaurants. From quaint, traditional restaurants tucked away in the Old Town to fine dining by the waterfront, you’re certainly spoilt for choice here.

From €1 tapas by the beach, to some of the best churros in town at Ramon Churreria – you’ll eat well in Marbella. Ramon’s is a gorgeous tucked away stand with a lovely seating area in Plaza de los Naranjos. Together with the freshest orange juice in town, the churros come as a huge wheel and for just €5 euros – we couldn’t get enough of the food, OR the location!

Why not enjoy a foodie tour of Marbella, including wine and tapas with a local guide?

For fine dining, Paco Jiminez is considered one of the best restaurants in Marbella. Located in the heart of the Plaza de los Naranjos, it serves up excellent dishes in a fabulous setting. There also several Michelin starred restaurants around too, including Skina and El Lago.

We tried all the gelato in town, as well as tapas in the marina too. I think Saturday’s dinner might have even stretched into a 4 location feast as the night went on.

We enjoyed some fantastic seafood paella and local wine at the gorgeous Marbella Patio Restaurant . Not only is the food delectable, but its location tucked away in little side street on a hill was perfect.

Spending the Weekend in Marbella

So there’s my Marbella Travel Guide! A wonderful Spanish destination to spend a weekend. Of of course, a longer break if you are able to. There are simply so many things to do in Marbella and so many restaurants to try!

Marbella is a charming and authentic corner of Andalusia, and makes a wonderful destination with something for everyone. However, if you’re look for another warm weather destination that’s just as charming and authentic, have you considered the islands of Santorini or Milos in Greece?

Or what about Lanzarote and Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands?

I hope my Marbella Travel Guide has been useful? Please do let me know if you have any more top tips or any feedback. I’d love to hear from you!

If you’ve enjoyed this post, feel free to share using the below links!

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Disclaimer: My time in Marbella was entirely paid for by myself and there was no involvement from the local tourism board or a hotel

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You get to visit such wonderful places but I love that you always offer fantastic tips – like the taxi’s being so expensive late at night. It looks truly beautiful in Marbella, a little bit of all the things I love! Added it to my travel wishlist!

Ah thank you! I do try 🙂 It really is a beautiful place!

OMG I have never been to Marbella, and now I can’t stop oohing and ahhing over your photos. I would absolutely LOVE to take my family here. I think I would be especially fond of Puerto Banus. I could LIVE there! Beautiful! And the FOOD!?!?! You had me at gelato…

Nor had I before this trip and I really didn’t know just how beautiful and pleasant it would be!! I think you and your family would love it too 🙂

Hooray for last minute flights – This is a dream vacation! Love the bright sunshine and expansive views, not to mention the delectable food you’ve shared! Definitely keeping this destination in mind for my next trip in Europe. =) xo Evelyn, PathofPresence.com

Haha I know!! So glad I made the decision to go, it was such a wise move and just the break I needed! Definitely visit when you’re next in Europe! x

Your photos are so beautiful! Marbella looks so gorgeous, I have got to travel there some time!

Ah thank you Lesley! And yes, really such a lovely place 🙂

Marbella looks really idyllic. Your pictures really capture how stunning the place is. It looks like you had a lovely time.

It really is – I was surprised myself too but it is such a lovely spot for a break 🙂

Marbella looks so beautiful. The scenic beauty as well as the buildings, everything is incredible. I am loving the pictures, you look amazing. I am glad you had an amazing time there.

Oh wow…. I can tell you had a blast. Thanks for sharing!

I sure did! No worries, thanks for reading :)X

I’ve been to Malaga but not to MArbella, thinking what you also thought before. But reading your post and seeing your pictures I might stop there in my next trip to South Spain!

Definitely! Even as a day trip, it is definitely worth it!

Totally agree that Marbella is great place to see even for just a day trip. In fact staying just outside will save the family money and exploring the area from that vantage point is a good idea if you’re on a budget. I will make it a rule to always arrange my trip from the airport in advance. Also, if I have to get a taxi from the airport, I will book it in advance so that I will agree on a price upfront and make sure I have the right cash on me. Great advice on getting to Marbella also. – thank you Claire

Totally agree with Claire – “Definitely! Even as a day trip, it is definitely worth it!” Came here 18 months ago just to check it out. So glad I did. Ironically, I was the one trying to work out how to get from the international airport in Malaga, where to stay and what to do in Marbella. Now I drive people around and have a job getting folks to this wonderful place. Come and see Marbella folks!

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The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Marbella Itinerary

Last Updated on March 29, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning a Marbella itinerary may not seem like something you need to do – should you simply plan for any number of days lying on the beach in this charming Andalucían city? You could do this, however, Marbella and its surroundings offer a lot more than sunbathing and spending 1, 2 or 3 days in Marbella exploring the region is an excellent addition to any holiday on the Costa del Sol.

Situated on the southern coastline of Spain’s Andalucía region, Marbella is located just 60 kilometres west of lively Málaga . Though it’s a popular resort area boasting beautiful beaches and plenty of waterside activities, the town itself holds its own unique charm that makes it very much worth exploring.

Marbella is also well-poised to explore some other highlights in this area of Andalucía. Whether you want to use it as a base to check out some other towns on the Costa del Sol, visit the monkeys of Gibraltar or even head inland to a historic town, you have that option when staying in Marbella.

This itinerary will help you plan up to three days in this city, giving you plenty of time to see the compact city centre and explore some of the surrounding region if that suits your fancy.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Marbella?

It can be difficult to figure out exactly how many days to spend in Marbella. The town of Marbella itself and its historic centre are quite compact and can easily be explored within the confines of a day – and even this is a generous amount of time.

However, most planning a holiday to a beach destination don’t necessarily want every single moment packed with activities. This is generally why I would recommend spending more than one day in Marbella.

If you have 2 days in Marbella, you can either use that extra day to hang out on the beach and relax, or take a day trip to another town close by on the Costa del Sol. Even if you choose the latter option, you will have plenty of beach time should you want it!

And with 3 days, you simply have more time to explore the surrounding area. You can opt to go on a day trip to Gibraltar, to Ronda or, if you prefer, you can simply hang out on more of Marbella’s beautiful beaches.

Getting To & Around Marbella

Marbella isn’t home to its own international airport and instead relies on the Málaga airport, which serves the entire Costa del Sol. Located about 60 kilometres from Málaga, Marbella is easily accessed by both public transport and personal vehicle.

If you’d like to rely on public transportation, there are direct bus links from Málaga airport to Marbella frequently, so it’s very easy to reach. If you’ve spent time in Málaga before, there are also plenty of buses from the city’s central bus station to Marbella. You can also organise a transfer.

It’s also relatively easy to reach Marbella from other cities nearby, however, there may not always be a direct option available.

If you want some flexibility, plan to explore the Costa del Sol at your leisure or simply don’t want to be beholden to bus timetables, then hiring a car for your trip to Marbella is a good option. There are lots of car hire companies at Málaga airport and you can browse Rentalcars.com in order to find great deals.

The drive from Málaga to Marbella is only about an hour. Having a car in Marbella itself can be helpful, especially if you’re staying a bit further from the city centre.

The Marbella old town is small and compact and easily explored on foot. There are, however, plenty of garages where you can park your car for the day if you’re exploring.

1, 2 or 3-Day Marbella Itinerary

Whether you’re just planning to spend a day in Marbella or of you have 2 or 3, you’re sure to fall in love with this charming coastal city. Here are just a few things to do in Marbella if you’re planning up to a 3-day itinerary.

Day 1 – Marbella’s Old Town & Beaches

Day one is dedicated to exploring the city centre of Marbella itself. The old town is incredibly picturesque and compact, so you can see a good portion of it in just half a day. The good news is that you can spend the rest of the day lounging on the beach or swimming in the Mediterranean Sea!

If you’d like a bit more context while you’re visiting Marbella, then this guided walking tour is a good option.

Mercado Municipal

The first stop on this Marbella itinerary is at the city’s Mercado Municipal, or the central market. Most major Spanish cities are home to a main market hall and Marbella is no different.

Exploring here is an excellent way to see what is fresh, experience Spanish market culture and maybe pick up something to eat for a beachside picnic or snack later!

The Mercado Municipal is smaller than, say, Málaga’s Mercado de Atarazanas but it still holds its own charm and you can pick up everything from briny olives, jamón, fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, freshly caught seafood and more.

If you want to learn more about the market and food culture here, you can also opt to take this market and food walking tour of Marbella.

Wander the Old Town

The Mercado Municipal lies just on the cusp of the old town and it’s only a short walk before you’re fully ensconced in the charming whitewashed streets of old Marbella.

There’s a lot of charm packed into a small space here and it’s well worth taking the time to let your feet lead you where they may and just get lost in this lovely area. It’s a great place to hop from tapas bar to tapas bar and also enjoy some nightlife if you come back in the evening.

The cobbled, narrow streets and flower-lined buildings are incredibly picturesque and inviting. If it happens to be quite sunny and hot outside (as is pretty common in the south of Spain), you’ll likely find the shady streets and white buildings to be several degrees cooler than out on the beach and this will be a welcome respite from the heat.

Plaza de los Naranjos

During your exploration of the old town, you’re likely going to stumble upon the Plaza de los Naranjos – the main square in Marbella. Literally translated to Orange Square, this plaza is so-called because it is surrounded by sweet-smelling orange trees.

It’s a charming square to take in and it’s completely lined with cafes and restaurants. These places can be a bit tourist-centric, however, any may have some inflated prices.

If you’re on the hunt for a great, local place for a drink and a bite to eat, you can’t go wrong with Taberna la Niña del Pisto, which is only a few hundred metres from Plaza de los Naranjos. This place serves classic Andalucían tapas and has a very local vibe. There are also plenty more local-focused bars and restaurants to patronise in Marbella.

And if you want to learn more about the cuisine in Marbella while wandering the city centre, then make sure to check out this old town tour with tapas and wine – the perfect combination!

Parque de Alameda

Making your way away from the old town and toward to the beach, you will reach the tranquil Parque de Alameda. This city park is absolutely lovely – filled with lush palm trees, a beautiful fountain and plenty of benches on which to sit. It’s another great, shady place to escape the heat that comes with a visit to Marbella.

Avenida del Mar

Just down the steps from the Parque de Alameda, you will find the Avenida del Mar. This is a beautiful marble avenue that leads its way to Marbella’s promenade and the Playa de Venus. Adorned with fountains and plenty of benches, it’s a nice place to take in.

Another interesting focal point of this area are the Dalí sculptures. Spaced along the Avenida, you will find a number of sculptures designed by the famed Spanish surrealist Salvador Dalí. The sculptures depict various scenes from Greek myths and are a wonderful art installation.

Playa de Venus

The final stop on your first day is the Playa de Venus – the main beach in the city. After a long day of exploring the highlights of this town, spend the rest of your time lounging on the sand and enjoying the delightful waves of the Mediterranean.

If you want to get out onto the water, then consider going on this half-day catamaran tour that also includes dolphin watching!

Day 2 – Day Trip to Estepona

On day two, you can choose to continue spending time in Marbella simply chilling out on the beach, or you can head to another lovely little town on the Costa del Sol – Estepona . Located just 30 kilometres west of Marbella, it’s a great place to explore, is home to a delightful beach and has a lot to offer!

Explore Estepona

Estepona is a charming little town on the Costa del Sol that very much still retains a lot of its charm. It’s located only about 30 kilometres from Marbella and it’s easily reached by car or by bus in about half an hour, making it a great option for a day trip.

Spend the first part of your day exploring the centre of Estepona. If you thought Marbella’s old town was picture-perfect, it honestly doesn’t hold a candle to Estepona’s. Whitewashed and lined with flowers, it’s absolutely charming. If you want some context to the sites here, this walking tour is a great option.

You also should make sure to visit the Orchidarium – a greenhouse botanic garden dedicated to different kinds of orchids.

Art lovers will also love the Murales Artísticos – city-sponsored murals dotting the city that make the entirety of Estepona feel like an open-air gallery. You can pick up a map of all of the murals from the tourist info centre in the main square.

Of course, Estepona also has its own delightful, sandy beach to enjoy so make sure to pack your swimmers on your day trip!

If you want to get out onto the water, then you could go on a dolphin-watching tour or, for something a bit more romantic, there is also this sunset sailboat cruise to enjoy.

Day 3 – Day Trip to Gibraltar or Ronda

If you’re spending 3 days in Marbella, then it’s a great idea to use your final day to go somewhere a bit further afield. You have numerous choices to make, however, two of the best options are either Gibraltar or the town of Ronda.

Gibraltar Day Trip

This British Overseas Territory is located only about 70 kilometres from Marbella and you can reach the border in under an hour if you’re driving yourself. There are also buses that run to the border very frequently and the journey tasks a bit over an hour.

If you’d rather take a tour and not bother with the logistics of planning a Gibraltar day trip yourself, you can opt for this full-day tour which includes pick-up in Marbella and a guided tour around Gibraltar.

Gibraltar has a lot to offer visitors, including the nature reserve (home to the famous monkeys!), the charming old town and lots of history to take in.

Ronda Day Trip

Another great day trip from Marbella is to the town of Ronda . Located about 60 kilometres north of the city, this whitewashed town is famous for its incredible bridge (the Puente Nuevo) and its historic bullring – which is still active today.

You can reach Ronda from Marbella in about an hour by car and in about an hour and a half via bus – many of which leave each day. If you’d rather not go independently, then you can opt for this full-day guided tour which also includes stops in some regional vineyards for a wine tasting!

Where to Stay in Marbella

Villa Palma – This bed and breakfast is an excellent choice for mid-range visitors to Marbella. Located in the heart of the city, they have a range of clean and comfortable rooms on offer and there is also a shared garden and lounge for guests to enjoy. Click here to check availability

Hotel Claude Marbella – This boutique hotel is located in the centre of Marbella’s old town in a historic building. They have a number of wonderful rooms available, a gorgeous rooftop terrace, an on-site bar and breakfast is also available in the mornings. Click here to check availability

Hotel El Faro Marbella – If you’re looking to stay within spitting distance of the beach, then this hotel is an excellent option. They have a range of plush rooms to choose from, a gorgeous pool to enjoy, a continental buffet breakfast each morning and an on-site cafe. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Marbella hotels!

Visiting Marbella is an excellent way to have a delightful holiday on the Costa del Sol. You can have the best of both worlds – enjoy time on the beach while seeing some of the highlights of the south of Spain!

Are you planning to visit Marbella? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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The Ultimate Gibraltar Day Trip from Malaga & Seville

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Is Marbella Worth Visiting? Expert Guide By a Local [2024]

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Is Marbella worth visiting?

If you’re looking for a short answer, YES it is !

How do I know?

I have been living on Costa del Sol in Southern Spain since 2020 , right next to Marbella.

As a local, I visit Marbella a few times each year so I’m very familiar with what it has to offer and how it compares to other destinations in Southern Spain.

If you’re looking for travel advice from a local expert , you’re in safe hands.

This complete Marbella travel guide will give you all the answers you need before booking your trip.

Let’s dive in!

the streets of old town Marbella in Southern Spain

Is Marbella Worth Visiting? What You Need to Know

Yes, Marbella is certainly worth visiting.

With English widely spoken in the city, and being only an hour’s drive from Malaga Airport , Marbella is a great destination option in Southern Spain, with flights from many UK airports .

Having earned a bit of a reputation as the playground of the rich and famous , and a problematic past, Marbella is a multi-faced destination that attracts all sorts of travelers.

Marbella is very different from most of the destinations on Costa del Sol – you will notice the difference immediately.

It’s much more classy and feels more luxurious compared to the run-down resort towns of Costa del Sol and it tends to attract a younger crowd. If you have money and you want to show off, Marbella is the place to be.

That’s not all though, don’t let that be the only picture you have of Marbella.

If you fancy something a bit more cozy and authentic , you can visit the old town and get lost in narrow cobbled streets filled with tapas bars , boutique shops, dine under the fragrant smell of orange trees at Plaza de los Naranjos , and admire cute traditional houses. Other parts of the city are still very much a working town and less flashy.

Marbella has many faces and it’s certainly a great destination, whether you’re visiting as a solo traveler, as a family or as a couple.

Below I share the main reasons for choosing Marbella for your trip and also a detailed guide for the best times to visit.

IS MARBELLA WORTH VISITING IN 2024?

7 reasons why marbella is worth visiting.

Pretty flowers in the cobblestone streets of Marbella old town

Of course, there are more than seven, but let’s stick to the main ones!

1. Guaranteed Sunshine All Year

With over 320 days of sunshine per year , Marbella is one of the warmest and sunniest places in Europe.

Indeed, even in the middle of the winter, you can expect plenty of sunny days with the occasional shower in between.

I have included weather condition details for winter and autumn further down the article.

2. Best Beaches

As a coastal destination, Marbella offers a variety of different beach options, whether you like an urban beach or something a bit more remote and private.

Here is a complete list of Marbella’s beaches with a description for each.

3. Authentic Pueblo Blanco Feel

orange trees and church in Marbella old town, Southern Spain

In Marbella, you’re getting the best of both worlds – a modern cosmopolitan city, but also an authentic old town that still very much retained the charm of ‘pueblo blanco’ – the white-washed towns Andalucia is famous for.

Yes, the narrow streets get busy in the main season, and you might have to wait around to find a table at a restaurant in the old town.

But, if you visit early in the mornings, or outside of the main season, you can soak in the atmosphere and admire all the beautiful corners of Casco Antigo.

BONUS TIP: One of the more authentic and unique restaurants in Marbella old town is The Farm. A little hidden gem with locally sourced food, in beautiful setting,s and even live Flamenco performances at the weekend.

4. Perfect Location for Day Trips

Marbella is a great location for exploring the rest of Southern Spain, whether you’re planning a day trip to the famous hilltown village of Ronda , Setenil de las Bodegas, or exploring other more exotic destinations like Gibraltar or even Morrocco (you can do a day trip to Morroco from Marbella even with a local tour company).

The famous Alhambra in Granada is also a day drive away,

Marbella is connected with the rest of the destinations on Costa del Sol with A-7 and AP-7 (toll road) highways, so it’s pretty fast and easy to reach bigger cities or smaller authentic villages.

If you don’t fancy driving around, Marbella has a big bus station located North of the town with a great connection further down South but also inland of Southern Spain.

BONUS TIP: Gibraltar is one of the most popular day trip destinations, but it’s a little annoying to get there by car (you have to park at La Linea de la Conception or wait in long lines to pass the border control). It’s easier to book a bus tour with a local company that includes tickets to the Nature Reserve (with the monkeys!!).

5. Excellent Culinary Experiences

people having drinks at Taverna Casa Blanca in Marbella, Southern Spain

If you want to sample the best of Andalusian food, Marbella is a great location to introduce your taste buds to a world of tapas.

BONUS TIP: Gibraltar is one of the most popular day trip destinations, but it’s a little annyoing to get there with the car (you have to park at La Linea de la Conception or wait in long lines to pass the border control). It’s easier to book a bus tour with a local company that includes tickets to the Nature Reserve (with the monkeys!!).

Whether you’re booking a tapas or wine tasting tour , or visiting some of the Michelin-star restaurants, you’re in for a treat when it comes to culinary experiences.

The food scene in Marbella is a little more polished, with a higher concentration of posh restaurants and fine dining opportunities compared to the rest of Costa del Sol.

Don’t worry though, there are still plenty of low key good-value places to try (scattered among tourist traps).

BONUS TIP: Combine the best of both worlds by booking a local expert tour that will guide you through the hidden gems of the old town and finishes off with a tapas tasting at a local restaurant! You can book the tour with free cancellation and pay later option here .

6. Excellent Location & Connections

The distance between Malaga Airport and Marbella is only 50km, so you can get to the city from the airport in under one hour, via a fast highway.

From Marbella, you have easy access to a variety of luxury hotels, golf resorts, and outdoor activities like hiking or water sports, but also fast and easy connections to the bigger cities in Andalusia.

Even though Marbella doesn’t have a train station , there are really good bus connections to Malaga , directly to Malaga Airport , but also more out-of-reach destinations like Ronda , Gibraltar or Seville .

From Marbella, you can get to Seville , the capital of Andalusia, in 2 hrs 45 mins by car, visit the Garden of Costa del Sol – Estepona in just 30 minutes drive, or visit other Costa del Sol resort towns without getting into a car. Fuengirola , Benalmadena and Torremolinos are all available within an easy bus journey.

7. Playground of the Rich and Famous

As I mentioned earlier, Marbella has a bit of a reputation for being the playground of the rich and famous. As soon as you step into Puerto Banus, you can see why.

Puerto Banus is one of the most famous districts of Marbella, that’s located outside of the city borders, connected to the center with Golden Mile (a stretch of the coastal promenade with the most expensive property on Costa del Sol).

In Puerto Banus, wealthy yacht owners hop off to do their luxury shopping, and luxury cars are an everyday sight. It’s great for people watching, and parties (if you can afford it!).

Marbella has some of the most expensive and exclusive resorts on Costa del Sol, along with premium prices for properties.

Best Time to Visit Marbella

For guaranteed sunshine – summer and autumn
For party animals – summer
For budget travelers – spring and winter
For milder weather conditions – winter
For outdoor activities – winter

Is Marbella Worth Visiting in the Winter?

The coastal promenade of Marbella (Paseo Maritimo) in December

Yes, Marbella is worth visiting in the winter months because it offers amazing weather conditions, with plenty of sunshine and a minimum of rainy days.

While the availability of hotels and accommodation options is not as great as in the summer, you’re likely to get a deal on most of the places that would be out of your budget otherwise.

January and February tend to be the most rainy months of the year, with weather conditions changing quickly. December on the other hand has unique opportunities to explore local events like Spanish Christmas and nativity scenes.

Here are the average weather conditions in Marbella in winter:

Is Marbella Worth Visiting in the Summer?

Yes, Marbella is worth visiting in the summer months, but only if you don’t mind crowds and high temperatures . Summer is the prime season in Marbella, with prices at their peak and it gets pretty busy and crowded.

If you want a guaranteed sunshine destination with luxury services, then Marbella in summer is a great choice!

Here are the average weather conditions in Marbella in summer:

Is Marbella Worth Visiting in Spring?

a woman walking on a street in Marbella in spring, Southern Spain

Yes, Marbella is worth visiting in spring, but you need to take into account the quickly changing weather conditions and be prepared with some rainy day activities.

Spring usually offers the lowest prices all around, and even though not all hotels and restaurants will be open, there is still plenty to choose from.

The rainfall in spring is normally scattered throughout the months, and extended periods of uninterrupted rainy days are not very common.

Here are the average weather conditions in Marbella in spring:

Is Marbella Worth Visiting in Autumn?

autumn sunset in Marbella, Costa del Sol

Yes, Marbella is worth visiting in the autumn (fall) and may be the best time to book your trip.

Autumn on Costa del Sol offers wonderful weather conditions with pleasant sea temperatures and very little rain compared to the rest of Europe.

September , October and even November offer perfect weather conditions and fewer crowds compared to the summer months.

Here are the average weather conditions in Marbella in autumn:

Best Things to Do Marbella in 2024

The gorgeous fountain at Alameda Park, Marbella

Marbella is a little weird when it comes to tourist attractions or historical sites, as it doesn’t have any to speak of , at least in the traditional sense.

If you’re into monuments and museums, you may have to take a day trip to Malaga where you have more options to choose from.

Here is a shorter version of my original list of things to do in Marbella , Spain:

get lost in the cobblestone streets of the charming old town
book a walking tour of Marbella Old Town
visit the flashy district of Puerto Banus
treat yourself to some retail therapy at the local mall
visit the beautiful church Iglesia de la Encarnación
book a canyoning tour of Guadalmina
check the Salvador Dali artwork at Avenida del Mar
wander through the lush jungle at Alameda Park
enjoy the Mediterranean Sea with some water sports
spend a day at the exclusive clubs by the sea
watch a sunset at the beach
prepare a beach picnic (one of my favourite ways to enjoy the beach)
book a sailing and dolphin watching cruise
visit the Marina in Marbella
get familiar with the local cuisine and try the best restaurants in Marbella
take a walk on the coastal promenade
book a sunset cruise with drinks from Puerto Banus
check out local events like Feria de San Bernabé (9 – 15 June 2024)

Transport: Getting To Marbella

Lamborghini parked in the marina in Puerto Banus, Marbella, Spain

Which Airport for Marbella?

The closest airport to Marbella is Malaga International Airport (see map for location).

The official name is Malaga Costa del Sol Airport and the airport code is AGP.

From the UK, you can get a direct flight to Malaga from London, Southampton, Glasgow, Manchester, Norwich, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Bristol and others. For a full list and airlines check this article .

The journey from Malaga airport to Marbella takes just under an hour, around 45 minutes depending on the traffic. If you need to get to Puerto Banus , the journey is a little longer, but you can take a relatively cheap taxi or rent a car directly from the airport.

How Far is Marbella from Malaga Airport?

The distance between Malaga airport and Marbella is approximately 50 kilometers.

How to Get from Malaga Airport to Marbella?

You have a few transport options: a taxi, a car, or a bus (you can’t get here by train yet , but they are proposing the construction of a new train line!)

A train connection is only available up to Fuengirola, and from there you would have to take a connecting bus which takes considerably longer.

1. Malaga Airport to Marbella by Car

Drive via the AP-7 or A-7 highway towards Marbella, the journey should take between 45 – 50 minutes depending on the traffic.

BONUS TIP: If you’re not sure what car rental company to use to get the best price, you can check Discover Cars . They are an award-winning car rental comparison platform that sources prices from local companies, giving you the best options to find the right car rental for your trip.

The highways on Costa del Sol are in very good condition but can get pretty busy around peak times – 9 am when Spaniards go to work, and around 2 pm when they return home for siesta.

The view from the highway is pretty amazing – you have sea views all the way from Malaga to Marbella.

The AP-7 is a toll road, it costs under 10 euros to use it, and it is normally less busy and a little faster than the A-7.

The A-7 is used by the local bus connections too, so you might see a bus pulling out to a bus stop directly on the highway. I have used this bus myself and I’m always amazed that they do stop directly on the highway. Keep your distance from them when you see them on the road.

2. Malaga Airport to Marbella by Taxi

If you need to get to Marbella from Malaga airport by taxi, it will cost around 60 euros for a way trip, depending on the season.

There is a taxi rank directly at the arrivals, you just turn right as you exit and walk to the end.

In the summer months when more flights are arriving, you may have to wait a long time to get a taxi. It’s much better to book your airport transport in advance.

BONUS TIP: Book your airport transport in advance – Get Transfer is a company I use regularly. They are a price comparison platform, so they source price quotes from local companies giving you the cheapest options available for your trip . You can also book extras like child seats, so you don’t have to drag one with you, and I even use them for business trips.

3. Malaga Airport to Marbella by Bus

There is a regular bus connection directly to Marbella , with the journey taking approximately 40 minutes. The bus stop is marked with signs as you enter the arrivals hall.

There are up to 20 buses each day in the main season, the earliest one leaving around 9 pm and the last one after 10 pm.

There are several bus lines you can use to get to Marbella: Avanza L-607 towards Marbella, Avanza L-614 towards Estepona, Avanza L-613 towards Estepona, and Avanza L-606 towards La Linea.

Bus tickets cost around 7 euros one way and can be bought directly from the bus driver. Your luggage is stored in the bus luggage compartment free of charge unless you travel with excess luggage. They do not require you to have a child seat for the bus.

Marbella: Frequent Questions

The luxury marina in Puerto Banus, Marbella

Where is Marbella?

Marbella is located in the south of Spain, in the autonomous region of Andalusia. It belongs to the regional district of Malaga, and the closest airport to Marbella is the one in Malaga .

The exact location of Marbella is on the map below.

What Region is Marbella in?

Marbella belongs to the autonomous region of Andalusia.

Is Marbella Worth Visiting with Kids?

a child enjoying the water features in Avenida del Mar, Marbella

Yes, Marbella is worth visiting with kids, although it has relatively limited options for child-friendly activities. You will be fine if you find a hotel that caters better to kids, like one with a water park.

If your kids love spending time by the sea and don’t need any amusement parks, they will be more than happy in Marbella.

My son loves visiting Puerto Banus and spotting luxury cars – it’s fun even for adults!

Is Marbella Worth Visiting for Solo Travelers?

Yes, Marbella is worth visiting for solo travelers, whether you’re considering coming for a day trip or staying longer.

How Many Days Do I Need to Explore Marbella?

I think you can comfortably see most of what Marbella has to offer in one full day.

Anything beyond that is good for a beach holiday too, and to explore areas around Marbella.

What is Marbella Like?

a woman walking next to a walk decorated with flower pots in Marbella, Southern Spain

Marbella has a few distinct parts, each of which feels like a different city.

There is the old town where you get to experience traditional village life, although now much more glamorous with cool boutiques, trendy bars, local restaurants, and pretty decorated streets at every corner.

Downtown Marbella is very much a tourist destination, with beach clubs and beach bars, restaurants by the promenade, and lots of tourist services (including boat trips from the marina). In

Further down the Golden Mile (an affluent part of the coastline with multi-million dollar villas), you will find Puerto Banus. Home to the wealthy, and a place to spot huge yachts and luxury cars.

Marbella gets very busy and super crowded in the summer months, you can see it most in the coastal parts and in the old town.

If you want to enjoy the city in peace, try to visit in the shoulder seasons (April, May, and September to November).

Is Marbella Expensive?

Yes, Marbella is much more expensive compared to the rest of the coast in Southern Spain. There are a lot of luxury exclusive resorts, boutique hotels, and also expensive restaurants. Real estate is some of the most expensive in Costa del Sol.

If you’re staying away from Puerto Banus and the Golden Mile, you most likely won’t notice too much of a difference compared to other cities. But if you’re on a tight budget, Marbella might not be the option for you and you should consider towns like Torremolinos or Benalmadena which offer more budget options to choose from.

Here is a comparison of how the average costs in Marbella compare with bigger Spanish cities:

Is Marbella Safe?

Ok, this is a little tricky one to answer honestly.

You will find conflicting advice on this topic and you may have seen plenty of news articles about the things happening in Marbella. No, it’s not about a tourist encountering whales or sharks, but about Marbella’s position as the ‘ united nations of crime ‘.

Here is the deal: there is plenty of well-documented evidence that Marbella has become the center of organized crime on Costa del Sol. I won’t go into the details in this article (will leave that for a dedicated post), but the bottom line is: unless you live in Marbella as a long-term resident, you’re very unlikely to come face to face with any trouble.

Yes, drugs are an issue and you should beware of pickpockets, but other than that, if you’re staying in a coastal resort for a short holiday, you won’t have a first-hand experience with the dark side of the city.

How do I know this? I have friends who lived in Marbella for several years and I’ve heard all the scary stories. I have also visited Marbella on many occasions and never saw any trouble first-hand.

Don’t let the bad reputation put you off from booking your dream holiday.

Is One Day Enough to Explore Marbella?

One day in Marbella is plenty of time to explore what it has to offer. If you’re considering visiting the city for a day, instead of making it your permanent base, I think that’s a great idea!

Where to Eat in Marbella?

Patatas bravas (fried potatoes) in Taverna Casa Blanca, Marbella

Marbella has a variety of restaurants to choose from – tourist traps, fine dining establishments, basic eateries, and everything in between.

Over the years of staying in Marbella and eating my way around the town, I have a few firm favourites that I keep returning to. These are Taverna Casa Blanca (very popular with locals too for tapas), Manuka Health Foods (beautiful location by the sea and excellent healthy options), and the Farm Restaurant in the old town.

Keep an eye on the restaurant category as I keep adding new ones that pass my taste bud test =)

How Hot is Marbella?

Common misspellings for marbella, key takeaways.

Marbella is a sunny destination on Costa del Sol that’s certainly worth visiting. Be it for a day, or an extended holiday, it’s a wonderful location that caters well especially for the upmarket and luxury travelers.

Even though it doesn’t have any dedicated historic sights or attractions, it’s a wonderful location for exploring the rest of Southern Spain.

If you have any other questions before booking your trip, feel free to drop a comment below and I will be happy to help.

LOVE it? PIN it for Later!

No need to book right away – save these images on Pinterest so you can get back to the info when you’re ready to book your trip!

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Southern Spain Travel Tips

Find hotels.

I have been using booking.com for all my trips in Spain and abroad, and it’s the best place to book your hotel.

Find Car Rental

To rent a car, I highly recommend Discover Cars , an award-winning price comparison site for car rentals.

Book Your Tour

Local travel companies offer many day trip options from almost all the destinations in Southern Spain. You can check them out here .

Book Local Transport

To get the cheapest bus or train tickets, take a look at Omio to find the timetables and prices.

Find Cheap Flights

Get the best flight deals when you book early via Skyscanner.com

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links - if you decide to book using one of the links, I will earn a small commission that helps me run this site. This is at no extra cost to you.

Hi, I'm Lucia

At Viva La Vita, I will help you to discover Southern Spain like a local!

I've been living on Costa del Sol since 2020, and fill these pages with first-hand insights, personal experience and practical tips that will help you plan a wonderful trip to Spain. Make yourself at home and find the best places to explore in Andalusia and beyond.

ESSENTIAL Marbella Tourist Guide: Advice Tips from LOCALS

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Marbella is one of the most famous tourist resorts in Europe.

Located on the Costa del Sol in Spain , Marbella enjoys an almost sub-tropical climate and has some of the best infrastructure.

Marbella is only a thirty minute transfer away from the nearest airport which is Malaga International Airport.

Marbella is easily accessible through the public transport service with regular train and bus services.

The nearest tourist resorts are Fuengirola to the north and Puerto Banus to the south. Marbella is famous for its Golden Mile.

Are you an expat in Marbella? What do you like/dislike about it? Let us know in the comments box at the bottom of the page.

Marbella is a popular tourist resort especially with visitors from northern-Europe including the United Kingdom, Ireland and Germany as well as Saudi-Arabia, Kuwait and the United States.

Marbella attracts many rich and famous celebrities notably in the entertainment industry and sporting celebrities to its fair shores, it also attracts aristocrats and royals for breaks, vacations and events.

Marbella is on the tourist map as a port of call on the cruise ship itineraries and is also home to the WTA Tennis Experience Tournament which is played on the red clay. Past champions include Victoria Azarenka, Flavia Pennetta and Jelena Jankovic.

Marbella is also a golfer’s paradise and enthusiasts of the sport can spend days at the Marbella Golf and Country Club, Santa Clara Golf Marbella, Golf Rio Real and Monte Paraiso Golf courses.

Best Beaches

Marbella has close to thirty kilometres of coastline and beaches. The best beaches in Marbella to visit are La Fontanilla Beach, El Faro Beach, La Venus Beach, La Venus Beach and La Bajadilla Beach.

Marbella like neighbouring Puerto Banus has its fair share of beach clubs. Worth mentioning are Nikki Beach, Sonora Beach, MC Beach, Heaven Beach, Trocadero Beach and Suite del Mar.

An evening in Marbella can be spent in a bar with live music such as Ana Maria, Champagne Room, Stones Music Bar and the La Notte Piano Bar. Popular Marbella night clubs includes Olivia Valere, Café del Mar and Oh Marbella.

If a spot of gambling is on the itinerary, then the most popular venue favoured by tourists is actually located in Puerto Banus which is the Casino Nuevo Andalucia.

Best Hotels

Marbella of course will have some very luxurious five star hotels. The most highly recommended Marbella hotels starting at around €70 a night include La Villa Marbella, Marbella Heights Boutique Hotel, El Oceano Hotel, Marriott Marbella Beach Hotel and the Hotel Claude Marbella.

Best Restaurants

Marbella has close to seven hundred restaurants. Worth dining out at are the Restaurante Messina, Tempora, Rendez-Vous, Bijou Bar and Bistro, Stuzzikini, Sloanes Bistro, Hermosa, Bistro Paloma, Nermans Restaurant Bistro Bar and the Italian Kitchen.

A vacation to Marbella is surely one to remember or makes for a great day out if staying in resorts such as Fuengirola or Estepona.

What To See and Do

Marbella is recognised as one of the most luxurious and famous tourist resorts in Spain.

It blossomed in the 1950’s and 60’s with the opening of the Marbella Club by the aristocratic Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe of Liechenstein.

Marbella attracted celebrities such as Sophia Loren and royalty such as the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. Luxury hotels such as the Pez Espada were built setting a trend that resulted in many marinas, luxury hotels and golf course developments springing up.

To this day Marbella continues to attract wealthy Spanish and northern Europeans. Today Marbella is a mix of old and new. Marbella retains a delightful old town known as Casco Antiguo which centres around Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square). This area is full of old cobbled streets and plazas with many bars, restaurants and shops many of them designer boutiques with brand names such as Cartier and Bulgari.

In this old town area is the Town Hall which dates from the 16th century and the church of Iglesia de la Encarnacion, which also dates from the 16th century but was later remodeled in a Baroque style.

Malaga is a better place for history and museums but Marbella does have two museums worth mentioning; the Museo del Grabada Espanol Contemporaneo with of engravings by the Picasso, Dali and Miro, while the quirky Museo de Bonsai has a collection of the miniature Japanese trees. This is located in the Parque de la Represa.

For families visiting Marbella consider a trip to the Natura Aventura adventure park in San Pedro de la Alcantara, 7 km outside Marbella. It is suitable for all ages but especially teenagers who will love the rock climbing, kayaking and paintball.

What is special about Marbella?

Marbella has many differences to other tourist resorts on the Costa del Sol. It has beautiful beaches and careful development which attracts rich and famous people including many celebrities who come here to relax and party the summer away on their luxury yachts. It is not full of over-developed high-rise apartment blocks and tacky, cheap restaurants which other towns and cities suffer from. The restaurants, bars and beach clubs in Marbella are trendy and hip.

Marbella has a safe, cosmopolitan atmosphere, crime is low and the weather is good even in winter which is why so many people choose this area to own a second holiday home.

Shopping is an important part of the Marbella scene. There are some lovely boutique-style shops within the Casco Antiguo, while designer labels can be sourced from the main avenue running through the town, Avenida Ramon y Cajal which leads into the Avenida de Ricardo Soriano. On the outskirts of the town is the La Canada commercial centre the largest indoor shopping mall on the Costa del Sol which contains shops, fast-food outlets, a multiplex cinema, healthclub and bowling alley.

Getting to Marbella

Marbella is situated 28 km west of Fuengirola. Marbella bus station is situated next to the bypass, about a mile from the town centre. There is a regular express service from here to Malaga airport which takes about 45 minutes or you can book a transfer here. There are also buses from Marbella to many of the resorts along the Costa del Sol, as well as inland to the popular tourist destination of Ronda. Long distance services to Cadiz, Jerez, Granada and Almeria are also available.

Is Marbella near Benidorm?

Definitely not because they are not remotely close. Benidorm is far away on Spain’s Costa Blanca coast which is a distance of 570 km and a drive time of 5 hours and 33 minutes. If you want more bars and nightclubs try Benalmadena, Fuengirola or Torremolinos instead.

Real Estate Agents

Whether you’re looking for a place to rent or to stay at permanently, you can take advantage of the services from the real estate agents in Marbella who are more than willing to help you in finding your ideal residence.

You can contact Panorama (www.panorama.es, Tel. +34 952 774 266 and +34 952 863 750), Diana Morales Properties (www.dmproperties.com, Tel. +34 952 765 138) and El Chorrito Rural Real Estate ( elchorrito.es , Tel. +34 658 356 696).

Read a great interview we did with El Chorrito Rural Real Estate further down the page where they give some really informative information about Marbella and its property market.

Tourist Information Offices>

Marbella Tourist Office Address: Plaza de los Naranjos s/n, 29600 Marbella (Malaga) Telephone Number: +34 952 823 550 Email Address: [email protected]

Marbella Tourist Office Address: Glorieta de la Fontanilla s/n, 29600 Marbella (Malaga) Telephone Number: +34 952 771 442 Email Address: [email protected] Website: www.marbellaexclusive.com

Moving to Marbella

If you are thinking of moving to Marbella , then you must read our interview with El Chorrito Rural Real Estate below:

There are loads of advantages of living in Marbella, among them we can find the perfect weather most of the months in a year, peacefulness, security, multiculturalism, leisure, gastronomy, luxury, golf courses, beaches, great public transport connections, etc.

Would the area not suit certain types of people, i.e. are there any possible downsides?

Bearing in mind the multicultural atmosphere can be found in Marbella, every type of people is accepted and valued.

What proportion of the local population are Spanish?

The percentages of citizens in Marbella (2015) are the following: – 30.4 percent are foreigners – 27.88 percent are from Marbella – 18.05 percent are from Málaga – 13.45 percent are from Andalusia – 10.21 percent are from the rest of Spain

In conclusion, the total percentage of Spanish citizens in Marbella is 69.59 percent.

What are your favourite things to do in the area?

In Marbella, there are many things anyone can do, things such as going to a restaurant or bar –as there are loads of them –, taking a boat ride, going to the beach, playing golf or going shopping to La Cañada –the largest and more luxurious shopping mall–. Another option might be visiting interesting areas such as Marbella Este, Los Monterios, Marbella Centro (casco antigüo), Milla de Oro, Puerto Banús or Nueva Andalucía.

Can you give us some insider tips to the best bars or restaurants?

We have in Marbella a little world of bars and restaurants, for every type of people and of varying prices. We can name some of the most popular: Marbella Club, Marisquería Santiago, La Lonja, La Barca, La Pesquera, Ocen Club, Nikki Beach, La Venencia, El Trocadero.

Are there many facilities such as doctors and dentists, shops etc?

Marbella, like every “big town” has all the facilities a person needs to live fully. We can find public and private health clinics, hospitals, aesthetic clinics –many people travel there to be operated, as they are well known–, luxury shops in Puerto Banús, La Cañada Shopping Center, El Corte Inglés, etc.

Are there smaller villages nearby that you might also recommend?

Monda and Guaro are highly recommended villages to visit, as they are close to Marbella and they have a lot of things to do in there. Some are Ojén, El Juanar, Estepona, Calahonda, Mijas, among others. In addition, it is important to highlight the fact that Marbella is really close to La Sierra de las Nieves, so it can be interesting to give the option of doing inland tourism.

What are the nearest internationals schools and how good are they?

Colegio Ecos, Las Chapas, Les Roches, The British School of Marbella, Swans International School Marbella, among others.

Is crime an issue for expats?

It is not, Marbella is a really secure city for every citizen.

Coming onto buying property – what is the market like now in terms of prices going up, down or staying the same?

At this point in time, prices are going up again.

Is this a good time to buy and are there any repossessions or very cheap properties still available to buy?

There are some remaining cheap repossessions/properties, the fact is that, on the one hand market opportunities is getting smaller; on the other hand, Marbella is a very fascinating place to live that it is really difficult to find cheap properties or to find prices going down.

What urbanisations are there and can you describe each one and how they might differ from each other?

Urbanisation Tiro de Pichón, Urbanisation Lorea Playa, Urbanisation Las Mimosas, Urbanisation Villa Marina, Urbanisation El Gamonal, Urbanisation San Javier, Urbanisation Ancón Sierra, Urbanisation El Vicario, Urbanisation Santa Petronilla, Urbanisation La Carolina, Urbanisation Cascada de Camojan, Urbanisation La Capellanía, Urbanisation Jardines Colgantes, Urbanisation Lomas Marbella, Urbanisation El Real Panorama, Urbanisation Lindasol, Urbanisation Los Monteros, Urbanisation Bahía Real, Urbanisation Las Brisas, Urbanisation Vistamar, Urbanisation Bosquemar, Urbanisation Los Pinos, Urbanisation Loma de Las Palmas, Urbanisation Belle Epoque, Urbanisation Cerrado de Elviria, Urbanisation Marbella Playa, Urbanisation Real de Zaragoza, Urbanisation Pinos Verdes, Urbanisation Artola Alta, Urbanisation Cabopino, Urbanisation Village de Santa María.

How much are typical property prices in Marbella for apartments, villas etc?

The average price per square meter for Marbella is 3,490 euros. The average price for properties in Marbella is 886,449 euros based on 1,354 properties. For high standing considered properties, the price has to be a minimum 700,000 euros.

Any tips and advice to people looking to buy in Marbella or surrounding area?

If someone is looking for a property to live in Marbella, the best option is to contact real estates professionals. The reason is that they can mistakenly find properties that are not regularized, due to problems with the city council.

El Chorrito, thank you so much for taking the time to help our readers with your experiences in Spain. If you want to contact El Chorrito, you can find their details below.

El Chorrito Rural Real Estate Website: elchorrito.es E-Mail: [email protected] Telephone: +34 658 356 696

You can also go to our main Coín page where we have another fantastic interview with El Chorrito.

Contact us to be featured – we want more expat interviews for our newsletter and website. You don’t need to be an estate agent, we want to hear from anyone who lives in Spain whether you are working or retired.

Related Marbella Pages:

Marbella Map
Marbella Nightlife
Marbella Weather
Marbella Webcams
Move to Marbella

Near to Marbella:

Puerto Banus

Excursions…

Main Costa del Sol Index

About the Author

Mark Eastwood

Main author and owner of SpainMadeSimple.com which was started in 2004 when I first moved to Spain.

Spain Made Simple features expert advice on all aspects of moving to and living in Spain as well as useful tourist information and travel tips.

As well as my own articles we have many contributions from professionally qualified experts in varied occupations in Spain.

Thank you for visiting our website and if you would like to comment or contribute, we welcome this! Just type your message in the comments box at the bottom of the page.

Reader Interactions

Eileen Napier says

July 15, 2017 at 12:20 am

Hi Are their any recycling shops in Marbella.

September 10, 2013 at 11:16 am

Hello there!

Quick introduction: my name is Mark and I currently reside in Cheshire in the UK, however I am looking to relocate to Southern Spain as it is an area I am fond of plus I have family who have lived in Marbella for several years now so I have good knowledge of not only the area but the culture of the region as well.

My career experience in the UK, although primarily based as freelance Commercial Manager within a specific area of the retail and petroleum construction industry, has entailed and required skills to be developed beyond those normally associated with the industry. The ability to communicate with a broad spectrum of people from young inexperienced site personnel through to Senior Managers and Company Directors proving to be vital. Whether in organising on site works or effectively being in the ‘market place’ introducing myself to potential new Clients and increasing my revenue streams and order book.

I have keen interest in most sports and fitness together with health and general wellbeing.

As a result I feel I have the potential to adapt to new challenges and career opportunities that may arise and I am prepared and willing to consider virtually any vacancy or position.

Ideally the location I am seeking to base myself is on the Costa del Sol, which as an area I know particularly well as my elderly live in Marbella and have done so for the past 26+ years.

I appreciate the above details are somewhat brief but if you would like any further information please do not hesitate to either drop me an e-mail to: [email protected] or alternatively give me a call on: 07821 341411. Cheers!

Anthony Needham says

August 23, 2013 at 3:34 pm

hi im looking for a job as a chef in the costa del sol region. i have 20 yrs experience as a chef in hotels ,restaurants and bars. i lived in tenerife for 7 years so have picked up enough spanish to get by .i am coming over to spain end of august so if anyone has any vacancies in any part of kitchen work i would be grateful. my E-mail is [email protected] and my mob no is 07706882158 . thanks alot hopefully hear from someone soon.

March 27, 2013 at 10:42 pm

Hello, my name is Nuria and I am looking for a job like a babysitter. I am a pharmacist student and I have experience caring children since 2001. I am very responsable, patient,nice, positive and energetic. If you need a babysitter during your holidays in Marbella send me an e-mail. E-mail: [email protected] .

Best Wishes!!!

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Marbella Travel Guide: Advice on Planning an Unforgettable Marbella Vacation

If you’re yearning for a European getaway that intertwines sun-kissed relaxation with vibrant cultural excursions, let us introduce you to a destination that might just top your bucket list: Marbella, Spain .

Close your eyes and picture this: azure skies stretching over the Mediterranean’s shimmering expanse, lush, rolling hills, and narrow, winding cobblestone streets bursting with an intoxicating mix of tradition and glamour.

Can you hear the murmuring of the waves, the whispering palm trees, or the rhythmic flamenco melodies that echo in the balmy evening air? That’s the magic of Marbella calling you . And in this Marbella travel guide, we’ll help you plan the vacation of a lifetime – centered around our luxury villas.

Whether you’re hoping to toast the sunset from an exclusive beach club, soak up the rich Andalusian culture, or just catch some R&R at a luxury villa nestled in the hillside, this guide on what to do in Marbella will leave you inspired and confident as you start planning your itinerary.

And, we’ll even cover the basics beyond our favorite things to do in Marbella – like the best time to go to Marbella and where to stay in Marbella.

We know you’re eager to put pen to paper and start planning your trip. But to kick off our Marbella travel guide, we need to determine if this is the right location for you. So, is Marbella worth visiting?

Is Marbella Worth Visiting?

From other Spanish locations like our Ibiza travel guide , Mallorca travel guide , or Alcudia travel guide , to other tropical destinations like our Anguilla travel guide , Seychelles travel guide , or Antiparos travel guide , there are countless places calling your name .

So how does Marbella stack up on the figurative bucket list? In order to answer that, let’s first explain where Marbellas is, what it’s like, what it’s known for, and more.

Where is Marbella?

Marbella is a dazzling city nestled on the southern coast of Spain in the region of Andalusia. Part of the Costa del Sol, Marbella sits along the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, enjoying over 320 days of sunshine a year.

This beautiful city is about 60 kilometers southwest of the provincial capital, Malaga, providing visitors a convenient access point to this sun-kissed haven. But, what is Marbella like?

What is Marbella Like?

In a few words: energetic, warm, inviting, rejuvenating .

Imagine waking to a serene sunrise that bathes your luxury villa in a soft, warm glow, and stepping onto a landscape where sandy beaches and vibrant city life exist in perfect harmony.

The blend of old-world charm and modern luxury sets Marbella apart, providing a uniquely appealing environment that beguiles visitors at every turn. This unique wonderland embraces you with a vibrancy that’s as warming as the Spanish sun itself.

What is Marbella Known For?

Marbella is known for its idyllic coastline and luxury lifestyle. It’s renowned for the ‘Golden Mile,’ a stretch of premier villas, private beaches, and five-star hotels.

Visitors are attracted to the city’s marina, Puerto Banus, famous for its designer boutiques, high-end restaurants, and extravagant yachts.

Yet, Marbella isn’t just about modern glitz. Its charming Old Town, with the iconic Orange Square, centuries-old churches, and boutiques, adds to the city’s allure.

The city’s dynamic culinary scene, featuring Michelin-star restaurants and traditional tapas bars, also contributes to its reputation. Our Marbella travel guide captures these elements and more that make the city a beloved destination.

How Expensive is Marbella?

When it comes to cost, Marbella offers a spectrum of options to cater to various budgets. Compared to cities like Madrid or Barcelona, Marbella can be a bit pricier, especially in areas like Puerto Banus. However, the city also offers more affordable options for dining and entertainment.

As a point of reference, a mid-range meal might cost around 10 to 15 euros per person, while a dinner at a high-end restaurant can go well over 50 euros per person. Accommodation varies widely too, from luxury villas and five-star resorts to more budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals.

So, while Marbella is renowned for its luxury, it’s also accessible for those seeking a less extravagant vacation. Our Marbella guide helps you navigate this range, ensuring you know where to splurge and where to save. That being said, should plan a vacation and travel to Marbella?

So, Should You Plan Your Vacation and Travel to Marbella?

If you’re looking for a destination that combines stunning beaches, rich culture, fantastic food, and an enticing blend of tranquility and glamour, then Marbella should top your list.

It’s versatile, as there are so many things to do in Marbella – whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore historical sites, indulge in retail therapy, or party the night away. And with a variety of options to suit different budgets, it’s a city that can cater to various travel styles.

So, let’s get into the basics of planning a trip to Marbella, looking at the best places to stay in Marbella, the best time to go to Marbella, and how to get to Marbella.

The Basics of Planning a Trip to Marbella: Figuring Out Lodging and Logistics

Below, we’ll set the foundation for an unforgettable trip to Marbella.

This is the stuff that probably has you stressing out the most, so let’s get it all squared away so you can enjoy peace of mind and get to the fun part of our Marbella travel guide – the best things to do in Marbella .

First up, let’s talk about the best time to go to Marbella.

Our Recommendation For the Best Time to Go to Marbella, Spain

As your Marbella guide, we recommend you travel to Marbella in one of the windows: either April to June or September to November. Why? These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices compared to the peak summer season.

The temperatures are comfortable for beach-going, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. However, if your primary goal is sunbathing and swimming, then the warmer summer months, while busier and more expensive, would be ideal. That’ll be July or August.

How to Get to Marbella, Spain in the Most Convenient Manner

When planning how to get to Marbella, the most common route is flying into Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport.

From there, it’s a straightforward 40-minute drive to the heart of Marbella. If convenience and time efficiency are your priorities, consider pre-booking a private transfer for a direct and comfortable ride to your lodging.

This is something we can assist with as your Marbella guide – but more on that in a moment .

Local Transportation For Getting Around Marbella

Moving around Marbella is relatively easy. The city boasts an efficient public transportation system, including regular buses and taxis.

However, if you’d like to explore at your own pace or venture beyond the city limits, consider renting a car. We recommend booking in advance to secure the best deals.

But remember, the charm of Marbella also lies in its walkability, especially in the Old Town, where strolling through its narrow streets is a delight in itself.

Where to Stay in Marbella, Spain: Hotels vs Resorts vs Villas

Perhaps the most important considerations when visiting Marbella are these: where to go in Marbella, and where to stay in Marbella.

And the good news is there really are no wrong answers here – you’re spoiled with choices. From boutique hotels in the Old Town to luxurious resorts on the Golden Mile, options are plentiful. However, for an exceptional stay, nothing compares to the privacy, space, and personalized comfort of a luxury villa.

Imagine waking up in a plush bed, opening your balcony doors to an unobstructed view of the Mediterranean, and enjoying breakfast by your private pool. Then, after a day of exploring, retreat to your villa for a relaxing dip in the hot tub, a barbecue in the garden, or a movie night in your home theater.

That’s what staying in a villa in Marbella offers – a tailor-made vacation experience that no hotel or resort can match.

Whether you’re traveling to Marbella with family, celebrating a special occasion, or looking for a high-end retreat, a villa offers you a home away from home with premium amenities. Moreover, our Marbella villas are conveniently located, ensuring you’re never too far from the city’s top attractions.

We have luxury villas in Marbella starting at just €2,375/week. Whether you prefer something hidden in a lush, private jungle oasis like Golden Mile Villas or you want to look out over the cliffs and take in superb views of the sea from Villa Fuentes , your perfect Marbella vacation is just a few clicks away.

Beyond where to stay in Marbella, you need to consider what to do in Marbella on your vacation. Below, we’ll finish up our Marbella travel guide by helping you plan out your itinerary.

What to Do in Marbella on Your Vacation

It’s time to start figuring out things to do in Marbella to make the most of your trip. From sightseeing to beach lounging, fine dining, partying, and more – there is no shortage of things to do in Marbella, Spain!

What to See in Marbella, Spain

Begin your exploration with Marbella’s charming Old Town, a labyrinth of narrow streets flanked by whitewashed buildings.

This area is home to historic landmarks, including the Castle Walls and the Plaza de Los Naranjos, which features the 16th-century Town Hall. The Old Town is a must-visit not only for its history but also for its array of boutiques, art galleries, and cafes, which breathe life into its traditional charm.

Venture beyond the Old Town and you’ll find Puerto Banus, the city’s renowned marina, which is a spectacle of luxury yachts and high-end boutiques. Take a stroll around to indulge in the upscale ambiance and do some people-watching, you might even spot a celebrity or two!

The Best Beaches in Marbella, Spain

Marbella boasts an impressive 23 beaches along its coastline, each offering a unique allure. For a lively beach scene with beach bars, watersports, and parties, head to Bounty Beach. This is our personal favorite.

But, you can also consider Playa del Alicate or Playa Nagüeles, two very energetic beaches with plenty to do. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter and more family-friendly environment, Trocadero Playa, Playa de Levante, and Playa Hermosa are excellent choices.

For the naturist, Cabopino Beach offers designated nudist areas amidst its luxury yachts and watersport offerings. Another great option for those considering letting it all hang loose on their agenda is Playa de Artola.

Shopping Sprees in Marbella, Spain

Shopping in Marbella is a delightful mix of luxury and authenticity. Puerto Banus is the hub for high-end shopping, featuring designer brands and luxury boutiques. You can really spoil yourself and enjoy the luxury of Marbella here – from Dolce and Gabanna to Versace.

For a more local shopping experience, head to the markets in the Old Town where you can find fresh seafood, local produce, and handmade crafts. If you’re taking a cuisine class or want to bring back produce for your personal chef, this is a great way to pass the time.

You can also bring back an authentic piece of your Marbella vacation from Old Town, be it traditional ceramics or handmade leather goods.

Marbella’s Nightlife: From Classy Bars to Iconic Clubs

As the sun sets, the things to do in Marbella are just getting started – as the nightlife comes to life . Start your evening with a classy bar in the Old Town or along the Golden Mile. Then, move the party to one of Marbella’s iconic clubs.

Puerto Banus is the center of Marbella’s nightlife, with venues such as Pangea, Tibu, and Ocean Club, known for their music, atmosphere, and potential celebrity sightings.

Top Dining Experiences in Marbella

While we recently unveiled the best restaurants in Mallorca, Spain , it’s important that we give credit where credit is due: the culinary adventure awaiting you in Marbella is worth the trip alone.

The dining scene here is as diverse as the destination’s attractions. You can find everything from traditional tapas bars in the Old Town to Michelin-starred restaurants along the Golden Mile. Enjoy local favorites like paella and pescaíto frito (fried fish), or try international cuisines at one of the city’s many fusion restaurants. A few of our personal favorite dining establishments include:

Perlage (international cuisine)
Alelí (Italian cuisine)
La Estrellita (Mediterranean cuisine)
Tragabuches (traditional Analusian cuisine)
Kona (Japanese cuisine)
Tagus (Spanish cuisine)
Casa al Madena (Morrocan cuisine)
Luna (Pizzeria)

Day Trips from Marbella

While you’re looking for things to do in Marbella, have you considered the possibility of exploring a surrounding area instead? Marbella’s strategic location allows for several enticing day trips.

Ronda, with its dramatic cliffside location and historic bullring, is a popular choice.

Alternatively, you can head to Mijas, a charming whitewashed village in the mountains, known for its burro-taxis (donkey taxis) and panoramic views.

For nature enthusiasts, the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park offers hiking trails through a biosphere reserve.

Enjoy Some R&R in Your Luxury Marbella Villa

Of all the things to do in Marbella, your trip wouldn’t be complete without enjoying some downtime in your luxury villa. With private pools, spacious terraces, and stunning sea views, these villas offer a serene retreat from the city’s bustle.

Savor a glass of local wine on your balcony as you watch the sunset, or take a dip in the pool under the Spanish sun. It’s these private moments of relaxation that make your Marbella vacation truly unforgettable.

Wrapping Up Our Marbella Travel Guide

As our Marbella travel guide draws to a close, it’s clear that this sun-kissed city on Spain’s Costa del Sol is more than just a travel destination – it’s a world of luxury, culture, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences .

From the quaint charm of its Old Town to the glitz and glamour of Puerto Banus, Marbella captivates at every turn. And, Marbella offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure – whether you’re sinking your toes into the golden sands of Playa Nagüeles, strolling through the bustling streets of the vibrant city center, or immersing yourself in a late-night flamenco performance .

We hope this conversation on traveling to Marbella has left you eager and inspired to begin planning your own trip. We’ve talked about the best time to go to Marbella, the best places to stay in Marbella, and what to do in Marbella once you arrive. With the Marbella vacation centered around our luxurious Marbella villas, you’ll second guess ever returning home !

We can’t wait to welcome you to Marbella – the jewel of the Costa del Sol . Until then, keep dreaming, keep planning, and remember that the magic of Marbella is always just a plane ride away. Adiós for now, and see you in Marbella!

From Land to Sea: Combining Luxury Villa and Yacht Rentals for the Ultimate Vacation

Luxury Villa Rental Guide: How to Rent a Luxury Villa and Enjoy the Experience of a Lifetime

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LIFESTYLE & TRAVEL BLOG IN VIENNA

25 things to do in marbella, spain.

Last Updated on January 26, 2024 by gregor

When you think of Spain, chances are you think of tapas, flamenco, and beautiful architecture. And when you think of popular cities in Spain, you likely think about Barcelona or Madrid. But the country has so much more to offer!

Case in point: Marbella, Spain.

This beautiful city on the Costa del Sol is a must-visit for anyone looking for a sunny vacation spot. It’s home to stunning beaches, delicious food, and plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Not only is it a great place to relax, but it’s also a great place to explore – whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a nature enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in Marbella.

Still not convinced? Read on for my list of 25 things to do in Marbella, Spain. I guarantee you’ll be adding this wonderful Spanish city to your travel bucket list in no time!

About Marbella

Marbella is a beautiful city located on the southern coast of Spain in the Andalusia region, approximately 60 kilometers southwest of Malaga and 257 kilometers southeast of Seville. The city is a popular tourist attraction thanks to its Mediterranean climate, stunning beaches, and abundance of luxury hotels and resorts . It’s a unique tourist destination and one of the most-visited Spanish cities, seeing upwards of 800,000 tourists every year who travel from all over the globe to enjoy its sunny weather and Mediterranean atmosphere.

Marbella is divided into two parts – the old town (Casco Antiguo) and the new town (Nueva Andalucia) .

The old town is the more traditional Spanish part of Marbella, characterized by its white-washed buildings, red tile roofs, and winding streets. Here is where you’ll find most of the city’s historical landmarks and feel the authentic Spanish atmosphere.

The new town is the more modern part of Marbella, with luxury hotels, high-end shops, and posh restaurants. Here you’ll find most of the city’s upscale shopping and fine-dining options, as well as Marbella’s famous Golden Mile – a stretch of coastline that’s home to some of the city’s most popular beaches.

No matter which part of Marbella you’re staying in, you’re sure to find plenty of things to do to keep you occupied during your visit.

Foto: Puerto Banus

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Frequently Asked Questions about Marbella, Spain

Where is marbella spain.

Marbella is located on the southern coast of Spain in the Andalusia region. It is about 60 kilometers southwest of the city of Malaga and 78 kilometers east of the city of Gibraltar.

What is the weather like in Marbella?

The climate in Marbella is Mediterranean, which means it has mild winters and warm summers. The average temperature in the winter is around 17 degrees Celsius and in the summer it is around 27 degrees Celsius.

What is the currency in Marbella?

The currency in Marbella is the Euro.

What language do they speak in Marbella?

The official language in Marbella is Spanish, but English is also widely spoken.

How to get to Marbella Spain?

The best way to get to Marbella is by flying into the Malaga Airport and then taking a bus, taxi, or rental car to Marbella in just under one hour. You can also take a train from Malaga to Marbella, but it takes about twice as long.

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What is Marbella Spain known for?

Marbella is famous for its stunning beaches, luxury hotels and resorts, and lively nightlife. It is also a popular destination for golfers, as there are many world-class golf courses in the area.

What are the best things to do in Marbella?

There are endless things to do in Marbella, but some of the most popular activities include sunbathing on the beach, exploring the Old Town, shopping at the La Cañada Shopping Centre, and dancing the night away at one of the many nightclubs.

Is Marbella Spain worth visiting?

Absolutely! Marbella is a beautiful city with something for everyone. Whether you want to relax on the beach, play golf, or party all night long, you can find it in Marbella.

Which is nicer Malaga or Marbella?

Both Malaga and Marbella are great cities in the Andalusia region of Spain. They are both known for their beautiful beaches, luxury hotels and resorts, and lively nightlife. However, Marbella is slightly more popular than Malaga because it has a wider range of things to do and see.

Is Marbella similar to Ibiza?

Marbella and Ibiza are both popular tourist destinations in Spain, and they are both known for their clear water, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. However, Marbella is a city while Ibiza is an island. Additionally, the weather in Marbella is milder than the weather in Ibiza and the clubbing scene in Marbella is not as wild as the clubbing scene in Ibiza.

Explore Old Town Marbella

No trip to Marbella is complete without exploring Old Town Marbella. Old Town Marbella, also known as the Casco Antiguo , is the more traditional Spanish part of Marbella, characterized by its white-washed buildings, red tile roofs, and winding streets.

Here is where you’ll get to see the more traditional side of the city and get a more authentic view of Marbella. The Old Town was once the Old Medina of Marbella, and the Arabic-inspired architecture and narrow pedestrian walkways are still evident today. Old Town Marbella is where you’ll find most of the city’s historical landmarks as well as a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Some of the best things to see in Old Town Marbella include the Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square), the town hall, and the Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Encarnacion (Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation).

Take a stroll through Alameda Park

Alameda Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Marbella. The park is filled with palm trees, flowers, and sculptures – is like a little piece of the jungle in the middle of the city! It’s a great place to take a stroll, have a picnic, or just relax in the sun and escape the hustle and bustle of the city a bit.

Andalusian-tiled benches line the pathways of Alameda Park and make for a great place to take a seat, people-watch, and soak up some of Marbella’s Spanish charm. A stunning water fountain is the centerpiece of Alameda Park and is a popular spot for photos. If you’re visiting Marbella with kids, they’ll love the playground located in Alameda Park. The park also has a pond where you can feed the ducks.

Alameda Park is open daily from 9:00am to 10:00pm daily. It also holds a number of events and festivals throughout the year, so be sure to check the schedule before you go.

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Eat your way around Marbella on a food tour

If you’re anything like me, food is one of the main reasons you travel! And Marbella definitely doesn’t disappoint in the food department. From fresh seafood to traditional Spanish dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Marbella.

One of the best ways to experience the city’s food scene is on a food tour. You’ll get to try a variety of dishes as you eat your way through Marbella’s Old Town and learn about the city’s food culture from your knowledgeable guide. Some of the highlights of a Marbella food tour include tasting traditional Spanish gazpacho, sampling fresh seafood at the market, and indulging in some delicious churros for dessert.

If you’re interested in going on a food tour, I would recommend booking with Marbella Food Tours . They offer a variety of different tours, all of which come with rave reviews.

Tour the Iglesia de la Encarnación

The Iglesia de la Encarnación is one of the most important landmarks in Marbella and a must-see for anyone visiting the city. The church was built in the 16th century on the site of a mosque that had been destroyed during the Reconquista.

The exterior of the church is impressive, with its large Neo-Baroque façade and two bell towers . The interior of the church is just as beautiful, with its ornate altar, stained glass windows, and carved wooden ceiling.

The Iglesia de la Encarnación is open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 10pm and 9:30am to 10pm on Sundays. Admission is free, but you’ll need to dress modestly (no shorts or tank tops) to enter the church.

Spend the day golfing

Marbella, Spain is a golfer’s paradise, with over 20 golf courses to choose from. If you’re looking to tee off while you’re in town, there are plenty of options to choose from – whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer.

Some of the most popular golf courses in Marbella include the Real Club de Golf Las Brisas , the Aloha Golf Club , and the Marbella Golf & Country Club .

Golf courses in Marbella typically open at 7:30am and close around dusk. Prices vary depending on the course, but you can expect to pay anywhere from €50 to €100 for a round of golf.

Enjoy some fine dining

Marbella is home to some of the best restaurants in Spain, so if you’re looking for a truly luxurious dining experience, you won’t be disappointed.

One of the most popular places to eat in Marbella is El Lago Restaurant , which is located in the Hotel Los Monteros. The restaurant has an outdoor terrace with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and serves a mix of Spanish and international cuisine.

If you’re in the mood for seafood, another great option is Los Mellizos , which is located right on the marina. The restaurant has an extensive seafood menu, as well as a few meat and vegetarian options.

No matter what food you’re in the mood for, you’ll be able to find it in Marbella.

Sunbathe on the beach

Marbella is home to some of the best beaches in Spain! Whether you’re looking for a place to relax on the sand, paddleboard, or surf, you’ll find the perfect spot in Marbella.

Rio Verde Beach is by far the most popular beach, and is a great spot for surfing, as it has great waves for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Some other popular beaches in Marbella include Nueva Andalucìa Beach , Puerto Banús Beach , and El Alcón Beach .

Beaches in Marbella Spain are typically open from sunrise to sunset. If you’re planning on spending a day at the beach, I would recommend packing your own food and drinks, as there are usually limited options available.

Spending some time soaking up the sun on the beach is definitely one of the Marbella activities that you won’t want to miss!

Take a walking tour

One of the best ways to see a new city (and get some exercise at the same time!) is to take a walking tour .

Marbella offers a variety of different walking tours, all of which are led by knowledgeable guides who can tell you all about the city’s history and culture.

On a walking tour of Marbella, you’ll have the chance to see some of Marbella’s most popular sights, including the Plaza de Los Naranjos, the Iglesia de la Encarnación, and the Old Town. You’ll also learn about the city’s Moorish past and its importance as a tourist destination. Your local guide will be more than happy to answer any questions you have about Marbella.

Walking tours typically last for 2-3 hours and cost around €20 per person.

Hike up to the peak of La Concha

For adventurers visiting Marbella, hiking to the peak of La Concha – the highest mountain in the area – is a must. The 13.5km hike itself is challenging, but the views from the top are more than worth it.

The hike to the peak of La Concha takes about 3-4 hours, and I would recommend starting early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day. Along the way, you may encounter wildlife like deer, rabbits, wild goats, and sometimes even snakes!

Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of Marbella and the surrounding area. On a clear day, if you look hard enough, you can even see Morocco from across the Mediterranean!

Go wine and tapas tasting in Old Town

If you visit Spain and don’t eat tapas and drink wine… did you really go to Spain?

Tapas are a staple in Spanish cuisine – they’re small plates of food that are typically served with drinks, and Marbella has no shortage of great tapas restaurants.

One of the best ways to taste all the tapas Marbella has to offer is on a tasting tour! You’ll have the chance to try a variety of different dishes, as well as learn about the history and culture of tapas. And of course, you’ll also get to drink some delicious Spanish wine.

What could be better than that?

This 3-hour Spanish wine and tapas tasting tour costs €175 per person and includes a guided tour of Marbella’s Old Town, as well as wine and tapas tastings at 2 different locations. Not only do you get a sightseeing tour of the city, but you’ll get the chance to sample homemade olive oil and local Spanish wines, as you learn more about Marbella’s historic food scene from your private tour guide.

A tasting tour of the city is the perfect way to spend an afternoon and a fun Marbella activity!

See the city by bike

If you’d like to see the city from a different perspective, why not take a bike tour ?

Marbella is a great city for biking, as it has a variety of different trails that wind through the city and offer stunning views. Learn about traditional Spanish culture, admire the city’s architecture, and stroll through its gorgeous parks as you ride under the Andalusian sun.

On a bike tour, you’ll have the chance to see Marbella’s Old Town, as well as some of its more modern areas. You’ll also get to ride along the beach, which is a great way to cool off on a hot day! Bike tours typically last for 2-3 hours and cost around €30 per person.

Practice stand-up paddle boarding

Marbella is a great place for enjoying water sports, and one of the best ways to cool off on a hot day is by stand-up paddle boarding. Stand-up paddle boarding is a great workout, and it’s also a lot of fun!

If you’re new to stand-up paddle boarding, don’t worry – there are plenty of places in Marbella where you can rent a board and take a lesson. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll be able to explore Marbella’s coastline at your own pace.

Renting a stand-up paddle board for a day costs around €30. You can also opt for a standup paddle boarding tour, which typically lasts for 2-3 hours and includes the cost of equipment, a small lesson, and an experienced guide.

Cool off on a hot day and get a workout in at the same time – it’s a win-win!

There’s even a sunset stand-up paddle boarding tour available, so you can watch the sunset over Marbella as you paddle. (Highly recommended!)

Play chess at Plaza del Mar

Chess is a popular game in Spain, and you can find people playing it all over the country. Marbella is no exception!

If you’re looking for a place to relax and people-watch, Plaza del Mar is the perfect spot. This picturesque square is located in Old Town and is one of the most popular places in the city to play chess. Grab a seat at one of the outdoor cafes and watch the world go by as you enjoy a refreshing drink.

If you’re feeling competitive, you can even challenge one of the locals to a game!

Do some shopping at La Cañada

No trip to Marbella would be complete without doing some shopping! La Cañada Shopping Centre is one of the best places in the city to find designer brands, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes.

This indoor shopping center is located just outside of Marbella, and it’s easy to reach by bus or car. With over 150 stores, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for – whether you’re looking for a new outfit, souvenirs, or just some snacks!

Have a picnic at Turtle Lake

Turtle Lake is a beautiful spot for a picnic, and it’s also a great place to see some of Marbella’s wildlife. This lake is actually not even a lake, but more of a reservoir. The 40-meter-long dam was built in 1890 to supply water to the city and has been there ever since. This small but picturesque reservoir is hidden away not far from the city center and is definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a place to relax and escape the fast pace of Marbella.

Turtle Lake is home to a variety of different animals, including turtles, ducks, and fish. It’s the perfect place to relax and take in Marbella’s natural beauty. You can bring your own food or drinks to Turtle Lake, or you can buy something from one of the nearby cafes.

Just be sure to clean up after yourself, so the animals can continue to enjoy their home!

Take a day trip to Puerto Banùs

Puerto Banùs is a nearby town that’s known for its luxurious lifestyle and beautiful marina. This is the perfect place to go if you’re looking to do some shopping or people-watching.

There are plenty of high-end shops and restaurants in Puerto Banùs, as well as a number of bars and clubs if you’re looking to go out for a night on the town. This city is known for its sailing facilities, so if you’re looking for a place to rent a boat or go on a sailing trip, Puerto Banùs is the perfect spot.

Puerto Banùs is located just outside of Marbella and is easy to reach by bus or car, so it makes for a great day trip from Marbella. You can also take a ferry from Marbella to Puerto Banùs, which is a great option if you’re looking to enjoy the scenic coastline.

You may want to dress up if you visit here – this town is known for its glitz and glamour!

VIDEO: Puerto Banùs Most Luxurious Marina, Crazy Yachts, and SuperCars

Celebrate “Virgin del Carmen” day

July 16th is a national holiday in Spain known as “Virgin del Carmen” day. This holiday celebrates the Virgin Mary, and there are plenty of festivities to enjoy in Marbella on this day. This festival takes place every year in honor of the patron saint of fisherman and the sea.

The main event takes place in the evening when a procession of boats makes its way through the harbor. The boats are decorated with flowers and flags, and each one carries a statue of the Virgin Mary. This is definitely a sight to see, and it’s a great way to experience Marbella’s maritime history.

After the procession, there’s usually a fireworks display and a playing of the Spanish national anthem, and the party continues into the night. If you’re in Marbella on July 16th, be sure to check out the Virgin del Carmen festivities!

Admire the architecture at the Marbella Castle

Located in the old quarter of the city, the Marbella Castle is a must-see for any architecture lover. This Moorish castle was built in the 9th century, and it’s one of the best-preserved examples of Moorish architecture in Spain. The castle is located on a hilltop overlooking the city, so you can enjoy stunning views of Marbella while you’re here.

The Marbella Castle is open to the public, and you can explore the grounds and the inside of the castle. There’s also a small museum on-site, which is definitely worth a visit. This Marbella attraction is definitely worth a visit, especially if you’re interested in Spanish history and architecture.

If you’re interested in learning more about Marbella’s history, the Marbella Castle is a great place to start!

Shop for souvenirs at Marbella’s markets

Marbella is home to a number of different markets, where you can find everything from souvenirs to fresh produce. If you’re looking for a souvenir to take home with you, be sure to check out the Mercado Mercadillo , or the Marbella flea market. This market is open every Monday from 8am to 3pm, and it’s the perfect place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.

You can also find fresh fruits and vegetables at the Marbella farmers market, which is open every Saturday from 8am to 2pm. This market is a great place to stock up on fresh produce for your next meal.

If you’re looking for a more upscale shopping experience, be sure to check out El Corte Inglés , which is a large department store located in the city center. El Corte Inglés is the perfect place to find designer clothes, cosmetics, and housewares.

Go Scuba diving off the coast of Spain

If you think the Marbella scenery is beautiful from the shore, just wait until you see it from underneath the water! Scuba diving is a popular activity in Marbella, and there are plenty of diving schools and scuba diving tours located around the city.

Whether you’re a certified diver or you’ve never been diving before, you can find a scuba diving trip to suit your needs. There are also a number of scuba diving sites located around Marbella, so you can explore the underwater world at your own pace.

If you’re looking for an adventure, scuba diving is definitely a great option!

Taste local treats like churros and fried fish

Marbella is home to a number of delicious local dishes, so be sure to try some while you’re in town. One of the most popular local snacks is churros, which are fried dough sticks that are often served with chocolate dipping sauce.

You can find churros at many different cafes and restaurants around Marbella. Another popular local dish is fried fish, which is usually served with a side of potatoes. Seafood lovers in Marbella will definitely be in for a treat!

If you’re looking for a more traditional meal, be sure to try paella, which is a rice dish that’s typically made with chicken, seafood, and vegetables.

Enjoy sunset drinks at Rooftop Bar Belvue

What better way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing than enjoying a tasty cocktail at a rooftop bar overlooking the Marbella skyline? Rooftop Bar Belvue is one of the best places in town to watch the sunset while enjoying a drink.

This bar is located on the top floor of a hotel, and it offers stunning views of the city. The menu features a wide selection of cocktails, as well as a few small plates if you’re looking for something to eat.

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend an evening in Marbella, Rooftop Bar Belvue is definitely the place to be.

Admire art at the Ralli museum

The Ralli Museum is a great place to go if you’re interested in seeing some of the best artwork in Marbella. This museum is home to a large collection of art from all over the world, and it’s definitely worth a visit. Works from artists like Salvador Dali and Marc Chagall are on display, so you’re sure to find something to admire.

Even if you’re not an art lover, the Ralli Museum is still a great place to visit. The museum is located in a beautiful building, and it’s surrounded by gardens. The Marbella location is just one of many Ralli museums located around the world, so be sure to check out the others if you have the chance.

If you need a break from sightseeing in Marbella, the Ralli Museum is definitely a great option. The museum is open to the public free of charge.

Take a day tour to the Andalusian villages Ronda and Sete

Andalusia is a beautiful region in southern Spain, and it’s home to a number of charming villages. Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas are two of the most popular villages in the area, and they make for a great day trip from Marbella.

Ronda is known for its stunning views, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re wanting to see some of the smaller villages surrounding Marbella. The village is home to a number of historical buildings, including an old bridge that spans a deep gorge.

Setenil de las Bodegas is another charming Andalusian village, and it’s known for its houses that are built into the rocks. The village is located in a beautiful setting, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you have the chance.

There are a number of tour companies that offer day trips to Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas, so be sure to do some research before you go.

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Attend a traditional Andalusian Horse and Flamenco Show

Nothing says Spanish vacation like attending a traditional Andalusian horse and Flamenco show! This is a great activity to do in Marbella, and it’s a great way to learn about the local culture.

The Andalusian horses are known for their beauty, and they make for a stunning sight. The Flamenco dancers are also incredibly talented, and they always put on a great show. This traditional equestrian ballet has been taking place for over 30 years and is a great way to get an authentic taste of Spanish culture.

So if you’re looking for a fun and unique activity to do in Marbella, be sure to check out a traditional Andalusian horse and Flamenco show . This is definitely an experience that you won’t want to miss while you’re in town!

Highly Recommended Andalusian Horse and Flamenco Show In Marbella Book Now

Marbella is an amazing vacation destination, and there are plenty of things to do in the city. From admiring art at the Ralli Museum to attending a traditional Andalusian horse and Flamenco show, there’s no shortage of things to do in Marbella and there really is something for everyone to enjoy here.

So be sure to add these Marbella activities to your list when you’re planning your next trip to Spain’s Costa del Sol!

Please read our 3 Days in Marbella Itinerary:

3 DAYS IN MARBELLA – BEST 3-DAY MARBELLA ITINERARY

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Must Read Travel Tips Before Visiting Marbella, Spain

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25 Things to Do in Marbella, Spain : This article provides a comprehensive list of 25 must-do activities in Marbella, Spain, catering to a variety of interests and preferences.
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How to Spend a Weekend in Marbella: Itinerary for 2 days

If you are planning a weekend in Marbella, you are in the right place. It can feel daunting to start planning your holidays in Marbella Spain as there is so much to do and see.

With its pristine beaches and quaint old town, Marbella boasts an energetic summer vibe and you can easily get stuck on the beach and forget to see anything else during a Marbella weekend break.

I have curated this 2-day itinerary, especially for you so that you can go ahead and do all the fun stuff. I know that you often will arrive on a Friday afternoon or evening and leave on a Sunday evening.

So if you can easily move Sunday evening’s events to Friday on your arrival to make sure you make the most of it without any stress.

However, if you have a long weekend in Marbella, you can easily spend more time exploring museums, shopping, or going hiking than you would with 2 full days.

No matter how you choose to spend your weekend, I am sure you will have a blast in this diverse city of Andalucia . It’s by far one of the best places to stay near Malaga . Read on for my suggestion on a Marbella weekend itinerary with some of the best things to do in Costa del Sol .

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

How to get to Marbella

Marbella is perfectly located on Costa del Sol, only a 40-minute drive from Malaga Airport. This makes it easy to reach the city from the airport by car, bus, and even by private transfer.

By car – if you plan on visiting Marbella in 2 days as part of an Andalucia road trip, you might want to look for a hotel with free parking. Otherwise, there are several underground parking houses where you can pay a fixed max fee every 24 hours. Check for rental cars here .

By bus – the bus from the airport to Marbella takes around 50 minutes. You need to take the bus direction Estepona. Avanza bus company runs directly from the airport.

By transfer – this is the perfect option for those who want to save themselves the hassle of public transportation and do not need a car. Book your private transfer here .

Best time to go for a weekend to Marbella

Marbella is a fabulous destination all year round. But if you are looking for water sports, boat rides, and beach parties, then the summer months are best.

That said, July and especially August are extremely busy, so if you can go in June or September, you will still get the summer vibes, but with slightly less pressing crowds.

Marbella in winter is just as lovely, with Christmas lights decorating the streets, so even when the temperatures feel a little crisper, the atmosphere warms you up.

September to May is also the best time of the year for hiking in the mountains that stand as a majestic backdrop of Marbella.

Read my complete guide to the best time to visit Marbella if you want to know more about each season.

Where to stay for a weekend break to Marbella

There are plenty of places to stay in Marbella , but I do recommend staying in the Old Toen if it is your first time in the city. Here are some of my top recommendations.

LUXURY: Puente Romano Beach Resort – with a wealth of swimming pools, a private beach area, a spa, and a fitness room, this is by far the best place to stay in Marbella . Located on the Golden Mile, you can not expect anything but excellence from this hotel. MID-RANGE: Hotel Marbella Fusión – located in the old town with a restaurant and bar on-site, this is a lovely hotel with a bright and charming interior and a rhododendron-draped front wall. BUDGET: La Morada Mas Hermosa – located in the heart of Marbella Old Town, you find restaurants and bars at your doorstep. Bright and comfortable rooms make this a great choice.

RELATED: Malaga vs. Marbella – which is best?

Day 1: Weekend in Marbella

Dive deeper into art at the contemporary engravings museum.

Kickstart your enriching weekend in Marbella with a visit to the unique Contemporary Engravings Museum.

This cultural treasure, tucked within the enchanting framework of the historic Bazán Hospital, is an unmissable stop for art enthusiasts embarking on short breaks to Marbella.

As you traverse the museum, you’ll immerse yourself in a rich tableau of works, many of which hail from renowned Spanish and international artists.

Each room offers a new journey through time, unraveling the progression of engraving techniques across different eras.

From Picasso’s emblematic lines to the surrealist reverie of Miró, every corner breathes life into its artistic prowess, setting the tone for your Marbella long weekend. This is a particularly great experience if you visit Andalucia in the winter and catch a rainy day.

Rediscover Nature at Parque de la Represa

Following your artistic exploits, immerse yourself in the natural serenity of Parque de la Represa. Nestled in the city’s heart, this urban oasis has an unrivaled ability to transport its visitors into a tranquil world away from the city’s bustle.

It’s no wonder that Parque de la Represa has quickly become a beloved part of many Marbella weekend breaks.

Explore the park’s verdant landscapes, admire the reflective calm of the pond, and marvel at the charm of its sculptures. Each element offers a refreshing experience, perfect for recharging during your Marbella weekend trip.

Unravel History with a Stroll through the Old Town

Your weekend break in Marbella deserves substantial time dedicated to exploring the city’s enchanting old town. This historical gem, brimming with Andalusian charm, offers narrow, winding cobblestone streets leading to the hidden treasures of Marbella’s rich heritage.

Walking through its enchanting streets is by far one of the best things to do in Marbella .

In the heart of the old town, you’ll find Plaza de los Naranjos, an iconic square steeped in history. The name of the square means Square of the Orange Trees.

So expect it to be shaded by numerous orange trees, which are spectacular in winter when the orange fruits contrast with the green leaves.

As you meander through, you’ll discover many artisan shops offering local handicrafts, making it a shopper’s paradise during your short breaks in Marbella.

Traditional cafés and modern, healthy joints are dotted around, perfect for a leisurely Spanish café con leche in a bustling, historical setting. Even if you were to go on a day trip to Marbella , the Old Town is the absolute must-visit area in Marbella.

You can also do guided walking tours of the old town. I highly recommend this if you want to learn more about its history and if you travel solo, you get an opportunity to meet other travelers.

👉 BOOK A WALKING TOUR HERE

Discover More Greenery with a Walk through Alameda Park

As your journey continues, direct your footsteps toward Alameda Park. This botanical haven, replete with lush greenery, provides a peaceful backdrop for a casual stroll.

You’ll encounter many exotic plants, a testament to Marbella’s subtropical climate, making every moment in the park a botanical delight.

Take note of the intricately tiled benches as you traverse the park. Their vibrant patterns add an artistic flair, transforming your leisurely walk into an open-air art tour.

This picturesque walk through Alameda Park promises to be a visual treat and a welcome addition to your Marbella short breaks.

Admire Art on the Go at Avenida del Mar

Your exploration of Marbella’s public art continues as you stroll down Avenida del Mar. Far more than just an avenue, Avenida del Mar could be considered Marbella’s open-air art museum, delightfully free and accessible to all who pass by.

An unexpected encounter awaits you through Salvador Dali’s bronze sculptures. These ten Dalinian figures form a striking series of artistic milestones along your path, each offering a fascinating glimpse into Dali’s distinctive surrealist style.

As you observe each figure’s intricate details, you’ll find yourself captivated by Dali’s use of symbolism and his unmistakable eccentric flair.

From the ‘Perseo’ to the ‘Elephant Spatial,’ each figure is a tribute to Dali’s creative genius and helps make any short breaks in Marbella an intriguing fusion of beach-side relaxation and cultural exploration.

Indulge in the Bustling Marbella Marina

The journey to Marbella Marina leads you into a world that is quintessentially Marbella – a world where luxury thrives and a laid-back lifestyle is the order of the day.

With its impressive display of yachts, the marina forms an almost postcard-perfect Mediterranean scene, and its vibrant energy is infectious.

As you step onto the marina during your Marbella weekend, you’ll find yourself enveloped in a lively hum of waterfront activities, making it a must-visit spot for early dinner during your short breaks.

Whether indulging in a leisurely meal or observing the marina’s dynamic pace, you’re in for a treat. An array of restaurants line the marina, each offering a unique blend of local and international cuisine.

As you enjoy a delicious pre-show meal amidst this stunning setting, you’ll truly understand why travelers cherish Marbella breaks.

If you think it is too early for dinner, make it a stroll on your way to the Flamenco Show coming up next on the itinerary and have dinner after the show.

Lose Yourself to the Rhythm at Flamenco Marbella

As the sun begins to set on your first day of the weekend trip to Marbella, it’s time to immerse yourself in a sensory spectacle – a flamenco show at Flamenco Marbella .

This authentic display of Spanish culture forms the heart and soul of many weekend breaks in Marbella. With its rhythmic foot tapping, expressive movements, and passionate performances, Flamenco paints an enthralling picture of Spain’s rich cultural tapestry.

The flagship show at Flamenco Marbella runs every Saturday at 20:30, making it the perfect curtain closer to your day.

As you get lost in the magnetic pull of the flamenco rhythm, you’ll not only be witnessing a performance but also participating in a centuries-old Spanish tradition, adding an unforgettable layer to your weekend break Marbella.

Make sure you book your ticket in advance to secure a spot as this is a popular Flamenco show.

👉 BOOK FLAMENCO SHOW TICKETS HERE

Unwind with Marbella’s Vibrant Nightlife

The allure of Marbella doesn’t diminish with the setting sun; in fact, it undergoes a magical transformation. As darkness descends, Marbella’s nightlife stirs into action, turning areas around Alameda Park, Paseo Maritimo, and Puerto Banus into bustling centers of nighttime revelry.

This vibrant transformation offers a new spectrum of activities for you to enjoy during your holidays in Marbella, Spain.

Whether you’re a fan of tranquil cocktail bars offering panoramic sea views or pulsating dance clubs with high-energy music, Marbella’s nightlife scene caters to a wide range of preferences.

As you cap off your first day in Marbella, whether, with a cocktail in hand or dancing to lively tunes, you’re experiencing a slice of Marbella’s quintessential charm, setting the tone for the rest of your exciting long weekend breaks in Marbella.

There are also evening bar crawls of Puerto Banus you can take. I highly recommend this, especially if you travel solo – it is a great way to meet other travelers. But it is also a magnificent introduction to some of the top bars in the area.

👉 BOOK A PUERTO BANUS BAR CRAWL HERE

Day 2: Marbella weekend break

Start your day at marbella’s pristine beaches.

Waking up to the second day of your weekend trip to Marbella, it’s time to trade cobblestones for sandy beaches. Marbella boasts numerous pristine coastlines, each offering a unique allure to make your Marbella weekend unforgettable.

Venture to Playa de Venus, an urban beach near the city center. This beach is perfect for a morning walk along the shore or a quick dip in the sea, offering a refreshing start to your day.

A promenade flanks the beach, hosting an array of cafes and shops to explore at your leisure.

For those seeking a more secluded experience, Playa Real de Zaragoza serves as an ideal spot. Nestled slightly further from the city center, this beach offers tranquility away from the typical hustle and bustle.

Golden sands and azure waters promise a serene setting, perfect for unwinding, and makes this one of the best beaches in Marbella .

If you travel in winter, you might prefer a brisk hike in the mountains. Trails like Cruz de Juanar offer a beautiful but steep 2-hour hike. This is one of my favorite sunrise hikes on Costa del Sol, so you might want to consider getting up early.

For those traveling with smaller kids, walking to the Mirador del Corzo viewpoint is less demanding. These trails start from Refugio de Juanar, a 20-25 minute drive from Marbella.

A morning by the sea or in the mountains is the perfect way to kickstart your day in Marbella.

Delve into Water Activities

After rejuvenating at the beach or returning from your hike, add some adventure to your Marbella short breaks with a range of water activities.

Kayaking along Marbella’s beautiful coastline offers stunning views and a different city perspective. Going on one of the many Marbella boat tours is another excellent way to soak in the vistas, with several options, including luxury yacht charters or sailboat rentals.

For adrenaline seekers, Marbella’s beaches offer a host of water sports. Whether it’s jet skiing, paddle boarding, or windsurfing, these activities promise a thrilling addition to your weekend Marbella experience.

👉 BOOK A KAYAK TOUR 👉 BOOK A PADDLEBOARD TOUR 👉 BOOK A DOLPHIN-WATCHING TOUR

Embark on an Exploration of Puerto Banus

Your weekend break in Marbella won’t be complete without a visit to Puerto Banus. This marina complex in the Nueva Andalucía suburb of Marbella is renowned for its luxury yachts, upscale boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.

Stroll along the marina and admire the collection of luxurious yachts docked, reflecting the luxury Puerto Banus is famous for.

Your walk will lead you to the commercial area, where upscale boutiques from world-famous brands await.

This shopper’s paradise is the place to splurge on your weekend in Marbella, whether you’re looking for designer fashion, jewelry, or unique souvenirs. But even if you are on a budget, window shopping is surely just as interesting.

While exploring Puerto Banus, don’t miss out on its art scene. The Antonio de Felipe exhibit showcases pop-art culture, while the Ralli Museum houses one of Europe’s most significant collections of Latin American art.

End Your Day with a Sunset Cruise

As the day transitions into the evening, embark on a sunset cruise from Puerto Banus. There’s nothing quite like witnessing the sky’s colors shifting from the vibrant hues of daylight to the golden glow of sunset, all while sailing on the Mediterranean Sea.

This serene experience is the perfect way to round off your 2 nights in Marbella. There are sunset cruises directly from Puerto Banus, so you do not have to change location.

👉 BOOK A SUNSET CRUISE HERE

Reflections on a weekend break in Marbella

Marbella has something for every traveler, whether it’s the exquisite blend of traditional Spanish culture and modern luxuries, the inviting beaches, or the enchanting old town.

There is no doubt that going away for a weekend to Marbella is well worth it with so many fun and varied activities to do. This is by far one of the best places to stay in Costa del Sol all year round.

One of the things I like about Marbella is that you get a great variety of people in one place from luxury seekers, to families, and budget travelers.

Shoppoholics, hikers, golfers, and adventure seekers all center around Marbella and that is one of the things that makes this such a fabulous destination for weekend breaks. Marbella will not disappoint, so get ready and pack your bags!

Happy travels!

FAQ – Frequently asked questions on Marbella short breaks

Is marbella expensive.

Marbella is famed for being the playground of the rich and famous, so there are some very expensive areas in Marbella like Puerto Banus and The Golden Mile. However, Marbella doesn’t have to be expensive if you don’t want it to.

Doing normal touristy things in Marbella and staying in the Downtown area or Old Town, you can make it a budget-friendly weekend break to Marbella.

How many days in Marbella?

You should spend at least a weekend in Marbella to see the main attractions and enjoy the city. However, if you want to explore beyond the city, venture to several beaches outside the urban area, or go hiking a few of the epic mountain hikes, you should spend at least 4-5 days.

How big is Marbella?

Marbella is home to 27 kilometers of coastline with splendid sandy beaches and pristine water and is a huge municipality made up of a city center and multiple small towns and hamlets.

THE 10 BEST Marbella Tours & Excursions

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The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Sailing and Dolphin Watching in Marbella

2. Original Marbella Tapas Adventure

3. Ronda Full Day Wine Tour from Marbella

4. Private Day Trip to Ronda from Marbella

5. Sunset Sailing along the Marbella coast from Puerto Banus

6. Marbella Old Town: Private Walking Tour

7. Private Sailing Tour: Puerto Banús - Marbella Golden Mile

8. Frigiliana / Nerja, Full-Day Food and History Tour from Marbella

9. Flamenco Marbella Authentic Show

10. Small Group - Sailing trip - Costa del Sol - Max. 5 people

11. 2 hours Quad Tour in Marbella - 1 quad for 1/2 persons 160€

12. Buggy Adventure with Incredible Views of the Sea and the Reservoir

13. Marbella Old Town group tour with a True Local

14. E-Mountain Bike & Wine Tour from Marbella to Sierra Blanca

15. Luxury Tangier Private Day Tour from Marbella All inclusive

16. Gibraltar private tour from Marbella or Malaga

17. 2 Hours Dolphin Watching in Marbella

18. Canyoning Level Beginner in Marbella

19. Marbella - Food and History Tour

20. Sunset Sailing on a Private Sailboat Puerto Banús Marbella

21. E-Mountain Bike Explorer Tour departing from Marbella

22. Marbella Tapas Tour

23. JET SKI TOUR experience in Marbella (30')

24. Gibraltar private trip from Marbella or Malaga

25. Taste of Marbella Food & Market Small Group Tour

26. Marbella Small Group Catamaran with Dolphin Watching

27. Guided JETSKI tour along the coast of Marbella, enjoy 30 minutes or 1 hour

28. Wine, Olive Oil and Tapas Tasting in Marbella

29. Private Sailboat Rental in Puerto Banús, Marbella

30. Caminito del Rey and Ardales Guided Tour from Costa del Sol

What travelers are saying.

Sailing and Dolphin Watching in Marbella
Marbella Old Town group tour with a True Local
Sunset Sailing along the Marbella coast from Puerto Banus
Buggy Adventure with Incredible Views of the Sea and the Reservoir
Ronda Full Day Wine Tour from Marbella
Experience Box
LOVIT Charter
Jetboat Marbella
Royal Catamaran
Marbella Yacht Charters
Nautica Marbella
Fly Blue Gran Catamaran
TUUR Canyoning
Monte Aventura, Andalucia Ecotours
Born to be Wild
HeliAir Marbella
Marbella Segway Tours & Bikes

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Nobu Hotel Marbella

Located on the golden mile in southern spain, nobu hotel marbella is a lifestyle property with style embodying laid-back luxury. abstract elements and organic tones draw in the surrounding coastal vibe and cultivate a relaxed atmosphere..

Book a training session at the professional tennis club, Puente Romano. The club includes ten tennis courts and four padel courts.

Rooms and suites feature a private, furnished terrace with plaza or garden views. Light wood accents and abundant natural light enhance each room's minimalist color palette. Marble bathrooms include a rain-fall shower and separate vanity.

Dining options include 15 restaurants showcasing Japanese and world flavors, such as Spanish, Thai, Italian, and more. Nobu Marbella boasts an innovative menu featuring signature dishes like rockfish tempura and black cod miso. Enjoy a Japanese-inspired cocktail and food pairing menu at Nobu Bar.

Recharge at the on-site fitness center offering curved running machines, cycling, and a boxing studio. Take a dip in the private pool and visit Six Senses Spa—offering a tranquil sea-view escape and a selection of massages, facials, body wraps, and more.

Explore La Plaza, a lively square with an array of bars and restaurants. Puerto Banús, an opulent marina, features high-end shopping, beach-front restaurants, and bars. Spend an afternoon at Playa de La Fontanilla, a popular swimming spot with sandy beaches and paddleboard rentals.

Boulevard Principe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n. Marbella, 29602 Spain

Málaga Airport.

Daily breakfast for two
Experience Credit : US$ 100 Food and beverage credit to be used during stay
4pm check-out guaranteed
12pm check-in, when available
Room upgrade at check-in, when available 1
Complimentary Wi-Fi

1 Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.

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Marbella
Considered unofficially as the capital of the western Costa del Sol, there is no doubting the fact that Marbella has all the qualities required to merit its position as one of Spain's premier tourist resorts. Its privileged location, at the foot of the Sierra Blanca and on the coast, create an excellent climate and a landscape of immense beauty ...
Tourism in Marbella. What to see. Tourist information
Max 24ºC / Min 15ºC. Puerto Banús, one of the main tourist attractions in the municipality, is home to an exclusive leisure area within the excellent facilities of its marina. Marbella is also a paradise for golf lovers. A dozen magnificent courses allow you to practise this sport against the unique backdrop of both the sea and the mountains.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Marbella
By TonyD970. This wooden boardwalk has transformed walks that used to be on the sand. 10. Museo Ralli Marbella. 104. Speciality Museums. The Marbella Ralli Museum dedicates most of its permanent collection to Latin American art. It also displays a good representation of European art, which makes up the second part of the collection.
35 Best Things To Do In Marbella
26. Visit Lago de las Tortugas. One of the unusual things to do in Marbella is to visit Lago de las Tortugas, a 20-minute drive from Marbella Old Town. Lago de las Tortugas, known as Turtle Lake in English, is a small picturesque lake nestled in the northern part of Marbella.
Marbella Travel Guide
Why Go To Marbella. A city and resort destination located along Spain's southern Costa del Sol, Marbella (pronounced mar-BAY-ya) is backed by the Sierra Blanca Mountains and fronted by the azure ...
Marbella, Spain: All You Must Know Before You Go (2024)
About Marbella. In the chic, sun-drenched Costa del Sol town of Marbella, hints of its former Moorish occupation mingle with modern-day resort amenities. Bask on the sands of famous La Fontanilla beach or ricochet among the area's family-oriented water, wildlife and theme parks. Experience the Andalusian charm of the historic quarter, filled ...
6 Best Things to Do in Marbella
Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023. Ranking of the top 6 things to do in Marbella. Travelers favorites include #1 Marbella Old Quarter, #2 Avenida del Mar and more.
13 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Marbella
Mezquita del Rey Abdul Aziz al Saud (Marbella Mosque) 11. Iglesia del Santo Cristo de la Veracruz. 12. Capilla de San Juan de Dios. 13. Plaza Altamirano. Where to Stay in Marbella for Sightseeing. Map of Attractions & Things to Do in Marbella.
15 Best Things to Do in Marbella (Spain)
Let's explore the best things to do in Marbella: 1. Old-town. Source: flickr. Old Town, Marbella. The oldest part of Marbella is a real find. It's a labyrinth of pedestrian streets that are laid with red tiles and crazy paving. The buildings are all whitewashed and topped with terracotta roofs, and many date back to the renaissance.
MARBELLA
Marbella Tourism. Tourism offices . Marbella, San Pedro y Puerto Banús. Professional area . Brochures, documents and images. Marbella Congress Center & Exhibitions . Adolfo Suarez. How to reach us. Contact us . Tourism Departament Ayuntamiento de Marbella. [email protected] +34 952 768 760.
25 Of The Best Things to do in Marbella, Spain
We rented a car when visiting Marbella, but you can easily book day tours from Marbella to see some of the best places in Costa del Sol. This highly-rated tour takes you villages of Ardales and Cuevas del Becerro before continuing on to Setenil de las Bodegas. Setenil de las Bodegas is the original white village in the area and is considered ...
Marbella travel
Marbella. Andalucía, Spain, Europe. The Costa del Sol's bastion of bling is, like most towns along this stretch of coast, a two-sided coin. Standing centre stage in the tourist showroom is the 'Golden Mile', a conspicuously extravagant collection of star-studded clubs, shiny restaurants and expensive hotels stretching as far as Puerto Banús ...
37 Best Things To Do in Marbella, Spain: Expert Guide [2024]
It's an ideal place for those looking to experience the traditional side of Marbella, away from the more tourist-centric areas. BEST THINGS TO DO IN MARBELLA 21. Check out the Fontanilla Spring. Fontanilla Spring is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, which have been a source of life and refreshment for the local community for centuries. ...
Guide to Visit Marbella: 10 Must-See Attractions and Tips
Discover Marbella's must-see attractions with our top 10 picks: Old Town (Casco Antiguo) - Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and admire the traditional Andalusian architecture. Puerto Banús - Experience the glamorous atmosphere with deluxe yachts, designer boutiques, and high-end restaurants.
Marbella Travel Guide
Marbella, in the south of Spain is a vibrant coastal town with a large number of sandy beaches, a charming Old Town and some exciting nightlife. It's easy to get to from all over Europe and further afield, so I thought I'd put together this Marbella Travel Guide. This should hopefully provide everything you need to know to plan a weekend ...
The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Marbella Itinerary
You could do this, however, Marbella and its surroundings offer a lot more than sunbathing and spending 1, 2 or 3 days in Marbella exploring the region is an excellent addition to any holiday on the Costa del Sol. Situated on the southern coastline of Spain's Andalucía region, Marbella is located just 60 kilometres west of lively Málaga.
Is Marbella Worth Visiting? Expert Guide By a Local [2024]
Downtown Marbella is very much a tourist destination, with beach clubs and beach bars, restaurants by the promenade, and lots of tourist services (including boat trips from the marina). In . Further down the Golden Mile (an affluent part of the coastline with multi-million dollar villas), you will find Puerto Banus. Home to the wealthy, and a ...
ESSENTIAL Marbella Tourist Guide: Advice Tips from LOCALS
Marbella is a popular tourist resort especially with visitors from northern-Europe including the United Kingdom, Ireland and Germany as well as Saudi-Arabia, Kuwait and the United States. Marbella attracts many rich and famous celebrities notably in the entertainment industry and sporting celebrities to its fair shores, it also attracts ...
Marbella Travel Guide: Planning an Unforgettable Vacation
Wrapping Up Our Marbella Travel Guide. As our Marbella travel guide draws to a close, it's clear that this sun-kissed city on Spain's Costa del Sol is more than just a travel destination - it's a world of luxury, culture, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences. From the quaint charm of its Old Town to the glitz and glamour of Puerto Banus, Marbella captivates at every turn.
25 Things to Do in Marbella, Spain
Please check Omio to search for the Best Travel to Marbella, Spain. Omio is a platform that brings together more than 1,000 transportation providers offering tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries, as well as car rentals and airport transfers. Travelers worldwide can easily explore Europe, the United States, and Canada, while comparing ...
How to Spend a Weekend in Marbella: Itinerary for 2 days
Marbella is perfectly located on Costa del Sol, only a 40-minute drive from Malaga Airport. This makes it easy to reach the city from the airport by car, bus, and even by private transfer. By car - if you plan on visiting Marbella in 2 days as part of an Andalucia road trip, you might want to look for a hotel with free parking.
THE 10 BEST Marbella Tours & Excursions
2 hours. Quad tour in Marbella is the best way to enjoy Marbella hinterland and stunning nature. Ride over the hills, cross the rivers…. Free cancellation. from. $177. per group. 10. Buggy Adventure with Incredible Views of the Sea and the Reservoir.
THE TOP 10 Marbella Tours & Excursions (UPDATED 2024)
7. Discover the beauty and legends of Gibraltar on a private, half-day tour from Marbella. Travel by minibus to the ancient coastal town, and explore local highlights like the Moorish castle, Pillars of Hercules, St. Michael's cave, from which it's possible to see Africa on a clear day.
Nobu Hotel Marbella
Discover Nobu Hotel Marbella an American Express Travel Luxury Property. Learn More About The Offerings & Features of Nobu Hotel Marbella in Marbella, Spain.

Indispensable

Dunas de Artola o Cabopino

Termas Romanas de las Bóvedas

Nagüeles beach

Artola-Cabopino beach

El Faro beach

El Pinillo beach

Playa Cortijo Blanco

El Cable beach

No hay elementos

Starlite Occident

Concierto de Jamie Cullum - Starite Occident

Conciertos Candlelight Summer en Málaga

Festival Bach-Marbella 2023/24

Senator Marbella Playa

EXPLORE ANDALUSIA

PLACES TO VISIT

EXPERIENCES

TRAVEL PLAN

Starlite Festival

35 Best Things to Do In Marbella – A Local’s Guide

The Best Things to Do in Marbella: A Quick Guide

Walking tour of Marbella

Things to do in Marbella

2. Contemplate the beauty of La Encarnación Church

3. Capture history by taking a photo of Marbella Castle Walls

4. Discover the Museum of Spanish Contemporary Engravings

5. Relax on the tiled benches in the Alameda Park

Get access to my free Marbella bucket list

6. Treat yourself in Puerto Banús

7. Go on a sailing boat cruise

8. Eat tapas at La Lonja

9. Chill on a rooftop terrace

10. Soak up the sun at one of Marbella’s beaches

11. Spend the day at a stylish beach club

12. Learn to paddleboard

13. Scuba dive

14. Walkthrough Avenida del Mar

15. Ride a bike on the beach promenade

16. Book a free tour in Marbella

17. Join the locals for an ice cream at Purolatte

18. Enjoy great events at The Farm

19. Take a photo of Santo Cristo de la Vera Cruz Church

20. Stroll through Represa Park

21. Go on a scenic hiking trail

22. Play golf at some of the best resorts in Costa del Sol

23. Go to the lively Marbella street market

24. Do some shopping at La Cañada

25. Attend Marbella’s Fair

26. Visit Lago de las Tortugas

27. Discover Parque de las Ranas

28. Watch the sunset at Embarcadero

29. Contemplate the Roman Villa ruins

30. Explore San Pedro de Alcantara

31. Go on a Marbella to Malaga day trip

32. Go on a Marbella to Ronda day trip

33. Go on a Marbella to Ojen day trip

34. Go on a Marbella to Gibraltar day trip

35. Go on a Marbella to Setenil de las Bodegas day trip

Map of Marbella activities

How to get to Marbella

Where to stay in Marbella

The Pearl – Luxury B&B

Frequently asked questions about Marbella Spain

Is Marbella worth visiting?

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Conclusion on what to see in Marbella

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Marbella Travel Guide

6 Best Things To Do in Marbella

Marbella Old Quarter Marbella Old Quarter free

Avenida del Mar Avenida del Mar free

Puerto Cabopino Beach and Marina Puerto Cabopino Beach and Marina free

Popular Tours

Alameda Park Alameda Park free