With an enchanting old town and a coastline dotted with postcard-perfect beaches, this glamorous city is one of the Costa del Sol’s most popular destinations.
Sip sangria at chic beach clubs and shop at luxury boutiques in Marbella. A favourite of celebrities, the city is renowned for its yachting and golfing scenes. However, there’s more to “Marbs” than its kilometres of coastline and enviable climate.
Visit Marbella in summer for an exciting lineup of events and férias(fairs),including Marbella Feria de San Bernabé in June. Enjoy the parades of Semana Santa in spring and soak up Andalusia’s winter sun during the cooler months.
Things to do in Marbella
Kick off your shoes and relax on your choice of beaches in Marbella. Near Marbella Marina, El Faro Beach is in the heart of the action and overlooked by Marbella Lighthouse, which was built in 1864. Stroll along the seafront promenade, Paseo Marítimo, to La Venus Beach or settle in at Bounty Beach for volleyball on the sand and parties at sunset.
Wander the charming streets of Marbella Old Town and admire typical whitewashed Andalusian houses with flower-covered balconies. Pretty Plaza de los Naranjos, or Orange Square, is a lively gathering place for tapas and churros. Shop for souvenirs in the winding, narrow streets and take a photo with the blue plant pots along the walls of romantic Calle Carmen.
Avenida del Mar links Alameda Park with the seafront promenade. Linger at restaurants with tables set among fountains and sculptures designed by Salvador Dalí. Retail therapy is the focus along Avenida Ricardo Soriano, with designer fashion boutiques and gourmet delicatessens offering Iberian ham and cheeses. Marbella is also home to the Costa del Sol’s largest shopping centre, La Cañada.
Outdoor activities in Marbella
Pack your hiking boots to climb La Concha, the highest mountain in the area with panoramic vistas at the top as a reward. Keep a lookout for roe deer and mountain goats on scenic trails winding through Sierra de las Nieves National Park. Canyoning, quad biking and jeep safari tours also offer thrilling inland adventures.
On the water, there’s barely a limit to fun in the water for all ages. Take guided sea kayaking tours and surf the breakwater at Artola - Cabopino Beach. Río Real Beach is a hub for kitesurfing and jet skiing, while many beaches offer parasailing and pedalo rides. Spot dolphins and whales on boat tours or cruise at sunset on luxury yachts. Take your pick of golf courses framed by natural beauty, including orange trees and mountain views at Los Naranjos Golf Club.
Dining and nightlife in Marbella
From gourmet cuisine at Michelin-starred venues and international restaurants in luxury hotels to a simple meal of pescaíto frito (fried fish) in the Fishermen’s Quarter you’ll find what you’re craving in Marbella.
Nibble tapas and fill your bags with fresh produce at Mercado Municipal de Marbella. Take your taste buds to the Old Town for romantic dining or choose from beach clubs along the Golden Mile from Marbella to Puerto Banús. Dine at the exclusive marina with views of yachts and stay long after sunset at buzzing bars, nightclubs and Casino Marbella. For flamenco performances and concerts, book a ticket to a show at the Teatro Ciudad de Marbella.
Getting around Marbella
Fly into Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport for a drive, bus or taxi ride of about 40 minutes to Marbella. Many travellers choose to rent a car from the airport to explore the Costa del Sol. Once in Marbella, taxis and bus services are readily available. However, the Old Town and the area near Avenida del Mar and the promenade are ideal bases for walking or cycling from your hotel to the beach, shops and restaurants.
