Dreaming of sun-drenched beaches and Mediterranean charm? Head to Marbella! Located on Spain’s Costa del Sol, Marbella offers glamorous beach clubs, charming old-town alleys, upscale dining, and beautiful coastal scenery. Whether you’re strolling through Andalusian plazas or relaxing by the sea, Marbella is a perfect blend of luxury and laid-back living.
Marbella, Spain Highlights:
- For Sun Seekers: Relax on Playa de la Fontanilla – One of Marbella’s most popular beaches with golden sand and nearby cafés.
- For History Buffs: Wander through the Old Town (Casco Antiguo) – Discover whitewashed buildings, flower-filled balconies, and the iconic Orange Square (Plaza de los Naranjos).
- For Shoppers: Browse luxury boutiques in Puerto Banús – Designer brands, yachts, and glamorous people-watching at its finest.
- For Art Lovers: Stroll the Avenida del Mar – See a series of Dalí sculptures leading to the seafront promenade.
- For Nature Enthusiasts: Hike La Concha Mountain – Enjoy sweeping views of Marbella and the Mediterranean from this local peak.
When I like to visit Marbella, Spain
The best time to visit Marbella is from April to October. Spring and fall offer warm weather without the summer crowds, while July and August are peak season with festivals, beach life, and nightlife in full swing. Winters are mild and quieter, ideal for sightseeing and golf.
Tips for getting to Marbella, Spain
- By Plane: Fly into Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), about 40 minutes from Marbella by car or bus.
- By Car: Take the A-7 or AP-7 coastal highway for scenic drives from Málaga, Seville, or Granada.
- By Bus: Direct buses connect Marbella to Málaga, Ronda, and other Andalusian cities via Avanza.
Where I like to stay in Marbella, Spain
- Recommended for Couples: Hotel Fuerte Marbella – Elegant beachfront hotel in the Old Town with stunning sea views.
- For Luxury Travelers: Puente Romano Beach Resort – A lavish Mediterranean resort with a spa, tennis club, and Michelin-starred dining.
- For Boutique Style: The Marbella Heights – Hillside boutique hotel with panoramic terraces and a peaceful atmosphere.
Best Things to Do in Marbella, Spain
1. Fontanilla Beach
Just a short stroll from Marbella’s charming Old Town, Fontanilla Beach is a 1.6-mile stretch of golden sand that's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean vibe. This lively beach is one of Marbella’s most popular seaside spots—and for good reason.
Highlights:
- 1.6 miles of golden sand just steps from Old Town Marbella
- Popular for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching
- Full beach facilities, including showers and toilets
- Beachfront restaurants, cafés, and souvenir shops
- Exciting water activities: jet-skiing, parasailing, and SUP
Pro Tip:
Visit in the late afternoon and stay for sunset—then grab dinner at one of the beachside chiringuitos for the ultimate Mediterranean evening.
Address: Playa de la Fontanilla, Marbella, Spain
Phone: +34-952-82-35-50
2. Bajadilla Beach
Nestled next to Marbella’s old fishing port, Playa de la Bajadilla is an 850-meter stretch of sand that’s perfect for families and beach lovers looking to enjoy a relaxed day by the sea. Just a short walk from Avenida Ricardo Soriano, one of Marbella’s most popular shopping streets, this beach offers the perfect balance of convenience and coastal charm.
Highlights:
- Family-friendly beach with 850 meters of shoreline
- Located near Marbella’s old fishing port and city center
- Shallow, calm waters—great for kids and wading
- Close to Avenida Ricardo Soriano shopping and dining
- Shops, bars, and restaurants line the beachfront
- Showers and restrooms available for public use
Pro Tip:
For a full day of fun, grab a light lunch from a nearby chiringuito, then take a seaside stroll down to Marbella’s marina in the evening.
Address: Playa de la Bajadilla, Marbella, Spain
Recommended Activities for Families
3. Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
_158705.jpg)
Tucked away in the heart of Marbella, Old Town (Casco Antiguo) is a picturesque maze of narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and colorful bougainvillea—a timeless Andalusian gem that feels like stepping back in time.
Highlights:
- Wander through a labyrinth of cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings
- Visit Renaissance-era landmarks and hidden courtyards
- Shop at local boutiques and art galleries
- Relax in the Plaza de Los Naranjos with sangria and tapas
- Capture postcard-perfect shots of blooming bougainvillea and terracotta rooftops
Pro Tip:
Visit in the early evening when the golden light hits the buildings—then stay for dinner at one of the hidden tapas bars tucked just off the plaza.
Address: Casco Antiguo, Marbella, Spain
4. Plaza de los Naranjos
Tucked in the heart of Marbella’s Old Town (Casco Antiguo), Plaza de los Naranjos is a charming square that has been the center of local life since the Christian Reconquest.
Highlights:
- Historic square at the heart of Marbella’s Old Town
- Lined with orange trees and outdoor dining terraces
- Home to the 1572 Town Hall and Ermita de Santiago
- Perfect for photos, people-watching, and soaking up the atmosphere
- One of Marbella’s top spots for tapas and local cuisine
Pro Tip:
Visit in the morning for a quieter stroll and fresh-squeezed orange juice—or in the evening when the plaza comes alive with music and conversation.
Address: Plaza de los Naranjos, Marbella, Spain
Attractions for Couples
5. Parroquia de la Divina Pastora
Tucked in a working-class neighborhood just outside the tourist bustle, the Parroquia de la Divina Pastora is a humble yet beautiful church that serves as a spiritual center for the local community.
Highlights:
- Located in the heart of the Divina Pastora neighborhood
- Features colorful biblical murals and tile artwork
- Wooden crucifix and religious paintings throughout the church
- Beautiful stained-glass windows with symbolic sun imagery
- Rotating angel-topped bell tower visible from the street
Pro Tip:
Stop by during late afternoon when the light filters through the stained glass—the colors inside the sanctuary truly come to life.
Address: Av. Europa, 19, 29601 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
Phone: +34-952-77-45-48
6. Miraflores
Nestled between Marbella and Fuengirola along Spain’s southern coast, Miraflores is a charming seaside village that blends tranquility with vibrant local culture. Known for its breathtakingly beautiful gardens, this peaceful retreat offers a slower-paced alternative to Marbella—without skimping on scenery or amenities.
Highlights:
- Quiet, garden-filled seaside village near Marbella
- Uncrowded beaches with beautiful coastal views
- Excellent selection of restaurants, tapas bars, and cafés
- Miraflores Golf Club—ideal for casual or serious golfers
- Wide range of activities: horseback riding, tennis, scuba, jet-skiing, and more
Pro Tip:
Head out early for a morning beach walk, then stop at a local café for churros and coffee with views of the gardens.
Address: Miraflores, Málaga, Spain
7. Avenida del Mar and the Salvador Dali Sculptures
For art lovers and casual strollers alike, Avenida del Mar and the Salvador Dalí Sculptures is one of Marbella’s most striking public spaces. This pedestrian-only avenue connects the Paseo Marítimo with Parque Alameda, creating a beautiful walkway filled with greenery, art, and places to pause and relax.
Highlights:
- Pedestrian avenue connecting Marbella’s seafront to Parque Alameda
- Features a permanent outdoor collection of ten Salvador Dalí sculptures
- Fountains, ponds, and shaded trees create a peaceful setting
- Perfect for art enthusiasts and casual sightseers
- Surrounded by cafés, tapas spots, and boutiques
Pro Tip:
Visit early in the morning or around sunset for the best light and smaller crowds—it's the perfect time for photography or a quiet stroll.
Address: Avenue del Mar, Avenida, 14, 29602 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
Unique Attractions
8. Contemporary Engravings Museum
Tucked into a quiet alley in the heart of Marbella’s Old Town, the Contemporary Engravings Museum is a true hidden gem—and the only museum in Spain entirely dedicated to the art of engraving.
Highlights:
- Only engraving-focused museum in Spain
- Located in a beautifully preserved 16th-century palace
- Over 4,000 works by artists like Dalí, Goya, Miró, and Picasso
- Rotating exhibits highlight modern printmakers and techniques
- Charming setting in Marbella’s Old Town
Pro Tip:
After your visit, head just around the corner to a nearby café for coffee and conversation—this museum is perfect for sparking artistic inspiration.
Address: Calle Hospital Bazán s/n, 29600 Marbella, Spain
Phone: +34-952-76-57-41
9. Puerto Banus
Just five miles west of Marbella’s historic core, Puerto Banús is where luxury meets the sea. This world-famous marina is lined with designer boutiques, upscale restaurants, and stylish beach clubs—all set against a backdrop of superyachts and sparkling Mediterranean views.
Highlights:
- Luxury marina with 915 yacht berths
- Designer boutiques and high-end restaurants along the waterfront
- Plenty of water sports, including jet-skiing and paddleboarding
- Surrounded by stunning beaches and exclusive beach clubs
- Great for nightlife, celebrity spotting, and luxury experiences
Pro Tip:
Arrive early to stroll the docks and grab a terrace seat for lunch with a view—sunsets here are just as glamorous as the yachts.
Address: Puerto José Banús, Muelle de Honor, Marbella, Spain
If you are a photographer, don't miss:
10. Parque La Alameda (Alameda Park)
Just steps from Marbella’s Old Town, Parque La Alameda (Alameda Park) is a serene green space where both locals and visitors go to relax, recharge, and soak in the charm of the city.
Highlights:
- Historic 1792 tiled fountain as the centerpiece
- Stone benches shaded by lush tropical plants
- Surrounded by cafés, tapas spots, and local eateries
- Great place to relax and unwind between sightseeing stops
- Horse-and-carriage tours depart from the park
Pro Tip:
Stop by in the late morning for a quiet stroll, then hop on a carriage ride to explore Marbella’s Old Town in style.
Address: Parque La Alameda, Marbella, Spain
Where I Like to Eat in Marbella, Spain
- Recommended for Tapas: El Patio de Mariscal – Romantic garden setting and classic Andalusian dishes in the Old Town.
- For Fine Dining: Skina (Michelin-starred) – Intimate gourmet experience with creative Andalusian cuisine in a tiny, stylish space.
- For Beachfront Bites: Trocadero Playa – Trendy beach club serving seafood, cocktails, and sushi with beachfront seating.
My favorite local events:
- For Culture Fans: Feria de Marbella (June) – A lively week of flamenco, traditional costumes, dancing, and food stalls.
- For Music Lovers: Starlite Festival (Summer) – International artists perform at an open-air venue in a quarry setting.
- For Holiday Cheer: Marbella Christmas Market (December) – Festive lights, artisan gifts, and mulled wine in the Old Town.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Marbella, Spain:
- For Mountain Charm: Ojén (20 min) – Whitewashed village in the hills with panoramic views and a brandy museum.
- For Nature: Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park (30 min) – Explore rugged landscapes, forest trails, and hidden caves.
- For History Buffs: Mijas Pueblo (30 min) – Cobblestone streets, donkey taxis, and sweeping coastal views from this picturesque village.
- For Golfers: La Quinta Golf & Country Club (15–20 min) – One of many top-tier golf courses in Marbella’s "Golf Valley."
- For Wine Lovers: Ronda (just over 1 hour, or make a half-day trip) – Visit dramatic clifftop views and local vineyards.
Plan Your Trip