The pretty town of Marbella is part of the Spanish Riviera. Come here to enjoy a luxurious beach vacation on the popular Mediterranean coast and take in the many historic sights. While only about 140,000 people call Marbella home, the nearly 1 million visitors that come here each year make it a bustling city. Laze on the beach, or go shopping or sightseeing in this charming hot spot on the Costa del Sol.
If you need a break from swimming and sunbathing, stroll along the Paseo Maritimo boardwalk alongside the beach. Or, sit by the Alameda Park fountain, which is surrounded by a square that has benches covered with mosaics depicting local history. The area’s diverse background is also reflected in ancient landmarks, with Roman baths and bridges, stylish Moorish architecture, and early Christian churches.
Walk through the Casco Historico (Old Town) to get a glimpse of traditional Spain and admire the 16th-century Town Hall. At the Plaza de los Naranjos, visit the Tourist Information office to see which festivals are on during your stay. See works by Picasso, born in nearby Málaga, at the Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo or admire Dalí’s sculptures along Avenida del Mar. For a typical Spanish treat, order tapas while watching Spanish dancing on Alameda Square.
Celebrities and the jet set have been attracted to Marbella since the 1970s. Stars such as Antonio Banderas, Sean Connery and Rod Stewart have called the city home, and today you can mingle with the super-rich on the Golden Mile.
Marbella is located in Andalucia, an autonomous region in the south of Spain. The climate is mild, with hotter days from June to August. The Málaga airport is a 40-minute drive away. If you don’t have your own transport, use buses or the licensed, metered taxis to get around. If you rent a car, note that parking is expensive.
Marbella is the jewel of the Costa del Sol, offering beaches combined with luxury and historic charm.
Marbella
Where to stay in Marbella
Puerto Banús
Puerto Banús is a destination visitors seek out for is pristine beaches, ample dining options, and captivating waterfront views. You might also want to check out attractions like Puerto Banús Marina or El Corte Ingles Shopping Center while you're exploring the neighborhood.
Marbella City Centre
Marbella City Centre is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights in the area like Orange Square and Plaza de los Naranjos.
San Pedro de Alcantara
San Pedro de Alcantara is popular for its beaches, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Real Club de Golf Guadalmina or Malaga Province Beaches.
Marbella Old Town
Beaches, historic sites, and shopping highlight some of the noteworthy features of Marbella Old Town. Make a stop by Orange Square or Plaza de los Naranjos while you're exploring the neighborhood.
Golden Mile
If you're spending some time in Golden Mile, Nagüeles Beach and Puente Romano Tennis are top sights worth seeing.
Elviria
Elviria is well-liked for its mountain views and seaside views. If you're hoping to see more of the larger area, Don Carlos Tennis & Sports Club and Santa Maria Golf Club Marbella are some interesting sights nearby to check out.
Reviewed on May 11, 2024
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Popular places to visit
Puerto Banús Marina
Enjoy a daytrip or a vacation at one of the most prestigious ports in Spain, a seaside destination of upscale shops and restaurants and gorgeous beaches.
Puerto Banús Beach
Laze on warm sands and go for long coastal walks at a popular beach in one of southern Spain’s most glamorous resort towns.
Orange Square
Enjoy a slower pace of life in a leafy square where you can amble between historic sights and feast on delectable dishes over long and relaxed dinners.
Marbella Marina
Varied dining options, water sports excursions and two beaches make this marina one of the most popular attractions in central Marbella.
Venus Beach
A lively atmosphere and excellent facilities feature at this sandy beach, one of the most popular and conveniently located in Marbella.
Marbella Golf and Country Club
Among the Costa del Sol’s most famous golf courses, this site was designed by Robert Trent Jones and presents a challenge to even the most experienced player.
Things to do
Shared Experience. Sailing at Sunset in Puerto Banús.
Marbella & Puerto Banus Highlights - Full Day Tour
3-Hour Private Guided Bicycle Tour in Marbella
From Costa del Sol: Guided Tour of Seville
Private Sailboat Rental in Puerto Banús, Marbella
Buggy Adventure with Incredible Views of the Sea and the Reservoir
Reviews of Marbella
5/5 - Excellent
Excelente hotel Volveria 1000 veces
5/5 - Excellent
I frequently visited Marbella many years ago. I was pleasantly surprised by this city again. It is a fantastic vacation spot.
5/5 - Excellent
Don’t miss Old Town!
4/5 - Good
Marbella is really wonderful. Just nit uf tou have to stay in the aprtment we had.
5/5 - Excellent
Marbella was beautiful
4/5 - Good
Great beaches, charm of Old Town, shopping, and restaurants.