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
Visit Marbella
Where to stay in Marbella
Puerto Banús
Luxury marina and shopping complex, Puerto Banús boasts high-end boutiques like Gucci and Versace, upscale dining, and a beach on each side. Admire Salvador Dalí's rhinoceros statue and enjoy the vibrant marina atmosphere.
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.
Elviria
Lively low-density residential area, Elviria boasts lush vegetation, luxury apartments, and villas. Enjoy golfing at Santa Maria Golf & Country Club, or unwind at renowned beach clubs like Nikki Beach.
Golden Mile
If you're spending some time in Golden Mile, Nagüeles Beach and Puente Romano Tennis are top sights worth seeing.
Reviewed on Oct. 27, 2024
Reviewed on Oct. 26, 2024
Reviewed on Oct. 28, 2024
Reviewed on Oct. 26, 2024
Reviewed on Oct. 27, 2024
Reviewed on Oct. 22, 2024
Popular places to visit
Cabopino Beach
Enjoy one of the finest beaches in Marbella. This tranquil spot has clear waters, striking dunes and a busy marina.
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.
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
From Malaga: Day trip to Gibraltar and Dolphin Boat Tour
Sunset Sailing along the Marbella coast from Puerto Banus
From Costa del Sol: Gibraltar Day Trip with Free Time
From Marbella or Estepona: Caminito del Rey Guided Day Trip
Sailing Adventure: Sailing, Dolphins and Relaxation with Drinks
Marbella sailboat rental, dolphins, drinks and snacks -3 hours
Reviews of Marbella
4/5 - Good
Marbella is a nice size town for relaxing walks and fairly good tapas. It’s beautiful beach front promenade is a real treat!
5/5 - Excellent
We loved it! Might go back and stay the winter! Just like Hawaii but not as hot, and very pleasant in the winter, Also when we are high season in Hawaii or Florida during our winter months, they are low season so appreciate tourists .
5/5 - Excellent
dont go to this hotel not worth the money
3/5 - Okay
Better beaches on the other side of Malaga.
5/5 - Excellent
Marbella is a beautiful city with great atmosphere, friendly people, fine dining and an amazing beach. I would definitely go back and spend more time there.
5/5 - Excellent
We did not rent a car this holiday. We went on a couple of day trips which were fabulous. We really enjoyed walking all around Marbella and visiting the local sites. The restaurants were amazing and the night life was available whenever we wanted,