Every time I visit Marbella, I’m reminded of how many gems there are to be discovered in southern Spain. After visiting Marbella on a short weekend trip and as a lunch stop on the way to and from Nerja, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular destinations on Andalusia’s sunny coast.
Marbella might be a relaxing beach destination for the well-heeled, but there’s also a charming old town that offers another side. Wander the center with its traditional Spanish style of terracotta tiles and wrought iron balconies. I love the facades covered with colorful potted plants and bougainvillea.
There’s also an undercurrent of that infamous Spanish nightlife in Marbella. With a baby in tow these days, I can’t personally attest, but it’s no secret that nightlife in Spain goes into the wee hours of the morning.
Marbella is known for its upscale resort vibe and it’s an absolute dreamland for a golfer with dozens of picturesque golf courses, although golfing isn’t exactly my forte. Find me strolling on the beachside promenade, relaxing poolside or having a beer at a tapas bar.
All to say, there’s something for everyone in Marbella and it is definitely worth visiting when in southern Spain. In this guide, I’ll share the best hotels, a few restaurant recommendations and things to do in Marbella, Spain.
Where to Stay in Marbella
To me, Marbella is synonymous with the Marbella Club hotel. The iconic hotel along the coastline has a storied past hosting jet set celebrities and socialites. The old finca was Prince Alfonso’s family hideaway, and it first opened its doors as a boutique hotel in 1954.
A recent renovation of the dining spaces incorporates patterns, textures and traditional Andalusian craftsmanship. Several on-site restaurants and bars. And if you’re looking for a family friendly vacation, the kids club is absolutely idyllic. Check pricing and availability.
For a stay in the old town, check into the only Relais & Chateau property in Andalusia. La Fonda hotel is housed in a 16th century building just a short walk to the town center and the beach. Completely restored and opened in 2022, it’s a welcomed newcomer (relatively) offering luxury rooms for a better value than nearby resorts. Check pricing and availability.
Where to stay
Marbella
- La Fonda Hotel – Relais & Chateau property in the town center
- Nobu Hotel – Contemporary design & a famed Japanese Peruvian restaurant
- Hotel Claude Marbella – Boutique hotel with patterns and textures
- Marbella Club Hotel – Luxury choice
Things to do in Marbella, Spain
Marbella’s big draw is the beach, of course. One of the top things to do in Marbella is leisurely stroll along the promenade that runs for miles along the coast. Marbella is also home to a fair amount of interior design studios and boutique shops.
After you get your fill of the beach, head to the town center to see the historical sights and the charming plazas. Some of the alleyways are so narrow you can reach out your arms to touch both sides. And as the name of this blog suggests, I don’t exactly have a long wingspan.
Plaza de los Naranjos (located here) is aptly named after the ample orange trees lining the square. You can’t miss this plaza when visiting Marbella. Over the centuries, the plaza has had many names. Today, it’s named after the trees that were planted in 1941.
Around the perimeter you’ll find Marbella’s ayuntamiento (town hall) and many restaurants with outdoor seating spilling out on the sunny square. The small chapel in the corner is Santiago’s hermitage that was a former mosque converted in the 15th century.
Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación is the main church located just around the corner. There’s also plenty of orange trees in the plaza right in front.
Between the center and the beach, you’ll find Parque de la Alameda with a fountain from 1762. Stroll through and continue down the stairs to pass by Salvador Dali bronze statues on your way to the waterfront.
There’s plenty of chiringuitos (beach bars) along the water to enjoy a drink or bite to eat also.
I’ll always have a soft spot for Cappuccino Marbella after staying at their hotel in Palma, Mallorca. The brand specialized in upscale cafes all over Spain and the Grand Cafe in Marbella is right along the promenade. Prime people watching, excellent place for a coffee in the morning or a drink in the afternoon.
I also enjoyed Rachel’s Eco Love, a poolside cafe in the middle of the Puente Romano hotel.
I stopped at Celicioso for a their gluten free treats and cakes, but wouldn’t say it’s worth going to if you’re not celiac.
While I love the healthy and fresh options at Rachel’s and The Farm, I’m always up for a beer and traditional tapas. Bar El Estrecho and Taberna La Niña del Pisto are neighboring tapas bar down a very narrow walkway in the center.
Visit Puerto Banús
About 15 minutes away, you’ll find Puerto Banus and its marina filled with luxury yachts.
The designer shops per capita has to be some sort of world record. Like a mini Rodeo Drive, you can shop in one after the other: Dior, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Hermès, Louis Vuitton. The El Corte Inglés department store is also massive.
Marbella at Christmas
While the beach destination of Marbella is best for warm weather, it’s also quite special around Christmas. There’s a few stalls around Parque de la Alameda and tons of lights around the town. The most impressive lights are in Plaza de la Naranjos with angels that match the height of a two story building.
Whatever time of year, Marbella is a memorable place worth visiting in Andalusia.
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