Marbella, Spain Travel Guide

Glamour meets Andalusian charm – beautiful beaches, a picturesque old town, and the legendary Golden Mile of the Costa del Sol.

Marbella perfectly balances its jet-set reputation with authentic Andalusian charm. Beyond the glamorous Puerto Banús and Golden Mile, you'll discover a beautiful whitewashed old town with flower-filled plazas, excellent beaches, and a thriving dining scene that caters to every taste and budget.

Ready to explore? Discover the best things to do in Marbella.

Marbella, Spain

Marbella at a Glance

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Best Time to Visit Marbella

Marbella enjoys over 300 days of sunshine. For more detailed information, check out our best time to visit Marbella guide. Summer is peak season with beach clubs in full swing; spring and autumn offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds.

for beach clubs: June to September

for pleasant weather: May to June, September to October

for golf: March to May, October to November

for fewer tourists: November to February

for Feria: June (San Bernabé Festival)

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Where to Eat in Marbella

Marbella's dining scene spans from Michelin-starred restaurants to charming tapas bars. The old town hides authentic Spanish eateries, while the Golden Mile and Puerto Banús cater to international tastes and celebrity spotting.

Recommended Restaurants

  • SkinaTwo Michelin stars – innovative Andalusian cuisine in an intimate old town setting
  • El Patio de MariscalUpscale seafood in a beautiful courtyard, perfect for special occasions
  • Casanis BistrotFrench-Mediterranean cuisine in a romantic old town setting
  • La Niña del PistoTraditional Andalusian dishes done exceptionally well – the pisto is legendary
  • Astrid & GastónPeruvian-Spanish fusion at Puerto Banús with views and lively atmosphere
  • El Balcón de la VirgenCharming old town tapas with a terrace overlooking Plaza de los Naranjos
Read our complete dining guide →

Where to Stay in Marbella

Choose between glamorous beachfront resorts on the Golden Mile, the authentic charm of old town boutique hotels, or world-famous establishments like the Marbella Club that defined Costa del Sol luxury.

Marbella Club HotelIconic Luxury Hotel

Marbella Club Hotel

Golden Mile
9.3
1,245 reviews

The Marbella Club has been the address of choice for royalty and celebrities since the 1950s. A once-in-a-lifetime Costa del Sol experience.

Legendary hotel that put Marbella on the mapSubtropical gardens and private beach clubWorld-class spa and wellness facilitiesCelebrity history and impeccable service
From
$500/night
Check Availability
See our accommodation guide →

Tours in Marbella

Beyond the beaches, Marbella offers excellent day trips, boat excursions, and experiences. Book yacht charters from Puerto Banús or escape to the mountains of Ronda and the white villages.

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What to See Near Marbella

Marbella's location offers easy access to mountain villages, natural parks, and charming coastal towns. The dramatic drive to Ronda is a highlight of any Costa del Sol visit.

Ronda

1 hour by car

Dramatic clifftop city with the famous Puente Nuevo bridge spanning a 100-meter gorge.

Puerto Banús

10 min by car

Glamorous marina filled with superyachts, designer boutiques, and celebrity-watching opportunities.

Estepona

25 min by car

Charming coastal town with flower-covered streets, excellent beaches, and authentic Andalusian character.

Ojén

15 min by car

Picturesque white village in the mountains behind Marbella with stunning views and traditional restaurants.

Sierra de las Nieves

30 min to park entrance

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with ancient pinsapo fir forests, hiking trails, and mountain villages.

Tip: The park is home to rare Spanish fir trees found nowhere else on Earth.
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Why Visit Marbella?

Marbella offers the best of both worlds. On one side you have glamorous beach clubs and yacht-filled marinas. On the other, a charming old town with flower-filled plazas and authentic tapas bars. The city has attracted the international jet set since the 1950s, yet it's managed to hold onto its Andalusian soul.

Whether you're seeking world-class golf, Michelin-starred dining, beautiful beaches, or a jumping-off point for exploring Ronda and the white villages, Marbella delivers with style. The climate is near-perfect, and the mountains provide a stunning backdrop to everything.

The atmosphere here ranges from relaxed to exclusive depending on where you choose to spend your time. That's part of the appeal. You can do beach clubs and fine dining one day, old town tapas and mountain drives the next.

Museums in Marbella

Marbella isn't primarily a museum destination, but it has some interesting cultural spots and the old town itself is a living museum of traditional Andalusian architecture.

Festivals in Marbella

Marbella's festivals blend traditional Andalusian celebrations with international glamour. The San Bernabé Fair in June is the main local celebration, while summer brings beach parties and cultural events.

  • June 11-18
    Feria de San BernabéMarbella's main festival honoring the patron saint – fairgrounds, flamenco, fireworks, and traditional celebrations
  • July-August
    Starlite FestivalBoutique music festival at a quarry venue featuring international artists and celebrity attendees
  • Easter Week (March/April)
    Semana SantaTraditional Holy Week processions through the old town streets
  • June 23
    Noche de San JuanMidsummer beach celebrations with bonfires, fireworks, and parties until dawn
  • October
    International Film FestivalShort film festival bringing cinema culture and industry events to the Costa del Sol

Planning Your Marbella Trip?

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