Considered one of Europe’s most famous playgrounds for the rich and famous, Marbella is a popular vacation destination year-round. The glitzy resort town on Spain’s Costa del Sol certainly is an ideal destination for those after sand, designer shopping and endless parties, but it also has a more mellow side.
In the Old Town, for example, visitors can roam maze-like alleyways in search of artworks, while the mountains offer great views and a break from the beach.
Whether you plan to spend most of your time by the shore or you’re looking to discover Marbella’s cultural offerings, these are the highlights you shouldn’t miss.
Wander through Marbella’s Old Town
Small but charming, Old Town is where first-time and repeat visitors should begin their meandering. White-washed buildings, brightly hued flowerpots and colorful bougainvillea overflowing from courtyards will be the first to greet you. However, once you get the lay of the land, you’ll find plenty of boho shops, museums and art galleries with the likes of Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí hiding in the alleyways.
Let your nose guide you to Plaza de los Naranjos, the main square, where scores of orange trees blossom under the warm sun. Don’t leave without taking a peek at the castle wall ruins, still picturesque even though the 10th-century Moorish structure is long gone.
Dance the night away at Puente Romano
Taking its name from a first-century Roman bridge that the hotel was built around, Puente Romano Beach Resort is a Marbella destination in its own right — even for non-guests. The resort’s culinary offerings span more than 20 restaurants, including the world-famous Nobu and Spanish chef Dani García’s Leña.
Come nighttime, La Plaza, the resort’s open courtyard resembling a town square, dims the lights and turns up the volume to the beats of international DJs. Dress to the nines and enjoy artisanal cocktails well into the night.
Shop to your heart’s desire in Puerto Banús
This luxurious harbor is known for housing some of the Mediterranean’s most over-the-top pleasure boats. Take your time admiring the pristine yachts on the glistening blue water before directing your attention to the posh promenades of Calle Ribera and Muelle Ribera. For relatively small areas, they boast an incredibly high concentration of designer boutiques — peruse everything from international powerhouses like Gucci and Louis Vuitton to local favorites like Loewe.
Cruise Marbella’s coastline
Those eager to spend time on the water can explore the coastline aboard a private yacht or sailboat. There are three-hour cruises departing from Puerto Banús, which include snorkeling equipment, drinks and snacks.
If you’re visiting from May to October, you’re likely to spot dolphins — peak sightings occur early in the morning and around sunset.
Play a round of golf on the Costa del Sol
Golf lovers have more than 20 courses to choose from in Marbella. Guests staying at Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Nobu Hotel Marbella and Puente Romano Marbella have access to the prestigious Marbella Golf Club, El Higueral and many other courses in the area. Private lessons can be arranged, with the Benahavis Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea serving as captivating backdrops to these stunning layouts.
Explore Marbella’s art museums
Art lovers can recover from the heat by spending some time inside the area’s museums. Museo Ralli Marbella is known for its impressive collection of Latin American art, as well as a permanent collection heavy on surrealism. At the Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo, works by heavyweights like Dalí, Picasso and Joan Miró are showcased alongside new-to-you artists.
Spend the day at a Marbella beach club
With many of Marbella’s beaches boasting a Blue Flag (a sustainability certification that denotes clean, safe and responsibly managed waters), spending a day at a beach club should be high on your list. Luxury offerings are a given at places like Gran Marbella Resort & Beach Club’s Amù Beach Club. Only a few minutes from that fun is the world-renowned Nikki Beach, a vibrant destination beloved for its DJ sets and extravagant music-fueled parties. Revelers should also check out the beach clubs in Puerto Banús and along the Paseo Marítimo.
Stroll along the Paseo Marítimo
Spanning from Marina La Bajadilla to Puerto Banús, the 3.73-mile-long Paseo Marítimo promenade is a favorite among joggers and cyclists. Walking from end to end offers great views of the Med, as well as the chance to fuel up with a coffee or cocktail at one of the many cafés and chiringuitos (beach bars). Come the weekend, the atmosphere lights up with street performers and live music.
Dine on Andalusian cuisine
Whether you’re sinking your toes in the sand at a chiringuito or dining at one of Marbella’s finest establishments, Andalusian cuisine should make it into your itinerary. Pescaíto frito (fried fish) is one of the Costa del Sol’s most famous dishes, as are the Andalusian espetos (skewered sardines cooked over an open flame). Filling and perfectly adapted to the hot weather, gazpacho (chilled Andalusian soup) can be enjoyed any time of day.
Hike La Concha for the best views of the Costa del Sol
Adventure seekers can head to the Andalusian mountains for great views of the ocean and, on clear days, potentially a glimpse of North Africa. La Concha, part of the Sierra Blanca range, is popular among those after a challenge, but bear in mind that the hike from Marbella takes around six hours. The trail initially goes through a shaded pine forest but quickly becomes rocky. An early start is recommended, and those who prefer company can hire a local guide.
