MARBELLA: YOUR ULTIMATE ITINERARY
Marbella, a jewel of the Costa del Sol, is a destination where Mediterranean charm meets luxury. The city’s unique mix of traditional Andalusian character and upscale sophistication is reflected in its luxury resorts, exclusive boutiques, and world-class dining. From its historic heart to its glamorous marina, Marbella offers an atmosphere that is both vibrant and laid-back, making it a destination that captivates at every turn.
To make the most of your time in Marbella without the stress of planning, this guide brings everything together in one place - from top activities and must-see attractions to accommodation options and the best ways to get around. Let’s discover why this sun-soaked paradise should be on your Spanish travel list!
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HIGHLIGHTS
Before diving into our recommended itineraries, here’s a quick overview - a helpful snapshot of what to expect and a concise summary to simplify your planning:
Day 1: Nature, Beach, and Glamour
Dunas de Artola, La Concha, Playa de Nagüeles OR Nikki Beach, Golden Mile, Puerto Banús
Day 2: Adventure & Old Town Charm
Playa de Venus OR Guadalmina River, Plaza de los Naranjos, Casco Antiguo, Avenida del Mar, Paseo Marítimo
Sunset Sailing Trip with Drinks and Snacks, Gibraltar Tour from Marbella, Sailing & Dolphin Watching, Jet Ski at the Golden Mile
Málaga, Estepona, Caminito del Rey, Nerja, Ronda, Setenil de las Bodegas
GETTING AROUND MARBELLA
Marbella is well-connected and easy to explore, offering various transportation options to get around the city and beyond.
By Bus: Marbella has a reliable local and regional bus network. Avanza buses connect Marbella to Málaga, Estepona, and other Costa del Sol towns. Local routes like L-1 and L-2 serve different parts of the city, including the center and nearby districts. Since Marbella does not have a train station, travelers heading to Málaga or other destinations by rail must take a bus to Fuengirola, the nearest train hub.
By Car: Renting a car is a great option for exploring beyond Marbella, particularly for day trips to Ronda or Caminito del Rey. Parking in the Old Town is limited, but there are several underground garages near Avenida del Mar, Puerto Banús, and La Cañada Shopping Center, offering convenient alternatives.
By Taxi & Ride-Sharing: Taxis are widely available throughout Marbella, but fares are not always metered, so it’s best to confirm the price before starting your ride. Ride-sharing services like Cabify operate in the area, while Uber has a more limited presence compared to larger Spanish cities.
By Bicycle or E-Scooter: The Paseo Marítimo is ideal for cycling or using an e-scooter, with rental services available along the beachfront. However, not all areas of Marbella have dedicated bike lanes, so navigating the city center and hilly districts is best done on foot.
By Walking: Marbella’s Old Town, Golden Mile, and Paseo Marítimo are best explored on foot, allowing visitors to fully experience the city's charm. However, places like La Cañada Shopping Center or Dunas de Artola require another mode of transport.
1-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Nature, Beach, and Glamour
Morning: Start your day at Dunas de Artola, a stunning protected dune area near Cabopino Beach. If you're feeling adventurous, hike up La Concha, Marbella’s famous mountain, for breathtaking views.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Restaurante El Lago, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its creative Mediterranean cuisine in a peaceful lakeside setting.
Afternoon: Head to Playa de Nagüeles, a beautiful and less crowded beach along Marbella’s Golden Mile, perfect for a relaxing afternoon by the sea. If you prefer a livelier beach experience, visit Nikki Beach, one of Marbella’s trendiest beach clubs.
Evening: Stroll along Marbella’s Golden Mile, home to luxury hotels, beachfront mansions, and chic restaurants. Then, head to Puerto Banús, a world-famous marina filled with luxury yachts, designer stores, and buzzing nightlife. End your night with dinner at Los Bandidos, a long-time favorite known for its international dishes with a Mediterranean touch.
2-DAY ITINERARY
Planning to spend 2 days in Marbella? Make the most of your visit by including these activities:
Day 2: Adventure & Old Town Charm
Morning: Spend some time relaxing on Playa de Venus, a lively beach near Marbella’s old town with calm waters and soft sand. Alternatively, embark on a canyoning adventure in the Guadalmina River, located a 20-minute drive away near Benahavís, navigating through natural gorges and crystal-clear pools.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at El Patio de Mariscal, a cozy spot offering authentic Andalusian cuisine in a rustic courtyard.
Afternoon: Head to Plaza de los Naranjos, a charming square in the heart of the Old Town. Wander through the whitewashed streets of Casco Antiguo, where you'll find quaint boutiques and traditional tapas bars. Walk down Avenida del Mar, lined with Salvador Dalí sculptures, leading to the scenic Paseo Marítimo.
Evening: Enjoy tapas and pintxos at Lekune Bar, a popular spot known for its lively atmosphere and delicious Basque-style bites.
WHERE TO STAY
Marbella offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of our top recommendations:
Luxury:
Marbella Club Hotel - Golf Resort & Spa: A luxurious beachfront retreat offering world-class golf facilities, a serene spa, and exceptional fine dining in an elegant setting.
Puente Romano Beach Resort: A five-star beachfront haven featuring a vibrant beach club, multiple dining options, and an award-winning wellness center, perfect for a sophisticated coastal escape.
Mid-Range:
Hotel Claude Marbella: A charming boutique hotel set in a beautifully restored 17th-century building, blending historic charm with modern comforts in Marbella’s Old Town.
The Old House Marbella: A cozy and character-filled stay offering an intimate and stylish experience, with a blend of traditional Andalusian architecture and contemporary design.
Budget:
Hotel Finlandia: A welcoming and budget-friendly hotel with a relaxed atmosphere, offering a convenient location just steps from Marbella’s beaches and attractions.
Puerta De Aduares: A charming aparthotel in the heart of Marbella’s Old Town, providing well-equipped accommodations with an authentic Andalusian touch for an independent and comfortable stay.
EXTRA ACTIVITIES TO EXPLORE
If you find yourself with extra time in Marbella, consider including these activities in your plans:
Sunset Sailing Trip with Drinks and Snacks: Set sail from Puerto Banús and experience a breathtaking Marbella sunset while enjoying drinks and snacks on board. Book here →
Gibraltar Tour from Marbella: Discover Gibraltar on a hassle-free day trip from Marbella. Explore the famous Rock of Gibraltar, visit St. Michael’s Cave, and enjoy duty-free shopping in the city center. Book here →
Sailing & Dolphin Watching: Cruise the Mediterranean and enjoy a chance to spot dolphins while sipping on refreshing drinks. Relax on deck and soak up the sun on this peaceful sailing experience. Book here →
Jet Ski at the Golden Mile: Speed along Marbella’s iconic Golden Mile on a thrilling jet ski ride. Feel the adrenaline rush as you take in the stunning coastal scenery from the water. Book here →
BEYOND MARBELLA
While Marbella has lots to offer, there are also several amazing places nearby worth exploring:
Málaga: A dynamic coastal city blending history, culture, and gastronomy. Visit the Alcazaba, explore the Picasso Museum, and take a sunset stroll along the Muelle Uno waterfront.
Estepona: A hidden gem along the Costa del Sol, Estepona is known for its beautifully preserved old town, colorful flower-lined streets, and golden sandy beaches.
Caminito del Rey: One of Spain’s most breathtaking hiking experiences, this spectacular walkway clings to the cliffs of a dramatic gorge, offering thrilling views over the rugged landscape. Book here →
Nerja: Home to some of the most stunning coastal views on the Costa del Sol, Nerja boasts crystal-clear waters, scenic coves, and the famous Nerja Caves, filled with prehistoric rock formations. Check out our ultimate Nerja itinerary →
Ronda: A breathtaking hilltop town with one of Spain’s most iconic views. Stand atop the Puente Nuevo bridge, admire sweeping views over the dramatic El Tajo gorge, and explore its deep-rooted history.
Setenil de las Bodegas: One of Spain’s most unique villages, Setenil is famous for its whitewashed houses built directly into rock formations. Stroll beneath the overhanging cliffs of Calle Cuevas del Sol, where cafés and shops are nestled under natural stone canopies.