Things To Do
in Marbella

Marbella is a glamorous resort town located on the Costa del Sol in southern Spain, known for its stunning beaches, luxury yachts, and vibrant nightlife. It boasts a rich history, with a charming old town featuring narrow streets, traditional Spanish architecture, and quaint plazas. The town is surrounded by the Sierra Blanca mountains, offering breathtaking views and outdoor activities.

With a Mediterranean climate, Marbella attracts visitors year-round, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Old Town and Beach
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through Marbella's picturesque Old Town, visiting the Plaza de los Naranjos and the historic church of Santa Maria.

afternoon
:

Relax on the beach at Playa de la Fontanilla and enjoy a seafood lunch at a beachside chiringuito (beach bar).

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant in the Old Town and then take a leisurely walk along the promenade, soaking in the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
morning
:

Visit the famous Puerto Banús marina to admire luxury yachts and do some shopping at high-end boutiques.

afternoon
:

Explore the cultural side at the Museo Ralli, which showcases Latin American art, followed by lunch in a nearby café.

evening
:

Experience Marbella's nightlife by visiting a trendy bar or club in Puerto Banús, enjoying live music or a DJ set.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15 - $30
Coffee$2 - $4
🍺Beer$3 - $6
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel (3-star)$80 - $150 per night

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning beaches and luxurious resorts.
  • Rich cultural heritage and charming old town.
  • Vibrant nightlife and diverse dining options.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Higher costs compared to other Spanish destinations.
  • Traffic congestion can be an issue in summer.
  • "¡Hola!" - Hello!
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Marbella

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Town Marbella

The charming streets and colorful buildings make for beautiful photographs, especially in the early morning light.

Puerto Banús

Capture stunning yachts and luxury cars against the backdrop of vibrant nightlife and marina views.

Marbella Promenade

A scenic route along the coast, perfect for sunset shots with the Mediterranean Sea in the background.

Culinary Guide

Food in Marbella

Marbella offers a rich culinary scene that reflects its Mediterranean heritage, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Marbella Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Espetos de Sardinas

Grilled sardines on a skewer, a must-try dish often cooked over open flames at beachside restaurants.

Must-Try!

Gazpacho

A refreshing cold soup made from tomatoes, peppers, onions, and cucumbers, perfect for warm days.

Tortilla Española

A traditional Spanish omelet made with potatoes and onions, commonly served as a tapa.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and fish, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Street Food at Feria

During local festivals, enjoy various street foods from churros to fried fish, available from numerous stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Marbella enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures commonly reach the mid-30s °C (mid-90s °F), while winters are mild, averaging around 15°C (59°F). Rainfall is highest from November to February, but even winters are generally sunny. The pleasant climate makes Marbella an attractive year-round destination.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone; use 'buenos días' or 'buenas tardes' to greet.

Dining Etiquette

It's customary to wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal.

Dress Code

Dress smartly, especially in upscale restaurants and during the nightlife; casual beach attire is acceptable during the day.

Safety Guide

Safety

Marbella is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and always keep an eye on your belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Marbella

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring offers mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer is hot and bustling with tourists, perfect for beachgoers, but expect crowded beaches and higher prices.

Fall

Fall sees pleasant weather with fewer tourists, offering a great time to explore at a leisurely pace.

Winter

Winter is mild and quieter, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape while still enjoying sunny days.

Nightlife Guide

Marbella at Night

Marbella's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with numerous bars, nightclubs, and beach clubs catering to different tastes. Puerto Banús is the epicenter of nightlife, featuring glamorous venues that attract both locals and tourists. Expect live music, DJs, and themed parties, often running until dawn. From elegant cocktail lounges to lively beachfront bars, the options are plentiful, making it a hotspot for party-goers of all ages.

Hiking in Marbella

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro Gordo Trail

A scenic trail offering views of the coastline and opportunities to see local wildlife, suitable for all skill levels.

El Juanar Trail

A moderately challenging hike that rewards with panoramic views of Marbella and the Mediterranean, popular among locals.

Airports

How to reach Marbella by plane.

Malaga Airport (AGP)

Located about 50 km from Marbella, Malaga Airport is the main international gateway, offering numerous flights to and from major cities worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Marbella is quite walkable, especially in the Old Town areas where streets are narrow and pedestrian-friendly. The promenade along the beach stretches for several kilometers, making it easy to walk between restaurants, shops, and beaches. Most attractions are within walking distance of each other, but public transportation is available for areas farther away.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Expat Community

Marbella is home to a large expat community, particularly from the UK, Germany, and Scandinavia, contributing to its multicultural atmosphere.

Local Residents

The local population is diverse, with a mix of Spanish nationals and long-term residents from various countries, enriching the cultural fabric of the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is hugely popular in Marbella, with local clubs and a strong following for major Spanish teams.

Golf

With numerous golf courses, Marbella is a hotspot for golf enthusiasts, hosting several international tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Marbella can become congested, particularly during the summer months when tourists flock to the area. The main roads experience heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses, which are a convenient way to navigate the city and surrounding areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Marbella.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with fresh salads and plant-based tapas widely available.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free dishes are increasingly common, and several restaurants cater specifically to gluten-free diets.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Marbella has good healthcare facilities, including private hospitals and clinics that offer a range of medical services. The Costa del Sol Health Care Agency provides public healthcare, accessible to residents and EU citizens. Pharmacies are plentiful, and many staff speak English, catering to tourists' needs.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide