What is there to do in Marbella? More than you can fit into one holiday. Behind the glamorous image of yachts and beach clubs lies a town with a centuries-old centre, stunning nature, dozens of golf courses and a wonderfully Andalusian pace of life. We live and work here, and we share our favourite activities and sights with you, from the classics to the tips you won't find in every guidebook.
Sights in Marbella
1. The old town (Casco Antiguo)
The heart of Marbella is a maze of whitewashed lanes full of flowers, little squares and tapas bars. Feel free to get lost: every corner is worth a photo. Here you will also find the remains of the Moorish castle walls and the church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación.
2. Plaza de los Naranjos
Marbella's best-known square, laid out at the end of the fifteenth century and surrounded by orange trees, the old town hall and café terraces. Ideal for a morning coffee or a glass of wine at sunset.
3. Avenida del Mar and the Dalí sculptures
This pedestrian avenue links the old town with the sea. Along the way you will see a series of bronze sculptures by Salvador Dalí, an open-air museum you can stroll through for free.
4. The Paseo Marítimo
The seafront promenade runs for kilometres, from the town centre to beyond Puerto Banús. Walking, jogging or cycling with the sea beside you: it is one of the things you will do most as a resident.
5. Puerto Banús
The famous marina, opened in 1970, with superyachts, designer boutiques and restaurants along the quayside. Come in the late afternoon, stroll past the boats and stay for dinner. More tips in our guide to Puerto Banús.
6. The Golden Mile
The chic stretch between Marbella and Puerto Banús, with iconic hotels such as the Marbella Club and Puente Romano. Lunch at one of the beach clubs here is a true Marbella experience. Curious about who lives here? Read Where do the wealthy live in Marbella?
7. Roman and early Christian remains
Few visitors know it, but Marbella has archaeological treasures: the Roman villa of Río Verde with its beautiful mosaics, and in San Pedro de Alcántara the early Christian basilica of Vega del Mar and the Roman baths of Las Bóvedas.
8. Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo
A surprising museum in the old town with graphic works by artists including Picasso, Miró and Dalí.
Beaches
9. Playa de la Fontanilla and Playa de Venus
Central town beaches with all facilities, within walking distance of the old town.
10. Beach clubs on the Golden Mile and in Marbella East
From laid-back chiringuitos serving grilled sardines to exclusive beach clubs with sunbeds and a DJ. A long lunch and an afternoon on the beach is a way of life here.
11. The Cabopino dunes
East of Marbella lies a protected dune area with a natural beach and a small, charming marina. Perfect if you are looking for peace and quiet.
Nature and sport
12. Hiking up La Concha
La Concha mountain (around 1,215 metres) is the symbol of Marbella. The hike to the summit is challenging, but the view over the coast, Gibraltar and, on a clear day, Africa is unforgettable.
13. Refugio de Juanar and Ojén
An easier nature walk in the mountains above Marbella, among pine forests and olive trees, with views over the coast. Combine it with a visit to the white village of Ojén.
14. Golf
Around Marbella there are dozens of golf courses, from Los Naranjos and Las Brisas in Nueva Andalucía to Real Club de Golf Guadalmina and the courses of Benahavís. You can play all year round.
15. Padel and tennis
Marbella is a padel paradise: almost every neighbourhood has courts and clubs, and you will quickly find people to play with.
16. Water sports
Sailing, paddleboarding, jet skiing, diving or a day out on a hired boat along the coast. With a bit of luck, you will spot dolphins.
Food and drink
17. Tapas in the old town
Let the local bars around Plaza de los Naranjos and the surrounding lanes show you the way.
18. Michelin-starred restaurants
Marbella and the surrounding area have several Michelin-starred restaurants. Highly recommended for a special occasion.
19. The markets
Marbella's covered market for fresh fish and vegetables, and the weekly markets in the various neighbourhoods for clothing and local produce.
Events
20. Starlite Festival
In summer, international artists perform in an open-air theatre set in a former quarry in Nagüeles.
21. Feria de San Bernabé
The town's big festival in June, with flamenco, horses, music and a funfair.
Day trips from Marbella
22. Benahavís
A white mountain village fifteen minutes' drive away, known for its many restaurants.
23. Ronda
About an hour's drive away lies one of Spain's most beautiful towns, built above a deep gorge spanned by the famous Puente Nuevo bridge.
24. Málaga
The vibrant provincial capital, with the Picasso Museum, the cathedral, the Alcazaba fortress and a lively port.
25. Gibraltar or Tangier
Gibraltar is about an hour away. If you are feeling more adventurous, take the ferry from Tarifa across to Tangier in Morocco.
From holiday to home
Many of our clients first came to Marbella on holiday and had that feeling: I want to spend more time here. If you are looking for a property, it makes sense to explore a few neighbourhoods during your stay. We are happy to plan a viewing day around your holiday, so you can see straight away what your budget can buy. Take a look at our Prestige collection, new developments or get in touch with us.
Marbella with children
Families will also find plenty to do in Marbella: beaches with playgrounds, the Selwo Aventura wildlife park in Estepona, water parks nearby, mini golf, horse riding in the mountains and boat trips to spot dolphins.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most beautiful spot in Marbella?
For many people, it is the old town with Plaza de los Naranjos. If you love a view, head for the top of La Concha.
Is Marbella worth visiting outside the high season?
Absolutely. Most restaurants, golf courses and shops are open all year, and in spring and autumn it is pleasantly warm and quieter.
What can you do for free in Marbella?
Stroll through the old town, admire the Dalí sculptures, walk the Paseo Marítimo, enjoy the beaches and go hiking in the Sierra Blanca.
How many days do you need for Marbella?
A long weekend is enough to see the highlights. If you also want to take day trips and explore the surrounding area, allow a week.
