Whether you are planning to marry on the Costa del Sol and book into a luxurious romantic villa in Marbella, or you are looking for a perfect honeymoon destination, you will not be disappointed in this sunny and spectacular part of southern Spain.
We take a look at 5 of the most romantic things to do in Marbella:
Marbella Old Town & Orange Square
If you can drag yourself out of your romantic Marbella villa, take a stroll around the Old Town of Marbella and chill out in Orange Square. This vibrant square with ornate buildings, fountains and cobbled streets, lined with colourful orange trees, is a highlight of this famous town. Enjoy tapas in the shade of an orange tree or dine al fresco in the evening at a choice of excellent eateries – offering everything from traditional Spanish cuisine to International flavours. You will also find a choice of independent shops and boutiques to buy a choice of quirky and unique gifts to take home.
Avenida del Mar
This beautiful, pedestrianised avenue links La Alameda park with the seafront promenade and boasts fountains, pergolas and a collection of sculptures by Salvador Dali. Stroll down to the sea in style, admiring the statues on route and stop off at one of the elegant café-bars for coffee on the way. It is also worth looking around La Alameda park at the top of the Avenida del Mar to admire the ornate fountain and welcome shade from the trees in the warmer months. This is also a central point for live music, singers, dancers and open-air bars during the annual Marbella Feria in June.
Hit the beach
Boasting over 325 average days of sunshine each year, Marbella’s micro-climate is legendary and there is no better place in Europe to hit the beach. With miles of golden sands to choose from, indulge in some water-sports or soak up the sun with your loved one at one of the world-famous beach clubs, including Nikki Beach Marbella, which is open throughout the summer every year. Sip on exotic cocktails, relax on a sumptuous sunbed for two and enjoy the delicious fresh fish and seafood on the menu. Other beaches that come highly recommended are Cabopino beach and Golden Beach, Elviria, with a choice of amazing beach bars restaurants to choose from.
Day trip to Ronda
Ronda is one of Spain’s most beautiful and historical cities, just an hour’s drive from Marbella. Marvel at the view over the gorge from the Puente Nuevo bridge or take a tour of the oldest bullring in Spain. Perched high above the coast, Ronda is home to a fabulous choice of tapas bars, bodegas and pavement cafes – offering delicious local hams, cheeses and wines to sample. The Old Town is great to explore on foot and you will find some real hidden gems in its cobbled streets. Enjoy a drink or snack at the Parador de Ronda – which hangs precariously to the rocks overlooking the 100m deep gorge. The Museo del los Bandaleros, Bandit’s Museum, is also worth a visit.
Puerto Banus
There is nowhere quite like Puerto Banus if you want to eat, drink and be merry. Saunter around the Marina, which is lined with lively bars and fresh fish restaurants. Enjoy a drink in one of the waterside terraces and stroll round to where the big boats are at the western end of the Marina. If shopping is your thing you will be spoilt for choice in Banus. From designer stores to the classy El Corte Ingles and even a bustling Saturday market just up the road in Nueva Andalucia, Puerto Banus really does have it all!
If you are looking for somewhere special to celebrate your wedding or book a party, why not consider a luxurious Marbella villa for your friends and family?