Marbella is one of the most fashionable towns on the Costa del Sol and offers visitors a wide choice of historical attractions, along with some of the best restaurants, bars and golf courses in the world.
Luxury villas in Marbella are the ideal place to spend a family holiday, book a corporate event or a wedding.
The best people to listen to when planning your Marbella trip are those who have ‘been there, done that and got the T-shirt’ in one of Europe’s most exciting destinations.
We choose five of the most highly-rated places to visit in Marbella:
1. Plaza de los Naranjos, Orange Square
Built after the Christian Reconquest, the beautiful Old Town has become the beating heart of Marbella where locals and tourists come to relax and recharge their batteries, surrounded by orange trees. During spring, enjoy a coffee, a meal or a drink in the square while breathing in the scent of orange blossom.
Two important historic landmarks are found on the Plaza de los Naranjos. The town hall, also called the Consistorial House, was built in 1572 and enhanced in the 17th century. With its balconied facade, the building exemplifies Spanish style architecture.
The oldest parish church in Marbella, the 16th-century Ermita de Santiago also stands on the Plaza de los Naranjos and is well worth a visit.
2. Beautiful beaches
Sun-worshippers are spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches in Marbella. Most of the best sandy beaches are located within easy walking distance of the town centre and all have showers, sunbed hire and lifeguards on duty during the summer months.
Head down to the Playa Fontanilla which stretches over 1,000m and is situated in front of a bar and shop-lined promenade with a wide choice of cuisine, cocktails and snacks. The Playa Real de Zaragoza is known for its fabulous chiringuitos, beach bars, fresh fish, seafood and paella.
Just west of Marbella the Guadalmina beach, Linda Vista and San Pedro de Alcantara beach are ideal for families and are rated as ‘Blue Flag’ beaches because of their calm, safe waters - perfect for paddling and swimming.
3. Parque Alameda
This elegant 18th century park is filled with lush, green vegetations and shady pine trees in the centre of town.
The park joins the Alameda del Mar and the Paseo Maritimo, the seafront promenade. Marble walkways, decoratively-tiled benches and Dali statues feature on the way down to the beach front and the highlight is the Fuente Virgen del Rocio fountain, which was constructed in 1762.
The park was the city's first designated green space. Locals and tourists alike enjoy this refreshing oasis on warm sunny days, and it's a wonderful area to relax in the shade.
4. Puerto Banus
Just over a ten-minute drive from central Marbella, Puerto Banus is the most famous and fashionable marina on the Costa del Sol. This vibrant scene is where the jet-setters come to see and be seen. Stylish restaurants and upscale boutiques line the waterfront. The restaurants have outdoor terraces for the perfect seaside ambience; diners savour fresh seafood while watching luxury yachts bob up and down in the harbour.
With over 900 berths for yachts and other boats, Puerto Banus is considered the best yacht marina in Spain. The marina also offers nautical services and water sports facilities. The beaches around Puerto Banus are equally chic, with beach clubs, sunbathing rentals, and seafront restaurants.
It’s worth a day out – and a great place to people-watch!
5. Marbella luxury villas
If you are planning a family holiday in Marbella and planning to stay in a luxurious villa, choose from some of the most prestigious real estate in Europe. Known as the ‘California of Europe,’ Marbella is the perfect place to chill out in style, with a vast choice of attractions for all ages.
Marbella luxury event and family holiday villas boast stunning facilities, including infinity pools, private chefs if required, designer themed bedrooms and everything you need to make your Marbella holiday an unforgettable one.