Top reasons to visit Marbella
- Stunning Beaches: Marbella boasts beautiful beaches like Artola Beach, perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
- Vibrant City Centre: The lively Marbella city centre offers a blend of shops, restaurants, and cultural experiences.
- Charming Old Town: Explore the historic old town with its narrow streets, quaint shops, and local galleries.
- Renowned Golf Courses: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy top-notch courses and private country clubs in the area.
- Diverse Accommodation: Marbella offers a variety of lodging options, from luxury resorts to family-friendly hotels.
Find great hotels in and around Marbella
Discover the perfect retreat in Marbella, where a variety of hotels and resorts cater to every travel need. Whether you're seeking family-friendly accommodations, pet-friendly options, or a serene beachside escape, Marbella's diverse lodging choices promise a memorable stay. From the renowned Marbella Club to charming hotels throughout the area, you're sure to find the ideal base for your Andalusian adventure.
- Hotel El Puerto by Pierre & Vacances: A charming 3-star hotel that offers a delightful blend of beach and adventure experiences, rated 8.0 out of 10 by guests. Located 24.1km from Marbella, this hotel provides direct beach access, making it an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in water sports like surfing, waterskiing, and sailing. The property is also pet-friendly, accommodating dogs and cats with specific policies in place. With various recreational activities available on-site or nearby, guests can enjoy an active holiday while being close to the sandy shores.
- El Fuerte Marbella: This luxurious 5-star hotel boasts a superb guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. Nestled in Marbella, it features direct beach access and a plethora of adventure options, including hiking, fishing, and windsurfing. El Fuerte Marbella is ideal for those seeking a sophisticated beach holiday while enjoying a range of outdoor activities. Its elegant design and attentive service create a refined atmosphere that caters to discerning travellers looking to unwind and explore the stunning surroundings.
- Puente Romano Marbella: A prestigious 5-star hotel with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, Puente Romano Marbella combines family-friendly amenities with adventure and beach access. Situated in Marbella, this hotel offers various activities such as horse riding and mountain biking, catering to active families. The property also features dedicated children’s services, including supervised childcare and a children's pool, ensuring that younger guests are well taken care of. With its luxurious setting and focus on family, Puente Romano is a standout choice for those travelling with children.
Where to stay in and around Marbella
Marbella, a charming Andalusian city by the Mediterranean Sea, offers a captivating blend of relaxation and adventure. Explore the picturesque Artola Beach, perfect for sunbathing and water sports, while the vibrant atmosphere invites romantic evenings and family-friendly activities. Venture into nearby towns to discover historical gems and friendly locals, each adding to the enchanting experience of your holiday in this stunning region of Spain.
- Marbella Old Town: Marbella Old Town is the historic heart of the city, characterised by its charming narrow streets and traditional Andalusian architecture. This vibrant neighbourhood offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, from quaint shops and local markets to delightful tapas bars. The area is particularly lively during the summer months, where visitors flock to enjoy the delightful outdoor dining and vibrant nightlife. Notable attractions include the picturesque beach and the bustling marina, perfect for both relaxation and adventure. With its rich history and lively atmosphere, Marbella Old Town is a must-visit for those seeking a city-themed experience in a beautiful coastal setting.
- Elviria: Nestled along the stunning Costa del Sol, Elviria is a neighbourhood known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational activities. This area attracts visitors particularly in the spring and summer months, offering an array of sports options, including golf at nearby prestigious courses and access to private country clubs. Families will appreciate the family-friendly beaches and tourist precincts that provide a range of amenities. Elviria is ideal for those seeking a lively beach experience while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
- La Cala de Mijas: Located approximately 17.7km from Marbella, La Cala de Mijas is a charming village that welcomes visitors year-round. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, this destination offers an excellent blend of outdoor activities and beach experiences. The local beaches are perfect for families, while the surrounding golf courses and country clubs cater to sports enthusiasts. With its lovely marina and picturesque coastal views, La Cala de Mijas provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of larger resorts, making it a hidden gem worth exploring.
Things to do near Marbella
Shopping
For local crafts and souvenirs, visit the bustling Marbella Old Town market, where you’ll find unique handmade items. If you're up for a drive, head to La Cañada shopping centre, about 16.1km away, offering a variety of shops and dining options in a larger setting.
Recreation
In Marbella, the Marbella Club Hotel offers a serene wellness retreat with a focus on holistic treatments and a tranquil environment. Nearby, the Puente Romano Beach Resort features a luxurious spa with a range of therapies and fitness activities, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of motor racing at Ascari Racetrack, located 38.6km from Marbella, where adrenaline meets precision in a stunning setting. Alternatively, soar above the landscape on the Benalmadena Cable Car, situated 32.2km away, offering breathtaking views and an exhilarating adventure for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nightlife
In Marbella, the lively Puerto Banús buzzes with upscale bars and vibrant clubs, ideal for dancing the night away. The historic Old Town offers charming taverns and tapas bars, while venues like Olivia Valere provide a glamorous atmosphere for a memorable night out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Marbella
Marbella offers various ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions such as Puerto Banús Marina and Venus Beach. For transport, using the bus is often the most economical choice. To find the best hotel deals, consider travelling in January, February, or November, and book at least three months in advance. Tuesdays are typically cheaper for stays compared to Saturdays. Explore Expedia for last-minute offers, package deals, and filter options to find affordable, eco-certified hotels, ensuring a budget-friendly trip to this beautiful Andalusian destination.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Marbella are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Marbella is usually 3+ months out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Marbella is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Marbella is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred destination, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results by price, starting with the most economical options. Additionally, there's the option to refine your selection by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation in Marbella with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Marbella
Marbella offers a fantastic blend of outdoor, beach, and sports activities, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Key attractions include the vibrant Marbella city centre, the charming old town, stunning beaches, and the bustling marina. Golf enthusiasts can also enjoy the area's top-notch golf courses. Whether you're seeking relaxation or cultural experiences, Marbella has something for everyone to discover and enjoy.
- Fontanilla Beach: Experience the laid-back charm of Fontanilla Beach, where soft golden sands meet the gentle Mediterranean waves. This family-friendly beach offers a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or indulging in local beachside eateries.
- Museo del Bonsai: Delve into the serene world of miniature trees at the Museo del Bonsai. This unique museum features an impressive collection of bonsai specimens, showcasing intricate artistry and the rich cultural significance of this ancient practice.
- Puerto Banús Marina: Discover the vibrant energy of Puerto Banús Marina, known for its luxury yachts and bustling promenade. Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from watersports to shopping, while soaking up the lively beach vibes and stunning coastal views.
Best time to go to Marbella
The best time to visit Marbella can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Marbella falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Marbella falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Marbella
Marbella is conveniently accessible from three major airports. Málaga Airport (AGP) is situated 40.2km from the city, with excellent hotels nearby such as the 4-star Hotel Plaza del Castillo, located 3.2km away. Granada Airport (GRX) is 123.9km from Marbella, with options like the 4-star Gran Hotel Luna de Granada, 14.5km away. Seville Airport (SVQ) is 135.2km from Marbella; nearby hotels include the 5-star CoolRooms Palacio Villapanés, just 8.0km away. Each hotel offers various transportation services to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth journey for travellers.