Location & Transportation
It’s a delight to step off your tender boat in Marbella—just a short walk takes you to the iconic Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Tree Square) in the heart of the old town. This walkable port makes it easy to enjoy the charming streets, with many attractions, shops, and cafés right at your doorstep.
Nearby Lodging
Marbella offers a mix of boutique hotels and upscale resorts nestled within the old town and along the beachfront. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay or a cozy guesthouse, there’s something to suit every taste.
Nearest Airport
The closest airport is Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, about a 45-minute drive from Marbella. Taxis and shuttle services are readily available. If you prefer public transport, there are regular buses connecting the airport with coastal towns.
Sightseeing
Marbella is full of enchanting spots that invite you to explore:
- Old Town & Orange Square: Stroll through narrow, whitewashed lanes surrounded by the ruins of an old Arab wall. Admire historical gems like the town hall, the old governor’s house, and the Chapel of Santiago, all set around the charming Orange Square dating back to 1485. Enjoy the vibrant gardens adorned with orange trees and colorful blooms.
- Seafront Promenade & Beaches: Join the Spanish tradition of the “paseo” along the extensive promenade. It’s perfect for people watching while sipping a coffee at one of the many pavement cafés, and you can easily wander over to Marbella’s beautiful beaches.
- Puerto Banús: Just a short trip away, this famous marina is synonymous with luxury. Even if you’re not planning to shop for high-end fashion or admire superyachts, a visit to Puerto Banús is a must for its lively atmosphere and glamorous vibe.
Tours & Excursions
There are several day trips that add even more magic to your Marbella visit:
- Pueblos Blancos Tour: Explore the nearby white villages, where time seems to stand still amid narrow lanes and white-washed houses tucked into the hills.
- Granada & Seville Excursions: For those willing to venture a bit further, guided tours to the historic cities of Granada and Seville offer a taste of Spain’s rich heritage, including landmarks like the Alhambra and Seville Cathedral.
Shopping
For a true taste of local life, visit Marbella’s street markets:
- Las Albarizas Market: Held on Mondays, this market offers fresh local produce, crafts, and a glimpse into the daily bustle of the town.
- Capitan Cortez Market: Operating on Saturdays, it’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs and handmade items.
In the old town, narrow lanes are lined with charming boutiques and artisanal shops where you can find everything from local crafts to designer fashions.
Dining
Marbella’s culinary scene is as vibrant as its streets. Enjoy fresh seafood in beachside restaurants, savor traditional tapas in a cozy bar, or indulge in contemporary Spanish cuisine:
- Try classic dishes like grilled sardines, gazpacho, or a hearty plate of paella.
- Many restaurants offer outdoor seating alongside the promenade, making it the perfect spot to relax with a cocktail as you watch the world go by.
Culture & Local Events
Marbella’s charm extends beyond its physical beauty—it’s alive with local traditions and cultural events.
- Local Business Hours & Holidays:
- Shops and cafés typically open Monday through Saturday, from 9:30 to 13:30 and again from 16:30 to 20:00. In high season, many coastal shops stay open later.
- Larger shopping centers and department stores often extend their hours, sometimes until 21:00 or 22:00, and may even open on Sundays.
- Pharmacies usually follow these schedules, with some offering 24-hour service on a rotating basis.
- Keep an eye on national holidays such as New Year’s Day, Epiphany, Good Friday, Workers' Day, and various local festivals which might affect opening hours.
- Local Culture & Communication:
- Spanish is the official language, and while the locals take pride in their heritage, many tourist spots offer English guidance.
- Remember that tipping is appreciated but not always expected—around 5–10% is common in restaurants for good service.
- Local Events:
- Depending on when you visit, you might catch vibrant local festivities such as the Marbella Fair (Feria de Marbella), which brings traditional music, dancing, and delicious food to the streets.
- Religious processions during Semana Santa (Holy Week) are also a poignant cultural experience.
Safety & Awareness
- Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local services are well-prepared to help and often offer multilingual support in tourist areas.