Top 25 Must-Do Activities in Marbella, Spain

Things to do in Marbella, Spain

A glamorous town in Southern Spain, Marbella is the shining star of Costa del Sol. With long promenades lining its sandy beaches, beach bars, and a charming old town, a trip to this beautiful Spanish city on the Mediterranean Sea is not to be missed.

We fell in love with the culture of Old Town Marbella, our daily walks on the boardwalk, and sampling its delicious Spanish cuisine. After spending a week in the tourist capital of Costa del Sol, we felt that we could move here. Plus, with real estate seeming quite reasonable, maybe we will! But for now, let’s take a look at all the exciting things to do in Marbella to help you plan your trip.

1. Stroll Through Marbella Old Town

Marbella Old Town is a beautiful place to walk through the streets while admiring the whitewashed buildings lining the charming cobblestone streets. Search for a café to enjoy a cocktail or shop for Andalusian-style dresses in one of the many storefronts. This is a place to sit back and relax, observe people, and take in the Spanish vibes. The Old Town has plenty of restaurants with outdoor seating to savor tapas while immersing in the Spanish culture.

Dating back to the 15th century, the Old Town is a great destination to truly absorb the Andalusian atmosphere. White houses and historical structures adorned with colorful flowers create picture-perfect photo opportunities. There are numerous rooftop patios, boutique clothing stores, and historic buildings. This is the perfect spot to lose yourself for an afternoon as you wander through its narrow streets.

2. Continue to Avenida Del Mar

Avenida del Mar is a lovely pedestrian street connecting Marbella Old Town to the beach. Palm trees line the path leading from Parque Alameda to Ave Duque de Ahumada. Unique to this area is the line of statues designed by Salvador Dali. Interestingly, although Dali wasn’t a resident of Marbella, he holidayed here and seemingly fell in love with this slice of paradise in Costa del Sol.

3. Relax in Alameda Park

Just a short walk from Avenida del Mar is the picturesque Alameda Park. This tranquil retreat provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Marbella’s busy streets. Dating back to the 18th century, this small park is located right in the heart of the city center and is filled with shady palm trees and ferns, providing a cool respite from the hot sun.

As you stroll along the four paths inside Alameda Park, you’ll come across the Parque Alameda fountain and colorful ceramic benches perfectly placed for relaxation in the shade. The benches, known as azulejos, are all hand-painted, and there is also a charming carousel ideal for children.

4. Walk Marbella Promenade Every Day

One of our favorite activities in Marbella was to walk the Paseo Maritimo (Marbella Promenade) each morning. We’d grab a takeaway coffee and enjoy the 7km long paved walkway at sunrise to avoid crowds. Midway through our walk, the city would awaken, and more people would be out jogging or biking to soak up the great atmosphere at this time of day.

Each morning, we worked up an appetite and stopped at one of the many restaurants for coffee and breakfast with gorgeous sea views. The boardwalk connects the best beaches in Marbella, from the Old Town to Puerto Deportivo de Marbella and Puerto Banús, making it easy to explore as there are plenty of places to stop for refreshments along the way.

5. Charter a Yacht for a Sunset Cruise from Puerto Banus

Marbella’s Puerto Banús is renowned for its luxury yachts, fast cars, and upscale hotels. Join the lifestyles of the rich and famous by booking a sunset cruise along this idyllic coastline of Costa del Sol. We hopped on a charter with Smart Yachting to set sail from the Marbella marina in Puerto Banus for the ultimate sunset experience. The marina is filled with impressive yachts while our 50-foot yacht showcased the epitome of elegance.

This beautiful scene allows for stunning views of Southern Spain’s coastline, where we sipped champagne and savored tapas, feeling like millionaires during an evening of indulgence and relaxation.

6. Kayaking Tour

If yachting isn’t your style and you prefer a more hands-on experience on the water, consider taking a kayaking tour for beautiful views of the Marbella coast. Departing from Marbella marina, you’ll experience sights of the Sierra Blanca mountain range along with waterfront hotels and restaurants. Costa del Sol boasts blue flag beaches, and the clear waters provide the perfect opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea. Kayaking is a favorite method of exploring coastal areas.

7. Puerto Banús

After your cruise or kayaking tour, spend some time in Puerto Banús to enjoy fresh seafood. This vibrant area is the heart of Marbella’s nightlife, where you’ll encounter fashionable twenty-somethings flaunting their luxury cars and designer apparel. Here, you’ll find upscale restaurants and bars, making it the perfect setting for dressing up for a night out.

8. Marbella Nightlife in Puerto Banus

The best nightlife in Marbella can be found in Puerto Banús, extending a little further along to the Golden Mile area. These locations abound with nightclubs and bars. If you’re searching for activities in Marbella at night, consider starting with a guided tour that begins at the famous Sinatra Bar in Puerto Banus and continues with bar hopping to enjoy VIP treatment at the area’s most popular venues.

9. Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square)

Named for the orange trees that grow within, Plaza de Los Naranjos serves as the heartbeat of Marbella’s Old Town. Outdoor cafés and restaurants fill the plaza, making it an ideal spot for dining. Centrally located amidst traditional white Andalusian houses, this plaza is shaded by orange trees. At its center lies a charming Renaissance fountain, somewhat hidden by the numerous tables and chairs that populate the space.

10. Iglesia de la Encarnación

As you continue your exploration of the Old Town, don’t miss the Iglesia de la Encarnación (Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation). Situated just off of Plaza de Los Naranjos, it is known as the Cathedral of Marbella and dates back to the 17th century.

This magnificent structure was built on the site of a former mosque, exhibiting a mix of Renaissance and Baroque architecture while preserving some of the original Islamic elements. The church’s tower was initially a minaret. During our visit, a mass was taking place, and we respected the local customs by refraining from entering.

Where to Eat in Old Town Marbella

A place to consider for dinner is Thaiessence, located in Old Town Marbella within the Maison Artois boutique hotel. This restaurant uniquely fuses Peruvian-Thai cuisine with Andalusian flavors, offering a captivating atmosphere complemented by a lovely rooftop bar.

11. Take a Wine Tour

The Marbella Wine and Bike Tour is an exceptional means to explore the Old Town while immersing yourself in Andalusian food and wine. This half food tour, half cultural immersion experience teaches you about Spanish history and culture as you cycle from Dali’s sculptures in Avenida Del Mar through Alameda Park and the Old City, sampling tapas and Spanish wine or beer along the way (non-alcoholic options are available).

12. Murallas del Castillo – Marbella Castle

Easily accessible from Marbella Old Town, the Moorish castle and city walls date back to the 10th century. Although you cannot enter the castle, the towers and ancient Moorish walls are quite an impressive sight and represent the most significant remnant of Arabic architecture in Marbella, with only two of the original ten towers remaining.

13. Iglesia del Santo Cristo de la Veracruz

With a rich history, Marbella is home to many historic churches. Another noteworthy church is the Iglesia del Santo Cristo de la Veracruz, a quaint chapel from the 15th century that underwent expansion in the 18th century. Fully restored in 1992, this charming church is worth a visit while strolling through Barrio Alto.

14. Take a Cycling Tour

Joining a Bike Tour of Marbella is a fantastic way to discover the city. Pedal to historical sites along cycling paths while enjoying the Andalusian sun. Starting at the Bay of Marbella, you’ll see the works of Dali in Avenida del Mar before continuing to Alameda Park and into the Old City. Cycle through the narrow alleys until you reach Plaza Santo Cristo, then make your way out of town to visit the traditional fishing village of Barrio de Los Pescador.

15. Join Marbella Food Tours

Spanish cuisine is among the best globally, and a Marbella Food Tour is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the culture. Often, when visiting a new country, it’s challenging to decide what to order. A food tour provides introductions to the region’s best culinary offerings. You will experience local delicacies, including Pescaito Frito, a mix of various fish including anchovies, calamari, and shrimp, Salmorejo casero, the Andalusian version of gazpacho, and more.

16. Roman Villa

While Marbella may have once been ruled by the Moors, it also bears remnants of its Roman history. The Roman Villa, located 5 km from the city center between the Old City and Puerto Banus, dates back to the 1st century AD, having once been part of the Great Roman Empire. Though not much remains today, the black-and-white mosaic tiles are well-preserved, distinguished by their unique design.

17. Beaches of Marbella

Marbella is undoubtedly a paradise for beach lovers. While it ranks as number 15 on our list, enjoying the beaches is truly number one. Marbella boasts seven blue flag beaches, renowned for their superior water quality and environmental management. Expect nothing short of some of the best beaches in Europe amidst your beach vacation.

The waterfront teems with beach clubs, beachfront restaurants, and cabanas, many of which are conveniently located within walking distance of one another. With beaches stretching east and west from the city center, you might find yourself favoring one beach over another depending on your accommodations. Some of the highly recommended beaches include:

• Playa de la Fontanilla – This is the most popular beach in Marbella, located close to the city center. You’ll discover cabanas and lounge chairs for rent along with numerous restaurants and amenities. Fun activities are abundant, including various water sports.
• Bounty Beach – A lengthy stretch of golden sand serving beach chairs for rent, water sports, and restaurants. The snack bar of the same name has a lively atmosphere with great music and hosts festivals.
• Cabopino Beach – A 1.5 km stretch of pristine sandy beach near Puerto de Cabopino, featuring protected sand dunes and a designated nudist area.
• Other recommended beaches include Playa Real de Zaragoza, Playa Alicate, Guadalmina Beach, and Linda Vista.

18. Shopping in Marbella

One of my favorite activities in Marbella was browsing the shops for stylish Andalusian fashion. Throughout the Old Town, an array of stores offers opportunities to pick up unique fashion pieces. You might even find a Flamenco dress to wear at one of the local festivals that take place regularly in the city.

19. Golfing in Marbella is Popular

Marbella is a renowned destination for golf enthusiasts, boasting some of the best golf courses worldwide. We observed numerous travelers at the Malaga airport carrying their golf clubs, eager to tackle the Costa del Sol’s many greens. Although we’re not golfers ourselves, it was essential to mention the plentiful golfing opportunities in Marbella.

20. Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo

While exploring the Old Town, be sure to visit the Museum of Spanish Contemporary Engravings, the only museum in Spain dedicated to preserving contemporary Spanish graphic art from the 20th and 21st centuries.

21. Bonsai Museum is Closed

Despite our excitement to visit the Bonsai Museum during our Marbella trip, it regrettably closed in 2018. They are currently searching for a new location, and we hold on to the hope that they’ll find one before your visit. The Bonsai Museum of Marbella showcased Europe’s finest collection of bonsai trees and olives, making it a renowned destination.

Where to Stay in Marbella

NH Hotel Marbella

This hotel features an outdoor pool, gym, alfresco restaurant, and pool bar. While the ambiance and modern rooms were great, it was a bit far from Old Town, approximately a 15-minute walk from the beach. Check details on TripAdvisor.

Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá

This flagship luxury hotel in Marbella is situated directly on the beach and comes with a large pool, fitness center, and on-site dining options. It boasts a fantastic ambiance and is highly recommended. While we only had drinks here, we would love to stay if we return. Though it’s a bit of a hike from the Old Town, being near the beach and the boardwalk offers everything you could need. See availability and rates on TripAdvisor / Booking.com.

Hotel Monarque El Rodeo

A great budget-friendly option in Marbella, this hotel is conveniently close to Old Town and the beach. Being within walking distance of many top Marbella attractions, it offers good value with all-inclusive and partial board rates covering buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Check availability on TripAdvisor / Booking.com.

Oasis by Don Carlos

If you seek a luxury experience in Marbella, consider the Oasis by Don Carlos wellness resort. Offering rooms, suites, and apartments, amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, saunas, and a spa. Learn more on TripAdvisor or book at Booking.com.

Day Trips from Marbella

When visiting Marbella, numerous day trips await along the coast of Costa del Sol. Its central location allows convenient access to many top attractions within an hour. Below are some recommendations.

22. Andalusian Horse and Flamenco Show

No visit to Southern Spain is complete without witnessing Andalusian horses in action. Skilled riders mount their elegant white horses to perform an equestrian ballet, while a talented flamenco dancer performs nearby. This colorful display unfolds in a round arena before your eyes, providing a mesmerizing experience.

23. White Village – Setenil de las Bodegas

While we opted to rent a car during our visit, day tours from Marbella are readily available, allowing you to explore stunning locations along the Coast of Sol. One such highly-rated tour takes you to the villages of Ardales and Cuevas del Becerro before arriving in Setenil de las Bodegas, known as the original and most beautiful white village. This excursion enables exploring both Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas, featuring the unique bridge over the El Tajo gorge and Spain’s oldest bullring.

24. Gibraltar

The British territory of Gibraltar is just a 90-minute drive from Marbella, making it an excellent day trip. A lot of the highlights can be observed in a single day if you’re looking for a break from the beaches, or you might choose to spend a night or two in this intriguing territory at the southern tip of Spain.

25. Caminito Del Rey

Another exciting day trip from Marbella is to the Caminito del Rey, located not far from the city. Once considered one of the most dangerous hikes in Europe, it is now a secure and exhilarating route. This tour takes you along a path hanging precariously on a cliff, towering 100 meters (about 330 feet) above the reservoir below. You’ll walk 5 kilometers along this elevated walkway to enjoy some of the most breathtaking views in Andalusia.

How to Get to Marbella

We arrived at Malaga Airport (Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport – AGP) from Canada and hired a driver for transportation to Marbella. Alternatively, you can take direct airport buses to Marbella Bus Station. As the fourth busiest airport in Spain, Málaga Costa del Sol Airport provides all the modern conveniences you might need.

On our way out, we also transferred to the airport and rented a car from there for added convenience while exploring Costa del Sol.

Marbella is easy to access via well-maintained highways, and navigating within the region is straightforward. To reach Marbella, follow the A-7. During busy traffic times, if you prefer to spend slightly more money, consider taking the toll road AP-7. When navigating through new towns, we typically rely on Google Maps to avoid tolls, allowing for scenic, more affordable alternatives. Car rentals can be compared through RentalCars.com.

Final Thoughts for Things to Do in Marbella

When in Marbella, a fantastic way to truly experience the local life is to take a tour led by a local guide! Starting your adventure with a guided tour can help you navigate the culture while pinpointing top attractions and hidden gems. Joining a local guide brings you insider tips about the best restaurants, beaches, and attractions in the area.