Things to see and do in Marbella

To visit Marbella is to have the chance to enjoy one of the most charming cities on the entire Costa del Sol. As well as the beaches, sun, leisure and luxury yachts, there are many more things to see in Marbella. Tourism in Marbella is amazing for being able to evolve, but always keep its essence of a traditional village, which is why an old town which has preserved its Andalucian village charm can be enjoyed alongside local bars, archaeological remains evoking its Arab past and natural spaces still to be discovered.

A cosmopolitan place that is visited by numerous famous people and personalities, and that offers you endless things to see and do in Marbella so that you discover a city with great historic roots which offers important artistic attractions that have been recently developed.

 

Discover the 44 things to see and do in Marbella if you decide to visit.

 

Beaches and Relaxation | Culture, History, and Art | Adventure and Nature | Gastronomy and Shopping

 

Beaches and Relaxation

 

 

Discover Marbella with long walks along the shoreline, feeling the sand beneath your feet, or by visiting unique spots where you can unwind and relax, serenaded by the soothing sound of the Mediterranean Sea.

 

 

Enjoy a beautiful sunrise

 

 

Among the many things to see in Marbella, we suggest that you admire the Sunrise from any of its wonderful beaches.

One of the best moments of the day to enjoy Marbella is the dawn. Perhaps the quieter moment of the day of this bustling, cosmopolitan city. When many of its inhabitants are still sleeping and others are about to go resting after a night filled with fun.

 

 

See an elephant on the beach

 

 

Don’t be afraid. It’s a shower elephant. A fun and original way to remove saltpetre from your bronzed body on the wonderful beaches of Marbella. Many people choose this occasion to take a picture.

 

 

Stroll along the beach

 

 

Other healthy activity you can do in Marbella is to take a stroll in its extensive beaches. Its fine sand and warm waters make them perfect for long walks at the edge of the sea. Let the waves caress your feet and your mind relax in contact with nature.

Dawn and dusk are perhaps the best moments of the day to carry out this activity in Marbella.

 

 

Take a walk on the seafront promenade

 

 

You don’t have to go to the mountain to take a long walk in the countryside. The municipality has currently more than 15 kilometres of Promenade. You can walk and walk until getting tired. You will enjoy looking at the beautiful landscape, listening to the murmur of the waves, the sound of the sea birds and the smell of saltpetre from the Mediterranean Sea.

 

 

Enjoy the spectacular beaches in the centre of Marbella

 

 

A step away from any street in the heart of Marbella, you’ll find magnificent beaches where you can spend a pleasant day. Enjoy a relaxing swim, a pleasant walk along the sea shore or along its promenade, savouring the flavours of the cuisine of its bars and beach bars.

Do you know Marbella’s best beaches?

 

 

Have a massage on the beach

 

 

Treat yourself to an invigorating, relaxing and healthy massage on the beach. It is one of the most enjoyable things you can do in Marbella. Before or after a refreshing swim, or after having practised one of the many aquatic and nautical sports. Your body will thank you.

 

 

Relax by the fishing port

 

 

Let your eyes get lost in the horizon and relax while you admire the fine prints arising if you stand right in front of the fishing port of Marbella.

It is one of those traditional places in the city, where fishing-lovers gather. One of the must-visit spots for those visiting the capital of the Costa del Sol.

 

 

Build sandcastles

 

 

The youngest as well as the older have a great time building sandcastles in the beaches of Marbella. We advise you to go well-equipped with cubes and shovels to carry out the work. The sand and seashells to decorate your Castle are free.

 

 

Celebrate the “Virgen del Carmen” day

 

Virgen del Carmen Marbella – crédito: www.laopiniondemalaga.es

 

Marbella celebrates the day of its Patron Saint, the Virgen del Carmen, with a wide range of acts. It starts first thing in the morning with the Dawn Rosary, to continue with the procession of the Virgin from the parish of the Encarnación to El Cable beach. After celebrating a mass on the beach and a wreath, they offer a breakfast with churros and chocolate. The acts of the morning end with sailor popular games on the beach. In the afternoon, the procession of the patron takes place from the Casa Hermandad, passing through the Fishing Port, Puerto Banus and the Virgen del Carmen Marina, to continue later, already on land, to the parish of the Encarnación.

 

 

Have dinner on the beach at a chiringuito beach bar

 

 

Dine on the beach in a beach bar in Marbella is a pleasure for national and international tourists. Let the sea breeze caress you and relax with the murmur of the waves, while you taste some delicious gastronomic delicacy. The coastline is dotted with numerous beach bars. There are choices to suit all tastes and pockets, from the very luxurious to the more casual. Choose the one you prefer.

 

 

Spot the thieves Tower

 

 

Located in the natural landscape of the Artola Dunes next to Cabopino Port, this tower is named after the protective enclosures it had that were called thieves’ hideouts. This construction is interesting to see because it formed part of the Andalucian coastal defence line.

 

 

Gaze on passing boats from the seafront promenade

 

 

Our tenth proposal for things to do in Marbella is to see ships passing by from the promenade. It is one of those things to see in Marbella, while you enjoy a drink in one of its bars and beach bars.

 

 

Round off the afternoon watching a romantic sunset

 

 

We invite you to enjoy a romantic evening in Marbella. Choose the place that you like to watch a beautiful sunset in the Costa del Sol. From the sea shore, strolling along its extensive Promenade, from a terrace of a bar, restaurant or beach bar… It is one of the many pleasurable things you can do in this luxury and cosmopolitan city.

 

 

Discover the seafront promenade by bike

 

 

The fifth thing we propose you to do in Marbella is to tour its Promenade by bicycle. It is one of the preferred activities by many tourists. You don’t need to be an expert cyclist. It is about moving the legs, pedalling smoothly, while the sea breeze caresses you. If you get tired, stop on a terrace of the many bars that you’ll find throughout the tour.

Discover the best ways to tour Marbella on foot and by bike

 

 

Visit the 3 Gardens park in San Pedro de Alcántara

 

 

If you like green wide spaces with varied vegetation, you have to visit the Park of the Three Gardens in San Pedro de Alcantara. More than 95,000 square metres, with more than 10,000 different plants. In the Arabic Garden, you will find palm trees, orange trees, pomegranate tree, fig and olive trees. In the Mediterranean Garden, you’ll see pines and black pines, rosemary, strawberry trees and other typical plants of the area. Finally, the Subtropical Garden has different types of ficus, jacaranda, palms, oleander and orange.

 

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Culture, History, and Art

 

 

Marbella is a destination where history and art come together to create a captivating cultural legacy. Wandering through its streets feels like stepping back in time, with charming corners that recall its Moorish heritage and spaces that celebrate contemporary art.

 

 

Visit Plaza de los Naranjos and the old town

 

 

If you are visiting Marbella, one of the things you have to do is go to the Plaza de los Naranjos and all the streets and corners of its old town. Here you can see part of the origins of this beautiful Andalucian city.

In its typical narrow streets, you will see bars and restaurants, as well as small fashion stores.

Marbella: a tour of its old town

 

 

Discover Salvador Dalí and his sculptures on Avenida del Mar

 

 

Enjoy the best of art is another of the many things you can do in Marbella. To this end, we invite you to take a stroll by the Avenida del Mar. You will find an open-air museum. A space dotted with bronze statues that were designed by the famous and great artist Salvador Dali.

Discover the history of Marbella through its 5 most unique museums

 

 

Find one of the symbols of Marbella: Venus

 

 

One of the symbols of the city during the 1970s is the statue called Fuente de la Venus de Marbella. A bronze Venus which, as you can see, is water-skiing. You’ll find it in the Glorieta of the Playa de la Fontanilla.

 

 

Enjoy the walls of the Moorish Marbella Castle

 

 

As in many other Andalucian cities, Marbella’s Mozarabic past is still very much alive. Today, you can still see a section of the old stronghold that surrounded the city. The defensive walls of this fortress date back to the 5th and 6th centuries and are an important relic of Marbella’s Muslim culture.

 

 

Take photos of the picturesque Santo Cristo Church

 

 

A beautiful church with a lot of history in Marbella’s historic centre is the Santo Cristo Church. This building dates from the 16th century and formed part of a Franciscan convent. The church’s main façade and the square where it is located are very picturesque. Make sure you stop to take a photo to remember it, but, above all, take the time to enjoy its beauty.

 

 

Be blown away by the Mosque of King Abdul Aziz al Saud

 

 

The Mosque was the first one to be built after the Reconquest. It was erected by the Cordoban architect Juan Mora Urbano and has a capacity for over 800 believers. It is surrounded by splendid gardens and boasts an inviting setting thanks to its peace and quiet and spiritual contemplation.

Two things stand out about this mosque. The first is that you can see a lamp on its roof, an original work from the second century of the Hegira made entirely from bronze and weighing 500 kg. Though the most impressive thing you will find here is its library, covering a surface area of 738 ft2 with capacity for over 30,000 volumes.

 

 

Enjoy the art at the Ralli Museum

 

 

The Ralli Museum opened in 2000 and is one of five that exist around the world and the only located in Europe, so you should check it out if you are in Marbella. It has an important contemporary art collection, including sculptures by Dalí and Maillol, and paintings by Paul Wunderlich, Joan Miro, Marc Chagall, Henry Moore, Max Ernst and André Mason, among others.

Discover the history of Marbella through its 5 most unique museums

 

 

Visit Nueva Andalucía

 

 

Nueva Andalucía is one of the most famous, luxurious and traditional urban areas in Marbella. For this reason, we suggest visiting it, take a walk through its streets and enjoy contemplating the typical Andalucian architecture of its houses and villas.

Here you will find many of the municipal golf courses in Marbella.

 

 

Return excursions

 

 

Thanks to its geographic location, Marbella makes the perfect base camp, since it is a stone’s throw from some of the prettiest towns and places in all Andalucia. All you need to do is rent a car and you can enjoy the Rock of Gibraltar, the Tajo de Ronda, the Dólmenes de Antequera, the Caminito del Rey, the Mijas donkey taxis and the Bolonia Dunes in Tarifa.

 

 

Get Lost in Marbella’s Old Town

 

 

Wander through the enchanting streets of Marbella’s Old Town, where history and culture blend seamlessly. Stroll along cobbled alleys lined with whitewashed houses, colorful flower-filled balconies, and charming plazas. Discover hidden gems at boutique shops, relax in cozy cafés, and soak in the authentic Andalusian atmosphere that makes this area so special.

 

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Adventure and Nature

 

 

Experience Marbella through thrilling water activities or scenic trails that lead you to breathtaking landscapes, perfect for immersing yourself in the vibrant essence of this extraordinary destination.

 

 

Paragliding or Parasailing

 

 

Take to the skies with an exhilarating paragliding or parasailing experience over Marbella’s stunning coastline. Feel the thrill of soaring high above the Mediterranean, whether you opt for the adrenaline rush of paragliding or the smooth, scenic lift of parasailing. Both activities offer a unique perspective of the sun-drenched beaches and sparkling blue waters.

 

 

Dolphin-Watching Tours

 

 

Set sail on an unforgettable dolphin-watching tour and witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Glide across the Mediterranean from Marbella’s marina as playful pods of dolphins leap through the waves. These excursions offer a magical experience, complete with stunning coastal views, the refreshing sea breeze, and an up-close encounter with marine life.

 

 

Canyoning in Guadalmina

 

 

Guadalmina is the ideal place to start doing canyoning, since it is a relatively simpleroute with a wide variety of slides, falls and natural pools. If you decide to take the plunge and do this fun activity, we promise you will have the best time ever.

 

 

Practice standup paddleboarding

 

 

Each day there are more fans to this variant of surfing. You only need a good surf board and a suitable paddle for paddle surfing in the waters off the coast of Marbella. In the city, you’ll find shops where you can buy everything you need for this fun sport. The board, the oar, the right clothes, sunscreen…

Enjoy the best water sports in Marbella

 

 

Walk from Marbella to Puerto Banús

 

 

If you like to walk, this is one of the things to do in Marbella. We are sure that after the walk, you will enjoy even more of Puerto Banus, one of the symbols of the city and its luxuries. We recommend that you put on comfortable footwear. Get ready to walk a total of 7 kilometres. That is, most just tour along the promenade of the city.

What to see and do between Puerto Banús and Marbella, route along the promenade

 

 

Visit the eco reserve of Ojén

 

 

Marbella offers a natural reserve just 10 minutes away where you can discover all the fauna and flora of the area as wildly as possible but in a great 4 × 4 convertible.

 

 

Cross the bridge over the River Verde

 

 

If you are going to take a stroll along the promenade, you will come across a rather picturesque bridge. Famous for its wooden walkway, it is lovely to see how it crosses the River Verde, whose mouth is right there.

 

 

Gaze at the horizon and spot the Pillars of Hercules

 

 

We refer to the Strait of Gibraltar, location of the mythological Pillars of Hercules. The limit of the world known by the Greeks until the 7th century BC. Limit of the known world until 1492 beyond the Mediterranean basin, which historians relate to the Latin phrase Non Plus Ultra Terrae. The rock of Gibraltar would be the Northern column and monte Hacho in Ceuta or Musa Mount in Morocco, the South column.

 

 

Go golfing

 

 

If you come to Marbella and play sport, you must play a few holes of golf, since the town is a golfer´s paradise. Not for nothing is the Costa del Sol also called the Costa del Golf. In Marbella you can choose from a great many different golf courses where you can spend the day.

Marbella golf, a luxury for all the senses

 

 

Dive in Marbella

 

 

Marbella, in addition to luxury and party, has a great heritage, incredible fauna and flora, so we recommend you go to Diving, where you can enjoy dives along the coast of Marbella until you reach almost Gibraltar.

 

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Gastronomy and Shopping

 

 

Marbella is the ultimate destination for shopping and, even more so, for savouring culinary delights. From bars serving traditional specialities to fine dining restaurants led by world-class chefs, there’s something for every palate.

 

 

Enjoy a drink on a rooftop bar in Marbella

 

 

Whatever you choose to do on this holiday, there is no better place in the capital of the Costa del Sol to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views than at the Belvue Rooftop Bar at Amàre Beach Hotel Marbella or El Fuerte Rooftop at El Fuerte Hotel. Both spots offer a unique setting to watch the sunset, and on clear days, you can even glimpse the stunning silhouettes of Africa and the Rock of Gibraltar.

 

 

Sample a delicious cured ham sandwich

 

 

Other pleasurable thing you can do is to eat a good Serrano Ham sandwich. And if it is from Jabugo, even better.

There are many bars and beach bars in the city that serve this delicacy of Spanish cuisine. You will also find establishments specialized in this star product.

 

 

Savour traditional fish on the beach

 

 

One of the many activities related to the cuisine that you can do in Marbella. Perhaps one of the most attractive to tourists and non-tourists.

A fun night party where you can try the season’s tastiest fish and meats. All surrounded by a relaxed atmosphere. And between bites, you can take a dip at the beach.

 

 

Tapas hopping around Marbella

 

 

If you are looking to eat delicious food in a novel way, Marbella is the ideal place to enjoy the Andalucian custom of tapa hopping. We recommend you do it around the historic centre and especially when night starts to fall. You will be amazed.

Where to eat tapas? 17 unmissable tapas bars and restaurants in Marbella

 

 

Enjoy  some churros

 

 

Any walk around the old town will lead to Los Naranjos Square and, as we have said, this square is the most special you will ever see, plus it is ideal for recharging your batteries so you can continue your visit, or even start your morning, and what better way to do so than with some traditional churrros? As a recommendation, we can tell you that Churrería Ramón is an ideal place to relax and enjoy this delicacy.

 

 

Enjoy fried fish

 

 

You can’t say you have visited the Costa del Sol if you have not had fried fish and Marbella has many refreshment stalls and beach clubs where you can enjoy this delicious dish, along with a good serving of grilled sardines or an exquisite paella, all right on the beach. What more can you ask for!

 

 

Spend an afternoon shopping at La Cañada

 

 

Marbella is the perfect city for shopping. While you can enjoy amazing window displays throughout the locality, if you want to find the most competitive prices for the coolest items, you must visit La Cañada. The shopping centre has around 300 shops, restaurants, cafes, bars and one cinema.

Marbella shopping, an experience full of luxury and glamour

 

 

Browse the summer street market in Puerto Banús

 

 

Each Summer, Puerto Banus is the place chosen for the celebration of fashion and decoration items markets. For more than 15 years, in the Plaza de Antonio Banderas, an international crafts market is set during the months of June, July and August. A great opportunity to buy all kinds of objects crafted by artisans from different countries. Traditional and with a new feel items by the hand of young designers of Morocco, India and Turkey, among others.

 

 

Visit markets

 

 

Spending time visiting markets is a great way to pass time and without a doubt in Marbella they represent a great attraction.

The market of Puerto Banus is the most anticipated, you can find it on Saturdays around the Plaza de Toros and here you can enjoy a multitude of antiques, paintings and everything related to fashion. It is also very interesting the market that is installed in the famous port of Sotogrande on Sunday mornings.

Hippy chic, the most exclusive Marbella street markets. Let’s go shopping!

 

 

Eat a delicious ice cream in Marbella

 

 

An ice cream is a great option at any time of the year, more so in a location as synonymous with summer and tourism as Marbella. Ice cream parlours are a must in the capital of the Costa del Sol and you can find these establishments in any of this city’s neighbourhood, which include Purolatte, RivaReno, Casa Mira and Fresca Passione. What’s more, in Marbella the ice cream parlours are usually open every day and many of them are also coffee shops and even make cakes. What more do you want?

Coffee shops, bakeries and ice-cream parlours in Marbella. The best on the Costa del Sol

 

 

Discover the Andalucian gastronomy by the hand of Dani García

 

 

If you enjoy good food and you are visiting Marbella, you cannot end this visit without trying the culinary proposals offered by Dani García, the most international Marbella’s chef of Costa del Sol. His restaurant offers an unrepeatable culinary experience. Although this proposal is not suitable for all pockets, you also have to take into account that sometimes you have to treat yourself.

Marbella: a date with international haute cuisine restaurants

 

 

Visit Puerto Banús

 

 

Puerto Banus is one of the oldest and most luxurious marinas of the Andalucian coast. A must-visit place for tourists who choose the Costa del Sol as a destination for their holiday. Whether you visit it by day or by night, you can enjoy shopping at its fashionable boutiques, have a drink in one of its many bars, eat in its restaurants and admire spectacular yachts and luxury cars.

Shopping, eating and clubbing: enjoy a wonderful day out at luxurious Puerto Banús

 

 

Wine Tasting Tours in Ronda

 

 

Tucked away in the heart of the Serranía de Ronda, this picturesque town is a must-visit for wine lovers. Thanks to its unique microclimate and centuries-old winemaking traditions, Ronda produces exceptional wines. Join a guided tour of boutique wineries, sample exquisite local vintages, and take in breathtaking views of rolling vineyards and dramatic mountain landscapes.

 

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Practical Tips for Visiting Marbella

 

 

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal for enjoying pleasant weather without the summer crowds.
• Summer: The beaches are at their best, but there are more tourists, and prices are higher.

 

Weather and Clothing

• Summer: Bring light clothing, comfortable sandals, and swimwear. Don’t forget sunglasses and a reusable water bottle.
• Winter: While the days are mild, the nights can be cool. Pack a light jacket.

 

Transport

• Nearest airport: Málaga-Costa del Sol (40 minutes by car). Regular buses run from the airport to Marbella.
• Car rental: Recommended if you plan to explore nearby areas, such as Ronda, Mijas, or Puerto Banús.
• Within Marbella, walking or using taxis and local buses is practical.

 

Local Transport

• Buses: Public transport connects Marbella with other towns, such as Fuengirola, Málaga, and Estepona.
• Taxis and ride-hailing apps: Uber and Cabify operate in Marbella and are convenient for short trips or at night.
• Bikes and scooters: Rent a bicycle or an electric scooter to explore the promenade.

 

Parking

• The Old Town has narrow streets and limited parking. Use underground car parks, such as the one at Avenida del Mar.
• Puerto Banús offers paid parking, but it can be expensive. Consider nearby alternatives and walk.

 

 

Shopping

• Local markets: Visit the Marbella market (Mondays) or the Puerto Banús market (Saturdays) for crafts, clothing, and local products.
• Shopping centres: El Corte Inglés in Puerto Banús or La Cañada Shopping Centre are ideal for fashion and accessories.
• Souvenirs: Purchase Andalusian ceramics, olive oil, or handmade products in the Old Town.

 

Nearby Excursions

• Ronda: Renowned for its stunning bridge over the Tajo Gorge.
• Mijas Pueblo: A charming whitewashed village in the mountains.
• Estepona: Famous for its flower-filled Old Town and tranquil atmosphere.
• Gibraltar: Perfect for a day trip to see the famous monkeys and enjoy views of the Strait.

 

Local Culture

• Learn a few basic phrases, such as “thank you,” “please,” or “where is…?”.
• The pace of life is relaxed. Don’t expect quick service in restaurants; take time to enjoy the atmosphere.
• Participate in local festivities if your visit coincides, such as the Feria de San Bernabé in June.

 

Useful Tips

• Tipping: Not mandatory, but leaving 5-10% in restaurants is appreciated if the service was good.
• Language: While many locals speak other languages, knowing a little basic Spanish can be helpful.

 

Safety

• Marbella is a safe city, but:
  • Keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas and on beaches.
  • If renting a car, don’t leave items visible inside.

 

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Where to stay

 

 

Marbella is a paradise in which to enjoy the city’s rich cultural, natural, historical, and gastronomic wealth. The options offered by this city are varied and spectacular. The Amàre Beach Hotel Marbella hotel is in the perfect location, on the seafront promenade and just 5 minutes from the historic centre of the city, so you will be in the ideal place to make any of your plans for your getaway to Marbella. It is perfect for adults who want to enjoy a peaceful stay in a unique place where you can relax and be pampered with all the attention you deserve.