5 Days of Sun, Sea, and Culture in Marbella
Experience the luxurious lifestyle on your next trip to Marbella.
22 April 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
Marbella is a popular tourist spot in the Costa del Sol region of Spain, known for its stunning beaches, promenades, and upscale resorts. Visitors to Marbella can enjoy a wide range of activities including sunbathing, shopping, dining on traditional Spanish dishes, and exploring the historic old town. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Marbella is the perfect destination for a sun-soaked vacation.
Travel plan
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- Check in at Hotel Fuerte Marbella, a charming beachfront hotel with Mediterranean flair
- Hit the sandy shores of Playa de la Fontanilla for some sun, sea, and sand.
- Stroll along Paseo Maritimo, the promenade perfect for people watching and admiring the yacht harbor.
- Drop by Bodega La Venencia for tasty tapas like grilled octopus, Iberian ham or cheese, and wash them down with a glass of wine or sherry.
- Head back to hotel and catch the sunset from your balcony or join the lively crowd at Paseo Maritimo's beach bars.
- Make a visit to Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo, an art museum dedicated to prints and engravings by Spanish artists.
- Head to the Old Town of Marbella for a glimpse of history in Plaza de los Naranjos and the 10th-century Arabic castle walls.
- Take a 30-minute drive to historic Ronda and marvel at the dramatic cliffside views of Puente Nuevo and the bullring.
- Get a taste of Andalusian cuisine at La Taberna del Pintxo, a tapas bar serving plates like fried anchovies, gazpacho, and tortilla española.
- End the day with a cup of local coffee, leche leche, and some churros at Casa Ramos.
- Indulge in retail therapy at El Corte Ingles, Marbella's luxury department store, and Puerto Banus, a high-end marina with designer boutiques.
- Charter a yacht or hop on a cruise from Banus Port and explore the Mediterranean Coastline.
- Stop by Trocadero Arena Beach Club for lunch with a view, a feast of grilled seafood and refreshing margaritas.
- Visit Plaza Beach for afternoon cocktails, champagne spray parties, and beats by resident DJs.
- Head to Marbella Casino to try your luck at the blackjack table or dance the night away at Club Olivia Valere.
- Head to Parque de la Constitucion for a morning jog, yoga or tai chi session, or simply enjoy the jogging trails and gardens.
- Hike the Concha Mountain trail for panoramic views of the town and the sea.
- Try a round of golf at Marbella Golf Country Club, one of the best courses in the region.
- Soak up in the thermal baths and spa services at Hammam Al Andalus for an authentic Arabic-Andalusian experience.
- Enjoy dinner at Dani Garcia, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant, serving avant-garde traditional cuisine.
- Visit the weekly markets of Orange Square for locally sourced fruits, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.
- Take an ATV ride or horseback riding tour at the scenic Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park.
- Have one last meal at El Lago Restaurant, a Michelin-starred spot known for its unconventional fusion dishes and wine list.
- Take a stroll along Puerto Banus' boardwalk and admire the magnificent yachts and sports cars.
- End the day with a glass of cava and some tapas at El Ancla Beach Bar as you watch the sunset over the Mediterranean.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Marbella by plane is to fly into Malaga Airport and then take a taxi, bus or train to Marbella.
Car
The best way to get to Marbella by car is to take the AP-7 toll road from Malaga, which takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Train
Unfortunately, there is no direct train to Marbella. The nearest train station is in Malaga, and from there you can take a bus or a taxi to Marbella.
Boat
Unfortunately, there is no way to get to Marbella by boat, as it is not a coastal city.
Bus
The best way to get to Marbella by bus is to take a direct bus from Malaga Bus Station, which takes about an hour.