MARBELLA
INFO & HISTORY
Archaeological evidence point to the fact the there were inhabitants in Marbella for a number of thousands of years before Christ. After that, Marbella played host to several civilizations that settled in the area, particularly in the region of the Rio Real – the Phoenicians, the Visigoths, Vandals and Byzantines. All these groups left their mark in Marbella by way of the many historical structures – or their remains. Rome also left its mark in Marbella, as can be seen in the Guadalmina Thermal Baths, the Rio Verde Roman Villa and other archeological remains across the city’s Old Town. But admittedly, it was the Moors which left the largest mark. It is during their time that Marbella (or Marbiliya at that time) became a walled city.
It was only in 1485 that Marbella became part of Spanish territory. This was when the Catholic Kings claimed Marbella for Spain. The structure of the city was modified. The former Muslim Medina was torn down to give way to the current main square (the Plaza de los Naranjos – the Orange Square) and a new street (Calle Nueva) that leads to the gate going out to the sea.
Marbella was predominantly an agricultural town. Economic activity was centered on livestock and agriculture. This includes a number of vineyards that produced Marbella’s sweet tasting wines. However, industrialization in Marbella began in earnest during the 19th Century. This heralded the start of the installation of Industrial Estates in Marbella. Mining was the major industry then, and the Sierra Blanca Mines was the focal point. Marbella worked hand in hand with Malaga, thus Marbella rose to become the second most important industrial province in the region. In the mid 1940’s, businessmen started constructing hotels and residential properties in Marbella. This is when the rich and famous started to consider Marbella their very own playground.
This period started the rise of Marbella’s tourism industry. In the 1990’s, Marbella became more and more acknowledged as a “Universal City” and this is where tourism started its boom. Marbella was then equipped with facilities such as municipal offices, cultural centers, new parks and avenues, sports centers, golf courses and the like. Marbella is now a thriving resort town. It has received numerous awards – both nationally and internationally – for its contribution to tourism and for the city’s cleanliness and security. Indeed, it is a favorite tourist haven, because of its marvelous climate, its beaches and its natural beauty.
Marbella, located on the western side of Costa del Sol, enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters. Summers are characterized by long, sunny days with temperatures often reaching 35-40°C (95-104°F), perfect for enjoying the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. Winters are mild with average temperatures ranging from 10-18°C (50-64°F), making it a pleasant time to explore the region.
Marbella and the entire Costa del Sol are serviced by modern highways, both toll and public, like the AP-7 and the scenic N-340 that follows the coastline. These will take you anywhere you want to go, surrounded by stunning mountains and Mediterranean scenery. Málaga-Costa del Sol International Airport (AGP) is just over850 kilometers (32 miles) east of Marbella, about 40 minutes by car. The Gibraltar International Airport (GIB) is just over 75 kilometers (48 miles) west of Marbella, about 1 hour drive. Each airport is convenient for travel to and from the US, UK, and Europe, as well as for local hops within Spain.
Marbella offers a wide range of amazing experiences for tourists. Here are a few must-see attractions and activities:
1. Explore Old Town: Take a stroll through Marbella's charming Old Town, known as Casco Antiguo. Admire the beautiful architecture, narrow streets, and vibrant flower-filled plazas.
2. Visit Puerto Banús: Head to the luxurious marina of Puerto Banús, where you can admire impressive yachts, indulge in high-end shopping, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
3. Relax on the Beaches: Marbella boasts numerous pristine beaches. Spend a day lounging on the golden sands, soaking up the Mediterranean sun, and enjoying water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing.
4. Discover Marbella's Golf Courses: Golf enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise with Marbella's world-class golf courses. Play a round surrounded by stunning landscapes and panoramic views.
5. Spa and Wellness Retreats: Pamper yourself with a luxurious spa day or retreat in one of Marbella's world-class wellness centers. Indulge in rejuvenating treatments, relaxation pools, and stunning ocean views.
6. Indulge in Gastronomic Delights: Marbella is known for its excellent dining scene. Savor delicious Mediterranean cuisine in beachfront restaurants, trendy tapas bars, and Michelin-starred establishments.
7. Wine Tasting in the Marbella Hills: Explore the vineyards and wineries nestled in the hills surrounding Marbella. Enjoy a guided wine tasting session, sample regional wines, and learn about the winemaking process.
8. Visit La Concha Mountain: Hike or take a scenic drive up La Concha Mountain, which offers spectacular views of Marbella and the surrounding coastline.9. Experience the Nightlife: Marbella comes alive after dark. Explore the lively bars and clubs, attend beach parties, or relax at a beachfront lounge, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
10. Explore Art and Culture: Marbella is home to several art galleries and museums, showcasing works by local and international artists. Don't miss the Bonsai Museum or the Ralli Museum for a cultural experience.
Marbella is a great town for families and it offers a diverse selection of child-friendly attractions, and not all of them have to cost a lot of money. Here are our top 10 picks for you and your kids:
Leave the city for the river
Rio Verde is a beautiful river with several waterholes and a waterfall that is ideal for a day out in nature with the kids. The river is situated just past Istán village in Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park and is only reached by car. From the parking, you can either walk up the dirt track both ways to the waterholes by the waterfall, this is recommended with smaller kids that can’t walk too far. The other option, which is fun for older kids, is to walk in the river on the way up (and take the dirt track back down) to make it a round trip. If you do this, make sure you all have good shoes for river hiking as the riverbed can get slippery and is mostly rocky and uneven.Either way, this is one of the best ways to spend a hot day out with kids. Bring a good lunch and enough drinks in your backpack, and remember to leave no trace.
Kids Club at the Marbella Club Hotel
Set in the spectacular grounds of the Marbella Club Hotel, this Kids Club offers something truly unique for children aged 4 to 12. At the Kids Club, age-specific activities are run by an enthusiastic team of bilingual teachers and guides.The 5,000 square meter Kids Club also educates and engages children in a playful, dynamic and stylish environment. The Kids Club is offering a fantastic array of activities for you to engage your kids this year. The Kid's Club offers programs including: Arts & Crafts, Cooking, Dance Classes, Music Sessions, Gardening and Sports Activities.
Playground over water!
CostaWaterPark offers aquatic waterparks with the latest in design and technology. Afloat on the sea a few yards from the best beaches on the Costa del Sol you will find CostaWaterPark, with a great variety of attractions for the whole family. Guaranteed FUN for all ages! You can pay for 1 hour or buy a ticket for the whole day.
Mundo Mania: Make a splash.
If you are looking for a place where kids of all ages will have fun, then Mundo Mania is the place to go! This indoor and outdoor kids playground in Estepona provides year-round entertainment and it has a cafeteria-bar serving restaurant quality food, where parents can relax while the children play. The outdoor play area is a firm favorite with its water splash park, trampolines, multi sports pitches, small toddler play area and regular foam parties! There is also plenty of seating with shaded areas and outdoor bar serving drinks and food. If you wish to escape the sun then there are also indoor activities for kids including ball parks, soft play and table games. During the summer months Mundo Mania is also hosting lots of special events, so do keep an eye on their website, or follow them on social media for more information.
Aventura Amazonia
This stunning eco-park is a few miles away, set within the pine forest behind the shopping area and offers 73 different attractions to suit all ages, including bridges, jumps, zip lines and ladders perched between the trees.An incredible zip line of 240m in length is one of the highlights of Aventura Amazonia in Elviria, which is said to reach speeds of up to 60kph. The park offers a unique experience for all age groups, and has activities for children as young as 6 years of age, (minimum height of 1.15m) all the way up to adults.
The best churros filled with chocolate!
Who can beat that! We recommend churrería Ramón, located at the famous Plaza de los Naranjos. This establishment is well known for its delicious "porras". A place you can’t miss.
Marbella BuggysFeel the need for speed?
If you’ve got an adrenaline junkie in your family then a buggy tour will be right up their street. Head for the mountains just outside Marbella and hit the dirt tracks on a tour with a pro tour buggy leader. Anyone with a valid driving license can get behind the wheel, while children can be co-pilots. You can choose from a 2 hour, 3 hour or day tour (which includes lunch).
Cook at Food Room Marbella
Nurture your mini-foodies with a kid-friendly live cookery experience at the Food Room. They run regular cookery classes and school holiday clubs in English and Spanish for children ages 6 years and over, or can organize a private class just for you. Discover the secrets of great Spanish cooking during your stay in Marbella and take home much more than just the photos!
Selwo Park
This safari park in Estepona is much bigger than Bioparc. It also offers more than animals, too, it has a huge zipline, 65 meters of hanging bridges, archery and trampolines.Animal-wise there are white rhinoceros, elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, pythons, waterbucks, lions, wallabies and more. The Central Village – where the big African animals are – is the show-stopper. Be sure to book the Serengeti Safari where you get taken inside the enclosures in a customized jeep.
Hire a catamaran
Hire a catamaran at the Puerto Deportivo of Puerto Banús for the day and head out onto the Mediterranean to experience the coast from the sea. While the kids are looking out for dolphins or enjoying the thrills and spills of a banana boat ride, you can lie back on the nets and soak up the sun.
Marbella - perhaps the most popular beach resort on the Costa del Sol. Coast Marbella is a practically one vast beach area, stretching along the centre of the city and its environs, gentle strip is 27 kilometers. The Marbella coastline divided into 26 separate beaches among which a couple of beaches for Pets.
A round up of some of the many sports that are popular in Marbella.This includes tennis, padel tennis, SUP, football, walking and hiking, boot camps, Sports centres, Marbella Gyms and Fitness centers, wakeboarding and cableski.For lovers of golf there is no shortage of quality golf courses on the Costa del Sol. In fact there are a total of 14 clubs in the immediate Marbella area, ranging from Cabopino in the east to Guadalmina in the west. Together, they offer the standard and variety of courses, facilities and natural settings that explain why Marbella is one of the world’s favorite golf destinations.
Marbella is a popular location for expats to move to with 24% of the population being foreigners. The town attracts a range of families, couples and retirees. The reason such a diverse spectrum of people chooses to live in Marbella? Because it has so much to offer! From amenities and excellent transport links to some of the most luxurious bars and restaurants in Spain. Marbella is often called the playground of the rich and famous, but for the people who live in the area it is a much richer and more diverse location, and a great place to live. It’s a great place for retirement but many retirees opt for the neighbor Estepona which is 25% cheaper than Marbella. English is widely spoken, making it easy for English-speaking visitors and expatriates to communicate and integrate into the local community.
Here are the main reasons why you should retire in Spain:
- Spain is a very safe place to live in. The crime rate is low and you can walk through the streets safely any time of the day or night.
- The Spanish are known for being very healthy, thanks to their Mediterranean diet and outdoor lifestyle. Spain is ranked the healthiest country in the World. Spain also has one of the highest life expectancy in the World.
- Spain has great healthcare and you’re rarely more than 15 minutes away from a hospital or clinic. The healthcare system is in the top 10 around the World, above the healthcare systems of Italy, France, Greece, Germany, the UK and Portugal.
- Living up to its name, Costa del Sol is actually the sunniest area in Spain, with shining rays beating down on the region for almost the entire year. South of Spain has the warmest winters in Europe and over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and up to 15 hours of light in a day.
- Spanish culture is very relaxed and hassle-free.
- Spain has a secure banking system and dependable infrastructure. With 3,100km of rail track the Spanish high-speed AVE trains operate on the longest high-speed network in Europe.
- Spain has a large expat community in Costa Del Sol.
- Once you've the visa to live in Spain or your permanent residency, you can easily travel within the Schengen area.Spain is located on the west side of Europe, making traveling to the American continent fast and efficiant. A flight from Spain to New York is barely 8 hours.
- Retiring in Marbella offers the opportunity to live out your golden years in a Mediterranean paradise. With its stunning natural surroundings, world-class amenities, vibrant expat community, and rich cultural heritage, Marbella has everything you need to enjoy a fulfilling retirement. Moreover, the cost of living in Marbella is reasonable compared to other European destinations but more expensive than cities nearby like Estepona. Embrace the allure of Marbella and experience a retirement that combines relaxation, adventure, and the joy of living in one of Spain's most enchanting coastal cities.
Shopping in Marbella seems to be a very intrinsic part of their culture. Marbella has several large shopping centers, designer boutiques, craft stores, gift shops and hypermarkets, both in and around Marbella.The heart of your shopping experience should start at Marbella’s main thoroughfare – the Avenida Ricardo Soriano. This avenue is lined with the best shops and the really expensive and ultra exclusive brands. You will certainly have an excellent time browsing – and buying! – in these shops. Just be prepared to make a big hole in your pocketbook.
If you are looking more for crafts and gift items, the Old Town is your next stop. It has a fine selection of craft stores, gift stores and art galleries. Here, you can buy beautiful handcrafted ceramics, religious items, souvenirs and so much more. You will surely enjoy exploring the narrow streets to see if there are delightful surprises (little boutiques) that are tucked away in the alleyways and narrow streets.
Then, tuck those shopping bags under your arm and head straight for Puerto Banus, head down to the port for your frontline fashion fix with some of the world’s leading International designer brands including Chloe, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Dior, Versace, Hugo Boss, Carolina Herrera, Custo Barcelona… Now, if you have some Euros left from your last two expeditions, go straight to the different markets, which is a hunter’s paradise. Indeed, there are great bargains in Marbella’s markets, which exude the air and enjoyment of a local flee market.The weekly Puerto Banus Street Market is bustling with great deals to be found. At this market, held every Saturday, everyone in the family is sure to find something interesting. Located near the bull ring in Nueva Andalucia just 1 minute from Puerto Banus, the Puerto Banus Street Market is will surely be a highlight on your Marbella vacation.On Mondays at the Las Albarizas fair enclosure you will find the bazaar. Here you can buy everything from fruit and vegetables to clothes and shoes, as well as accessories such as handbags, jewelry and cosmetics.
El Corte Inglés is the main big mall in Marbella along with La Cañada and Marina Banús.
The average cost of living per person in Estepona is $1325 per person. That is 9% cheaper than Madrid, 11% cheaper than Barcelona, 37% cheaper than Paris, 39% cheaper than Amsterdam, 42% cheaper than Dallas, 51% cheaper than Miami, 54% cheaper than Los Angeles, 52% cheaper than London and a whopping 63% cheaper than New York. When it comes to the rest of the Costa del Sol, Marbella is more is 16% more expensive than the capital Malaga and 25% more expensive than its neighbor Estepona. Something to consider since it offers many of the same amenities and lifestyle.
TOP BEACHES
PLAYA DE NAGÜELLES
Playa de Nagüeles is a beach located in Marbella's "Golden Mile" along the Paseo Maritimo. It is approximately 1.5km long and is known for its tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for families. The beach has some rocks and shallow reefs, which makes it an ideal place for snorkeling. Nagüeles is one of the most exclusive areas on Marbella's prestigious Golden Mile, offering first-class services with top hotels, renowned restaurants, and luxury villas. The beach has amenities such as gourmet restaurants and exclusive beach clubs.
Playa puerto banus
Playa de Puerto Banus is a popular beach located in Marbella that is situated near the glamorous Puerto Banus marina and offers a vibrant and energetic beach experience. The beach features golden sands, clear blue waters, and a picturesque backdrop of luxury yachts. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports. With a lively atmosphere, beach clubs, and a promenade lined with restaurants and shops, Playa de Puerto Banus is a favorite destination for both locals and tourists looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the vibrant beach culture of Marbella.
PLAYA Cabopino/artola
Playa de Cabopino is a stunning clothing optional beach nestled within the charming Cabopino port area, where you can enjoy the tranquil and picturesque setting. The beach features soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and a backdrop of dunes and pine trees. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The beach is known for its natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere, and a range of beachfront restaurants and bars. Playa de Cabopino is a hidden gem that provides a serene escape and a chance to unwind amidst the beauty of Marbella's coastline.
TOP RESTAURANTS
pizzeria picasso
Pizzeria Picasso is a popular restaurant in Marbella that specializes in authentic Italian cuisine. Known for its delicious pizzas and homemade pasta, it offers a cozy and welcoming ambiance for diners. The menu features a variety of traditional and creative pizza toppings, made with high-quality ingredients. The restaurant's skilled chefs and attentive staff ensure a pleasant dining experience. Pizzeria Picasso is a go-to spot for pizza lovers in Marbella.
paellas y mas
Paellas y Mas is a delightful restaurant in Marbella, serving traditional Spanish cuisine with a focus on paella. Situated in a charming setting, it offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests. The menu showcases an array of mouthwatering paella variations, made with flavorful rice, fresh seafood, and aromatic spices. In addition to paella, the restaurant also serves other Spanish favorites like tapas and sangria. With its authentic flavors and friendly service, Paellas y Mas is a must-visit
ikigai izakaya
Ikigai Izakaya is a notable restaurant in Marbella that offers a unique culinary experience with a fusion of Japanese and Mediterranean flavors. They combine traditional izakaya-style dining with a contemporary twist. The menu features a range of tantalizing dishes, including sushi, sashimi, grilled meats, and innovative small plates. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients and meticulous preparation, Ikigai Izakaya promises a memorable gastronomic journey for guests.
TOP BEACH CLUBS
nikki beach club
Located along the stunning coastline, it offers a chic and glamorous beach experience. The club features stylish loungers, a vibrant pool, and a beachfront setting. Visitors can enjoy a fusion of music, entertainment, and a sophisticated atmosphere. Nikki Beach Club is known for its lively parties, world-class DJs, and an upscale dining experience. It's a hotspot for the jet-set crowd, offering a combination of beachside relaxation and vibrant entertainment in the heart of Marbella.
ocean club
Situated along the coast, it offers a glamorous setting with a large swimming pool, sunbeds, and stunning ocean views. Visitors can enjoy vibrant pool parties, live DJ performances, and a range of entertainment options. The club also features a stylish restaurant and bar, serving a variety of cocktails and delicious food. Ocean Beach Club is a go-to destination for those seeking a sophisticated beach club experience in Marbella, combining relaxation, entertainment, and exquisite hospitality.
estrella del mar
Situated on a pristine stretch of coastline, it features a beautiful pool, sun loungers, and direct access to the beach. The beach club offers a serene and laid-back atmosphere, allowing guests to unwind and enjoy the Mediterranean views. With its elegant restaurant serving delectable cuisine, attentive service, and a tranquil ambiance, Estrella Del Mar Beach Club provides an ideal spot to indulge in beachside bliss and soak up the coastal charm of Marbella.
TOP CHIRINGUITOS
amara beach
Amare Beach is a delightful chiringuito positioned on a beautiful beachfront, it provides a welcoming and relaxed environment. With comfortable seating, a beachside bar, and breathtaking vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, guests can bask in the tranquil ambiance. The chiringuito serves an array of invigorating cocktails, delectable tapas, and authentic Spanish cuisine.
siroko beach
Sikoro Beach is another popular chiringuito located on the shores of Marbella, It offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for visitors on the beach. With comfortable seating, a beachside bar, and stunning vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, guests can immerse themselves in the serene ambiance. Sikoro Beach serves a variety of refreshing beverages, including handcrafted cocktails and chilled drinks, accompanied by a delectable assortment of tapas and seafood delicacies.
trocadero playa
It offers a vibrant and luxurious atmosphere with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its exquisite seafood and traditional Andalusian cuisine, the Chiringuito serves a diverse range of dishes, including fresh fish, paella, and refreshing cocktails. With its stylish design, comfortable loungers, and live music, Trocadero Playa provides a delightful experience for visitors seeking relaxation and culinary delights in the beautiful coastal city of Marbella.
TOP COFFEE SHOPS
boÖtes cafe
Whether you prefer a rich espresso or a creamy latte, Bootes Cafe serves up a variety of expertly crafted coffee beverages. The cafe also offers a selection of delectable pastries and snacks to complement your coffee experience. With its friendly staff and inviting ambiance, Bootes Cafe is a perfect spot to relax, socialize, and enjoy a cup of quality coffee in Marbella.
ladybug coffee
Ladybug Coffee is a delightful coffee shop with its whimsical and vibrant decor, that create a cheerful and inviting atmosphere for visitors. Known for its specialty coffee, Ladybug Coffee serves up a range of delicious espresso-based drinks, from classic cappuccinos to unique flavored lattes. The cafe also offers a selection of freshly baked pastries and treats to complement your coffee experience.
ground artisian cafe
Ground Artisan Cafe is a notable coffee shop with an intense focus on craftsmanship and quality, offering a refined coffee experience for discerning palates. The cafe takes pride in sourcing premium coffee beans and expertly brewing them to perfection. From aromatic pour-overs to velvety flat whites, Ground Artisan Cafe serves a range of meticulously crafted coffee beverages.
TOP HEALTHY / VEGAN
gioia plant based
The restaurant offers a diverse menu of flavorful and innovative dishes, showcasing the versatility of plant-based ingredients. From nourishing bowls and colorful salads to creative vegan versions of traditional favorites, Gioia Plant Based provides a delightful culinary experience for health-conscious diners. With its commitment to sustainability and delicious plant-based cuisine, Gioia Plant Based is a go-to destination for those embracing a vegan or healthy lifestyle.
beÏty marbella
They serve a vibrant menu filled with wholesome plant-based options, from flavorful falafel and hummus to fresh salads and hearty vegan wraps, Beity Marbella serves up a diverse range of dishes that cater to health-conscious diners. The restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere, along with its dedication to using organic and locally sourced ingredients, creates a delightful dining experience for those seeking nutritious and vegan delights.
rachel's eco love
Rachel's Eco Love is an exceptional healthy and vegan restaurant situated in Marbella and they are committed to sustainable and ethical practices. Their menu offers a variety of nourishing and plant-based delights. From wholesome bowls and fresh salads to innovative vegan burgers and delectable desserts, Rachel's Eco Love caters to diverse dietary preferences. The restaurant is eco-friendly and use of organic and locally sourced ingredients.
TOP BARS
air by breathe rooftop
perched atop a chic restaurant with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its stylish and sophisticated ambiance, Air provides a trendy setting for socializing and enjoying crafted cocktails. The menu of innovative drinks, including signature cocktails and a wide selection of spirits, it caters to varied tastes. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening or a vibrant night out, Air by Breathe Rooftop is a must-visit destination
the harbour bar
it offers a lively setting for socializing and enjoying drinks. With its waterfront location, patrons can soak in beautiful views while sipping on refreshing cocktails or indulging in a selection of beers and wines. The bar's friendly staff and energetic ambiance create a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike, making The Harbour Bar a go-to spot for a lively and enjoyable bar experience
belvue rooftop bar
Belvue Rooftop Bar is a chic and contemporary bar nestled in Marbella, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean coastline from its rooftop location. Known for its sophisticated ambiance, Belvue Rooftop Bar is an ideal spot for enjoying cocktails and socializing. The bar's skilled mixologists craft innovative and refreshing drinks, ranging from classic favorites to signature creations.
WAIKOOL HOMES