Marbella Tourist Guide: Hotels, flights and city tips

Whenever we get the chance, we head to Marbella, a jewel of the Costa del Sol that never disappoints. 

From celebrating a couple of birthdays with friends to wandering around the charming old town and even staying at the peaceful Camping Cabopino, we've embraced the best that Marbella has to offer. 

Marbella is a city that combines luxury and tradition, with stunning beaches, world-class restaurants and a vibrant nightlife. 

Whether you're exploring the historic Casco Antiguo (old town), shopping in the high-end boutiques of Puerto Banús or soaking up the sun on its pristine beaches, Marbella offers a unique experience for every traveller.

In this guide you'll find everything you need to know for your trip. We've handpicked the best hotels, from luxurious five-star resorts to cosy, budget accommodation. 

You'll also find tips on booking flights, weather forecasts from AEMET and details of the best transfer options from Malaga airport. 

We'll also highlight some of Marbella's top restaurants, activities and hidden gems to make sure you don't miss a thing during your stay. 

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, this guide will help you plan the perfect Marbella holiday.

Marbella is renowned for its luxurious accommodation, but there are fantastic options for every type of traveller, whether you're looking for opulence, comfort or affordability. 

To help you find the perfect place to stay, I've divided the best hotels into three sections: luxury, mid-range and budget, so you can make the choice that suits your needs and preferences.

• Luxury hotels: If you're looking to indulge in the finest Marbella has to offer, the Puente Romano Beach Resort and the Marbella Club Hotel are among the top choices. Both are located on the glamorous Golden Mile and offer beachfront access, exquisite dining options and world-class amenities such as luxury spas and golf courses. These hotels offer an unparalleled combination of elegance and relaxation, perfect for a premium experience.
  

• Mid-Range Hotels: For those looking for a stylish yet affordable stay, the Alanda Marbella Hotel is a great choice. Located just minutes from Puerto Banús and the city's vibrant nightlife, this hotel offers a modern setting with excellent facilities, including a spa and outdoor pool. El Fuerte Marbella is another mid-range gem, offering beachfront access and a rich history, combining comfort with Marbella's iconic charm.
  

• Budget Hotels: If you're travelling on a budget but still want to be close to the action, the Hotel San Cristóbal in the heart of Marbella's old town is an excellent option. Its central location allows you to explore the city's best attractions and beaches while enjoying affordable accommodation. Another great choice is the Selinamar Marbella, a budget hotel that offers comfortable rooms and essential amenities for travellers seeking a no-frills experience.
  

Whether you're looking to indulge in luxury or save on accommodation, Marbella has something for every traveller.

If you're planning a trip to Marbella, the nearest international airport is Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP). 

Located just a 40-minute drive from Marbella, this airport serves as the gateway for many tourists visiting the Costa del Sol.

Here's a quick guide to flight times and prices from major hubs:

• USA: Flights from the USA usually include a layover, with prices starting at around $500. Flight times range from 10 to 15 hours, depending on connections and stopovers.
  

• UK: Direct flights from the UK to Malaga take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, and low-cost carriers such as Ryanair and EasyJet offer fares from as little as £30, especially if booked in advance or during seasonal promotions.
  

• Germany: Flights from major German cities such as Frankfurt or Berlin usually take 2.5 to 3 hours, with one-way tickets starting from €60.

• France: Direct flights from Paris to Malaga take around 2 hours, with prices starting from €50 for a one-way ticket.

☝️Tip: Keep an eye out for special offers and be flexible with dates, as prices can fluctuate depending on the season and demand.

Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) is the closest airport for visitors to Marbella, located approximately 52 km (32 miles) from the city centre, about a 40-45 minute drive.

Once you've landed, there are several ways to get to Marbella, including Uber:

• Taxis: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminals. A trip to Marbella usually costs between €65-75 and takes around 40-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

• Bus: The Avanza bus is a direct and inexpensive way to travel from Malaga Airport to Marbella's main bus station. The journey takes around 45 minutes and tickets cost around €8-10.

• Shuttles: Both private and shared shuttles can be pre-booked to take you directly to your accommodation. Prices vary, but shared shuttles typically start at around €20 per person.

• Car hire: If you prefer to explore the Costa del Sol at your own pace, there are plenty of car hire options at the airport.

☝️Handy Tip: If you're travelling with a lot of luggage, a shuttle or taxi may be more convenient than public transport, especially during high season.

When visiting Marbella, it's important to check the local time to make the most of your trip!

• In winter, Marbella follows Central European Time (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of UTC. This means that when it's noon in London, it's 1pm in Marbella.
  
• During the summer months, from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October, Marbella switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which moves the clocks forward one hour to 2 hours ahead of UTC. This gives you even longer days to enjoy Marbella's beaches and nightlife!
  

If you're travelling from a different time zone, remember to adjust your clocks, especially when daylight saving time changes. 

Knowing the local time will help you plan your days perfectly, whether you're relaxing by the sea or exploring Marbella's vibrant culture!

Marbella is a true coastal gem on Spain's Costa del Sol, offering a glamorous mix of fine dining, stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. 

Whether you're looking for Michelin-starred restaurants, beachside clubs or unique cultural experiences, Marbella has it all.


Start by exploring Marbella's old town (Casco Antiguo), where you can stroll through the picturesque streets, enjoy tapas at Casa Eladio or indulge in modern seafood dishes at Lobito del Mar. Don't miss the charm of Plaza de los Naranjos, a lively square surrounded by historic buildings.

If you love the beach, head to Playa de Puerto Banús, a luxurious hotspot where you can sunbathe and admire the yachts. You can also visit Nikki Beach for an exclusive beach club experience or enjoy family-friendly fun at CostaWaterPark.

For nightlife, Olivia Valere and Ocean Club offer an unforgettable party scene, while live music lovers can head to Joys Live or Havana Hemingway for an upbeat evening by the marina.

Whether it's great food, lively beaches or a night out in some of Spain's best clubs, Marbella has something for every traveller!

Marbella offers an extraordinary culinary scene, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to relaxed beachside eateries, making it a food lover's paradise.

For a truly luxurious dining experience, visit Casa Eladio, a Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, including tuna tartare and Iberico pork, located near Marbella Castle. 

For seafood lovers, Lobito del Mar , run by three-star Michelin chef Dani García, serves innovative seafood dishes such as red tuna and seafood sausages, just a short walk from Casablanca Beach.

If you're in the mood for live music and good food, The Beach House Restaurant offers a Mediterranean menu in a stunning beachfront setting, while Da Bruno Sul Mare serves authentic Italian cuisine in a lively atmosphere right on the Paseo Marítimo.

From fine dining to casual beachside eateries, Marbella's diverse dining options guarantee an unforgettable culinary journey with every meal.

Much more than just a luxury beach destination, Marbella offers a wide range of activities to suit every traveller's interests.

Start your journey by exploring Marbella's historic old town (Casco Antiguo), where you can stroll through cobbled streets, admire whitewashed buildings and relax in the picturesque Plaza de los Naranjos. 

For an unforgettable VIP poolside experience, Naô Pool Club combines luxurious lounging with live DJ performances and fine dining.

For nature lovers, a visit to Parque de la Represa offers a peaceful escape with walking trails, playgrounds and turtle ponds.

Alternatively, adventurous travellers can enjoy a scenic hike to the Cascada de Camoján, a hidden waterfall just outside the city.

If you're visiting with the family, CostaWaterPark is a fantastic floating water park in the sea, perfect for all ages. 

To unwind, stroll along Puerto Banús, where you can shop in luxury boutiques or enjoy the vibrant nightlife of the marina.

Whether you are looking for cultural exploration, family fun or pure relaxation, Marbella offers a wide range of exciting activities.

Beyond the usual sightseeing and beach lounging, Marbella offers a variety of engaging activities to suit every type of traveller.

For an unforgettable golfing experience, head to Los Naranjos Golf Club, one of the top courses in Spain. With its beautiful fairways and breathtaking views, it's perfect for beginners and experienced players alike.

For a more relaxing escape, indulge in a luxurious spa day at Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, where you can enjoy thermal circuits, rejuvenating treatments and world-class wellness services.

If adventure is your thing, take a yacht cruise from Puerto Banús, where you can sail along the Mediterranean coast, enjoy water activities such as jet skiing or snorkelling, and live the high life with food and drink on board.

Art lovers should visit the Avenida del Mar, where you can admire sculptures by Salvador Dalí during a leisurely stroll along the sea front.

Whether you're looking to relax or stay active, Marbella's wide range of activities ensures you'll never be bored.

After countless trips to Marbella, from celebrating birthdays to exploring the old town and enjoying peaceful nights at Camping Cabopino, I can confidently say that this city holds a special place in our hearts.

Marbella really does have something for everyone - whether you're looking to indulge in luxury hotels, enjoy Michelin-starred cuisine or relax on its beautiful beaches.

This guide reflects not only the best recommendations, but also our own experiences of Marbella's vibrant culture, world-class restaurants and stunning natural beauty. 

From the charm of the old town to the glamorous nightlife of Puerto Banús, every visit feels like a new adventure. 

I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in Marbella, allowing you to explore its best-kept secrets and create your own unforgettable memories. 

If you have any further questions about your visit to Marbella, please see the FAQ section below for more helpful information!