Last Updated on October 14, 2022 by gregor
Marbella is a beautiful coastal town in southern Spain. It’s a popular tourist destination for its Mediterranean climate, stunning beaches, and luxurious lifestyle. If you’re planning a trip to Marbella, here’s a 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time in this lovely town.
Top Things To Do In Marbella, Andalucia – Our Marbella Itinerary For 3 days
Spain’s Costa del Sol is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe, and Marbella is its jewel. This chic resort town has it all – stunning beaches, a beautiful old town, fabulous restaurants and bars, and vibrant nightlife. If you’re planning a short break to Marbella, here’s our suggested 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time in this wonderful place.
Day 1: Old Town Marbella
Start your Marbella break with a stroll around the old town. This charming area is full of narrow streets and pretty plazas and is the perfect place to get your bearings. Be sure to visit the 16th-century Orange Square and the beautiful Church of St. Mary Magdalene.
In the afternoon, head to one of Marbella’s stunning beaches for a spot of sunbathing and swimming. El Cable, Playa de Venus, and La Venus Beach are all great options.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner in one of Marbella’s many seafront restaurants. We recommend the fish tacos at La Casa del Camaron, followed by a cocktail or two at the chic La Suite Lounge Bar.
Day 2: Puerto Banus Marina
After breakfast, head to Puerto Banus – Marbella’s glamorous marina. This is the place to see and be seen, and there are plenty of designer shops, luxury cars and glamorous yachts to gawp at.
In the afternoon, take a short drive out of town to explore some of the Costa del Sol’s beautiful countryside. The El Chorro gorge and lake are a must-see, and the pretty village of Mijas is well worth a visit.
Back in Marbella, tuck into a tasty paella for dinner before heading to one of the town’s many nightclubs for a night of dancing.
Day 3: Elviria Beach
On your final day, make the most of Marbella’s fabulous beaches. Elviria Beach is a great option, and there’s plenty of bars and restaurants nearby if you fancy a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll around the pretty La Concepción botanical gardens. This is a great spot to relax and soak up some of Marbella’s famous sunshine.
Finish your trip with a farewell dinner in one of Marbella’s top restaurants. El Faro Blanco is a great choice for seafood lovers, or you could try the traditional Spanish dishes at La Taberna del Cholo.
Where is Marbella, Spain?
Marbella is a town and municipality in the province of Málaga, in the autonomous community of Andalusia, southern Spain. It is part of the Costa del Sol metropolitan area. The municipality covers an area of 117 square kilometers (45 sq mi) and has a population of 140,473 inhabitants (as of 2018), making it the second most populous municipality in the province of Málaga and the eighth in Andalusia. It is one of the most important tourist destinations on the Costa del Sol. The city has one of the largest marinas in Spain and Europe, Puerto Banús.
How to get to Marbella, Spain?
To get to Marbella, you can take a bus or drive from Malaga. The journey takes about an hour and a half. You can also take a train from Malaga to Marbella, which takes about two hours.
Is Marbella, Spain Expensive?
If you’re considering a trip to Marbella, Spain, you might be wondering about the cost of living in the city. Is Marbella expensive? The short answer is yes, Marbella is a relatively expensive city. However, there are ways to enjoy the city without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips for spending your money wisely in Marbella.
Is Marbella, Spain worth visiting?
Marbella is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Costa del Sol in southern Spain. It is well known for its luxury hotels and resorts, as well as its lively nightlife and beaches. However, Marbella is also a great place to visit if you’re interested in history and culture. The Old Town is full of fascinating buildings and museums, and there are plenty of art galleries and shops to explore. If you’re looking for a beautiful and vibrant place to visit, Marbella is definitely worth considering.
Should you visit Marbella or Malaga?
If you’re looking for a sunny vacation spot on the Costa del Sol, you may be wondering whether to visit Marbella or Malaga. Both have their pros and cons, but here are a few things to keep in mind when making your decision.
Marbella is a chic resort town with a glamorous reputation. It’s also one of the most expensive places to stay on the Costa del Sol. If you’re looking for a luxurious vacation, Marbella is the place for you. However, it can be crowded and sometimes feels more like a party scene than a relaxing beach town.
Malaga, on the other hand, is a larger city with a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s also more affordable than Marbella. If you want to experience Spanish culture and try some delicious seafood, Malaga is the better choice. However, the city can be hectic and it can be difficult to find a quiet spot to relax on the beach.
So, which should you visit? It depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation. If you want to be pampered and enjoy the nightlife, Marbella is the place for you. If you’re looking for a more authentic Spanish experience and don’t mind sacrificing some luxury, Malaga is the better choice.
How is Marbella different from Malaga?
Marbella is a resort town located on the Costa del Sol in the province of Málaga, in the autonomous community of Andalusia in southern Spain. The municipality covers an area of 117 square kilometers and has a population of 140,473 inhabitants. It is part of the metropolitan area of Málaga.
Marbella is situated on the Mediterranean Sea, between Málaga and the Strait of Gibraltar, in the foothills of the Sierra Blanca. The city is a popular tourist destination, due to its climate and beaches. It is also a favored destination for golfers, as it has more than 20 golf courses.
The Old Town of Marbella is a typical Andalusian white-washed village with narrow streets and flower-filled patios. It is a pedestrian-only zone where visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and people watching.
The Puerto Banús marina is one of the largest in Spain and is home to luxury yachts and shops. The Golden Mile is a stretch of coastline that includes some of the most expensive real estate in Spain.
Should I spend more time in Malaga or Marbella?
If you enjoy spending time at the beach and exploring new towns, then you should definitely spend more time in Malaga. However, if you are looking for a more lively nightlife scene, then Marbella is the place for you. Whichever option you choose, you are sure to have a great time!
Best Hotels in Marbella, Southern Spain
Looking for a place to stay in Marbella that won’t break the bank? Check out our list of the best hotels in Marbella, Southern Spain! Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort or a cozy bed and breakfast, we’ve got you covered.
1. Gran Hotel Guadalpin Banus: This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of Puerto Banus and offers stunning views of the marina. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center.
2. Hotel Los Monteros: This 4-star hotel is located just a short drive from the center of Marbella and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center.
3. AC Hotel Marbella: This 4-star hotel is located in the heart of Marbella and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center.
4. Hotel Las Arenas: This 4-star hotel is located just a short drive from the center of Marbella and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center.
5. Best Western Hotel Cisneros: This 3-star hotel is located in the center of Marbella and offers a variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center.
Useful Travel Information About Marbella
Marbella is a city located on the Costa del Sol in the province of Málaga, southern Spain. According to the National Institute of Statistics (INE), the population of the city is 140,473, making it the second-largest city in the province of Málaga and the eighth-largest in Andalusia. It is one of the most important tourist destinations on the Costa del Sol and in Spain. Despite its large size and important tourist industry, Marbella is a relatively peaceful city, with a low crime rate and a tranquil atmosphere.
The climate in Marbella is pleasant and mild throughout the year, with an average annual temperature of 21.5 °C (70.7 °F). The average temperatures in July and August, the hottest months of the year, are 26.2 °C (79.2 °F) and 24.6 °C (76.3 °F) respectively. The average temperatures in January and February, the coldest months of the year, are 16.1 °C (61.0 °F) and 16.7 °C (62.1 °F) respectively.
Marbella is a renowned tourist destination, with a wide range of hotels, resorts, and apartments available to visitors.
The city also offers a wide range of leisure activities, including golf, tennis, horse riding, sailing, and windsurfing.
Marbella is also home to a number of museums and galleries, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene.
Getting Around Marbella
There are many ways to get around Marbella. You can take the bus, which is cheap and convenient, or you can take a taxi, which is more expensive but faster. You can also rent a car, which is a good option if you plan on doing a lot of driving.
Popular road trips from Marbella
Popular road trips from Marbella include trips to Ronda, Seville, Córdoba, and Granada. All of these destinations are within a few hour’s drive from Marbella and offer a variety of different attractions and activities. Ronda is a beautiful mountain town with stunning views, while Seville is a lively city with a rich history and culture. Córdoba is a smaller city with a more relaxed atmosphere, and Granada is a stunningly beautiful city with a lot to see and do.
Top Things to Do in Marbella, Spain
1. Walk along the promenade – The promenade is one of the best places in Marbella, and for good reason. It’s a great place to take a walk, relax, and people-watch.
2. Visit the old town – The old town is a great place to visit if you want to get a feel for the history of Marbella. It’s also a great place to do some shopping and grab a bite to eat.
3. Go to the beach – Marbella is home to some of the best beaches in Spain. So, if you’re looking to catch some rays, this is the place to do it.
4. Play a round of golf – Marbella is a golfer’s paradise with plenty of courses to choose from. So, if you’re looking to perfect your swing, this is the place to do it.
5. Take a day trip to Gibraltar – Gibraltar is just a short drive from Marbella and is definitely worth a visit. There’s plenty to see and do, including visiting the famous Rock of Gibraltar.
Please read my Full Marbella Travel Guide: 25 Things to do in Marbella, Spain
Frequently Asked Questions about Marbella, Spain
1. What is the best time of year to visit Marbella?
The best time to visit Marbella is from April to October when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the city is also busy and crowded during this time. If you’re looking for a more relaxed vacation, you should visit Marbella from November to March.
2. How many days should I spend in Marbella?
You can easily spend a week in Marbella and still not see everything. However, if you’re just looking to relax on the beach and enjoy the weather, you can probably get away with just a few days.
3. What is there to do in Marbella?
There is plenty to do in Marbella! You can spend your days lounging on the beach, exploring the Old Town, shopping, golfing, and more.
4. Where should I stay in Marbella?
There are many great places to stay in Marbella, depending on your budget and preferences. If you’re looking for a luxury hotel, the Gran Meliá Don Pepe is a great option. For a more affordable option, try theHotel Alay.
5. What is the food like in Marbella?
The food in Marbella is fantastic! You’ll find plenty of seafood options, as well as traditional Spanish dishes.
6. What is the nightlife like in Marbella?
The nightlife in Marbella is very vibrant. There are many bars and clubs to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that suits your taste.
7. I’m traveling with kids. What is there to do in Marbella for them?
There are plenty of activities for kids in Marbella! There are several beaches, parks, and playgrounds, as well as a water park and a zoo.
8. What is the best way to get around Marbella?
The best way to get around Marbella is by car. However, if you’re staying in the Old Town, you can easily walk to most of the attractions.
9. What is the weather like in Marbella?
The weather in Marbella is beautiful! The average temperature is around 28 degrees Celsius.
10. What is the currency in Marbella?
The currency in Marbella is the Euro.
Marbella Beaches for day-trips
With its stunningly beautiful beaches and stunningly turquoise waters, Marbella is a beach lover’s paradise. With so many beaches to choose from, it can be tough to decide which ones to visit on a day trip. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the best beaches for day trips from Marbella.
1. Elviria Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches in Marbella and it’s easy to see why. With its fine golden sand and clear blue waters, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. There are also plenty of beach bars and restaurants, so you can refuel after a dip in the sea.
2. Puerto Banus Beach: This is the perfect beach for people-watching as it’s always buzzing with activity. It’s also a great place to take a dip in the Mediterranean, and there are plenty of beach bars and restaurants to keep you refreshed.
3. Cabopino Beach: This is a beautiful, secluded beach that is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of Marbella. With its soft sand and clear waters, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.
4. Artola Beach: This is a stunning, natural beach that is perfect for those who love to explore. With its rocky cliffs, crystal clear waters, and secluded coves, it’s the perfect place to take a swim, go for a hike, or just relax and enjoy the view.
5. La Bajadilla Beach: This is a great beach for families as it has a wide, open space that is perfect for playing games and building sandcastles. With its gentle waves and clear water, it’s also a great place to take a dip.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to explore everything that Marbella has to offer, then this three-day itinerary is perfect for you. From soaking up the sun on one of the many beaches to exploring the Old Town and its stunning architecture, you’ll be sure to have a memorable trip. And of course, no visit to Marbella would be complete without indulging in some of the delicious food and wine the city has to offer.
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