What To Do On A City Break In Marbella, Costa Del Sol, Spain

Marbella is an upmarket and beautiful city, nestling on the Costa del Sol in Andalucía, Spain. The city is renowned for its dining, nightlife, historic neighborhoods, parks and beaches, with literally something for everyone. However, if you are planning a quick city break in Marbella, the following are the top, must-see attractions in the Costa del Sol town.

Playa de la Fontanilla in Marbella

Fontanilla is the main beach in Marbella and stretches along the southern side of the city. The popular beach features all the amenities including showers, rentable sun loungers and parasols, all the major water sports and more. Meanwhile, its promenade is backed by many restaurants serving everything from Spanish cuisine to international flavors. Moreover, the beach features several bars and tapas bars for a quick snack.

Casco Antiguo (Old Town)

The Casco Antiguo, or Old Town of Marbella is a must-visit for anyone spending time here. The neighborhood is full of flower and plant-lined streets and beautiful squares.

The main square in the Old Town is the Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square), naturally lined with orange trees, and is famous for its tapas bars and restaurants with terraces overlooking the square.

Meanwhile, Plaza Santo Cristo is a popular square, where travelers can visit the Ana Maria Flamenco Bar (pictured above) and the 16th-century Santo Cristo hermitage.

For those who love shopping, the Casco Antiguo also hosts one of the region’s most chic shopping scenes, including several classy and high-end boutiques.

Culture and History

– Museo del Grabado Español Contemporaneo (Contemporary Engravings Museum)

The Contemporary Engravings Museum is unique in Spain and is housed in an elegant 16th-century building that was previously a hospital. Here, visitors can explore the history of Spanish engraving and graphic art in the museum’s permanent collection. Moreover, works by Spanish artists Joan Miró and Salvador Dalí are also housed here.

– Salvador Dalí Sculptures in Marbella

On the subject of Dalí, Marbella hosts an iconic collection of the artist’s sculptures. Among them are 10 surrealist bronze sculptures that line Avenida del Mar, a boulevard that heads down to the beach and promenade.

Celebrity watch in Puerto Banús

Located 8 km (5 mi) to the west of the city, Puerto Banús is a classy marina and is one of Marbella’s most famous locations. Here, visitors can browse the moored yachts, posh boutiques and luxury sports cars, including Ferraris in the parking lot. Meanwhile, the marina is well-known among celebrities and visitors are likely to spot more than one familiar face here.

Parks and Gardens in Marbella

– Relax in Alameda Park

Located just behind the Paseo Maritimo (beach promenade), Parque de Alameda is a beautiful spot to relax in the fresh air. The park is lined with attractive tiled benches and at its heart is a beautiful 17th-century fountain.

– Stroll in the shade in Constitution Park

The largest park in Marbella is the Parque de la Constitución with its shady walkways to avoid the hot summer sun. Meanwhile, during the summer months, regular concerts are staged in the park’s auditorium.

Dining in Marbella

Marbella boasts 18 Michelin-starred restaurants that are establishing the city as one of Spain’s top culinary destinations. While many might seek out typical Spanish cuisine, the city features an impressive range of international cuisine, offering visitors many choices.

Meanwhile, on the beaches, visitors can enjoy catch-of-the-day seafood at the city’s chirinquitos (beach bars and restaurants).

Enjoy your visit to Marbella on the Costa del Sol in southern Spain, exploring all of these attractions and more. Anyone planning a longer stay should visit the official tourism website for more information.