10 Best Things to Do in Marbella, Spain

Marbella, the dazzling jewel of Spain’s Costa del Sol, has long been a playground for the rich and famous. But you don’t need a celebrity budget to enjoy this Mediterranean paradise! With its perfect blend of stunning beaches, historic charm, and vibrant nightlife, Marbella offers something for every type of traveler. I’ve spent countless hours exploring this sun-soaked destination, and I’m thrilled to share my top 10 things to do in marbella that will make your visit truly unforgettable.

1. Wander Through Marbella’s Enchanting Old Town (Casco Antiguo)

Step back in time as you meander through the narrow, flower-filled streets of Marbella’s Old Town. This charming quarter is a world away from the glitz of the marina, with its whitewashed buildings and traditional Andalusian architecture creating a picture-perfect scene at every turn.

The heart of the Old Town is Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square), lined with outdoor cafés and fragrant orange trees. I always recommend starting your day here with a traditional Spanish breakfast and coffee while watching the world go by. Don’t miss the Renaissance-era Town Hall and the Chapel of Santiago, the oldest religious building in the city dating back to the 15th century.

What I love most about Marbella’s Old Town is how it comes alive in the evening – the ambient lighting, street musicians, and the buzzing atmosphere from tapas bars create an experience that feels authentically Spanish despite Marbella’s international reputation.

2. Soak Up the Sun at Marbella’s Pristine Beaches

No visit to Marbella would be complete without spending time on its gorgeous beaches. With over 23 kilometers of coastline, you’re spoiled for choice! My personal favorite is Playa de Nagüeles, part of the Golden Mile, which offers pristine sands and crystal-clear waters with a backdrop of luxury villas and resorts.

For a more relaxed vibe, head to La Venus Beach near the Old Town – it’s less crowded and perfect for families. If you’re feeling adventurous, venture to Cabopino Beach, a protected natural area with sand dunes and pine forests that provide a refreshing change from the more developed beaches.

Beach clubs are a huge part of Marbella’s culture, ranging from ultra-exclusive to more accessible options. Nikki Beach and Ocean Club offer the full luxury experience if you’re willing to splurge, but there are plenty of more affordable beach bars (chiringuitos) where you can enjoy fresh seafood and sangria with your toes in the sand.

3. Stroll Along the Glamorous Puerto Banús Marina

Even if luxury shopping isn’t on your agenda, Puerto Banús is worth visiting just to marvel at the super-yachts and exotic cars that line this famous marina. Created in 1970, this playground for the wealthy has become one of the most recognizable marbella attractions and a must-see spot for people-watching.

Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, stop for a cocktail at one of the many bars, and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere. I find sunset to be the most magical time here when the golden light hits the water and the social scene kicks into high gear. If you’re a shopping enthusiast, you’ll find everything from high-end designers like Louis Vuitton and Gucci to more accessible brands.

Pro tip: The restaurants directly on the marina tend to be overpriced for what you get. Walk just a few streets back for more authentic Spanish cuisine at much better prices!

4. Experience Art and Culture at the Ralli Museum

If you need a break from the sun, the Ralli Museum offers a surprising cultural oasis in Marbella. One of five Ralli Museums worldwide (others are in Chile, Uruguay, and Israel), this free attraction houses an impressive collection of Latin American and European contemporary art.

The museum features works by renowned artists like Salvador Dalí and Marc Chagall, along with pieces by emerging Latin American artists. What impresses me most about this place is not just the quality of the art but also the peaceful setting – beautiful gardens surround the museum, making it a perfect escape from Marbella’s more bustling areas.

Even if you’re not typically a museum person, I’d recommend spending at least an hour here. The rotating exhibitions mean there’s always something new to see, and the air-conditioned galleries provide welcome relief during the summer heat.

5. Take a Day Trip to the Mountain Town of Ronda

While technically not in Marbella, Ronda is just an hour’s drive away and offers one of the most spectacular day trips from the Costa del Sol. This ancient city sits dramatically atop a deep gorge (El Tajo) and is home to Spain’s oldest bullfighting ring and the impressive Puente Nuevo bridge, which spans the 328-foot deep chasm.

The drive itself is part of the experience, winding through the mountains with breathtaking views around every corner. Once in Ronda, you can explore the old Moorish quarter, visit the beautiful gardens of the Casa Don Bosco, and enjoy lunch with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

I’ve taken friends here countless times, and they always say it’s the highlight of their Andalusian adventure. If possible, try to arrive early in the morning or stay until evening when the day-trippers have left, and you can experience Ronda’s magic with fewer crowds.

6. Indulge in Andalusian Cuisine and Tapas Tours

Marbella’s food scene is a delightful blend of traditional Andalusian cuisine and international influences. For an authentic experience, I recommend embarking on a tapas tour through the Old Town, sampling specialties like gazpacho (cold tomato soup), pescaíto frito (fried fish), and albóndigas (meatballs) along with local wines.

Some of my favorite tapas spots include Taberna La Niña del Pisto for their incredible homemade pisto (similar to ratatouille) and Bar El Estrecho, where the seafood is always fresh and perfectly prepared. For a special dinner, head to Skina, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that showcases modern Andalusian cuisine in an intimate setting.

Don’t forget to try the local sweet wine, Málaga Virgen, which pairs perfectly with traditional desserts like torrijas (similar to French toast) or pionono (rolled sponge cake). The food here truly tells the story of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

7. Hit the Golf Courses of the “Costa del Golf”

The area surrounding Marbella is often called the “Costa del Golf” for good reason – it boasts over 70 courses, many of them world-class. Even if you’re a casual player like me, teeing off with views of the Mediterranean on one side and mountains on the other is an experience not to be missed.

Los Naranjos, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., is one of my personal favorites for its challenging layout and beautiful orange trees that line the fairways. Real Club de Golf Las Brisas is another standout, while La Quinta offers three nine-hole courses that can be combined in different ways.

Many courses welcome day players, but it’s best to book in advance, especially during high season. Most clubs offer equipment rental, so you don’t need to bring your own clubs if you’re just looking to play a casual round during your vacation.

8. Explore the Natural Beauty of La Concha Mountain

For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking La Concha mountain provides both adventure and unparalleled views. This iconic peak (named for its distinctive conch shell shape) looms over Marbella at 1,215 meters high, offering a challenging but rewarding trek.

The full hike takes about 5-6 hours round trip, but there are shorter routes if you’re not up for the complete journey. I recommend starting early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and bringing plenty of water and sun protection. The trail begins near the charming village of Ojén and gradually ascends through pine forests before opening up to rocky terrain.

Once you reach the summit, you’re rewarded with panoramic views spanning from Gibraltar to North Africa on a clear day. It’s a completely different perspective of Marbella that most tourists never experience – and honestly, it’s the best way to appreciate the stunning geography of this special place.

9. Party at Marbella’s Legendary Beach Clubs and Nightlife

Marbella’s nightlife is legendary, ranging from sophisticated sunset lounges to pulsating clubs that keep the party going until sunrise. While Puerto Banús gets most of the attention, there are fantastic options throughout the city for every taste and budget.

For a quintessential Marbella experience, spend a day at one of the famous beach clubs like Nikki Beach, where the champagne spray parties during summer are an extravagant sight to behold. As night falls, venues like La Suite in Puerto Banús attract a glamorous crowd with international DJs and premium bottle service.

If that’s not your scene, don’t worry! There are plenty of more relaxed options, from jazz bars in the Old Town to casual chiringuitos where you can enjoy music with your feet in the sand. My personal favorite evening spot is actually the rooftop bar at Amàre Beach Hotel, where you can sip cocktails while watching the sun set over the Mediterranean – pure magic!

10. Pamper Yourself with Luxury Spa Treatments

After days of exploring marbella attractions, treat yourself to some relaxation at one of the city’s world-class spas. Marbella has embraced wellness tourism in a big way, offering everything from traditional hammams to cutting-edge beauty treatments.

The Marbella Club Thalasso Spa utilizes seawater therapies in a gorgeous setting, while the Six Senses Spa at Puente Romano offers holistic treatments inspired by Asian and Mediterranean traditions. For something truly special, book the Arab Bath experience at Hammam Al Andalus, where you can immerse yourself in the bathing rituals that were once central to life in Moorish Spain.

Many hotels offer day passes to their spa facilities, making this luxury experience accessible even if you’re not staying at a five-star property. After a spa session, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to continue your Marbella adventures.

Final Thoughts on Exploring Marbella

What makes Marbella truly special is how it effortlessly blends sophisticated luxury with authentic Spanish charm. From the jet-set lifestyle of Puerto Banús to the timeless appeal of the Old Town, the contrast creates a destination that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, family vacation, or friends’ trip, these top 10 things to do in marbella will help you experience the best this Costa del Sol paradise has to offer. Just remember to pack plenty of sunscreen – with over 320 days of sunshine annually, Marbella’s beautiful weather is perhaps its most reliable attraction of all!

Have you visited Marbella before? What was your favorite experience? I’d love to hear your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below!