Marbella is a well-known resort town in the Costa del Sol, famous the world over for its glitz, glamour, and raucous party scene. But reputation aside, it is a Mediterranean natural harbor and a very picturesque Old Town set amongst the Sierra Blanca mountains. The best places to stay in Marbella range from charming guesthouses to fashionable resorts to suit all budgets. From boutique hotels in historic buildings to bohemian chic cottages and luxurious family-friendly resorts, Marbella has it all, no matter what’s your favorite way to soak up the Spanish sun.
Where is Marbella?
Marbella lies on the Costa del Sol, overlooking the Mediterranean, blessed with excellent weather and protected by mountains that shield it from northern winds, creating a distinctive microclimate. The region’s mild temperatures throughout the year make it one of the most laid-back destinations and relaxing vacation spots in the world.
From Marbella, you can explore iconic destinations such as Puerto de Santa Maria in Cadiz, Guaro with its Moorish Moon Festival, and Ronda, a picturesque mountain village in Malaga offering a wealth of discoveries. The best part about Marbella – it is an equally interesting place for both families and solo travelers.
Best Places to Stay in Marbella Spain
Now that you’re familiar with the city’s layout, let’s explore some of the best places to stay in Marbella, according to the tourist’s feedback, catering to all budgets!
Marbella Old Town
For those seeking history and culture, Marbella Old Town is ideal. This scenic historic district blends tradition with modern life, but do not expect strange buildings like the Torre Galata. Explore on foot, wandering through winding cobblestone alleyways lined with Renaissance-era whitewashed houses and colorful blooms. Capture postcard-worthy photos at Plaza de Iglesia and Plaza de los Naranjos, where cafes spill into the square under bright orange trees. Enjoy the peaceful, citrus-scented air. Discover colorful shops and quaint cafes, like Taberna La Niña del Pisto, known for traditional tapas and a robust wine list. While the Old Town lacks beaches, its charm and laid-back atmosphere make up for it, and Marbella’s sunny coastline is just a short walk away. Conveniently central, it is one of the best places to visit in Spain. It connects you to other city attractions and day trips.
Downtown Marbella
If you love being in the heart of the action, downtown Marbella is your ideal spot. Stroll along Avenida del Mar, nestled between Alameda Park and the beach, for prime shopping at high street stores and unique boutiques. Enjoy sculptures by Salvador Dali and Eduardo Soriano as you relax under a pergola, sipping a cool drink. Downtown Marbella is close to urban beaches like La Bajadilla, Venus, and La Fontanilla, perfect for sunbathing or water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding. Satisfy your hunger at beachside chiringuitos serving tapas and drinks. For dining, the area offers diverse options, from seafood and Michelin-starred restaurants to family-run eateries. Don’t miss Primeria Selection for a superb wine selection and gourmet treats.
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Things to do & see in Old Town & Downtown Marbella
- Stroll through narrow streets and medieval walls
- Enjoy some shopping
- Unwind in Plaza de Los Naranjos
- Check out Casa Consistorial De Marbella, home to the Town Hall
- Snap photos of the romantic, whitewashed Calle Carmen
- Visit Iglesia Mayor De La Encarnación church
PS: Keep in mind the weird traffic rules of Spain if you decide to drive yourself.
Ideal for:
- Couples
- First-time tourists (here’s our checklist for a smooth journey)
- Visitor attractions and exploration
- Shopping in downtown
- Full-time RV owners who have the freedom to explore all the attractions
Where to stay in Marbella Old Town and downtown
- Hotel Claude Marbella – Approximate price of a room: € 450 per night For beautiful terracotta floors, sandstone baths, and bathrooms with Molton Brown toiletries, this luxury hotel in Marbella is ideal.
- La Ciudadela Marbella Boutique El Castillo – Approximate price of a room: NA
Located centrally, this 4-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, air-conditioned rooms, and luggage storage. - B&B Boutique Tribeca – Approximate price of a room: € 88 per night
Offering free Wi-Fi, charming decor, and proximity to bars and shops, B&B Boutique Tribeca is a cozy, safe place to stay in Marbella.
Puerto Banús
Looking for a luxurious stay in Marbella? Head west of downtown to Puerto Banús, the playground for the rich and famous on the Costa del Sol. Established in 1970 by local developer José Banús, this area offers a blend of luxury marinas, shopping, and fine dining. Whether you’re into casinos, golf, or high-end shopping, it’s all here.
For a quintessential Costa del Sol experience, explore the waters with activities like yacht trips, jet skiing, flyboarding, or kitesurfing from the marina. Afterward, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, from live music at La Sala to the upscale Casino Marbella and the Benabola Sky Lounge for stunning views – perfect for celebrity sightings.
During downtime, relax on Puerto Banús’ best beaches: swanky clubs on Playa Nueva Andalucia, family-friendly Playa Puerto Banús (Playa de Levante), or the historic Playa del Rio Verde with its Roman villa ruins.
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Things to do & see in Puerto Banus
- Visit one of the beach clubs and play Bossaball
- Walk along the Golden Mile and Puerto Banus Marina
- Dine at luxury or the best rooftop restaurants
- Shop at designer boutiques
Ideal for:
- Luxury lovers
- Honeymoons
- Nightlife lovers
Where to stay in Puerto Banus?
Marbella Club Hotel – Approximate price of a room: € 1,415 per night
The Marbella Club is a dream come true. With luxurious rooms, a golf course, a peaceful spa, tennis courts, horse riding, and a private beach, it’s the ultimate resort. The popular kids club offers pottery, football, cooking, and gardening, keeping the whole family entertained all day.
Gran Hotel Guadalpin Banus – Approximate price of a room: €102 – €397 per night
A prominent hotel in the Puerto Banus area, Gran Hotel Guadalphin Banus offers guests a range of luxury treatments at a reasonable mid-range price.
It boasts a large outdoor pool with a hot tub and sauna, a fitness center, and a spa. And that’s just on the premises! For the adventurous, Gran Hotel also provides off-site activities such as snorkeling, fishing, diving, hiking, horseback riding, and water sports.
Along with free WiFi across the entire property, the rooms here are simply divine, featuring ample space and stunning views of the beach below.
Molo Luxury Suites Puerto Banus – Approximate price of a room: € 319 per night
For a taste of Puerto Banus luxury, choose these suites, offering air conditioning, a garden room, an outdoor pool, and diverse room service options.
Hard Rock Hotel Marbella – Approximate price of a room: € 345 per night
Among the many incredible Hard Rock Hotels worldwide, this Puerto Banus location features an outdoor pool, fitness center, 24-hour front desk, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.